When most people imagine an African safari, they picture driving through the savannah in a 4×4 vehicle, spotting lions, elephants, and giraffes from the safety of the car. While this is the most common safari style, many travelers today are asking a new question: Are walking and balloon safaris available?

The answer is yes — and both walking safaris and hot air balloon safaris are unforgettable ways to experience Africa’s wilderness. They offer unique perspectives, closer connections to nature, and a sense of adventure that traditional game drives can’t always match.

In this guide, we’ll explain what walking safaris and balloon safaris are, where you can do them, what to expect, safety considerations, and why they might be the highlight of your trip.

Why Travelers Ask: Are Walking and Balloon Safaris Available?

Traditional vehicle safaris are fantastic, but they’re just one way to explore Africa’s landscapes. Many travelers want to add variety to their itinerary and experience wildlife in different, immersive ways.

Walking safaris allow you to step into the animals’ world on foot, heightening your senses and appreciation for smaller details — from animal tracks to medicinal plants.

Balloon safaris give you a bird’s-eye view of vast landscapes, often during sunrise, when the golden light makes the scenery even more magical.

So, are walking and balloon safaris available? Absolutely — and they are increasingly popular options in top safari destinations.

Walking Safaris: A Closer Connection to Nature

What is a Walking Safari?

A walking safari is a guided nature walk through the wilderness, led by trained and armed guides. Instead of observing animals from a vehicle, you explore the terrain on foot, learning about the ecosystem from ground level.

Where Are Walking Safaris Available?

If you’re asking “Are walking and balloon safaris available in Tanzania?” or elsewhere in Africa, here are some top walking safari destinations:

• Serengeti National Park, Tanzania – Certain concession areas allow guided walks with experienced rangers.

• Selous/Nyerere National Park, Tanzania – Famous for extensive walking safari options.

• South Luangwa National Park, Zambia – Known as the birthplace of walking safaris.

• Kruger National Park (private reserves), South Africa – Offers multi-day walking trails.

What to Expect on a Walking Safari

• Pace: Slow and steady, focused on observing details.

• Wildlife Viewing: While large animal encounters are possible, the emphasis is often on tracking, birdwatching, and learning about plants and insects.

• Safety: Guides carry rifles for protection, but the goal is to avoid close confrontations.

• Duration: From short one-hour walks to multi-day wilderness trails.

Benefits of Walking Safaris

• A deeper connection with the environment.

• The thrill of being on the same level as wildlife.

• Learning survival skills, tracking techniques, and bushcraft knowledge.

Balloon Safaris: The Sky-High Adventure

What is a Balloon Safari?

A hot air balloon safari is a scenic flight over a wildlife area, usually at sunrise, offering panoramic views of landscapes and animals below.

Where Are Balloon Safaris Available?

If you’re wondering “Are walking and balloon safaris available in the Serengeti?”, the Serengeti is actually one of the most famous balloon safari locations. Other top spots include:

• Serengeti National Park, Tanzania – Especially during the Great Migration.

• Maasai Mara, Kenya – Incredible views of wildebeest herds and rolling savannah.

• Okavango Delta, Botswana – Aerial views of wetlands and islands.

• Kruger National Park, South Africa – Select concession areas.

What to Expect on a Balloon Safari

• Start Time: Early morning pickup from your lodge, arriving at the launch site before sunrise.

• Flight Duration: Typically 45 minutes to 1 hour.

• Views: Rivers, plains, wildlife herds, and sunrises from a unique perspective.

• Post-Flight: Many operators offer a champagne breakfast after landing.

Benefits of Balloon Safaris

• A peaceful, almost silent way to see wildlife from above.

• Photography opportunities you can’t get from the ground.

• A once-in-a-lifetime, bucket-list-worthy activity.