We were up REALLY early this morning at 4:45 AM - but there was a good reason! Today was the day that we could cross off number two on our list of 101 Things To Do Before We Die - a balloon ride over the Maasai Mara. It was spectacular, and definitely something we will do again someday. Gliding across the tree tops, viewing the wildlife, a gentle landing, and a fabulous breakfast by the river - it was incredible. This was followed by a really long game run, complete with a cheetah who posed for us. After a great BBQ lunch, Jim and I relaxed at the camp for the afternoon, well OK, we napped - it was an early morning after all!
Inflating the balloon
The pilot adjusts the gauges
Sunrise over the Maasai Mara
The Mara as seen from above the trees
Hippos on the Mara River
The Mara River
Giraffe
The other balloon
That's us!
A classic shot
Still some colour in the sky
Olooloo Escarpment
Another classic shot.
Hot gases filling the balloon envelope
Flying free (both us & the bird!) by the escarpment
Mara River
Skimming the trees
Crossing off #2 on our list (2006) - Priceless!
Champagne after a successful flight, with the pilot of the other balloon
A fabulous breakfast
The 'loo'
Maribu stork copy
This mound will do
Scanning for breakfast copy
Thompson's gazelle
20. Masai Mara - Cheetah will sit on the mounds (or climb on the vehicles) to spot their prey