Why is a balloon safari expensive?
A Balloon Safari is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, providing breathtaking aerial views of the stunning landscapes and wildlife in a serene and awe-inspiring way. Although the price of this adventure may seem steep at first, understanding the factors that contribute to its cost can help potential guests appreciate the exceptional value of this unforgettable journey. Why is expensive?
Specialist Equipment
Balloon safaris are costly primarily because of the specialized equipment and regular maintenance they require. Hot air balloons are made with high-quality materials, including the envelope (the balloon itself), the basket, and the burners, all of which must meet strict aviation safety standards. While a balloon can cost as much as a luxury car, it typically lasts only 3-4 years before being retired, as we ensure they are retired long before they fail safety inspections.
Additionally, the skill and expertise of the pilot are crucial. Pilots must undergo extensive training and acquire specific certifications to operate hot-air balloons. We only select the most experienced and competent pilots to fly the green and gold of a Serengeti Balloon Safaris balloon as we believe that they significantly enhance our guest experience.
Operational Logistics
Operational logistics also play a major role in the cost. We offer our balloon safaris in some of the world’s most breathtaking and remote locations. Transporting the heavy and voluminous equipment and supplies required for balloon safaris to Serengeti, Ruaha, and Tarangire is logistically challenging and costly. Furthermore, Balloon Safaris transfers our guests from their camp or lodge (early in the morning!), we provide a champagne celebration on landing and our quintessential ‘Out of Africa’ style champagne breakfast, in the shade of a tree in the middle of the wilderness.
Contribution to Conservation
Conservation fees are also included in the cost of balloon safaris. Operating in these wonderful and ecologically sensitive parks involves fees that contribute to Tanzania National Park’s conservation efforts. These fees help maintain the natural habitats of the wildlife that our guests come to see and support the preservation efforts of these magnificent areas for future generations. In addition, Balloon Safaris contributes to the Serengeti De-snaring Project and off-sets our carbon footprint with Carbon Tanzania as well as supporting local schools, impact organizations and NGOs.
Priceless Memories
Lastly, the memories and experiences garnered from a balloon safari are priceless. Floating silently over expansive savannas or dramatic landscapes at sunrise offers a moment of peace and connectivity with nature that is rare and profoundly moving. This experience is not just a simple tour; it is an immersive engagement with nature and a chance to see the world from a new and exhilarating perspective.
Thus, while a balloon safari does come with a higher cost, the safety, expertise, experience, and exclusivity it offers, combined with its support for local conservation efforts, provide more than enough justification for the investment. It is truly a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that goes beyond ordinary travel, offering deep, memorable engagements with some of the most untouched parts of the world.
A balloon safari offers a truly magical way to experience the Park. Drifting silently over the vast plains at sunrise, you witness wildlife in its most natural state, all while taking in panoramic views that few ever get to see. It’s an unforgettable adventure that brings you closer to the land and its creatures, offering a perspective that’s both serene and exhilarating.
Amos – Tour Consultant.
Top Places to Enjoy a Balloon Safari in Tanzania
Tanzania offers some of the most breathtaking locations for a balloon safari, allowing visitors to experience the country’s vast wilderness from a unique and tranquil vantage point. One of the most popular spots is the Serengeti National Park, where you can soar above the plains and witness the incredible wildlife migration in full swing. Another prime location is Ngorongoro Crater, where a balloon ride provides stunning views of the lush caldera and its rich biodiversity. For a more secluded experience, Tarangire National Park is known for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees, offering a serene and scenic flight. Additionally, the remote Lake Natron provides an opportunity to view its striking landscapes and flamingo populations from above, making for an unforgettable balloon safari experience.
