Hot Air Balloon safaris were introduced in Akagera National Park in January 2022, adding to the existing list of tourist activities in the park, which include day and night game drives, boat trips, birding, sport fishing, walking safaris, and cultural tours.
The addition of this amazing activity to the park was overseen by Akagera Management Company and the Rwanda Development Board in their bid to boost tourism in Akagera National Park and the tourism industry at large in Rwanda.
The hot air balloon safari services are operated by Royal Balloons Rwanda, a Turkish company with over 10 years of flying experience under their belts. Prices range from $200 to $550 depending on factors like age, tourism season, package and more. It has 2 hot air balloons in Akagera National Park, each with a carrying capacity of 4-6 passengers. You will be in the safe hands of worldclass hot air balloon pilots.
What to expect from the Hot Air Balloon Safari in Akagera National Park
- Picturesque views of Akagera National Park from heights of up to 1,000 meters.
- A 60-minute flight (1 hour), weather conditions permitting.
- Set off is at Kayitaba, a 5-minute drive from Akagera’s South entrance gate.
- You will be up every early (5:00 am) to drive to the launch site, enjoy an early morning cup of tea or coffee as you watch the pilots and other crew members set up and inflate the hot air balloon.
- Carry your camera, smartphone to take amazing panoramic pictures, and binoculars to see as far as the horizon goes.
- Get into the basket and take flight over the vast Savannah plains, woodlands, swamps, and lakes of Akagera National Park and observe the various animal species. Enjoy the bird’s-eye view of the park and the cool morning breeze.
- At the end of the flight, you will have some champagne to toast to the successful flight and a delicious bush buffet breakfast.
- You will be given flight certificates and then drive back to your safari lodge.
Hot air balloon safaris are best done during the dry season when the rain would not disrupt the activity’s schedule. If the weather is a hindrance, the visitor’s money is fully refunded or optionally, if you still have one more day in Akagera National Park, you can try again the next morning hoping the weather will be at its best.
Take on the Hot air balloon safari in Akagera National Park for a whole new experience in the wild.
Visit Akagera National Park in Rwanda with these recommended Rwanda tour companies or send us an inquiry below to book through us directly.
