Hot air Ballooning Spots in Rwanda : If you’re looking for a unique and thrilling way to spend an afternoon, consider hot air ballooning in Rwanda. There are several hot air ballooning spots in the country, each with its own special attractions. Most balloons launch at dawn or sunset, so if you’re planning a trip and want to make sure you’ll get to see the sunrise or sunset during your adventure, check local weather conditions in advance to make sure that you can plan accordingly. Also, since hot air balloons can frequently get entangled in tree branches or shrubs, it’s always a good idea to bring a hat or sunglasses to protect your face from twigs and branches. Here are some of our favorite hot air ballooning destinations in Rwanda:
Lake Kivu
In Gisenyi, Rwanda, you can take a scenic hot air balloon ride over the beautiful Lake Kivu. Apart from offering you a beautiful view on your balloon ride, Lake Kivu is also the biggest lake in Africa that has no hippos or crocodiles, making it one of the most mind-blowing spots to swim in security as well as partaking in a wide assortment of water-based exercises
Mount Bisoke
On the outskirts of Kigali, you can climb to the summit of Mount Bisoke for a breath taking view of the city below. Bisoke, similar to every one of the tops in the Virunga Mountain Reach, is a spring of gushing lava made by crack activity on the shaping unique limit of the East African Break which is gradually bisecting the African plate. Bisoke has two recorded emissions which occurred in 1891 and 1957. The latest ejection happened 11 km north of the highest point, and it shaped two little cones on the well of lava’s north flank. There is proof that the region where this emission happened is still topographically dynamic, recommending that future eruptions at Bisoke are very likely.
Volcanoes National Park
From here, you’ll take a flight from one of Rwanda’s volcanoes and spot the rare golden monkeys in their natural habitat. Located northwest of Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park safeguards the green terraces of this wonderful mountain range – home of the endangered mountain gorilla and a rich ecosystem. Volcanoes National Park is named after the chain of torpid volcanoes making up the Virunga Massif: Karisimbi being the highest at 4,507m. From the hot air balloon, you are guaranteed a mind-blowing aerial view of Bisoke with its crater lake
Akagera National Park
It lies in eastern Rwanda, embracing the line with Tanzania. It’s described by forest, swamps, low mountains and savannah which you will surely enjoy on your Rwanda safaris and hot air balloon ride. The park covers natural life including zebras, giraffes, elephants, lions, and many bird species, like the uncommon shoebill stork. In the southern piece of the park, the tremendous Lake Ihema is home to hippos and crocodiles.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
In addition to the cost of the flight itself, it’s important to keep in mind that some hot air balloon companies offer optional add-ons such as champagne toasts and post-flight celebrations. These extras can add significantly to the cost of your trip, so be sure to carefully review your options before you book a balloon ride.
Hot air balloon rides in Rwanda typically cost between $150 and $200 per person, depending on the company and the location.
There are also high end packages that are offered according to which tour company one travels with such as Sunrise for Pre-breakfast Flight at $450 per person and Sunset for Post-dinner Flight at $500 each person Note that this is an approximate amount – some people end up paying less and others more…be prepared!
It is also important to note that flights are usually available on weekends and on holidays and to be safe, be sure to book several months earlier as holiday seasons can be busy and heavily booked.
OTHER ACTIVITIES ALONGSIDE HOT AIR BALLOONING IN RWANDA
Hot air ballooning is an activity that’s a lot of fun but which can also be quite tiring if you’re doing it for a few hours in a row. So, if hot air ballooning isn’t your cup of tea, there is surely much more to enjoy on your Rwanda safaris tour. Many hot air balloon companies also offer a variety of other activities that you can enjoy while your tour is taking place. Here are a few of our favorites:
Mt Sabyinyo Hike– Everyone should enjoy this hike to the highest peak in Rwanda in order to enjoy the view of the stunning Rwenzori Mountains and the terraced farms of western Rwanda. This moderately challenging 5 hour hike up Rwanda’s highest mountain will reward you with stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the snow-capped peaks of Rwenzori.
Hot air balloon themed dinner– The safari lodge in Rushaga is an excellent place to enjoy a hot-air balloon themed dinner or brunch after your flight!
