Hot Air Balloon in Akagera National Park, Rwanda
Overview;
Rwanda’s first Hot Air Balloon was successfully launched on January 19, 2022, under a joint partnership between Royal Balloon Rwanda. Rwanda Development Board, and Kagura Management Company. The hot air balloon operates in Kagura National Park. Experiencing a Hot Air Ballon ride here is unique in East Africa. Notably, a Hot Air Balloon tour offers an unparalleled view of Akagera National Park.
The Royal Balloon Rwanda operates 2 hot air balloons with a capacity of 4-6 passengers. This experience operates at an altitude of 100-1000m over the savannah landscape, offering nature lovers an Aerial view of the Big 5 experience on a Hot Air Ballon adventure, making every Hot Air Ballon journey unforgettable for visitors.
The Royal Balloon has been in the tourism sector for over 30 years. Its introduction came with a bucketful of sustainable tourism strategies and experience supporting wildlife conservation and contributing to the boost of tourism in Rwanda. Taking a Hot Air Balloon flight here means supporting both conservation and tourism, so every Hot Air Balloon trip supports sustainable travel initiatives.
How much is a hot air balloon experience in Akagera National Park, Rwanda? If you’re curious about Hot Air Balloon ticket prices, read on.
The hot air balloon cost in Akagera National Park is USD 250 for citizens and the East African community. Foreign residents and diplomats pay USD 350, and foreign non-residents pay USD 450 for a Hot Air Balloon ticket.
Who is allowed to experience the hot air balloon? While planning your Hot Air Balloon journey, it’s important to check eligibility.
To take part in Rwanda’s hot air balloon, one should be within the age bracket of 6-12 years and charged half price, making the Hot Air Balloon adventure accessible for young travelers.
How long does a Hot Air Balloon take? The Hot Air Balloon activity typically lasts between 45 minutes and 1 hour.
A hot air balloon takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour, though it will depend on the weather conditions and upon landing. Therefore, timing your Hot Air Balloon journey is important for a great experience, especially for those looking to enjoy the full Hot Air Balloon spectacle.
A reward of champagne and a flight certificate signed by the professional pilot awaits you after the Hot Air Balloon flight.
About Akagera National Park.
Akagera National Park is located in eastern Rwanda with 2500 square kilometers of mostly savannah terrain. The park takes its name from the Akagera River, which flows along Rwanda’s eastern border with Tanzania. Akagera National Park is Rwanda’s only savannah national park and the only area to view the majority of wildlife species while on a tour, making it a perfect addition to a Hot Air Balloon itinerary.
Other Activities in Akajera National Park
Game drives are another thrilling alternative besides a Hot Air Balloon safari in Akagera National Park.
Visitors look forward to game drives in Akagera National Park. They get a view of all the wildlife species within the park, as well as the wider environment that surrounds the park. For an aerial perspective, the Hot Air Balloon ride complements these ground adventures.
Boat cruise on Lake Ihema. Even after a Hot Air Ballon excursion, a serene boat trip offers a new park perspective.
Akagera National Park is also drained with several lakes that serve as bird nesting grounds and, more importantly, help. On the boat cruises, where the aquatic life of hippos, crocodiles, among others, is viewed. The boat cruise costs around 180 US dollars per trip. However, the price varies most of the time depending on the season. Alternating between a water safari and a Hot Air Ballon adventure enriches the overall experience.
Bird watching. Adding a hot-air balloon trip lets birders spot rare species from above.
Akagera National Park is a renowned bird destination. Birders will like visiting Akagera National Park since it has endangered bird species such as the Shoebill and papyrus gonolek. Some bird enthusiasts prefer the Hot Air Balloon vantage for a unique look at habitats.
Sportfishing. Before or after a Hot Air Balloon flight, many enjoy fishing the park’s waters.
The park provides sport fishing opportunities; however, you must first obtain a reservation with the park, and you might consider pairing this activity with a morning Hot Air Ballon excursion for an adventurous itinerary.
In conclusion:
The hot air balloon experience with Kyooma gorilla safaris is what you shouldn’t miss on your bucket list; it’s worth the cost and enjoyable. Overall, the Hot Air Balloon activity is a highlight for all travelers in Akagera National Park, tying together every extraordinary Hot Air Balloon adventure you could dream of in Rwanda.
