Mankwe Gametrackers / Airtrackers
Hot Air Balloon Safaris
The only hot air balloon operation in South Africa launching from inside a national park. Sunrise flights over the Pilanesberg crater.
As the only hot air balloon operation in South Africa to launch from within a national park, this is a genuinely unusual flying experience.
How the morning runs
Guests are collected early in the morning by a registered field guide in an open safari vehicle, from hotels at Sun City Resort or lodges in the Pilanesberg area. Day visitors can be collected from Bakubung Gate. The transfer through the park takes about an hour, as the launch site sits in the centre of the Pilanesberg National Park.
At the launch site the pilot and crew give a briefing. Guests then board a 1.2 metre high basket for a flight of roughly 45 minutes to an hour — undoubtedly the finest way to view the park's inhabitants. On landing, sparkling wine and orange juice are served in celebration, and each guest receives a first flight certificate signed by the pilot.
The field guide then drives guests through the park to a private lodge for a full English breakfast, before returning them to their hotels. Allow approximately five hours for the whole experience.
Rates, 1 December 2025 – 30 November 2026
| Flight | International | South African |
|---|---|---|
| One hour flight | R6 680 | R6 010 |
| 30 minute flight | R5 010 | R4 500 |
| Accompanying guest, not flying | R1 000 | R900 |
Exclusive use, one hour flights
| Basket | International | South African |
|---|---|---|
| Couples, 1–2 guests | R26 710 | R24 040 |
| 4-man basket, 3–4 guests | R33 390 | R30 050 |
| 8-man basket, 4–8 guests | R50 650 | R45 570 |
| 12-man basket, 8–12 guests | R77 800 | R70 020 |
Exclusive-use flights depend on the availability of an outsourced balloon, and the larger baskets carry a minimum weight requirement.
Before you book
Flights are subject to weather and a minimum number of guests is required to fly. Passengers must be taller than 1.2 metres. Book early in your stay so there is room for a second attempt if the weather closes in.
Collections run from Sun City Resort, Manyane Resort, Ivory Tree Lodge, Tshukudu Lodge, Shepherd's Tree Lodge, Kwa-Maritane and Bakubung.
Gallery
