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| Analysts say the flight, launched from the northwest Silale Swamp, lifts 22 guests in two balloons just after sunrise. Photo: Courtesy. By Adonis Byemelwa |
Arusha
– Serengeti Balloon Safaris, Tanzania's premier balloon adventure company, has
made history by being crowned the world’s best balloon ride operator. This
monumental achievement marks a first for Africa, placing Tanzania in the global
spotlight. The honor cements Serengeti Balloon Safaris as a trailblazer in
delivering breathtaking aerial experiences and elevates African tourism to new
heights.
The
announcement was made recently during the grand finale of the World Travel
Awards, held over the weekend in Funchal, the capital of Portugal’s Madeira
region. Widely regarded as the Oscars of the global tourism industry, the event
brought together top players and innovators from the international tourism
scene.
“For
the first time in history, Serengeti Balloon Safaris from Tanzania is the
winner of the best balloon services in the world. Congratulations on your
outstanding services,” proclaimed the awards' organizers during the ceremony.
The
accolade not only highlights Serengeti Balloon Safaris’ dedication to excellence
but also shines a spotlight on Tanzania’s rising prominence in global tourism.
Managing Director John Corse expressed pride in the recognition, noting that it
reflects the company’s commitment to quality and the unmatched experiences they
provide.
Famous
for offering breathtaking views over the Serengeti National Park, Serengeti
Balloon Safaris has built a reputation for creating unforgettable moments,
blending spectacular aerial vistas with close-up wildlife encounters.
As
pioneers of balloon flights in Tanzania, the company has continuously set the
bar high in safety and service, consistently earning recognition from Tanzania
National Parks as the Best Balloon Operator.
Corse
emphasized that their pilots, recognized for their exceptional expertise and
deep understanding of weather dynamics, have flown over 250,000 guests,
ensuring each journey is as magical as the last.
In
June 2024, the company expanded its operations with a successful inaugural
flight over Tarangire National Park, adding it as its fourth destination. This
new route offers a fresh perspective on Tanzania’s natural beauty, providing an
alternative to the iconic Serengeti experience.
The
flight launched from the northwest Silale Swamp, lifting 22 guests in two
balloons just after sunrise. As the balloons ascended to 800 feet, passengers
enjoyed panoramic views of the park's woodlands, ridges, and diverse wildlife.
Sightings
included elephants, buffalo, porcupines, and numerous bird species, culminating
in a soft landing near the Tarangire River. Guests were treated to a luxurious
"Out of Africa"-style breakfast under an acacia tree, followed by a
celebratory champagne toast.
Claire
Warner, one of the passengers on the inaugural flight, described the experience
as unforgettable. “The views were incredible, and the descent over the woodland
canopy gave us fantastic wildlife sightings. Landing near the river among the
majestic baobabs was magical,” she said.
Serengeti
Balloon Safaris now operates in four premier locations across Tanzania: the
Serengeti, where flights run year-round; the Ngorongoro Conservation Area,
operational from December to March; Ruaha National Park, from June to October;
and now Tarangire, available from March to June. Marketing Manager Pascal
Kirigiti highlighted the company’s ongoing commitment to innovation and
excellence, explaining that the Tarangire route exemplifies its dedication to
enhancing guest experiences.
The
company’s efforts to promote conservation, maintain rigorous safety standards,
and collaborate with the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority have cemented its
status as the leader in the industry.
By
continuously pushing boundaries and delivering world-class adventures,
Serengeti Balloon Safaris has not only set a benchmark for ballooning in Africa
but has also positioned Tanzania as a premier destination for unique and
captivating experiences. This historic recognition underscores their unwavering
pursuit of excellence and their vital role in showcasing the beauty of African
tourism to the world.
