Serengeti hot air balloon or Masaai Mara? Which one is better? I have worked as a tour leader in East Africa for many years. This involved taking groups into the national parks and often arranging hot air balloon in East Africa for my guests. But perhaps you are wondering where exactly you should enjoy this incredible experience. Let’s talk about the difference between these two experiences…
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Serengeti Hot Air Balloon vs Masaai Mara?
Masaai Mara and Serengeti National Parks are the most popular places to take a hot air balloon in East Africa. You can take a balloon ride at Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Murchison Falls in Uganda. It is also possible to take a ride in Amboseli National Park in Kenya. But none of these experiences can compare with a hot air balloon ride in Serengeti National Park of the Masaai Mara.
The Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya and the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania are two of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations, famous for their breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity. Both parks play host to the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles travel between the two in search of fresh grasslands, with predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas following closely behind.
However, there are notable differences between the two parks. Maasai Mara, though smaller, is known for its concentration of wildlife, especially big cats, making it a prime destination for game viewing. The Mara River, a key site for dramatic wildebeest crossings, adds to its appeal. The Serengeti, much larger and more expansive, offers a greater variety of ecosystems, from vast plains to woodlands and rivers. It is generally less crowded and provides a more remote, tranquil safari experience compared to the often-bustling Maasai Mara.
Comparing the Cost: Hot Air Balloon in Serengeti versus Masaai Mara
It’s a lot to spend in a short amount of time but a hot air balloon in East Africa is a once in a lifetime experience. You will usually pay more for this activity in Serengeti National Park and the difference in cost is approximately US$150. You will typically spend between US$500 and US$700 depending on where you make your booking for the balloon ride. For instance, if you are already booked onto an Africa overland tour, they will usually charge a premium for adding a hot air balloon ride to your trip. On the other hand, booking directly will likely save you a little money.
Time of Year
Weather can sometimes interfere with the Masaai Mara or Serengeti hot air balloon. If there happens to be a storm or especially strong winds, the operator may need to postpone the ride. But things change quickly in East Africa and the weather can just as easily clear up and make your hot air balloon ride possible. My advice is to book your Serengeti or Masaai Mara hot air balloon regardless of the weather. You simply cannot predict this aspect of the trip and should try to decide where to take your hot air balloon ride based on other factors.
Scenery & Landscape
Both destinations are extremely beautiful. The Masaai Mara can appear more green and features more hills but Serengeti National Park is much bigger. I would also say a hot air balloon ride in Serengeti NP can feel more wild due to the size of the landscapes. It features more savannah views and iconic African bush scenes in general. In terms of scenery, I believe a Serengeti hot air balloon is more spectacular and unlikely to disappoint in any way.
Wildlife on a Serengeti Hot Air Balloon Vs. Masaai Mara
A hot air balloon ride over the Maasai Mara offers a thrilling perspective of its dense wildlife, particularly the iconic “Big Five” (lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, and leopards). You’ll likely spot herds of elephants, prides of lions, and large groups of zebras and wildebeests, especially during the Great Migration. The Mara’s smaller size and open plains increase your chances of seeing wildlife in close proximity.
In the Serengeti, a hot air balloon ride covers a larger, more varied landscape. The expansive plains and diverse ecosystems offer sights of not only the migrating herds but also giraffes, hippos, and gazelles scattered across the horizon. While predators like lions and cheetahs may be harder to spot due to the Serengeti’s vastness, the serene experience of floating above its endless savannah is unmatched.
Breakfast: Comparing the Food Experience
Breakfast is a big part of the Serengeti and Masaai Mara hot air balloon experience. You literally land in the bush and enjoy your first meal of the day in the middle of the wild. Many of my guests have said the Serengeti air balloon breakfast is more luxurious. This refers to both the food and the tables, chairs and other equipment. The Serengeti breakfast is typically like an English breakfast served by waiters and there is more than one serving. The Masaai Mara breakfast is like a buffet in which you get up and pick your own food.
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The Hot Air Balloon Schedule
Wake Up – You’re up bright and early, leaving camp at 4 a.m. for the launch site. Once there, you wait while the hot air balloons are prepped.
Take Off – The balloon ascends at sunrise, offering an incredible view as the sun breaks over the clouds.
In-Flight – The flight lasts about an hour. While wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, you’ll likely see plenty. However, keep in mind, the balloon drifts wherever the wind takes it.
Landing – After an hour in the air, you safely land in an open field. A safari vehicle then arrives to take you to the next stop.
Breakfast – The “champagne breakfast” is amazing. The food is fantastic, but what makes it truly special is enjoying a hot coffee in the open wilderness, surrounded by stunning scenery.
Conclusion: Serengeti versus Masaai Mara Hot Air Balloon
In my opinion, the Serengeti hot air balloon experience is better organized. The pickup vehicles are always on time and good with communication. Your captain will likely be more experienced on the Serengeti hot air balloon and better in terms of giving information throughout the flight. The breakfast is also better than you will receive on the Masaai Mara hot air balloon experience and this meal in the bush is a fantastic way to round off a most incredible morning.
