08 Aug 2021

Air Ventures Balloon Safaris has added a hot air balloon to the popular activities on offer in Chobe’s Seloko Plains.

 In an interview after the launch flight on Friday(August 6), Minister of Environment Natural Resources Conservation and Tourism, Ms Philda Kereng said the introduction of the balloon was in line with the newly adopted Tourism Policy advocating for diversification of products.

She expressed the hope that the new product would help revive the tourism sector badly affected by travel restrictions due to COVID-19.

The minister called on Batswana to take advantage and participate in the tourism value chain such as supplying gas for fueling the balloon.

They were also encouraged to look for other opportunities such as introducing the hot air balloon concept in other areas of Botswana. 

The balloon’s pilot, Mr Adam Fillimo explained it was first introduced in the Okavango Delta.

He said the Chobe service would be offered from May to mid-September as flying during the rainy season was not possible.

Mr Fillimo described the hot air balloon as the safest form of aviation for Botswana’s beautiful weather.

Chobe District Council chairperson, Councillor Amos Mabuku noted that the balloon was safe for the environment as there was no carbon emissions. 

He said it gave one the opportunity to have an aerial view of wildlife. 

Councillor Mabuku said introduction of the balloon option meant additional tourism revenue and employment creation for the district. 

District commissioner Ms Sekgabo Makgosa said flying in the balloon was not only refreshing but reduced impact on the environment in terms of crowding at tourism sites. ends