There’s a reason Albuquerque is the hot air ballooning capital of the world. Not only will you find exceptionally calm conditions in the air throughout the majority of the year, but you’ll also enjoy breathtaking views of the high desert as balloons soar high in the skies during hot air balloon rides in Albuquerque. It’s truly an unforgettable experience and it’s something we love helping our guests arrange during their time with us at our top-rated Bed and Breakfast in Albuquerque.
Though you can take hot air balloon rides in Albuquerque year-round, arguably the most popular time of year to take to the skies is in October during the annual Albuquerque International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta. It’s a 10-day festival dedicated to this stunning sport and features things like hot air balloon rides in Albuquerque, balloon glows, mass ascension events, and so much more. The event is so spectacular that it draws over 800,000 people to the area.
With 300 days of clear blue skies every year, it’s little wonder why hot air balloon rides in Albuquerque are so popular. The journey is beautiful, peaceful, serene, and unforgettable. If hot air balloon rides in Albuquerque are something on your bucket list, perhaps 2023 is the year to finally make it happen. The journey starts 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 plenty of reasons to be thankful for the many vibrant, sunny days we enjoy here in Albuquerque. We like to think it makes for happier people and it certainly gives us more days to enjoy the many things to do in Albuquerque. The beautiful unique weather we enjoy here is also why we’ve enjoyed so many years of spectacular hot air balloon rides in Albuquerque.
It goes beyond sunny clear skies and the stunning views from the balloons, though. One of the things that makes Albuquerque such a great hot air ballooning destination is the dry and breezy desert air that is a near-constant companion to life here. These gentle breezes blow the hot air balloons around gently, allowing riders to admire the vast landscapes below.
The time to get started on your hot air balloon ride in Albuquerque is early in the morning, right at sunrise. This is the time of day when the air is cold enough for the balloon to rise – and who doesn’t love a gorgeous desert sunrise? Imagine watching it from above as the sun gradually lights the Sandia Mountains and the tranquil Rio Grande Valley below. It’s simply breathtaking.
There are several companies that offer hot air balloon rides in Albuquerque. After a great balloon ride, the pilot and crew offer 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 nearly 40 years and consistently earns excellent reviews. In addition to offering traditional sunrise hot air balloon rides in Albuquerque, you can also book private flight experiences that are perfect for romantic moments, as well as sunset balloon rides in the winter. Rainbow Ryders coordinates all of the hot air balloon rides launching from the International Balloon Fiesta.
World Balloon also offers balloon rides for larger groups of guests. You can also book a private balloon ride.
Hot Air Balloonatics and Elevated New Mexico offer hot air balloon rides for private groups of 1 to 4 people. It’s a great way to pop the question!
Attend the 2023 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
As spectacular as individual hot air balloon rides in Albuquerque are, that experience is nothing when compared to the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta held each October. This is truly an event every ballooning enthusiast must see at least once in their lifetime. The time to plan for the 2023 event is now, too!
The 2023 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is scheduled for October 7 – 15, 2023 and tickets are on sale now. Throughout these nine remarkable days, 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. 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 8, 14, and 15.
- America’s Challenge Gas Balloon Race on Saturday, October 7
- The popular Twilight Twinkle Glow will take place on Saturday, October 7
- There will be competition balloon flying throughout the week.
- The Special Shape Rodeo will take place on October 12 and 13
- The annual Music Fiesta will take place on October 14
- The yearly Night Magic Glow will take place on October 14
The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta grounds are just a short 20-minute drive away from our Bed and Breakfast in Albuquerque. If you want to see this fantastic spectacle, now is the time to get your tickets and make your reservations at our Bed and Breakfast in Albuquerque today!
