Sedona Hot Air Balloon Rides
Imagine floating over Sedona as the sun peeks out over the crimson towers that line the eastern horizon. As the sun breaks from behind the rocks, your morning hot air balloon ride gives a bright perspective on what the day might bring. End your ride with a gourmet champagne brunch amidst the famous Sedona red rocks.
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. 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. Better than a parachute, the balloon is inflated on the ground and checked thoroughly before going up. Within minutes, passengers feel secure and comfortable and are able 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 operators have precise vertical control. The wind direction varies at different heights; we can change our altitude to achieve some variation of our direction.
The balloon company’s chase crew will follow on the ground and take you back to the launch site.
A traditional champagne toast follows your flight once upon return to the launch site.
A balloon flight is typically three-to-four hours from the time you arrive until you’re ready to go home. Flight time is 1 to 1 1/2 hours depending on weather conditions.
Balloons launch before sunrise, so plan this activity for your second or third morning of your Sedona vacation. You'll need to rise and be ready for the balloon company to pick you up at your hotel as early as 4:00 am to reach the launch site 30 minutes before sunrise. Be sure to get a good night's sleep before your balloon excursion so you can be well-rested for the pre-dawn wake-up call.
Hot air balloon companies plan to operate tours every day of the year, depending on the weather. Occasionally, flights are grounded due to extreme weather conditions. Be sure to ask your selected flight company about their inclement weather policy.
What should I wear for my hot air balloon ride?
It's actually warmer in the balloon than on the ground because w’re moving with the wind instead of against it so 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 that a sunrise takeoff may be chilly on the ground. 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, closed-toed shoes.
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.
There are several hot air balloon companies in Sedona, Arizona. Please visit our Tours page to find and book reservations with Red Rock Balloons, one of our favorite tour providers.
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 Sedona. The peace and quiet, the eagle eye view of red rocks, and the sunrises or sunsets 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!
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