World Balloon

This was my first balloon ride and I had a great experience. There was a little too much wind when we got to our meeting spot so the team moved us and we were able to enjoy a great morning ride. It doesn’t hurt that you end the trip with a mimosa! Bring a few layers though, it warmed up quite a bit and you are under the flame.

My wife and I had a great experience with this company and the ballon ride was very enjoyable. I have developed a level of respect (fear) of heights as I get older, so when our pilot stated he had 37 years of experience it really placed me at ease. It’s really true what they say about how peaceful and relaxing a ballon ride is. It’s strange how you get that nervous feeling when looking down the side of a mountain or tall building but when you are riding in the ballon you don’t really have that nervous/​fearful feeling.
The ride is smooth and quite, the only bumps is when you land and it’s really not that bad. Our basket tipped over when we landed do to wind (doesn’t always happen) but it was more fun than dangerous. The pilot gives you instructions on how to brace for landing and as long as you follow their instructions you will be fine. I have had worse landings in commercial aircraft than that of the ballon ride.
We had eight passengers in our ballon and it was very comfortable. I would say that there was not much of a change from the ground temp when we took off to the air temp at 2500 feet. Actually it got warmer as the trip went on with the rising sun and the burner going off over your head (very safe). With all this being said I would recommend jeans and athletic shoes. Ware dark colored clothing and a hat. The burner can drip soot with condensation build up on the unit. It only really effects those standing next to the pilot, wasn’t as bad as it sounds but ware a hat to be on the safe side.
You can participate in the blowing up the ballon (set up) and once you land you can help with the recovery of the ballon. I see where some complain about this in previous reviews but really it’s part of the ballooning experience and not very labor intensive.
So book that flight and enjoy the experience, it’s worth it!!!

Our pilot was beyond amazing, he made all of us feel comfortable and safe. The crew was also so sweet, they had goodies and mimosa when we landed it was an awesome time and amazing experience. Would recommend them to anybody.

Four of us took a ride this morning on World Balloons and had a wonderful experience. Our pilot was Murray, and he was informative about the winds, sights, history of ballooning, and many other items, imparting many with a sense of humor. It was the first time ballooning for all of us, and we couldn’t have asked for a smoother liftoff or landing. Thank you for a great start to our New Mexico visit!

I have an almost pathological fear of heights. So, you’re asking yourself, why would she take a hot air balloon ride? Because it’s a once-​in-​a-​lifetime experience. :)
From my very first communication with World Balloon I knew they were the real deal. They responded to my inquiry within an hour, I made my reservation, they called me back the next day to confirm (even though the confirmation email said I should contact them), and the balloon pilot Randy picked me up the next morning at my Airbnb, The total experience with World Balloon was absolutely the best! We the crew get the balloon ready and helped a little (ok, they did 99% of the real work). The balloon ride was nothing that I’ve ever experienced. It was so quiet and peaceful except when Randy had to blast the propane. We flew low, we flew high (about 2,000 feet max), we soared, we drifted, we saw many other colorful balloons, we got our certificates, pins, and champagne toast at the end. If you go to Albuquerque, do whatever you can to take a balloon ride. And if you do, take a ride with World Balloon.

After parting with $ 600 for a private balloon ride, I expected something spectacular. Rather, the experience was quite pedestrian! For that price, I didn’t expect to be put to work loading and unloading the balloon, even if it’s part of the «experience». Had I known that the experience included getting grungy and dirty from the balloon «experience», I would have worn something more appropriate.
While it was good to see the inflating of the balloon, I would have much rather slept in an additional 45 minutes, hopped into the balloon, and then ride around in the balloon, rather than get there at 7:00am to help with the prep work.
The ride itself was fine but it seems as though all the balloon companies follow the same traffic pattern — take off, follow the lead balloon, then land roughly an hour later. After landing, be prepared to get moist as you «experience» the manual labor involved of deflating and loading the balloon unto to the van.
Was it enjoyable? Sure! Would I do it again? Not likely, especially since I had to work. Had they perhaps handed me some gloves so I didn’t cut my hand while handling the ropes… oh well…
The champagne at the end was a nice touch, but why can’t they serve you while you’re up in the ballon? Maybe it’s because the radios weren’t working and the pilot had to use his iPhone to keep in contact with ground control.
At the end of the day, it’s a good experience. For the price of a private balloon ride, maybe not so nice.

