Safari Flight offers a truly unique experience for those seeking to soar over the captivating Cradle of Humankind. Drifting peacefully in a hot air balloon, guests can spot glimpses of the region’s diverse wildlife, including the chance to view four of the Big Five. After a delightful buffet breakfast at a 5-star lodge, the flight concludes with a celebratory toast and certificates presented by the experienced pilot. While the experience requires a minimum of four participants, the non-refundable cancellation policy ensures the tour’s logistics and integrity. With scenic vistas and the promise of an unforgettable adventure, Safari Flight beckons those ready to embark on an extraordinary journey.
Key Points
- A scenic hot air balloon ride over the Cradle of Humankind area, offering a chance to spot local wildlife, including 4 of the Big Five.
- A 1-hour balloon flight with a celebration of sparkling wine and orange juice after landing.
- A full buffet breakfast at a 5-star lodge, with certificates presented by the pilot.
- Hassle-free start to the hot air balloon adventure, with transfers available from Johannesburg International Airport and nearby areas.
- Unique bird’s-eye view of the Cradle of Humankind, with potential sightings of rare and elusive wildlife species.
Overview of the Experience
This hot air balloon ride takes adventurous travelers on a scenic journey over the breathtaking Cradle of Humankind area, offering the chance to spot local wildlife, including 4 of the ‘Big Five‘.
After meeting at the 5-star lodge, guests will enjoy tea, coffee, and a buffet breakfast before embarking on the approximately 1-hour balloon flight.
Upon landing, they’ll celebrate with sparkling wine and orange juice. The entire experience lasts around 4 hours, with certificates presented by the pilot.
While a minimum of 4 passengers is required to confirm the flight, alternatives are available if this minimum isn’t met. However, all passengers must be able to stand for the duration and enter/exit the basket, with children under 7 not permitted.
Inclusions and Requirements
The Safari Flight includes a meeting at a 5-star lodge, where tea and coffee are served before the approximately 1-hour balloon flight. After landing, guests can celebrate with sparkling wine and orange juice, followed by a full buffet breakfast at the 5-star lodge. The pilot will also present certificates to participants upon completion of the experience.
| Inclusions | Requirements | Meeting & Pickup |
|---|---|---|
| – Balloon flight of approx. 1 hour | – Minimum of 4 passengers required to confirm a flight | – General meeting point is Kloofzicht Lodge & Spa |
| – Sparkling wine and orange juice celebration after flight | – All passengers must be able to stand for the duration of the flight and enter/exit the basket | – Transfers from Johannesburg International Airport (1 hour) and Johannesburg/Sandton/Fourways (20-35 minutes) |
| – Full buffet breakfast at the 5-star lodge | – Children under 7 years not permitted to fly | – |
| – Certificates presented by the pilot | – | – |
Meeting and Pickup Details
Guests meet at the general meeting point of Kloofzicht Lodge & Spa, which is located approximately 1 hour from Johannesburg International Airport and 20-35 minutes from Johannesburg, Sandton, or Fourways.
The lodge offers convenient transfers for guests arriving from these locations. Visitors can opt for the transfer service to be picked up and brought directly to the meeting point, ensuring a seamless start to their safari flight experience.
Once at Kloofzicht, guests will be greeted with tea and coffee as they prepare for their hot air balloon adventure over the stunning Cradle of Humankind region.
The entire experience, from meeting at the lodge to returning after the flight, is designed to be comfortable and hassle-free for participants.
Cancellation Policy
According to the cancellation policy, this safari flight experience is non-refundable and can’t be changed.
However, if the flight is canceled due to poor weather conditions, guests have the option to reschedule for an alternative date or receive a full refund.
This policy ensures that the hot air balloon provider can maintain the overall integrity and logistics of the tour, while providing flexibility for guests in case of inclement weather.
Guests should be aware of this policy when booking the safari flight experience, as it allows the provider to plan and manage the tours effectively.
The clear cancellation guidelines help set appropriate expectations for all participants.
Scenic Cradle of Humankind
This safari flight takes place in the scenic Cradle of Humankind area, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its lush landscapes and rich wildlife.
