DAR ES SALAAM: SERENGETI Balloon Safaris, a pioneer of ballooning adventures in Tanzania, has reached new heights by being named the world’s best balloon ride operator.
This groundbreaking achievement makes Serengeti Balloon Safaris the first African company to receive such a prestigious global accolade.
The announcement was made during the World Travel Awards, often referred to as the “Oscars of the travel world,” at a grand ceremony in Funchal, Madeira, over the weekend. The event was attended by tourism industry leaders and luminaries, creating an electrifying atmosphere.
“Congratulations to Serengeti Balloon Safaris for delivering an elevated standard of service that has captivated adventurers worldwide,” said the award organisers.
Managing Director of Serengeti Balloon Safaris, Mr John Corse, expressed immense pride in receiving the award, which not only recognises the exceptional experiences offered by the company but also highlights Tanzania’s growing influence on the global tourism scene.
Known for their breathtaking balloon rides over Serengeti National Park, Serengeti Balloon Safaris provide passengers with stunning aerial views of the landscape and intimate wildlife encounters, creating unforgettable memories.
This award is a testament to the company’s commitment to safety, innovation and excellence, setting the gold standard for ballooning experiences and showcasing the vibrant potential of African tourism.
“With a legacy rooted in pioneering spirit, Serengeti Balloon Safaris continue to elevate the adventure experience, ensuring every flight offers a journey beyond expectation,” said Mr Corse. “Our passengers leave not just with vivid memories, but with stories to share for a lifetime.”
He further explained, “We have positioned ourselves as key partners in conservation across the parks where we operate, consistently earning accolades from Tanzania National Parks as the Best Balloon Operator.” The company strictly adheres to safety protocols and works closely with the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority to continually refine industry standards.
“Our pilots, known for their unparalleled expertise and comprehensive understanding of weather dynamics, have flown over 250,000 guests across the Serengeti,” Mr Corse added.
In June 2024, Serengeti Balloon Safaris expanded its horizons with an inaugural flight over Tarangire National Park, marking it as the company’s fourth operational site.
The flight, which accommodated 22 guests in two balloons, began at the northwest Silale Swamp and ended with a picturesque landing in the Tarangire valley.
Highlights of the journey included sightings of elephants, buffalo and a variety of bird species. Upon landing near the Tarangire River, guests enjoyed a luxurious “Out of Africa” breakfast beneath an acacia tree.
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The new Tarangire route provides a diverse alternative to the Serengeti, further cementing Serengeti Balloon Safaris’ reputation for offering unique and captivating adventures. Both balloons ascended just after sunrise, reaching 800 feet to offer expansive views while gliding over woodlands and crossing a ridge.
“We had an incredible wildlife viewing experience as we descended over the woodland canopy on the western side of the ridge,” said Ms Claire Warner, one of the inaugural passengers. “We saw elephants, buffaloes, porcupines and a variety of bird species.”
The morning concluded with a delightful breakfast under a tree near the river, followed by a celebratory champagne toast—marking the success of the inaugural Tarangire flight.
Marketing Manager of Serengeti Balloon Safaris, Mr Pascal Kirigiti, said “We are always striving to enhance our customers’ experiences. This new route over Tarangire is a testament to our commitment to innovation.”
Tarangire now joins the list of national parks in Tanzania where Serengeti Balloon Safaris operates. The company also offers year-round balloon safaris over the Serengeti, tracks migration patterns, operates in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area from December to March, and in Ruaha from June to October.
With the increasing interest in Tarangire, Manyara and Ngorongoro, guests can now enjoy the magic of a balloon safari in the heart of Tarangire from March to June.
