6-Day Tanzania Balloon Safari & Big Five Wildlife Experience

This 6 day Tanzania balloon safari builds the trip around one early morning in the sky. You warm up in Tarangire on day two, move to the Serengeti on day three, and fly in a hot-air balloon at dawn on day four, then land for a bush breakfast and a game drive. A full Serengeti day follows, and a scheduled flight back to Arusha, where one operates, ends the trip. Park fees, the balloon flight, full board and a private 4x4 with fuel are included.

Balloon flights leave in the dark, so you wake before 5 a.m., drive to the launch site in the cold and watch the balloon fill by torchlight. The flight itself lasts about an hour at low altitude, and you drift over the plains while the sun rises, with a good chance of seeing herds, giraffes and predators from above. The landing is followed by a bush breakfast on the plain, and a driver guide meets you for a game drive from the landing site. Read our Serengeti safari guide for the park itself before you go.

We do not stack the balloon on top of a long travel day. You reach the Serengeti on day three, rest, then fly on day four. A full-day game drive on day five makes up the rest of the Big Five search. If weather stops the balloon, the guide moves the plan, and the operator offers an alternative morning where one is available. Browse the Big Five safari page and the Tanzania destination page, and compare the plan with the 6-day Zanzibar beach and Serengeti Big Five safari.

Easy, apart from the early start. For the balloon you climb into a basket, which needs a little agility, and you stand for the flight. People with serious back or mobility problems should check with us before booking. The balloon is not suitable for very young children, and the operator sets minimum ages and weight conditions, which we confirm when you enquire. Everything else is done from the vehicle.

Balloon flights run in the dry months and are usually off during the heaviest rains. The dry season, from about June to October, is the best time for both the balloon and the game drives. January and February are also dry and good. The Serengeti is rewarding in every month, but the balloon is subject to weather, and we recommend travelling in the drier months if the flight matters to you.

This tour suits honeymooners, couples and photographers who want a standout morning in a short trip. It is also a good choice for travellers who have already done a standard safari. For a longer trip with the Ngorongoro Crater, see the 8-day private luxury Tanzania safari. For a mid-range trip with more days, see the 11-day Tanzania Big Five safari.

Tell us your month, and we will explain how likely the balloon is and what we will do if it cannot fly. We advise on visas free of charge and confirm camps and lodges once you book. Read what to check before booking a Tanzania safari and the best honeymoon destinations in Africa.

For a trip that puts more emphasis on local culture, see our Signature Journey, the 8-day Tanzania safari beyond wildlife.