Albuquerque is known as the hot air ballooning capital. Its very normal to see balloons dotting the morning skies over Albuquerque. The New Mexico climate offers superb weather conditions for ballooning, mainly because of the winds. Balloons need stable winds to operate effectively and the hours just following sunrise are the best for finding these winds.
An hour into a hot air balloon flight the wind is capable of carrying a balloon up to 15 miles or more from the "lift off" point. The balloon also flies at different altitudes. Most balloonists enjoy low level flight. The typical balloon flight would be anywhere from tree level to about 3,000 feet above the ground. Although the balloon is at the mercy of the wind when it comes to direction, the vertical control of a balloon can be very precise. The balloons always carry sufficient fuel for at least 2 hours flight time plus a 30 minute reserve capacity.
To prepare for a flight by hot air balloon it is important to bring layers of clothes (can get chilly), sun block or suntan lotion (pretty good sun exposure when you are above ground), and your camera or video camera. Ballooning is definitely an uplifting adventure. Some of the Albuquerque ballooning companies offer that terrific champagne toast flight. A balloon ride is the greatest way to see the New Mexico landscape.
Discover Balloons
ALBUQUERQUE INTERNATIONAL BALLOON FIESTA
Sheri Brewer
Lodging & Hospitality Expert
