Balloon Safaris at Elephant Pepper Camp in the Mara

A balloon safari offers a mesmerizing experience with a different perspective in African wildlife and landscapes, especially in the Masai Mara, a spectacular destination even for the most experienced traveler, with breath-taking scenery that is every photographer’s dream and abundant wildlife that offers a never ending performance.

Elewana Elephant Pepper Camp, recently recognized in 2019 Conde Nast magazine’s prestigious Reader’s Choice Awards as the no. 30 resort worldwide and the no. 8 resort in Africa, offers balloon safaris as one of its half a dozen options for exploring one of Africa’s legendary game parks — a list that also includes game drives, game walks and breakfast in the bush.

But balloon safaris are special indeed. You experience the incredible beauty of the national reserve drifting above the plains — an adventure that starts well before the sun peaks above the horizon, heading to the site where you take off for an experience that you’ll never forget.

As dawn breaks, the hot-air balloon carries you above the treetops and away, floating where the wind takes you. Your pilot can control the altitude of the balloon either flying just above the branches or can ascend to 1000 feet or more to see the vast splendor of the panorama known as the Masai Mara. A balloon safari provides an extraordinary opportunity to enjoy a bird’s eye-view of the landscape below, a once-in-a-lifetime experience that culminates with a champagne breakfast on the open plains surrounded by wildlife and the magic of Africa.

Elewana Elephant Pepper Camp is situated in the Mara North Conservancy, known for its outstanding wildlife viewing. The camp is one of Kenya’s original small, exclusive tented camps, located away from other lodges and a perfect base for exploring the wonders of the Mara.

Nestled in a lush thicket of elephant pepper trees overlooking open grasslands frequented by herds of game, Elewana Elephant Pepper Camp combines rustic luxury with the authenticity of a traditional safari from yesteryear. Spacious canvas tents are elegantly furnished with Raj campaign furniture and comfortable en suite bathrooms.

Please note:  When booking a balloon safari, kindly be advised that the fee of US$80 per person for the Mara Triangle is not included in the balloon-ride charge. Therefore, anyone booking balloon rides is required to have a valid ticket for the Mara Triangle (good for 24 hours). 

While a one-day visit to the Mara Reserve is included in all three-night stays at Elewana Elephant Pepper Camp, this does not cover the $80 charge for the Mara Triangle where balloon flights land.