Soaring Above Kenya’s Maasai Mara in a Hot Air Balloon

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to float in the sky, looking down on the vast plains of Kenya’s Maasai Mara? Well, imagine this: you’re on an incredible adventure, high above the ground, in the gentle sway of a hot air balloon.

As I rise higher and higher, I can’t help but feel a mix of excitement and awe. The breathtaking landscape below me stretches as far as the eye can see, with golden grasslands, meandering rivers, and clusters of acacia trees dotting the horizon.

The Maasai Mara reserve is known for its incredible wildlife, and floating above it provides a unique perspective. From up here, I can see herds of wildebeests and zebras, gracefully moving across the plains. Giraffes gracefully nibbling on tree leaves, and elephants strolling along the riverbanks. It’s a truly extraordinary sight.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this experience is the peacefulness. The world below seems to fade away, and all that remains is the sound of the wind and the occasional gasp of fellow passengers as we spot a group of lions lazing in the shade or a cheetah sprinting across the open grassland.

As the sun begins to rise higher in the sky, casting a warm golden glow over the landscape, the colors become even more vibrant. The blues and greens of the river contrast beautifully with the earthy tones of the savannah. It’s like being in a dream, surrounded by nature’s incredible beauty.

There’s something magical about being up in the air, seeing the world from a different perspective. It’s a moment of pure wonder and amazement. And as our balloon gently descends back to the ground, I can’t help but feel grateful for this extraordinary experience.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure and a chance to see Africa’s wildlife in a whole new way, soaring over Kenya’s Maasai Mara in a hot air balloon is an absolute must. It’s an experience that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. So why not take a leap and embark on this incredible journey?

It was a chilly and dim morning. The sounds of grumbling hippos and calling hyenas filled the air as I squinted my eyes, trying to see through the darkness. Ahead of me, a basket lay on its side, with a deflated hot air balloon spread out on the ground. We were about to embark on an exciting hot air balloon safari in Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve.

As the first light of dawn started to illuminate the sky, the powerful flames from the gas burners burst into life, accompanied by the roar of the fans that rapidly inflated the balloon.

I’m getting excited as Governors Balloon Safaris prepares for takeoff at the crack of dawn. You should see it – the jets bursting to life, filling the air with energy. Take a look at this stunning shot by Keith Reid!

Imagine my luck when I found out that I would be staying at Little Governors Camp, right where the balloon takes off. This meant I could enjoy some extra sleep compared to those coming from camps 45 minutes away. But there’s a reason why we have to rise so early: the balloon needs to catch that first ray of light. You see, the difference in temperature between the heated air inside the balloon and the cool air outside is what gives it lift.

Just a small tweak to the levers and then, we’re off! Take a look at this photo by Keith Reid.

For almost 40 years, Governors Balloon Safaris has been flying balloons in the Mara. Before us, members of royalty, sports stars, and famous actors have all stood in this very spot. These balloons have witnessed some unforgettable weddings and marriage proposals.

Up in the sky, above the Mara

After the balloon pocket was fully inflated using fire and a fan, 14 people climbed into the basket. With a burst of flame, the pilot made some final adjustments while the ground crew released the anchor ropes.

I can’t help but feel a sense of awe as I slowly drift above the plains, surrounded by the marvelous beauty of the African wilderness. The balloon I’m in floats gracefully, almost like a phantom, through the air, giving me a bird’s-eye view of this magnificent landscape. It’s a sight that fills me with wonder and curiosity.

As I look down, I spot a group of waterbuck scattered across the plains. They sit calmly, as if they’re the kings and queens of this vast realm. The sunlight bathes the scene in a gentle glow, illuminating their noble presence.

Hovering above, I notice a trio of spotted hyenas making their way through the tall grass. Their lean bodies move with a certain finesse, almost as if they’re on a secret mission. Their presence adds an element of intrigue to this already captivating journey.

Continuing on my flight, I come across various herds of animals. Buffalos, impalas, topis, and more waterbuck. It’s fascinating to witness the diversity of life in this wondrous place. With a touch of whimsy, the pilot shares an interesting tidbit with me. Apparently, the fur of waterbuck is coated with a special substance that repels water, making it unappetizing to predators. Even the mighty lions will only resort to eating them if they have no other choice. It’s as if the waterbuck are immune to worry, relaxed and peaceful amidst the harsh realities of survival.