These people are AMAZING. This was my first time to New Mexico, and hot air ballooning is a must. I’m not the biggest fan of heights, so I was pretty nervous about going. But, the minute I met our pilot Murray I felt instantly at ease. He and the entire crew were extremely knowledgable and professional but they also made it SO MUCH FUN. The ride is beautiful at sun rise, and it is as steady as can be. I wasn’t the slightest bit scared in the air. After the hour long flight, they serve you complimentary mimosas and pastries. They also give you a flying certificate. The best part was how friendly and fun the team was. Honestly, if you’re going ballooning in New Mexico, THESE ARE YOUR GUYS!

It was a very good experience riding the balloon the first time. The crews are very professional and friendly. Our pilot made us feel very comfortable during the ride. I highly recommend World Balloon ride!

Yes, finally my day in a hot air ballon has come. I’ve waited oh so patiently for a lifetime and now, it has all come together on a cold bright early morning. Of course I somehow ended up in the wrong address and I was running late. Panicked, I called the number they gave me and everything worked out eventually. Go to the Village Inn Restaurant! It’s across the street from there that they set up the balloon. For those who wants a quick run down of how it works:
Get there in the morning and watch them set up the balloon in the empty lot, this takes about 40 minutes.
Then get into the balloon. When I went, it was about 12 people and definitely a tight fit. Hope no one is fat or smells bad.
They fly it around over the city for about an hour. It didn’t go that high but the experience is really cool and I totally enjoyed it. An hour is actually plenty of time, especially since my toes were getting numb towards the end and you are packed in tight with a bunch of people.
They land somewhere and then it takes another 40 minutes or so to land and help them pack the balloon back into the van.
Finally, back at the Village Inn parking lot, they break out a little table with mimosas and muffins etc. They also handed out flight certificates and little flight pins. Really cool experience and friendly service. Am really glad I rode with them.

What a wonderful experience! Murray and his crew were excellent from start to finish! Murray was very personable, and knowledgable about the area. He clearly enjoyed sharing the balloon experience and the Albuquerque area with his customers. Thanks for the wonderful memories!

Such a fun experience! It was our first time riding in a hot air balloon, but our pilot, Murray, made us feel comfortable and was very knowledgable during the flight. We went with World Balloon because they had great reviews on Unilocal and were much cheaper than Rainbow Ryders – just $ 159 per person. We took off from the Westside and floated over the bosque and even did a «splash and dash» on the Rio Grande. The flight lasted over an hour and then the pilots had a ceremony for us with champagne and snacks. I would recommend wearing layers and thick socks since it starts off pretty cold and warms up as and morning goes on. The burners also keep you nice and toasty.
Going on a hot air balloon ride is a must in Albuquerque! Would definitely recommend World Balloon to first-​time flyers.

I could not be happier with this experience! World Balloon really goes above and beyond to make sure you have a GREAT experience and get your monies worth! It’s an early rise, but right off the bat they get you involved and have a great positive attitude.
After we took all our pictures and videos of them setting up I grabbed some ropes and helped fill up the balloon with cool air first, and then our pilot, Murray (awesome name), grabbed the flame blower and got us up in the air pretty quickly. The balloons fit a good amount of people but I was very happy with the amount of room you have in the balloon. I was also very impressed with how steady and secure you feel while up in the air. Even if you are afraid of heights you can still probably do this because you feel very secure in the balloon.
Murray was very professional and informative, and had a funny side to him too which was very appreciated. We all felt incredibly safe with him and we all just got to relax and enjoy the amazing views! And yes, it really is an amazing sight being up there so high as the sun is rising and other balloons are in the sky as well. It’s just something that everyone should experience, and you get to take all the pictures and video you want!
We eventually landed and helped put the balloon away which is pretty fun too! They take you back to your take-​off spot and have some breakfast items and mimosas for everyone! Murray told us the story of the first hot air balloon in Paris and the traditions that ballooning has. I just kept thinking to myself, this is a 5 star review for sure, there is nothing negative at all that I could possibly think of!
Well done, World Balloon, you’ve got a fan for life!

The ballon ride took us along the river. It was beautiful. We were in the air for about an hour and a half. At one point we were up to 3000 ft. That doesn’t sound very high but it felt high! Randy was an an awesome captain.

