Update: Please note that hot air ballooning is no longer functional in Murchison Falls National Park. If this service resumes; we shall update this article accordingly.
Hot air ballooning at Murchison Falls gives tourists a chance to see the park from a bird’s eye view. The balloon rises to about 10,000 feet above sea level and gently floats, offering views of the wide Savannah, the River Nile, and the powerful Murchison Falls.
The activity begins early in the morning, before sunrise. Tourists are picked up from their lodge and taken to the starting point. At this point, they will watch the balloon being filled with air and receive a safety briefing about the flight.
After the briefing, tourists climb into the basket, which can carry around 8 people. The excitement begins as the balloon lifts off the ground.
From the sky, the view of the park is different, calm, and interesting.
The balloon is moved by the wind and guided by a trained pilot who controls how high or low it flies.
There is no engine sound, no shaking! Just the quiet movement of the basket as it floats smoothly through the sky.
While flying over Murchison Falls National Park, tourists can see many animals like antelopes grazing, elephants walking, and different birds flying.
The balloon also passes over key parts of the park, including Murchison Falls and the Devil’s Cauldron, where the air is cooler and the sights are unforgettable.
This peaceful ride offers a quiet and gentle way to enjoy the beauty of nature.
The flight usually lasts about an hour, depending on wind conditions, and ends as the sun gets warmer. The pilot lands the balloon in an open space, and tourists continue with breakfast and other park activities.
For those who do not prefer the early morning session, there is also an evening option. It starts at 4:00 pm and ends around 6:30 pm.
After the flight, tourists receive a certificate for taking part in the experience.
Cost of Hot Air Ballooning
- USD 380 for foreign non-residents (includes bush breakfast)
- USD 300 for foreign non-residents (without breakfast)
- USD 250 for East African residents
Best Time to Go
The best time for hot air ballooning is during the dry seasons: from June to August and December to February. During this time, there is little rain and the grass is short, which makes it easier to see animals.
Hot air ballooning at Murchison Falls is a special experience that combines the joy of flying with the beauty of one of Africa’s greatest natural wonders.