Situated northwest of Johannesburg, the Cradle of Humankind boasts diverse ecosystems, including open savannas, rolling hills, and dense forests, providing an ideal setting for hot air balloon adventures.
From the air, guests can marvel at the region’s natural beauty and potentially spot some of Africa’s iconic wildlife, such as:
- Giraffes gracefully striding across the grasslands
- Elephants foraging in the distance
- Antelope species like impala and wildebeest grazing peacefully
This unique bird’s-eye view of the Cradle of Humankind promises an unforgettable and breathtaking experience.
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
From the hot air balloon, travelers can spot an array of wildlife roaming the diverse landscapes of the Cradle of Humankind. Depending on the season and conditions, they may encounter majestic giraffes towering over the open savannas, families of elephants foraging in the distance, and herds of antelope species like impala and wildebeest grazing peacefully across the rolling hills.
The balloon’s elevated vantage point offers a unique perspective to observe the ‘Big Five‘ – lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and buffalo – as they move through the game reserves below. With luck, adventurous guests may even spot rare and elusive species like cheetah, wild dog, or the secretive black rhino.
The serene balloon ride provides an unforgettable way to witness the Cradle of Humankind’s abundant wildlife.
Delicious Buffet Breakfast
Following the balloon flight, guests tuck into a delightful buffet breakfast served at the 5-star Kloofzicht Lodge & Spa. The spread features an array of hot and cold items, catering to diverse tastes and dietary needs. Travelers can savor freshly-baked pastries, an assortment of seasonal fruits, and hearty local specialties like traditional egg dishes, smoked meats, and pap (a cornmeal porridge).
Unlimited servings of aromatic coffee, tea, and refreshing juices accompany the meal, allowing guests to leisurely refuel and recount the highlights of their aerial adventure.
The buffet breakfast includes:
- An extensive selection of baked goods, including flaky croissants and hearty muffins.
- A variety of cold cuts, cheeses, and smoked salmon for a savory start to the day.
- A live cooking station offering made-to-order omelets and pancakes.
Celebration After the Flight
Upon landing, the balloon pilot congratulates guests on the successful flight and invites them to enjoy a celebratory glass of sparkling wine or freshly-squeezed orange juice.
This joyous post-flight ritual allows passengers to bask in the thrill of their aerial adventure while savoring the scenic beauty of the Cradle of Humankind below.
As they sip their refreshing beverages, guests can share their favorite moments from the journey, marveling at the breathtaking vistas they witnessed from above.
The pilot presents each passenger with a commemorative certificate, a tangible memento of their unforgettable hot air balloon experience.
This celebratory toast and certificate presentation are the perfect way to cap off an exhilarating morning high above the African landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Weight Limit per Passenger?
The maximum weight limit per passenger is not explicitly stated in the provided information. However, the requirement that all passengers must be able to stand for the duration of the flight and enter/exit the basket suggests there may be weight restrictions to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Flight?
No, passengers cannot bring their own food and drinks on the flight. The experience includes a full buffet breakfast and celebratory sparkling wine and orange juice served after the balloon ride at the 5-star lodge.
Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Flight?
Passengers are generally permitted to take photos during the hot air balloon flight, but may be asked to avoid flash photography to prevent disturbing the wildlife. Any restrictions on camera usage will be communicated by the pilot before the flight.
Do I Need to Purchase Travel Insurance for This Experience?
Travel insurance is not required for this experience, but it’s recommended to protect against unexpected events. The operator has a no-refund policy, so travel insurance could cover cancellation or other issues that may arise during the hot air balloon flight.
Can I Request a Specific Departure Time for the Balloon Flight?
Yes, guests can request a specific departure time for the balloon flight, though times may be subject to change based on weather conditions and availability. The operator will work to accommodate guests’ preferences where possible.
Recap
Safari Flight offers a remarkable hot air balloon experience over the Cradle of Humankind. Guests can spot local wildlife, enjoy a delightful buffet breakfast, and celebrate with sparkling wine after landing.
The non-refundable cancellation policy ensures reliable logistics, with full refunds or rescheduling if weather conditions force a flight cancellation.
This scenic adventure provides an unforgettable way to explore the natural beauty of the region.
