If you’ve ever wanted to take a ride in hot air balloons New Mexico is definitely a great place to do it! Among various attractions and activities such as hot air balloons New Mexico has a lot to offer with its gorgeous desert landscape, free-flowing rivers and towering canyons allowing some of the most beautiful scenery in the U.S. The tours in hot air balloons New Mexico encompasses are wide and varied offering all kinds of different trips floating through clear skies over varied landscapes. Weather permitting, riding in a balloon is perhaps the most exciting way to see the area and be an activity that adds true definition to your holiday.
The infamous New
Mexico hot air balloon festival is a truly unique,
dramatic and breathtaking event. Established during a
small gathering of hot air balloon enthusiasts in 1972
the Albuquerque International
Balloon Fiesta has since blossomed into not only the biggest
New Mexico hot air balloon festival but the largest of
its kind worldwide. The most exhilarating time of the
entire festival is Mass Ascension.
All the balloons take off into the cool sky simultaneously
during Mass Ascension. Mass Ascension is an incredible
event to witness as the early light of the morning sky
is overtaken with the spectrum of colors of hundreds of
hot air balloons slowly drifting upward. Occurring during
the first two weeks of October every year this New Mexico
hot air balloon festival draws thousands upon thousands
of people from all over the world.
When looking for a new Mexico hot air balloon to take a trip across the desert skies there are a lot of different tour companies available. Many of the New Mexico hot air balloon tours start at sunrise and the company will often pick you up right at your hotel and take you to the determined launch site. Once at the launch site, some of the companies will actually allow you to help fill the giant balloon with hot air. Or, if you prefer, you can just sit back and watch the balloon inflate and come to life before your eyes. Most New Mexico hot air balloon companies will offer a variety of tours around the area but keep in mind that the balloons are at the mercy of the wind.
Hot air balloon rides in New Mexico are diverse and extremely scenic usually floating across the Rio Grande Valley which is breathtaking to see from above. The length of the flights do depend on weather conditions and land site availability but most people opt to take a one hour tour. Many of the flights that begin in the early morning offer continental breakfast and champagne after landing only adding to the great experience.
Most pilots and tour operators are extremely passionate about hot air ballooning and many bring out their personally-owned balloons for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Balloon rides are available at the fiesta as well but are highly coveted so be sure to inquire and book early! Fees for a regular balloon ride can range anywhere from $200 to over $300 and more depending on the length of your flight and rates for smaller children are often significantly less then adults. Be sure to confirm availability and pricing with the tour company you choose.