This magical experience has left me in awe of the wonders of nature. It’s a reminder of the intricate balance that exists in the animal kingdom and the awe-inspiring adaptations that have developed over time. I feel privileged to have witnessed this snapshot of life in the wild and grateful for the opportunity to appreciate the beauty that surrounds us.

Have you ever seen the picturesque Mara River? It’s like a beautiful green vein, winding its way through the land. Just imagine floating above it in a balloon, taking in the breathtaking view. As I drifted along, I couldn’t help but admire the open plains below, filled with flat-topped trees and Thomson’s gazelle gracefully grazing.

Eventually, a patch of forest came into view. Our pilot, David, expertly maneuvered the balloon, shooting bursts of flame to gain height and glide over the tree-tops. It was an exhilarating experience! Peering through the branches, my heart raced with anticipation. Would we spot a rhino or a leopard?

Unfortunately, luck was not on our side that day. We didn’t catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures, but that didn’t diminish the magic of the moment. The Mara River and the wilderness surrounding it were enough to leave a lasting impression on me. The beauty and wonder of nature never cease to amaze.

Have you ever seen a hot air balloon selfie? It’s a photo taken from a hot air balloon, capturing an incredible view from high up in the sky. The picture shows the vastness of the landscape below and the majestic beauty of the balloon itself. It’s an amazing way to capture a moment and create a unique memory.

Imagine floating in a hot air balloon, surrounded by the peacefulness of the sky. As you look down, you spot a group of hippos lounging on the rocks by the river. A crocodile lurks nearby, adding a sense of excitement to the scene. But that’s not all – you also see a pair of secretary birds in a tree, engaged in a captivating mating dance. Nearby, a lilac-breasted roller bird catches your eye with its vibrant colors. And let’s not forget the giraffes, gracefully nibbling on leaves from the treetops. Seeing these majestic creatures from above gives you a whole new perspective.

From the hot air balloon, you can truly appreciate the beauty of nature and the awe-inspiring diversity of wildlife. Every moment is filled with wonder and amazement as you take in the breathtaking sights below. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that leaves you in awe of the world we live in.

When you’re up in the air, everything looks different. I remember taking a hot air balloon ride and getting a bird’s-eye view of the world below. It was incredible to see the landscape from such a high vantage point.

We flew low at first, keeping an eye out for game. But then, our pilot David decided to take us higher, up to 300 meters. From up there, we could really take in the whole scene. We did two full spins, taking in all the trees and the Oloololo Escarpment in the distance. David even pointed out that some scenes from the movie Out of Africa were shot there.

Time flew by, and before we knew it, we were coming in for a landing on Eluai Plain. It was a smooth touchdown, and we were all thrilled with the experience. We snapped a few more photos of the breathtaking view before hopping into 4X4s and heading over to the Oloololo hills for a delicious champagne breakfast.

Hey there! Let’s talk about the fascinating Eluai Plain, shall we? This beautiful place is located in a remote part of the world. When I look at the pictures, I can’t help but be amazed at the breathtaking scenery. The Eluai Plain is known for its vast landscapes and stunning beauty.

Imagine standing there, surrounded by majestic mountains on one side and a crystal-clear river on the other. The combination of nature’s wonders creates a truly magical experience. I can almost feel the cool breeze brushing against my face and the soothing sound of the flowing water. It’s like being in a dream!

If you’re planning a trip to the Eluai Plain, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First and foremost, remember to pack your camera! You’ll definitely want to capture the incredible sights and memories. The Eluai Plain is a paradise for photography enthusiasts.

Another important thing to consider is the weather. Make sure to check the forecast before your trip, as the climate can be unpredictable at times. Dressing appropriately will ensure your comfort and enjoyment during your visit.

Now, let me tell you about the wildlife in the Eluai Plain. It’s like stepping into a nature documentary! You might spot some unique animals like rare bird species or even deer roaming freely. Keep your eyes peeled and be amazed by the wonders of the animal kingdom.

Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventurer, or simply seeking tranquility, the Eluai Plain has something for everyone. From hiking and exploring to relaxing by the river, there’s no shortage of activities to immerse yourself in. And if you’re a foodie like me, you’ll be delighted to try the local cuisine, which is known for its delicious flavors.

