Balloon Safari

An example of being surrounded by giraffes in the Maasai Mara.

Each basket holds 16. Four in each quadrant. Pilot is in the middle.

Balloon is ready--time to get in!!

Balloons take off before sunrise with the purpose of getting shots of it.

Heat is blown into the balloon and inflated with basket on it's side.

Once landed, a full breakfast is served.

My first safari had enough people for two balloons. Getting a shot of the other with it's shadow was such a bonus! Hopefully we will have 21 volunteers in March & September 2023 to fill two balloons and three landrovers.

Pre-dawn view of horizon and a Kikuyu home.

Flipping over the gas burners made for a great cook top! He has crepes for us! 

Coffee is served prior to lift off. I don't recall if there is decaf.

This is what the inside looks like.  Handles for take-off and landing.

Gas is fired up with the hand brakes pilot is squeezing. It's LOUD.

Our pilot was trained in California. :-D 

Flying low allows the pilot to guide the balloon to it's target.

The mara is flat for miles.

There was a group of hired Maasai dancers who entertained us. The leader was such a fun guy. Always smiling rediculously--it was contagious. I loved it!

You must sign a waiver before going aboard.

Having two balloons is my goal for next year. Makes for great pics. We need a group of 21 people. So far, 10 have registered for March 2023, and two of those have given deposits.

While this particular balloon company is too far from Kim's place, I am certain we will still have a great experience and a lot of fun.

Surrounded by giraffes made for great ambiance.

We passed some lions before arriving.