Africa is like an ugly girl with a great personality. At first, you’re a bit hesitant but when you get to know her, she’s actually great. Yes, Africa is misjudged a lot of the time but it’s truly one of the most beautiful continents on our planet. And what better way to take it all in than from above? You’re basically one with nature or rather a bird. Let’s have a look at the five best hot air balloon safari spots over Africa.
1. Pilanesberg National Park in South Africa
Pilanesberg National Park, or Pilanesberg Game Reserve as it is often called, is located in the Bojanala Region in the North-West Province. It is relatively close to Johannesburg and easily accessible from O.R Tambo International Airport. Also, it’s the fourth largest park in South Africa so seeing wild animals is a guarantee. In fact, Pilanesberg is home to South Africa’s Big 5: the lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo, and elephant. However, in total there are over 7000 animals in the park. Just a little interesting fact for you, the park is situated in a crater from a volcano that erupted 1300 million years ago.
So, I’m sure you agree that there is a lot to see. Get Your Guide is ready to take you on this breathtaking adventure over Pilanesberg. The total duration of the hot air balloon ride is about 4 hours long. Additionally, they collect you from any housing around Sun City and Pilanesberg. After your amazing trip in the air, end the experience with a lush glass of champagne and a full English breakfast at the Pilanesberg National Park Lodge. Bottom line, this is an unforgettable hot-air balloon safari.
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2. Okavango Delta in Botswana
Botswana is situated at the heart of southern Africa. Equally important, the Kalahari Desert forms the vast majority of Botswana. What makes Okavango a special location is the annual flooding of the Okavango Delta, which makes it a stunning wetland in the heart of a desert. Interestingly, flooding occurs during the dry season, being created by rainfall from Angola. Wild animals such as giraffes, hyenas, cheetahs, leopards, lions, blue wildebeests, elands, kudus, and springboks are seen in the pans and valleys of Botswana.
Air Ventures takes you on a hot-air balloon safari over the Okavango Delta. Your balloon safari begins with travelling through the wilds of the Okavango Delta to the balloon launch site. A friendly reminder, the safari takes off at sunrise. So, be up and ready in the early hours of the day. While you float over the delta, take in a wide variety of wildlife. When you return, enjoy the traditional champagne celebration in a scenic area in the bush. Prepare yourself for a truly memorable morning.
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3. Serengeti National Park in Tanzania
In summary, Serengeti is home to the great migration. Also, it’s a World Heritage Site. You have the chance to see immaculate wildlife, to name a few; 4000 lions, 1000 leopards, 550 cheetahs and some 500 bird species. Whatever preconception you have of Africa, it probably includes the visuals of the Serengeti. In fact, many movies have been filmed in the Serengeti to portray Africa.
Book your hot-air balloon safari hassle-free at Serengeti Balloon Safaris. Besides the wildlife, the air offers clear views of the Ngorongoro Highlands and Lake Victoria. Trust me, this adventure is worth getting up early for. I mean, have I ever lied to you? Okay, now that I’m done procrastinating, you must start getting ready at 4:00 am. But as always, look forward to toasting the trip with a glass of bubbly. And it doesn’t stop at that. Afterwards, breakfast is served under the sweeping canopy of acacia trees. Don’t miss out on this one.
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4. Sossusvlei in Namibia
Expect deserts, mountains, and a landscape of acacia trees when soaring over Sossusvlei: a salt and clay pan surrounded by high red dunes in the southern part of the Namib desert. The best way to take in the spectacular views of Sossusveli is from above. And I’m not only saying that because we’re on the topic of hot-air balloons, but it’s really the case. For amazing views of wildlife and mountains, Sossusvlei is the place to be.
In a hot-air balloon, it’s like floating over a red ocean and the dunes are the waves. You’ll be flying above the desert for about three and a half hours. However, the flight itself takes about 1 hour. Of course, it ends with a champagne celebration. It’s a must. It only takes place in the morning so prepare to have beautiful views of the sunrise. All you need to do is book your flight with Sossusvlei, Namibia.
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5. Kafue National Park in Zambia
Kafue is the oldest and largest national park in Zambia. Can you imagine how large the variety of wildlife is in such a huge park? In addition, Kafue is home to more species of ungulates than any national park south of the Congo Basin. Shifting the focus to the natural scenery, the Kafue River is a habitat for pods of hippos and some of the largest crocodiles in southern Africa. Just imagine seeing all of this from the sky.
Due to yearly flooding, it’s not easy to reach the Kafue National Park. Therefore, seeing it from above in a hot-air balloon is the best solution. Not only does the pilot of the hot-air balloon safari glide over Kafue, but a great pilot also offers many facts concerning the national park. In the end, the table is set for a delicious Champagne breakfast. Take this opportunity to toast to a remarkable morning’s flight, diverse scenery, and wildlife. Don’t hesitate to book your next trip at Art of Safaris.
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Enjoy Getting a Little Fresh Air
Literally, because you are going to be consumed and surrounded by the freshest air at all of these locations. Hot-air balloon safaris are an exclusive way to take in Africa and everything it has to offer! It’s also the best adventure for a special occasion. So, don’t hesitate to have a look at 5 hot-air balloon rides for Valentine’s Day in South Africa. And as always, thank you so much for being here!
