Sedona Hot Air Balloon Rides
Imagine floating over the Sedona desert as the sun peeks out over the crimson towers that line the eastern horizon. As the sun breaks from behind the rocks and mountains, your morning hot air balloon ride gives a bright perspective on what the day might bring.
Things to Know Before Hot Air Ballooning in Sedona:
Afraid of heights? Not to worry. People who normally fear heights tend to feel very comfortable in a hot air balloon because there is no sensation of motion, and no point of reference to tell your brain how high up you really are. Balloon flight is smooth; in fact, if you close your eyes, you can’t sense the balloon's motion at all.
Hot air ballooning is safe. The balloon is inflated on the ground and checked thoroughly before going up. Within minutes, passengers feel secure and comfortable. It’s time to relax and enjoy the spectacular view in every direction.
While it’s true that you’ll generally drift along with the wind, which is part of the reason ballooning is such an adventure, balloon pilots have precise vertical control. The wind direction varies at different heights; we can change our altitude to achieve some variation of our direction. We never know where the balloons will go on each flight, and there is no set destination.
The balloon company’s chase crew will follow on the ground.
A traditional champagne toast with a pastry treat follows your flight
Balloons are in the air for approximately an hour, but it can go longer, depending on the winds. The entire adventure, including the champagne toast, typically lasts three to four hours.
Balloons launch around sunrise, so be ready for an early morning. We recommend booking your flight early in your trip, so you have a chance to reschedule in the event of bad weather.
Hot air balloon companies plan to operate tours every day of the year, except Christmas Day, depending on the weather. Occasionally, flights are grounded due to poor weather conditions. Be sure to ask your selected flight company about their inclement weather policy.
Sedona is the Best Place for Hot Air Balloon Ride
It's true! There are fewer places on this beautiful, blue planet that can offer better views and experiences than riding a hot air balloon in the Sedona area. The peace and quiet, the eagle eye view of the red rocks, mountains, forests, waterways, and rangelands, as well as the sunrises from the sky are unlike any other experience. It is well worth it to go on a hot air balloon ride in Sedona because it truly is one of the best places for a hot air balloon ride!
Who Should I Book my Sedona Hot Air Balloon Experience With?
Ready to Go on a Hot Air Balloon Ride?
What should I wear?
It's warmer in the balloon than on the ground because we’re moving with the wind instead of against it. There’s no “wind chill”. We don’t go to altitudes where it’s cold and we get some radiant heat from the burners above us. Dress for your comfort on the ground, keeping in mind Sedona experiences all four seasons; it’s cold in the winter and hot in the summer. Wear casual clothing in light layers. When considering footwear, you’ll usually land in a pleasant spot but, on rare occasions, we may have to hike out so wear appropriate hiking boots or athletic, completely enclosed shoes. It’s also a good idea to wear long pants and shirts with sleeves to protect you from the prickly desert plants.
What should I bring with me?
Hot air ballooning is a colorful experience so you’ll want to bring a camera or video gear. Just bring a soft bag for your equipment to protect it and other passengers on landing. Always bring water with you when you venture into the desert, including for a balloon flight. It’s also good to wear a hat, especially for tall people, as the radiant head off the burners can get quite warm. Sunglasses and sunblock are always a good idea in the desert.
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