Hot Air Balloon Safari at Pilanesberg National Park

Soaring high above the diverse landscapes of Pilanesberg National Park in a hot air balloon offers visitors an unparalleled perspective on South Africa’s stunning wildlife. This aerial adventure allows guests to spot the famed Big Five from the comfort of a wicker basket, with a professional pilot providing insightful commentary throughout the journey. Complemented by a celebratory sparkling wine toast and a full English breakfast, the experience promises an unforgettable encounter with nature. While the convenience of hotel transfers and access to park fees make this tour an appealing option, there’s much more to discover about the unique benefits of this aerial safari.

Contents hide

1 Experience Overview

6 Location and Ratings

7 Booking and Confirmation

8 Sunrise Safari

9 Frequently Asked Questions

Key Points

Aerial sightseeing of Pilanesberg National Park’s stunning landscape and potential Big Five sightings in a 45-60 minute hot air balloon flight.
Includes pickup and drop-off services, professional driver/guide, glass of champagne, and a full English breakfast after landing.
Group size requirement of a minimum of 4 passengers, not recommended for pregnant travelers, and not wheelchair accessible.
Operates 7 days a week, year-round, with confirmation received at the time of reservation, subject to wind and visibility conditions.
Overall 4.0-star rating from 43 reviews, with praise for the breathtaking views, pilot commentary, and the celebratory toast and breakfast.

Experience Overview

The hot air balloon safari over Pilanesberg National Park provides an aerial view of the stunning landscape and the opportunity to spot the Big Five game animals.

Passengers embark on a 45-60 minute flight led by a professional pilot who offers insightful commentary throughout the journey.

During the flight, guests can admire the vast savanna and forests from above, keeping an eye out for elephants, lions, leopards, rhinoceros, and buffalo.

After a smooth landing, the experience is capped off with a celebratory sparkling wine toast and a full English breakfast.

This unique adventure offers a thrilling bird’s-eye perspective of the incredible Pilanesberg National Park.

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Inclusions

The hot air balloon safari over Pilanesberg National Park includes pickup and drop-off services from select hotels, along with a professional driver/guide who accompanies the experience.

Guests also receive a glass of champagne, a full English breakfast, and access to the national park fees as part of the package.

This comprehensive offering ensures that travelers can fully enjoy the aerial adventure without having to worry about logistics or additional costs.

The inclusions provide a well-rounded experience, allowing guests to enjoy the breathtaking views from the hot air balloon while indulging in a celebratory toast and a hearty meal to start the day.

Restrictions

According to the provided information, there are several restrictions in place for the hot air balloon safari at Pilanesberg National Park.

A minimum of 4 people is required for the flight to proceed.

The experience isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers.

Children must be accompanied by an adult, and all passenger heights must be disclosed at the time of booking.

The hot air balloon safari isn’t wheelchair accessible.

These restrictions ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants. Guests should carefully review the guidelines before booking to ensure the experience is suitable for their group and individual needs.

Scheduling

The hot air balloon safari at Pilanesberg National Park operates 7 days a week, year-round, subject to availability and weather conditions.

The experience is closed on New Year’s Day, January 1st.

Confirmation of the booking is received at the time of reservation.

Travelers should keep in mind that the schedule is dependent on factors like wind and visibility, which can impact flight operations.

The hot air balloon rides take place at sunrise, providing stunning aerial views of the park and the chance to spot the Big Five.

With a professional pilot providing commentary, a glass of champagne, and a full English breakfast, this is a truly memorable safari experience in South Africa.

Reviews

With 43 reviews and an overall rating of 4.0, the hot air balloon safari at Pilanesberg National Park has garnered positive feedback from travelers.

Reviewers praise the breathtaking aerial views of the Big Five game and the professional pilot’s engaging commentary during the 45-60 minute flight.

Many highlight the inclusion of a sparkling wine toast and full English breakfast as a perfect way to start the day.

Travelers also appreciate the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off.

A few note that the minimum group size of 4 people may be a consideration for smaller parties.

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Location and Ratings

Pilanesberg National Park’s hot air balloon safari is located in the North West province of South Africa, positioning it as an accessible adventure for travelers.

This aerial experience has earned an impressive 4.0 overall rating from 43 reviews, showcasing its popularity among adventurers.

The safari’s location within the national park allows guests to witness the iconic Big Five wildlife from a unique bird’s-eye view.

With sweeping vistas and professional pilot commentary, the hot air balloon ride provides a truly immersive and memorable way to explore the diverse landscapes of this premier South African destination.

Whether seeking an adrenaline-filled getaway or a serene sunrise adventure, the Pilanesberg National Park hot air balloon safari delivers an unforgettable experience.

Booking and Confirmation

Booking this hot air balloon safari over Pilanesberg National Park is straightforward, as confirmation is received at the time of reservation. Guests can choose from a range of available departure times, with the activity open seven days a week, year-round, subject to weather conditions and minimum group size requirements.

A minimum of 4 people is required for the flight to depart.

All passenger heights must be provided at the time of booking.

The activity isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those in wheelchairs.

Hotel pickup and drop-off is included for select hotels in the area.

Sunrise Safari

As the sun slowly rises over the Pilanesberg National Park, guests embark on a breathtaking hot air balloon safari that offers unparalleled aerial views of the park’s diverse wildlife.

Soaring high above the landscape, explorers can spot the iconic Big Five – lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, and Cape buffalo – as well as a myriad of other species.

A professional pilot provides insightful commentary during the 45-60 minute flight, sharing their knowledge of the region’s history and ecology.

Guests are treated to a sparkling wine toast and a full English breakfast upon landing, creating a truly memorable experience.

The sunrise hot air balloon safari is a must-do activity for visitors seeking an unforgettable adventure in South Africa’s wilderness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Age Limit for the Hot Air Balloon Ride?

There’s no specific age limit for the hot air balloon ride, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The experience is not recommended for pregnant travelers due to safety concerns.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Safari?

The hot air balloon safari does not allow guests to bring their own food and drinks. A full English breakfast is included in the package, and a glass of sparkling wine is provided during the flight.

How Stable Is the Hot Air Balloon During the Flight?

The hot air balloon is generally stable during the flight, as it’s designed to withstand wind and turbulence. Though some minor movements are normal, the experienced pilots ensure a smooth and safe ride for passengers.

What Happens if the Weather Is Bad on the Day of the Safari?

If the weather is unfavorable on the scheduled day, the hot air balloon safari will be cancelled. The operator will work with customers to reschedule the activity for another day when conditions are suitable and safe for the flight.

Can I Take Photographs During the Hot Air Balloon Ride?

Guests are generally able to take photographs during the hot air balloon ride. The pilot and crew typically encourage guests to capture the stunning aerial views and wildlife sightings. However, guests should exercise caution to avoid dropping or losing any items.