Queen Elizabeth Balloon Safari

Experience the stunning beauty of Queen Elizabeth National Park from above. Watch the sunrise or sunset paint the savannah and rivers with golden light while spotting elephants, lions, hippos, and other wildlife.

1,978
Square Kilometers
95
Mammal Species
600+
Bird Species
Year-Round
Flight Season

Explore Queen Elizabeth National Park

Park Overview
Wildlife
Flight Experience
Gallery
Best Time to Visit
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Park Overview

Discover the "Medley of Wonders" - Uganda's most popular and scenic savanna park

Queen Elizabeth National Park landscape

Africa's Biodiversity Hotspot

Queen Elizabeth National Park spans the equator in western Uganda, boasting some of the most breathtaking scenery in East Africa. The park's diverse ecosystems include sprawling savanna, shady, humid forests, sparkling lakes and fertile wetlands, making it the perfect habitat for classic big game, ten primate species including chimpanzees, and over 600 species of birds.

From the air, you'll witness dozens of enormous craters carved dramatically into rolling green hills, panoramic views of the Kazinga Channel with its banks lined with hippos, buffalo and elephants, and the endless Ishasha plains, where fig trees hide the famous tree-climbing lions.

Western Uganda, near Kasese
1,978 sq km park area
Year-round flights
Up to 16 passengers

Select your preferred flight time and package. We offer custom experiences for couples, families, groups, and private events. Book online or contact our team today.

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Wildlife & Biodiversity

Home to an incredible array of African wildlife species

Tree-climbing lion

Tree-Climbing Lions

The famous lions of Ishasha are renowned for their unique behavior of climbing fig trees. From your balloon, you might spot these majestic cats resting in the branches during the heat of the day.

Elephants

African Elephants

Large herds of elephants roam the park, particularly along the Kazinga Channel. From above, you can observe their social interactions and bathing rituals without disturbing them.

Hippos

Hippopotamus

The Kazinga Channel hosts one of the world's largest concentrations of hippos. From your balloon, you'll see these massive creatures lounging in the water and grazing on shore at night.

Uganda Kob

Uganda Kob

These elegant antelope are the primary prey for the park's lions. Large herds can be seen grazing on the savanna plains, particularly in the Kasenyi area.

The park is also home to buffalo, chimpanzees, leopards, hyenas, crocodiles, and over 600 species of birds including the spectacular African fish eagle.

Balloon Safari Experience

What to expect on your hot air balloon adventure over Queen Elizabeth National Park

4:30 AM - Pre-Dawn Preparation

Our team collects you from your lodge in the cool, pre-dawn darkness. Enjoy a hot beverage and light snack as we transport you to the launch site near the Kasenyi plains.

5:15 AM - Arrival & Safety Briefing

Arrive at the launch site as the first light appears on the horizon. Meet your experienced pilot and receive a comprehensive safety briefing before your flight.

5:45 AM - Balloon Inflation

Watch in awe as our crew prepares the balloon for flight. The inflation process is a spectacle in itself, with the massive balloon gradually taking shape against the morning sky.

6:00 AM - Takeoff & Wildlife Viewing

As the sun rises over the savanna, you'll gently lift off and begin your approximately one-hour flight. Glide silently over herds of Uganda kob, elephants, and with luck, the famous tree-climbing lions of Ishasha.

7:00 AM - Landing & Celebration

Your pilot will find a suitable landing spot where our ground crew will be waiting. After landing, participate in the traditional champagne celebration and receive your flight certificate.

7:30 AM - Bush Breakfast

Enjoy a full gourmet breakfast served in a beautiful bush location with stunning views of the park. Share stories of your flight experience while dining in the heart of the African wilderness.

Best Time to Visit

Queen Elizabeth National Park offers incredible ballooning experiences year-round

Dry Season
June - September

Optimal wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources. Clear skies and excellent photographic conditions.

Short Dry Season
January - February

Pleasant weather with good wildlife visibility. Fewer tourists than peak season. Excellent bird watching.

Long Rains
March - May

Lush green landscapes with newborn animals. Fewer visitors and lower rates. Balloon flights operate weather permitting.

Short Rains
October - December

Generally light showers that don't disrupt flights. Beautiful skies with dramatic cloud formations. Migratory birds present.

Ready for an Unforgettable Adventure?

Book your hot air balloon safari over Queen Elizabeth National Park and experience Africa's wildlife from a breathtaking new perspective.

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