HIGHLIGHT OF OUR TRIP!
We were visiting ABQ to possibly relocate to the area at some point in the future and decided that a Balloon ride might be a great way to get a different vantage point of ABQ and have some fun as well. It was one of the best decisions we have made. We were simply amazed at how green ABQ is… and could only have appreciated that from the air. The World Balloon crew was just fantastic… warm, welcoming and extremely professional. We knew we were in good hands from the moment we met them and watched three balloons being inflated that day. Our pilot was a former ABQ Tactical Squad Commander in the Police Force. He had «the right stuff» and had a great sense of humor as well. He entertained, informed and educated us during our 1 hour balloon ride. He was extremely experienced and the type of guy you would trust your kids to fly with. I am sure all the pilots are excellent… but we felt like we could not have had a better one. The whole experience was our favorite of a PERFECT week in ABQ. We already thought we could relocate there and like it… after the balloon ride we felt we would LOVE liviing there. The chamber of commerce should contract with World Balloon to entice new people and businesses to ABQ … their experience that good! Thanks World Balloon… can’t wait for the next flight.

My group’s experience with ballooning in Albuquerque was so amazing and definitely worth the price AND the EARLY call time (we were staying in Santa Fe, so it was even earlier for us!). Our crew was absolutely wonderful and made the people in my group who were nervous feel totally and ease and they said they would definitely do it again! Thanks to Murray and his wonderful ground crew for giving us an experience we will never forget!

6390 Coors Blvd NW, Alb
After much confusion and bit of conflict with the owner I am happy to say that myself and girlfriend are more than pleased with what World Balloon has done for us. Glo and Mark were the most hospitable duo and made the experience beyond memorable. Thank you World Balloon owner Keith for going out your way to ensure we were served. You all definitely made it rt! Thanks again, hope to return!

Our pilot Randy was awesome. Such beautiful scenery and the landing is very exciting. If you are in Albuquerque you have to take a balloon ride.

We had a fabulous time with Murray as our pilot. He was a real pro. Great crew as well. We would love to go again!

My wife and I had a great Sunday morning flight with Murray and his crew. Beautiful views of the Rio Grande and the entire valley, along with an expertly done splashdown. Definitely a must do.

We had a lot of fun! The crew made us feel very comfortable and let us participate in the set up and take down of the balloon. We got many photo opportunities and were allowed to ask as many questions as we wanted. It was a nice experience.

This is a MUST if you’re visiting Albuquerque! You cannot leave Albuquerque without experiencing a hot air ballon ride. I had such a great time. I still can’t believe I did it. The crew and pilot were amazing and very friendly. The amount of money spent was definitely well worth it. They sometimes offer groupon sales, so make sure to look out for it. Just… make sure to read the fine print because I believe it’s only valuable for Sunday — Thursday. I had the chance to take this amazing ride on February 1^st. Which… so happens to be my birthday. I felt like such a lucky lady.
If you’re worried about the weather or questioning when’s the best time… Worry no more. The rides are all year round and unless the weather is really bad they will cancel your flight without charge. You may reschedule if your schedule permits. As far as weather… Spring time is beautiful because everything is alive as opposed to the winter time, but I went during the winter season and it was still so beautiful! Pictures to prove below. Just make sure to bundle up.
Note, The entire process takes about 3hrs which includes 1 hour of flight. At the end they offer wine and desserts. They also give you a very short history of hot air balloons, which is very cool! It’s like being a part of history and getting a chance to cheat death.
Again… Don’t miss your chance on what might be a once in a lifetime experience.

It’s hard to know how to rate a balloon company because we’d never been in a hot air balloon before so have absolutely no point of reference. As far as I can tell this was a 4.5 star operation. As others have said they want you there prompt, to be on time is to be early type of place. We were literally pulling into the parking lot 1 minute after said arrival time and they were calling to see where we were! We would have been a few minutes early if GPS hadn’t sent us to the wrong location.
Anyway, the balloon inflates quickly and allows for some great photo opps. You have one last chance for a potty break then you hoist yourself into the large basket. One lady struggled getting in and out and made a quite ungraceful egress. Our basket holds 12 and we were at 10 so it was a little tight. The big guy next to me kept bumping me despite by efforts at staying small. When he would shift his weight to take a picture the whole basket would shift– it was a little unnerving for someone who isn’t a huge fan of heights. With all the heads around you it can be hard to get a clear view unless you are looking below your section of basket.
The ride itself was super smooth. We touched the tops of trees and came within inches of the Rio Grande. We spent most of our time hovering over homes, which wasn’t very exciting after the first 20 minutes. Both my husband and I agreed it would have been cool to see something besides the tops of houses. Maybe it was our launch location but I guess from where we were there aren’t many options. Now I realize it is a balloon so you can’t expect to travel far so taking that into account it was still a really neat experience. We glided to a soft landing and the ground crew was great. It took 20 minutes or so to collect the deflated balloon and load the basket. Everyone pitches in to move things along. Afterward we piled into a 16 passenger van and headed back to our cars where we had snacks (muffins, fruit) and a champagne/​mimosa toast. It was nice that they had 2 bottle of champagne for our flight. You get to keep the glasses and are given a certificate of flight and pin. Overall a very nice experience. Pricey, but nice. Now that it’s checked off my bucket list I don’ know that I’d be regular unless it was during a special event or a more scenic area.

