Hot-air balloon over the Masai Mara: price, what happens and breakfast in the savannah
Flying over the Masai Mara savannah at dawn in a hot-air balloon is one of the most photographed moments of a Kenya safari. The flight lasts about an hour, at sunrise, and ends with a breakfast in the bush. It is booked through the camps and operators of the Mara, as an extra on a stay; think of it when you book, because places are limited. Expect between US$420 and US$635 per person depending on the season and the package: 2026 guides give that range, with higher prices during the migration (July to October).
Highlights
The sunrise flight
Very early start (a wake-up in the night, often around 4-5am), the balloon is inflated by the glow of the burners, then lifts off at dawn for about an hour over the savannah; the altitude changes with the wind, from treetop height to several hundred metres.
Animals seen from the sky
Giraffes, elephants, hippos on the river, wildebeest and zebras: you see the savannah like a map; the flight does not replace a safari by vehicle, since you cannot choose the direction or stop in front of an animal.
Breakfast in the bush
After landing, a table is set up in the savannah for a hot breakfast, often with sparkling wine; operators generally give out a flight certificate.
Prices and what is included
The US$420 to US$635 range for a flight does not always include the park entry fee or the transfer; ask what is covered and compare operators.
Practical info
Tips
- Book ahead, especially from July to October: balloons fill up fast. Bring a warm jacket (dawn is cool) and clothes in neutral colours. Flights can be cancelled by bad weather or wind; ask about the refund or rebooking policy. Pregnant women, very young children and people with reduced mobility usually have age or fitness restrictions: check with the operator. The flight is an add-on to a stay of 3 days or more: see a safari to the Masai Mara from Nairobi, the Masai Mara reserve and a 3-day safari in Kenya. The prices quoted come from commercial guides: ask for an up-to-date quote.
How to get there
The transfer from your Mara camp or lodge is arranged by the operator before dawn; the take-off sites are in the reserve or nearby.
Opening hours
Our guides that feature it
Nearby
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