There’s a reason Albuquerque is known as the hot air ballooning capital of the world. Not only will you find exceptionally calm flying conditions throughout much of the year, but you’ll also enjoy incredible views of the high desert as balloons rise above the landscape during hot air balloon rides in Albuquerque. It’s an unforgettable experience and something we love helping our guests arrange during their stay at our top-rated Old Town Bed and Breakfast in Albuquerque.
Though you can take hot air balloon rides in Albuquerque year-round, the most popular time to fly is in October during the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. This world famous balloon festival in New Mexico celebrates the sport of ballooning for nine incredible days. Visitors can enjoy hot air balloon rides in Albuquerque, balloon glows, mass ascension events, and so much more. The Albuquerque Balloon festival attracts more than 800,000 visitors each year and is widely considered one of the most exciting things to do in Albuquerque.
With 300 days of clear blue skies every year, it’s easy to see why hot air balloon rides in Albuquerque are so popular. The journey is peaceful, scenic, and unforgettable. If hot air balloon rides in Albuquerque are on your bucket list, 2026 is the perfect time to plan the experience. The adventure begins with a stay at our top-rated Bed and Breakfast in Albuquerque. Book your room at our Bed and Breakfast in Albuquerque today!
Hot Air Balloon Rides in Albuquerque
There are many reasons to appreciate the sunny climate we enjoy here in Albuquerque. The consistent sunshine makes it easier to enjoy the many things to do in Albuquerque throughout the year. Our unique climate also create ideal conditions for hot air balloon rides in Albuquerque and is why our region is recognized worldwide for ballooning.
The weather goes beyond sunny skies and wide open views. Albuquerque’s high desert climate produces gentle winds and dry air that is ideal for hot air balloons. These light morning breezes guide the balloons across the landscape, allowing passengers to take in sweeping views of the Rio Grande Valley, desert mesas, and the nearby Sandia Mountains.
Most hot air balloon rides in Albuquerque begin early in the morning at sunrise. Cooler morning air allows the balloons to lift easily and creates calm conditions for flying. Watching the sunrise from a hot air balloon as the Sandia Mountains glow pink and the Rio Grande winds through the valley is an unforgettable moment, and one of the most remarkable things to do in New Mexico.
Several companies offer hot air balloon rides in Albuquerque, giving visitors a variety of flight experiences to choose from. After landing, the pilot and typically celebrate with a champagne toast and tell you the story of that tradition that dates back to the 1700’s.
The largest hot air balloon company in Albuquerque is Rainbow Ryders. This company has been offering hot air balloon rides in Albuquerque for over 40 years and consistently earns excellent reviews. In addition to offering traditional sunrise hot air balloon rides in Albuquerque, Rainbow Ryders also offers private balloon rides for romantic occassions and seasonal sunset flights in the winter. They coordinate many of the hot air balloon rides launching during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.
World Balloon also offers balloon rides for larger groups and private flight experiences.
Four Corners Balloon Rides and Elevated New Mexico offer hot air balloon rides for private groups of 1 to 4 people, making them a popular choice for proposals!
Attend the 2026 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
As spectacular as individual hot air balloon rides in Albuquerque are, the experience reaches another level during the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta held each October. The famous balloon festival in New Mexico is considered a must-see event for anyone interested in aviation or ballooning. The time to plan for the 2026 event is now!
The 2026 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is scheduled for October 3 -11. and tickets are on sale now. Throughout the nine day celebration, the Fiesta will treat balloon lovers to a variety of activities, including uniquely shaped balloons, balloon rodeos, twilight balloon glows, and the ever-popular mass ascension events that fill the sky with hundreds of colorful hot air balloons.
Highlights of this year’s Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta include the following:
- Mass Ascension occurs first thing in the morning starting on opening day, as well as on October 4, 7, 9, 10 and 11.
- There will be competition balloon flying throughout the week.
- The Special Shape Rodeo will take place on October 8 and 9.
- The yearly Night Magic Glow will light up the evening sky several evenings.
The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta grounds are just a short 20-minute drive from our Old Town Bed and Breakfast. During Balloon Fiesta, we highly recommend using the Park & Ride service for a more convenient and stress-free experience, as traffic and parking can be challenging.
If seeing hundreds of hot air balloons fill the sky is on your list of things to do in Albuquerque, now the perfect time to plan ahead. Secure your tickets for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta and reservation for one of the top-rated places to stay in Albuquerque. Book your stay now!