This was a truly fantastic experience. I did a lot of research before booking this flight, and I definitely made the right choice with World Balloon.
From the beginning, World Balloon made a great impression. They offered better prices than their competitors and their website has more of an emphasis on safety and information about ballooning than just selling the rides. When I called to talk about reservations, I spoke with Linda who was wonderfully informative, polite and funny.
The balloon ride itself was definitely a bucketlist experience!!! World Balloon blew up the balloon while we watched, and even allowed us to participate in the set-​up. The crew was funny and friendly and we were happily surprised to find that there was only a small number of people in the flight. Some of the balloon places I looked into would put so many people in the same basket! No thank you!
Our pilot, Dean, was an excellent tour guide! He set us up for great photo op’s and really knows the lay of the land in Albuquerque. The balloon ride was a FULL hour long, as opposed to the 35 – 45 minutes that the other companies offered.
When we landed, we were allowed to participate in packing up the balloon, which was a fun experience in and of itself (who knew!) and then they brought us muffins and champagne! They did NOT try to sell us our champagne glasses, but instead, gave them to us as souvenirs! All in all, this was a real once-​in-​a-​lifetime adventure and I would recommend that everyone try it at least once!

My sister was visiting from out of state recently and suckered me into going on a hot air balloon ride with her, but I ended up having a good time.
I’ve never been a fan of heights, but the ride was surprisingly smooth and calm. Our pilot (Dean) was friendly and did a good job of making those of us who were a little nervous more comfortable.
We departed from the Coors & Montaño area and landed somewhere near 12^th and Menaul. We were treated to muffins and mimosas after we landed, which was nice since I was getting pretty hungry.
Although it was a little pricey, it was a once in a lifetime experience and I’m glad I decided to do it.
**My sister forgot her credit card in the shuttle van and Dean was nice enough to take the time out of his schedule to meet me later in the day to get the card back. Good customer service goes a long way with me**

This was a really great experience! It was pretty tough waking up super early to drive from Santa Fe to Albuquerque for the ride, but it was all worth it. The World Balloon gang is super on time so be sure to get there on 6 a.m. or whenever they tell you to.
We got there 15 minutes late and felt so bad because they called us to make sure we were going to be there. They waited for us to get there before «blowing up» the balloon. We got to see the whole process from start to finish and it was all so cool.
The balloons are pretty huge and the basket size depends on how many people are in the group. Luckily, we were just a group of four plus the captain so it was a smaller basket and although it was a tight squeeze, it was still comfortable.
I felt 100% safe the whole time we were in the air. It was so crazy how easy it seemed for us to get floating up in the sky. It was such a fun time because we flew up to about 2,000 ft and were pretty much just flying for an hour and a half (we got lucky because we had to find a safe spot to land). We were lucky to see the sunrise over the valley and got to see how green Albuquerque is, contrary to belief.
On another note, the dogs were going crazy barking left and right and even though I’m sure the humans were annoyed at 7 a.m. in the morning, a lot of them waved to us as well — that was fun. :)
We ended the experience with some mimosas and a cool historic story about how hot air ballooning started.
I would definitely love to experience hot air ballooning again, but maybe in a different city where there are slightly better views than just neighborhoods.

I bought a Groupon for World Balloon as a Christmas present for my husband. We booked our balloon flight and got to help set up the balloon. I was a bit nervous at first but our pilot Don told us stories the whole way up and I my nerves disappeared. Such a beautiful gentle experience. At the end we helped put away the balloon and enjoyed a Champagne toast and fruit, with flight certificates, pins and commemorative Champagne flutes. Needless to say I purchased another flight. What a amazing experience! Great crew! Highly recommend!

Great staff that made the 1 hour flight safe and enjoyable.
Half the fun is unloading the balloon and basket; and afterwards reloading them.
Great views of Albuquerque and the Rio Grande.
Ceremony at the end with mimosas and snack; and reception of pin and certificate.
The weather this morning was moderate; no need for a jacket.
Hints: bring your camera (and make sure you go to the bathroom beforehand). Tip the crew who are great.