Take to the skies and discover the Serengeti in a hot-air balloon

It's not the first thing you think of when you go on safari in the heart of Africa. But a hot-air balloon ride at sunrise with a breathtaking view of the Serengeti is a magical and extraordinary experience that you won't soon forget. Some consider this activity to be a must and one of the best you can do in the park.

It's 4.30am and it's hard to wake up, but it's worth it. It's time to get ready for the flight, which departs at 5am. You arrive at the meeting point and the balloon is waiting for you. Balloons come in different sizes, but on average there are between 12 and 16 passengers sharing the journey with you.

The sun rises and it's time for the gondola to slowly rise into the sky, ready to offer you the spectacle you've been waiting for. All around you stretch the endless plains of the Serengeti. The atmosphere is incomparable and the scenery sumptuous. You fly over the acacia trees, here and there observing the animals scattered in herds or in smaller groups. Perhaps you'll even catch a glimpse of a flight of birds.

A hot-air balloon flight over the Serengeti will undoubtedly give you a better idea of the grandeur and extent of the plains. Indeed, the Serengeti is characterised by its so-called "endless" plains. They literally stretch as far as the eye can see. As the sun rises against the backdrop, the sky turns red, creating an astonishing range of colours. As you'll be sailing with the wind, it's impossible to predict where you'll be flying in advance. So let yourself be lulled by nature and the elements. That's the beauty of a safari: not knowing what lies ahead, exploring the savannah and letting yourself be carried away by the atmosphere. There's no doubt you'll have plenty of wonderful shots to share. What's more, every hot-air balloon flight is different, so you're sure to experience a magical moment. Once the flight is over, you'll land gently (or not) on the ground. The 'shock' of the landing is usually what surprises you the most.

Allow around 4 full hours and a morning for this activity. As you'll be watching the balloon being assembled, have a hot coffee before boarding and you'll probably have a (often gargantuan) breakfast on your return to terra firma. Many lodges offer this activity as part of their accommodation service.

• In the Central Serengeti: all year round
• In the Northern Serengeti: end of July to September to witness the great migrations
• In Tarangine National Park: all year round

As you can see, you can get up high in the Serengeti all year round. And rest assured, there's very little chance that the weather won't be in your favour. Too much wind, however, would be one of the conditions under which your flight would have to be cancelled. However, this almost never happens.

Wildlife viewing from the sky offers a unique panorama. Take advantage of the morning calm of the savannah to recharge your batteries and take in the sights. The flight itself lasts between 45 minutes and 1 hour, depending on the weather conditions. But don't worry, you'll have plenty of time to take in the scenery. After landing, some providers even open the champagne to celebrate your flight. You'll then have breakfast and set off with your guide for your 'overland' safari.

A hot-air balloon ride is a must when you're in the Serengeti. Some would even say that it's the most beautiful place in the world to learn how. But whatever they say, one thing is certain: you'll remember this moment for the rest of your life. The tour costs around $500 per person.

Some things are worth getting up early for. This hot-air balloon safari is one of them. This absolutely magnificent flight takes us to the heights of a sky crimsoned with sunrise. It's a fantastic journey that takes us to observe the plains of the Serengeti, the high plateaux and animals by the dozen (if you're lucky). If you love wildlife and thrills, this is the expedition for you!