With a name like MyCurlyAdventures, I’m always on the search for the most adventurous and unique ways to explore a city. Phoenix, Arizona, is surrounded by mountains, and with only two days in the city, there was no way we could see it all. However, we could cover quite a bit of ground with a Rainbow Ryders Hot Air Balloon ride.
Why I chose Rainbow Ryders Inc.
We booked an excursion with Rainbow Ryders hot air balloon company. I recommend them because they are the balloon company that all the other companies consult regarding the wind patterns. With over 40 years of experience and a strong commitment to safety and excellence, Rainbow Ryders has established itself as a top choice for hot air balloon adventures in the Southwest. They maintain a fleet of more than 40 hot air balloons and prioritize the highest equipment quality standards. All balloons undergo regular inspections at an FAA-certified repair station and thorough checks before and after each flight.
The pilots at Rainbow Ryders are highly qualified. Each holds an FAA commercial pilot’s license, a second-class medical certificate, and a minimum of 500 flight hours. Furthermore, all pilots are subject to random drug and alcohol testing and must complete annual flight reviews and safety seminars.
Our Experience
We were scheduled for 5:45 AM. It was way earlier than I usually plan for vacations, but it was worth it so that we could enjoy one of their sunrise flights. It’s also a better time to arrive because the morning wind patterns are more stable and less likely to be cancelled due to inclement weather.
We met up at their storefront in Northern Phoenix, where we were loaded into a van with our other balloon mates. Patrick was to be our official ride operator for the day, and despite the early start, he kept us lively with his energy and jokes. He assured us that everything would be OK since he had never had a crash, and today was his first day flying! Actually, he had been doing it since 1991, so we were confident in his skills.
When we reached our destination, they started unloading and inflating the balloons. There were four balloons in total that morning, so we enjoyed helping hold them up while they inflated and taking fun pictures.
Before long, we were loaded into the balloon and off. The ascent into the air was smooth, and before long, the land below turned into a toy town. We soared across the outer city before heading into the mountains.
Bird’s Eye Views of the City
Seeing the mountains and gorgeous views of the Sonoran Desert from above was incredible. We could see the well-worn tracks of animals, see the sun peak through the clouds and rise into the sky, and travel miles across the land in our one-hour flight. It was fun to be with a group of people because we talked back and forth with each other, and almost everyone was traveling from a different state. Despite it being a full cabin, we didn’t feel as if we lacked privacy. Chief and I held conversations together and enjoyed looking out at the scenery. I wish we had a little more space, as we had to hand our cameras over to other people or switch positions to get an image that wasn’t just a close-up of our faces.
Patrick was an absolutely fantastic pilot. He kept us laughing with jokes and 27 years’ worth of funny hot air balloon flight stories. With this company being the official hot air balloon ride provider, I’m sure that all the pilots at Rainbow Ryders are phenomenal. If you get the chance, I recommend requesting Patrick as your pilot.
The ride was incredibly smooth and secure! Despite a small height anxiety, I felt comfortable the entire time, and there was no turbulence. Also, because of the flame and wind block from the basket, the ride was not cold like I expected.
Smooth Landings
Sadly, all good things come to an end, and we eventually started making our way down, which was an experience in itself. When you land, you hit the ground (not too roughly) and then skid a few feet. I was nervous about the landing, but while a little rough, it wasn’t too bad.
Apparently, in the old days, hot air balloon landings weren’t always as smooth, so pilots would celebrate their successful landings with champagne. Our pilots ended our trip with mimosas while packing the balloons to continue the tradition. And they were generous with champagne! Everyone enjoyed 2-3 mimosas and chatting.
Despite not knowing anyone before, everyone was sharing travel tips and stories by the end. It was a great time, and the drive back flew by despite being fairly far off from the original location. We were greeted with a breakfast of bagels, yogurt, muffins, and more mimosas when we arrived. We also received a certificate that said we had completed the trip.
I must say that flying with Rainbow Ryders was the highlight of our trip and the one thing you don’t want to skimp out on if you have the chance. Additionally, Rainbow Ryders also has locations in Albuquerque, Colorado Springs, and Las Vegas.
More Hot-air Balloon Rides by Rainbow Riders
Afternoon Rides
Not an early bird? Rainbow Ryders also offers afternoon rides daily (weather permitting) to admire Arizona’s breathtaking sunsets from a unique vantage point from November to March, launching about an hour before sunset. This bucket list adventure concludes with a traditional toast!
Private Sunrise Flights
Available year-round, these flights require a minimum of two passengers. Experience the tranquility of the desert morning in a more intimate setting, with just your party and the pilot aboard.
Private Sunset Flights
Offered seasonally from November through March, private sunset flights also require a minimum of two passengers. Soar above the desert as the sun sets, creating a romantic and unforgettable atmosphere.
Rainbow Ryders Hot Air Balloon: FAQs
How much does it cost to ride a hot air balloon in Phoenix?
The cost of a hot air balloon ride in Phoenix varies depending on the time of day and whether the flight is shared or private. Rainbow Ryders offers sunrise flights ranging from $199 to $275 per adult and $125 per child. Private flights require a minimum of 2-person bookings and typically start around $325 per person.
Where do hot air balloons take off in Phoenix?
Hot air balloon rides in Phoenix typically launch from various locations in the North and Northwest parts of the city. However, the exact site is chosen based on wind and weather conditions. Rainbow Ryders often meets passengers at their Glendale, AZ, office before transporting them to the day’s selected launch site. The flight team also drops you back at the office at the end of the flight.
How many people fit in a hot air balloon?
Most commercial hot air balloons in Phoenix can carry between two and four people, up to 12 to 14 people, plus the pilot. Private flights are usually limited to 2 to 4 people for a more intimate experience.
Rainbow Ryders Hot Air Balloon: Final Thoughts
Floating peacefully above Phoenix with Rainbow Ryders awakened a whole new appreciation for the natural beauty of Arizona. What I really appreciated was how personal the experience felt. It didn’t feel rushed or overly commercial. Patrick shared stories and even a bit of humor, making it feel more like an intimate adventure rather than a tourist attraction. The traditional post-flight toast added such a warm and celebratory touch to the whole morning.
If you’re visiting Phoenix and want to experience something truly unforgettable, book a flight with Rainbow Ryders. It’s not just a ride; it’s a memory-maker. For me, it was one of the highlights of my entire trip to Arizona, and I honestly can’t wait to do it again.
I received this in exchange for a review. As always, all opinions are my own.
Last Updated 2 weeks ago by Jessica Serna | Published: March 29, 2018
Katie-Rose
April 4, 2018Wonderful photos, Jessica!