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, put on your hiking boots, and get ready for an unforgettable journey to the enchanting Eluai Plain. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!

I’m heading to the Oloololo hills, and let me tell you about the geeky details of a hot air balloon. It’s made of polyurethane-treated rip-stop nylon, combined with fire-resistant Nomex for the bottom two meters, and held together with strong nylon webbing. After around 800 hours of flying, the balloon needs replacing, while the baskets last three times longer than that.

When you go on a hot air balloon ride over the Mara, your flight distance might vary from 8 to 15 nautical miles, depending on the winds. In our case, the winds were relatively calm, so we covered a distance of 7.6 nautical miles. Our top speed reached 17.6 nautical miles, with an average speed of 8.4.

Now, some might assume that it’s all just hot air in the balloon, but here’s an interesting fact: the entire balloon weighs a whopping 16 tons. And guess what? 14 tons of that weight comes from the propane-heated air. It’s truly remarkable that we were able to glide gracefully in such a heavy contraption.

Imagine waking up to a breathtaking breakfast on the plains, surrounded by the beauty of nature. The sight is as captivating as it is unpredictable – that’s the true charm of a safari. You never know what you’ll encounter, and that element of surprise is what makes it so alluring.

Just two days after our amazing flight, we spoke with fellow travelers who had been lucky enough to see rhinos and leopards during their excursion. It made us realize that every safari is a unique adventure, shaped by chance and perfect timing. A few weeks later, SafariLIVE captured a thrilling moment on film: a zebra bravely crossing a river, narrowly escaping a crocodile’s jaws, only to find itself face-to-face with two hungry lionesses on the riverbank.

During our balloon safari in the Mara, we were fortunate to witness a variety of incredible animals. Antelope, hyenas, warthogs, wildebeests, zebras, giraffes, and hippos graced our vision. While we didn’t spot all of the Big Five, encountering a herd of majestic buffalos was an unforgettable experience. After all, being able to tick off a classic balloon safari in the Mara from our bucket list was already a thrill in itself.

So, why not take the plunge and embark on your own safari? It’s an adventure like no other, filled with surprises and the wonders of the wild. You never know what awe-inspiring moments await you in the heart of nature.

Hey, guess what? I’ve got some incredible news that you’re going to absolutely love! The Governors Camp Collection and Governors Balloon Safaris offer these mind-blowing balloon safaris in the incredible Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. I mean, can you even imagine how awesome that would be? It’s like stepping into a dream!

So, here’s the scoop on how it all goes down. Picture this: it’s the crack of dawn, the world is just starting to wake up, and you’re about to embark on this incredible adventure. You hop into a hot air balloon and take to the sky. Yeah, I said it, you’re floating above the Maasai Mara in a hot air balloon. How amazing would that feeling be, right?

And it gets even better. After this mind-blowing, once-in-a-lifetime experience, you touch down and where do you find yourself? Well, you’re treated to a lavish champagne breakfast, just a hop, skip, and a jump away from where you landed. I mean, seriously, who wouldn’t want to start their day like that?

But wait, there’s more! As if this adventure couldn’t get any cooler, after breakfast, you get to go on a game drive. Yeah, you heard me right. It’s like a double dose of awesomeness in one day. You get to see all these incredible animals, up close and personal. It’s like you’re living in a National Geographic documentary, except it’s real and you’re right in the middle of it all. Talk about an adrenaline rush!

Now, I know you’re probably wondering about the cost, but trust me, it’s totally worth it. I mean, this is the adventure of a lifetime, right? So, for just $409 per person, you can make all of this happen. I mean, come on, that’s a steal!

Oh, and here’s another cool thing. The launch site is at Little Governors Camp, and if you book before the end of 2017, you can score a sweet deal of $305 per person per night on the Early Bird special for April and May 2018. I mean, what are you waiting for? That’s an amazing offer! Plus, they even offer pickup from other camps in the area. How convenient is that?

So, there you have it, my friend. If you’re looking for the adventure of a lifetime, then look no further. The Governors Camp Collection and Governors Balloon Safaris have got you covered. I mean, seriously, this is the kind of experience that will stay with you forever. So, what are you waiting for? Hop on that hot air balloon and get ready to have the time of your life!

To keep up with all of my epic adventures, be sure to check out my African travel blog. Trust me, you won’t want to miss a single second of the action!