Pilanesberg National Park/Sun City Hot Air Balloon Safari

Soaring over the vast landscapes of Pilanesberg National Park in a hot air balloon is an exhilarating way to experience South Africa’s iconic wildlife. Priced at €305.16 per person, this 5-hour adventure offers breathtaking aerial views and the chance to spot the Big 5 from above. With a 1-hour balloon flight, round-trip transfers, and a post-flight English breakfast with sparkling wine, the experience caters to thrill-seekers aged 12 to 61. While safety is a top priority, the glowing reviews suggest this unforgettable journey provides a truly unique perspective on the park’s diverse flora and fauna.

Good To Know

• A popular 5-hour hot air balloon safari in Pilanesberg National Park/Sun City, priced from €305.16 per person.
• Includes a 1-hour balloon flight, wildlife spotting, and post-flight refreshments.
• Offers breathtaking views of the Savannah and potential sightings of the Big 5 animals.
• Requires participants to be reasonably fit and excludes pregnant women and those under 3 ft 9 in.
• Booking is weather-dependent and includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Activity Overview

The Pilanesberg National Park/Sun City Hot Air Balloon Safari is a popular activity that’s likely to sell out.

Priced from €305.16 per person, the 5-hour experience includes a 1-hour balloon flight over the Savannah and a chance to spot the Big 5.

Transfers from hotels and lodges in the area are provided, and a live tour guide in English accompanies the group.

Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, or opt for the reserve now & pay later option.

The activity offers an unforgettable aerial perspective of the park’s stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.

Experience Highlights

Morning balloon flights over Pilanesberg National Park offer guests breathtaking views of the Savannah and a chance to spot the Big 5 wildlife: lions, leopards, buffalo, rhinoceros, and elephants.

Guests will enjoy a round-trip transfer in an open safari vehicle from their hotel or lodge. Upon landing, they’ll be treated to sparkling wine, orange juice, and a full English breakfast at a private lodge.

As a memento, each guest receives a first flight certificate signed by the pilot.

• Round-trip transfer in an open safari vehicle
• Sparkling wine, orange juice, and full English breakfast post-flight
• First flight certificate signed by the pilot

Guest Reviews

Guests have provided an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars for the Pilanesberg National Park Hot Air Balloon Safari based on 28 reviews.

Positive feedback highlights the excellent communication, superb team, and memorable experiences with wildlife sightings such as cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and rhinos.

Travelers of all ages, from 12 to 61, have enjoyed the experience, noting its lasting impact despite the high cost.

The activity seems suitable for a wide range of participants, though certain physical requirements and restrictions apply, such as the need to be reasonably fit and the exclusion of pregnant women and individuals under 3 ft 9 in (120 cm) tall.

Participant Requirements

Participants must be reasonably fit to climb into the 1.2-meter high balloon basket and crouch upon landing. This experience isn’t suitable for pregnant women or individuals under 3 ft 9 in (120 cm) tall.

The activity is also weather-dependent, with the schedule confirmed the day before departure. Additionally:

• Smoking isn’t allowed during the activity.
• Comfortable shoes and a sun hat are recommended.

Pickup is included from the hotel or lodge, excluding Black Rhino Lodge, with a transfer time of approximately 1 hour through the park.

Packing and Pickup Details

Along With the recommended comfortable shoes and sun hat, guests will want to bring along a camera to capture the breathtaking views from the hot air balloon.

Pickup for the safari is included from the guest’s hotel or lodge, with the exception of Black Rhino Lodge. The transfer time to the launch site is approximately one hour through Pilanesberg National Park.

Guests should be prepared for the scenic drive, as it’s part of the overall experience. With careful packing and the convenient pickup service, guests can focus on enjoying the exhilarating hot air balloon flight over the stunning African landscape.

Weather Considerations

The hot air balloon safari is weather-dependent, with confirmation of the schedule provided to guests the day before departure. This is due to the delicate nature of hot air ballooning, which requires specific conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Some key weather considerations include:

• Wind speed: Balloons can only operate within a certain range of wind speeds, typically less than 8 mph (12 km/h).
• Visibility: Clear skies and good visibility are essential for a safe launch and landing.
• Temperature: Moderate temperatures, usually between 50°F (10°C) and 95°F (35°C), are ideal for balloon flights.

If the weather conditions aren’t suitable on the scheduled day, the tour operators will work with guests to reschedule the activity or provide a full refund.

Booking and Payment Options

Travelers can book the Pilanesberg National Park Hot Air Balloon Safari through the activity’s website or by contacting the tour operator directly.

The experience is priced from €305.16 per person and offers a reserve now, pay later option. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The safari lasts approximately 5 hours, including a 1-hour balloon flight and transfers. A live tour guide in English accompanies the excursion, which is likely to sell out quickly due to its popularity.

Booking early is recommended to secure a spot on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Unforgettable Aerial Adventure

From the moment you set foot into the basket, an unforgettable aerial adventure awaits.

Soar over the Savannah, taking in breathtaking views of Pilanesberg National Park’s diverse landscapes and wildlife. The highlight of this experience is the opportunity to spot the iconic Big 5:

• Lions prowling the plains
• Leopards lounging in trees
• Majestic buffalo grazing
• Rhinos wallowing in mud
• Elephants trekking across the savanna

As you float peacefully above it all, sip on sparkling wine and savor a delectable English breakfast after landing.

This once-in-a-lifetime hot air balloon safari promises an exhilarating and memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Balloon Ride?

No, you can’t bring your own food and drinks on the balloon ride. The tour includes a complimentary sparkling wine and orange juice upon landing, as well as a full English breakfast served at a private lodge post-flight.

What Is the Maximum Weight Limit for Passengers?

The maximum passenger weight limit is not specified. However, participants must be reasonably fit to climb into the balloon basket and crouch upon landing, suggesting there are weight restrictions to consider for a safe and comfortable ride.

Can I Request a Specific Seating Position in the Basket?

While the balloon operator assigns seating positions, guests can typically request their preferred location within the basket. However, the final seating arrangement is at the pilot’s discretion to ensure balanced weight distribution and safe operations.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Children?

There are age restrictions for children on this hot air balloon safari. It’s not suitable for participants under 3 ft 9 in (120 cm) tall. Children must be reasonably fit to climb into the balloon basket and crouch upon landing.

Can I Reschedule My Balloon Flight to a Different Date?

Yes, you can reschedule your balloon flight to a different date. The activity offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to change your plans if needed without penalty.

The Sum Up

The Pilanesberg National Park/Sun City Hot Air Balloon Safari offers an exhilarating aerial adventure over stunning landscapes. With a focus on safety and excellent guest reviews, this unforgettable experience allows adventurers to soar above the Big 5 wildlife and enjoy a delightful breakfast post-flight. Whether you’re 12 or 61, this 5-hour journey promises breathtaking views and memories that will last a lifetime.