Hot air balloons elevate safari experience in Tanzania

By Kizito Makoye

TARANGIRE, Tanzania (AA) - High above the plains of Tarangire National Park in Tanzania, a hot air balloon glides smoothly through the morning sky, carrying anxious tourists on a magical flight experience.

“Watching the balloon inflate is like seeing magic happen right before your eyes," said Sarah Abraham, a Canadian tourist. "I can tell it is going to be a wonderful experience."

As the sun’s rays pierce through the park, renowned for its vast elephant herds and giant baobab trees, the balloon ride offers a wonderful experience for tourists drifting above the plains to catch glimpses of the amazing nature below.

The trip begins at Silale Swamp with a briefing from the pilot and ground crew of Serengeti Balloon Safaris. The initial briefing covers safety protocols to prepare tourists for the adventure.

As the roaring burner fills up the balloon, its sheer size thrills the tourists as it gently lifts off into the sky.

"I really loved watching the park from above. It was just amazing," said Abraham.

Piloting the giant balloon is Mohammed Masudi, a seasoned US-trained balloonist who has spent over a decade navigating the skies of Tanzania.

"Steering the balloon is both a science and an art," Masudi told Anadolu. "We use the wind currents at different altitudes to guide our direction."

He described how understanding these air currents is crucial.

"Hot air balloons don't have engines, so we rely on the wind," he said. "By heating the air inside the balloon, we can rise to higher altitudes where the wind might be blowing in a different direction. This allows us to change our course."

The process is delicate and requires a keen sense of timing and observation.

"It's all about feeling the air and making small adjustments," Masudi added. "We use a burner to heat the air, which makes the balloon rise, and we let the air cool to descend. By doing this, we can find the right wind layer to take us where we want to go."

Flying over Tarangire offers a unique perspective of the park's diverse wildlife.

"From up here, you can see elephants, giraffes and zebras moving across the landscape," said Masudi. "It's like watching a nature documentary in real life. Interestingly, our presence does not in any way disturb animals."

Masudi’s passion for ballooning was evident as he spoke about the experience of flying.

"There's a real sense of freedom and tranquility," he said. "Every flight is different because the wind and weather conditions are never the same. That's what makes it so exciting."

As the balloon flies, the tourists see golden grasslands, acacia trees and snaking rivers.

"We took our family on a hot air balloon ride for my dad's 60th birthday," said Amalia Gonzales from Switzerland. "It was a fantastic experience."

- 'Pure joy'

Hot air balloon expeditions in the East African country offer various experiences, from game viewing in Serengeti National Park to exploring the landscapes of Tarangire. The great migration is a particularly popular sight, with thousands of wildebeests and zebras traversing the plains.

Tarangire Park is a better location for balloon rides, providing passengers with a bird’s-eye view of a landscape dotted with baobab trees and wildlife, said Pascal Kirigiti, Serengeti Balloon Safaris’ information officer.

"Our balloons fly just after sunrise and climb to 800 feet over a large expanse of woodland to gain some speed and the far-reaching views," he said.

His point was echoed by Tricia Ruddy, a tourist from the United States.

"We saw lions, elephants and giraffes moving freely in their natural habitats," she said.

During the flight, the ground crew followed the balloon, ready to assist with the landing.

"We communicate constantly with the pilot," said Masudi. "It's a coordinated effort."

"We prioritize safety above all else," said Kirigiti. "It's what allows us to enjoy the beauty of the experience."

Early morning and late afternoon flights are ideal, taking advantage of stable weather conditions. As the balloon touches down and the passengers gather for their champagne toast, it marks the end of a truly memorable experience.

"It's something everyone should do at least once," said Abraham. "It's pure joy."

As the balloon gently descended, Masudi prepared for a smooth landing.

"Landing is another crucial part of the journey," he noted. "We need to find a safe spot and make sure the descent is controlled. Communication with the ground crew is key to ensure that everything goes smoothly."

Upon landing near the Tarangire River, the tourists are treated to a hot bush breakfast in the open air or under the acacia tree.

"It’s a fantastic way to end the adventure," said Abraham, as the smell of freshly brewed coffee and sizzling sausages wafted through the air.

"The food is delicious, and the setting is perfect."

The breakfast is a time for passengers to share their experiences.

"We toast with champagne to celebrate the flight," said Masudi. "It's a long tradition symbolizing a safe return to the ground and adds a special touch to the experience."

The passengers enjoy a champagne toast and receive a certificate for their airborne adventure.

“I experienced a lot of memorable moments to tell people back home” said Abraham.