kak113

Anyone ever do this in the area of Kruger or the Sabi Sands?

If so, did you do it through your safari lodge or organize separately?

I'd love some feedback as to whether it's worth it, and what you could see - not sure if you'd be over the canyons or be able to see wildlife.

Thanks!

pippa13

http://www.balloonsoverafrica.co.za/

you should be able to get information from them regarding their radius, heights, landscape etc. - i myself haven't used them.
would advise you to ask the following questions:

- airtime
- one ride per morning or whether they do consecutive rides
- breakfast where
- launch time (approx)
- return to launch site/base at what time

that should give you an overview whether they rush the whole thing in order to cash in or do it stylish.

but what i can say from a ballooning company close to joburg/gauteng: next to nothing for 3000ZAR/pax. 30 min airtime, no bush breakfast, a rapid cup of bubbly after landing and rush back to launch site for regulat bufett breakfast.

rgds

Dana_M

There are a number of posts on hot air balloons, and just as many varying opinions on whether it is worth it or not. I did it once, over the Mara, and frankly don't see what all of the hype is about. However, if I hadn't done it I probably would have wondered if I'd missed something. I think alof of it has to do with how high the balloon flies. The balloon I was in wasn't low enough to appreciate the wildlife below nor high enough to give spectacular scenic views. I have not ballooned near Kruger.

mkhonzo

I do not believe that there are any balloon outfitters operating in the Kruger area. I understand that due to the topography and vegetative cover that the are is unsuitable for safe landings.

pippa13

@ dana
regrettably you didn't enjoy your ballooning in the mara.

when id did it from little governors they flew pretty low - very often the basket touched the treetops - which was wonderful and on the other hand they got up so that one could observe the mara river meandering below. it was spectacular incl. the champagne breakfast in the savannah surrounded by wildebeest, zebra, tommy's, topis etc.
and - the animals were not scared off at all by the flames which added to the experience.
after all i consider a ballooning in the massai mara an excellent experience; cannot image a plcae where ballooning is more spectacular.

Dana_M

Hi Pippa,
It wasn't that I didn't enjoy it, it's just that I would have preferred to be on a game drive. Glad you had a good time.