The Rio Grande runs through the middle of Albuquerque, a line of water and green trees across the valley floor. From its banks you see one stretch at a time. From a hot air balloon you can follow the river through the valley, with the city on one side and open land on the other. Both rides on the Albuquerque hub list views of the Rio Grande Valley, but the wind, not a map, decides how close you get to the water.
The Albuquerque Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride is the ride most associated with the river. It spends 45 to 60 minutes in the air in a shared basket, from US$189 per person. Your pilot chooses the route on the day according to the wind. You may fly over the city, and on some mornings the balloon drops low enough to skim the Rio Grande and wave at people below, while the sun comes up over the Sandia Mountains. Plan on about 3 to 4 hours in total.
The Albuquerque Sunset Hot Air Balloon Ride lists the Rio Grande among its views as well, together with the Sandia Mountains and local wildlife, from US$225 per person. It lands before official sunset. Sunrise rides run year-round, except during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in early October; sunset rides run from November to January.
Both rides begin at the check-in office at 5601 Eagle Rock Ave NE in northeast Albuquerque, just off I-25. After check-in, a van takes you to that day’s launch site, which changes with the weather, and you can help the crew inflate the balloon. The basket is shared with about 10 to 16 passengers in total, and up to 6 guests can go on one booking. After landing there is a celebratory toast with light snacks, and the van brings you back to the office. Meeting times are around 5:30–6:30 am for sunrise, varying by month, and early afternoon for sunset; both are confirmed after booking. On the sunrise ride you also receive a commemorative flight certificate. The pilot talks you through the flight, so you know what you are looking at as the valley changes below.
A balloon cannot steer along the river, so treat the Rio Grande as a likely view rather than a fixed route. The launch site and the direction of travel both depend on the wind that day, and some flights spend more time over the city than over the water. Flights need safe winds, clear skies and no rain. If the weather is unsuitable, you can take the ride on another date or get a full refund, and you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before your flight. There is no hotel pickup, so make your own way to the office.
The minimum age is 5, and children aged 5 to 12 pay a child price. No fixed weight limit is stated. Passengers weighing 300 lb (136 kg) or more must buy an additional space for safety and balance. The rides are not recommended with spinal injuries, knee problems or poor cardiovascular health, and pregnant passengers cannot fly. To see the river valley at first light, book the sunrise ride.
See Rio Grande from a hot air balloon over Albuquerque. Book the Albuquerque Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride.