Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Rainbow Ryders

    4.7 (321 reviews)
    Open 7:00 am - 7:00 pm
    Updated over 3 months ago

    Rainbow Ryders Photos

    You might also consider

    More like Rainbow Ryders

    Recommended Reviews - Rainbow Ryders

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Jim T.

    Rainbow Ryders took 22 of my family members up in two balloons. An experience they will never forget. Everyone enjoyed themselves. Most highly recommended.

    Christy S.

    I had an absolutely amazing experience with Rainbow Ryders! This has been on my bucket list for years, and it did not disappoint. They have it all down to an art form. It was smooth in every way. Knowledgeable and experienced pilots and crew. The sky was filled with colorful balloons over the city of Albuquerque. I cannot more highly recommend this experience.

    a skyline when we first got up

    we had. an amazing adventure on our first balloon experience Although the day began in the wee hours of the morning we were one of many! as luck would have it we were the first up after the dawn patrol with the thousands of people cheering we felt like celebrities So beautiful up there! our pilot was amazing and definitely put us at ease The videos are too large but have a couple pics that don't do it justice

    Sunrise take-off.

    Outstanding experience. These folks have it together, from check-in to loading, flying and touchdown. We were on board with a total of 11 folks. Boarded the van to the takeoff point, a large open area about 5 minute drive from the Ryders office. All balloons going up get deployed in the field, we're given some basic safety and landing prep instruction and up, up away. The ascent is smooth, we go a couple hundred feet up, the get a wet foot in the very shallow Rio Grande river. Then the real ascent, up to just shy of 3000 feet. The sensation is quite calm, you are not being propelled by prop or jet, you are with the wind. Its quiet and as you cruise with the wind, you hear the yard hounds from the homes below jankled by the burners of the colorful orbiting globes. The winds today tool us southeasternly at first, but then changed to the west. Our approach to land was extended as some low level winds were variable. Our pilot, Anthony picked a more open space to put 'er down. As we approached to land we were 10-15 feet over the rooftops finally settling in a sandy sage brush open field. With everyone braced as instructed we rolled the basket left on touchdown (like a slow motion roll, btw). The chase crew was johnny on the spot and everyone exited the basket without problem. A post-flight toast and the crew packed up the deflated balloon for the ride back to HQ. This was a lifetime experience. Great job Rainbow Ryders, great choreography and flight experience.

    Marianne V.

    We had an amazing hot air balloon ride with Brad as our pilot. Everything from start to finish was amazing. Well worth the money to check this off our bucket list.

    Going up
    Abel F.

    Anthony I think his name was.,the whole team did an outstanding job.,also they're very professional So they know what they're doing! So saying that! I'd definitely recommend everyone to there and have an amazing experience like we did so thank you so very to the team

    Hot air balloon

    Great experience. We had Greg as our pilot and Greg a Lily as his helpers. If you are afraid of heights and think you could never do this- think again as I am that person and once I met Greg and learned of his background - fear left me. My family had such a great experience and Greg shared lots of information on the journey. Do the sunrise tour- life is too short not to enjoy it!!

    We had our Hot Air Balloon ride this morning. It was our first time and had the most amazing time. Alfred was our pilot and he was wonderful.I would recommend requesting him for your pilot. I have nothing but good things to say from the minute we arrived. Treat yourself you won't be disappointed!

    Monica S.

    This company has great communication. They were very easy to find and in their communication they explained parking. When I arrived Troy checked me in and let me know that I'd be riding in his balloon. Boy did I hit the jackpot more on that later though. He sent me to an iPad to fill out a waiver, which was very quick and easy. Then after that he directed me to a waiting area which had plenty of seating for everyone who was flying that morning. They had information on each table, explaining what to expect during the flight which I absolutely appreciated, especially when it comes to what to expect during the landing . They were very prompt and right at 6 o'clock got things going. Troy's van was one of the first ones out. They drove us to the launch field and it was great seeing all of the balloons inflating together. It was pretty magical. There were about 15+ balloons in the air during our flight. Troy is a veteran pilot of approx 45 years. He holds records in ballooning. I was anxious coming into this, but Troy was so confident and skilled he immediately put me at ease. It was one of the most amazing experiences I've ever had and I'd highly recommend Flying with this group if you're considering a hot air balloon ride also shout out to the Chase crew. They were amazing and on the ground in the location where we were estimated to land to stabilize us prior to us landing. Everyone did an amazing job. Once the flight was over, they provided us with beverages. They were super fast, packing up the balloon and had us back on our way to the offices in a timely manner. Troy checked us all out real quickly and sent us on our way with some snacks, absolutely brilliant way to start a morning.

    Hot air balloons over the Rio Grande
    Christine S.

    It an amazing experience! I highly recommend! Our pilot, Alfred, was extremely knowledgeable and super funny! Excellent way to spend a morning!

    If you think the Sandia Mountains look good bathed in that pink evening glow, just wait until you see them from a hot air balloon. Up there, they don't just glow--they practically blush. We flew with Rainbow Ryders (because, honestly, was there any other option?), and our pilot Greg, along with Rich and Nicole, made the whole thing feel like a floating party with friends you haven't met yet. They turned a balloon ride into a full-on adventure, with everyone getting in on the action. I can't wait to drag more friends and family up into the sky--Albuquerque looks even better when you're thousands of feet above your worries.

    Balloon!
    Olivia S.

    As a New Mexican it felt like finally getting my right of passage to fly in a Hot Air Balloon and it was beyond the hype. The pilots were so nice and the ride was so beautiful! I recommend this place and this experience to anyone and everyone!

    Sara H.

    Absolutely amazing and pleasant experience! We were so excited to fly in a hot air balloon, which was the first thing I wanted to do when we got to Albuquerque. We booked a sunrise ride with mimosas. Everyone was very helpful, and the waiver link was easy to sign. We were excited in the waiting room, looking around to see which group we would join. They started calling out the group numbers, and everyone was so excited to board the transportation. When everyone was gone, only the three of us were left, wondering if we had missed the call-out. It turned out we were the "VIP" group because another group canceled at the last minute. YEAH! We were very lucky to have Steve and Jerry as our flight crew team. Steve was very helpful, explaining all the rules and sharing his experience. The most enjoyable part was when Steve taught us how hot air balloon flights work. When we were up in the air, he gave us an introduction to the landscape and buildings. We felt safe and had a pleasant time. It was the most amazing experience, and I highly recommend Rainbow Ryders.

    See all

    1 month ago

    Kris and his crew were the best. Great customer service. The process was smooth including our landing. Best way to celebrate

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 month ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    7 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Dana O.
    13
    15
    0

    1 month ago

    We had the best time. So beautiful and easy. Great host Mezz - he was awesome and fun! Highly suggest you go for a sunrise ride.

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Ted S.
    0
    103
    177

    8 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Amazing flight. Views were spectacular. Alfred was GREAT! Professional crew. Snacks at the end were delicious.

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Sara H.
    41
    47
    120

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Kelly S.
    18
    203
    22

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Brianna J.

    Brianna J.

    Helpful 7
    Thanks 1
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    We did the sunrise ride this morning. Everything was perfect! Very professional, knowledgeable and great guides. 5 stars!

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Brianna J.

    Brianna J.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Naomi D.
    59
    28
    14

    2 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 2
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    7 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Brianna J.

    Brianna J.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    7 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 months ago

    Amazing experience. Went very smoothly and pilot very knowledgeable and fun. Would highly recommend it.

    Business owner information

    Photo of Scott A.

    Scott A.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 9

    Ask the Community - Rainbow Ryders

    When are the sunset flights offered?

    For Albuquerque's Sunset Seaason it runs November - Feburary. The current season they are only available Friday -Sundays, and will end at the end of January 2024. They will start back up as normal November 2024.

    Can someone clarify the pricing: is it $149 PER PERSON to ride or $149 for a session (no matter how many people)?

    Hi Amanda, We do apologize for any confusion. The price will be per person for our balloon rides.… Read more

    View All 3 Questions

    Review Highlights - Rainbow Ryders

    Once airborne, Anthony Lard, our pilot keep us entertained and informed as we passed over various landmarks.

    Mentioned in 151 reviews

    Read more highlights

    Private Balloon Flights

    Private Balloon Flights

    (2 reviews)

    Business Parkway/Academy Acres

    I'm going to jump to 5 here because even tho this is somewhat prohibitively expensive, it's special…read moreand if you're going to do this at all here is why I liked this company: we flew with just our pilot. It's a smal basket so it's nice to just be with your friend...or boyfriend. *wink* I admit it was somewhat less thrilling than I had expected because it was so darn smooth and we didn't go terribly far or high, but that depends on winds, etc. we went about 500-600 ft high but they often go as high as 1000. This company is family-run and they were SO NICE. We met our pilot, his fiancee and her dad who all worked together. The champagne brunch was cute, but unnecessary as it was the private aspect that sold me. for the slight bump in price, go private. our flight was delayed to try for better weather on our second day in Alby, and it was early, (630 am meeting time) but it was very nice weather/visibility. glad we waited. inflating the balloon was the best part for me. They were very responsive on email and phone. they also have a very cute plump dog as a mascot. Jack!

    We made a reservation months ago for a balloon ride, our first. This Captain Bentley made promises…read morehe did not keep: no private flight, six people in the basket. No pick up and brought to balloon site, we had to drive ourselves in the dark ,early morning. He said he did not do like some of the others, fly the first group and put down the balloon and pick up the second group out of the chase VEHICLE . But that is what happened to us, but the winds had picked up and we did NOT get our flight. DISCOVER PRIVATE BALLOON FLIGHTS ARE THE ONES WE FOUND AFTER CALLING OTHER BALLOON COMPANIES, THEY WILL GIVE YOU WHAT YOU AND A GREAT CHAMPAGGNE BRUNCH AFTERWARDS. THIS AN EXPENSIVE RIDE , SO GO FOR THE BEST.

    Fly Albuquerque - Balloons in the bosque

    Fly Albuquerque

    (31 reviews)

    North Valley/Los Ranchos

    This experience was so unique!! Fly Albuquerque is independent and community-minded. Our flight…read moreand the whole morning was run with integrity and style. I appreciated all the tidbits and stories they shared. Bravo!

    Since I usually leave reviews, I always check reviews out prior to chosing where i will be going. I…read morewent to Albuquerque for the international balloon Festival and was looking for a hot air balloon rides. I read the reviews for this company, but I also looked at reviews from other sites & ultimately decided to go with this company because I felt that some of these reviews did not reflect the services this company provides. I am so glad we did choose this company. I called them to let them know that I had booked everything for my stepfather, but that it was under my name and they said there was not a problem with that. I also asked if I could follow them to take pictures of him getting in the hot air, balloon, and taking off at which Brittany happily said yes to. When I called it said to text the phone number listed because nobody answered and as I was texting, I got a return phone call almost immediately Brittney was prompt and professional. One thing I've learned is a hot air balloon ride is not your typical type of service. Everything is based on safety, which I am extremely grateful that this company cared so much about safety. Everything depends on the wind as I experience with a balloon festival when none of the balloons were able to takeoff. Did it ruin my weekend,? No! I still enjoyed what I was able to with the festival, but I did learn that you have to have some type of flexibility and understanding that riding a hot air balloon & being able to experience it all depends on the weather and the mental state of your pilot. Both are extremely important. Unfortunately, the day before nobody was able to fly, so Brittany did accommodate those individuals and allow them to fly in the morning, which made it a little hectic. However, we totally understood because this is a bucket list dream for a lot of people and we're glad she was able to accommodate them as well the following morning. It did make it quite busy and a little hectic in organization for checking in however, this isn't your typical service. My stepdad truly enjoyed his experience and we highly recommend this company. One of the employees actually took pictures of everyone on their own phones of them in the basket, which was a nice touch. Then they did a celebration at the end with some champagne, orange juice, and water. Very nice touch & a memory my step dad will have for a lifetime!

    Two Wheel Tourism - Casa Rodena

    Two Wheel Tourism

    (1 review)

    Old Town

    Two friends and I from San Francisco visited Albuquerque this past summer and were fortunate enough…read moreto have David and Jenny as our hosts. David took the three of us to a local bike shop to rent bikes for the day and led us on a fun adventure throughout Albuquerque. He was very knowledgeable about the town and the different bike routes that would be enjoyable. Our first stop was to a quaint and secluded breakfast spot where we sat in a nicely shaded garden and sipped our morning coffee before heading out to a local winery, Casa Rodena. The ride there was nicely paced and I got to enjoy all the views. I'm not an avid bike rider so I'm usually in the back of the pack, but I never felt rushed or left behind. We rode through a quiet part of town and I enjoyed seeing the traditional adobe style homes along the way. When we arrived at the winery, we did a few tastings and then bought a bottle of our favorite one and sat in the back patio. The winery itself is very nice and peaceful. We all had a great time just chatting and relaxing among the shaded trees. Lastly, David took us to Old Town where we had a chance to stroll the plaza and visit the merchants. My favorite site there was the Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel, which has a lot of character and charm. I had a great time exploring Albuquerque on bike and would definitely do it again. David was a great guide and made our trip very enjoyable and memorable. My friends and I felt well taken care of and couldn't have asked for a better host!

    From the owner: Our bike tours cater to those looking to immerse themselves in the rich culture, food, and scenery…read morethat is New Mexico. Mission Statement: Our mission is to offer unique, inspiring, and sustainable vacations that promote personal health and support the communities in which we tour. We believe: the world is meant to be explored. By joining us on one of our tours, you will have the opportunity to experience your next destination, instead of just visiting it. vacations should truly be stress-free. That's why when you choose the Reserve and Relax package on one of our tours, no planning is necessary. Simply find a way to get to and from our tour, and the rest will be our job! our group tours allow mere acquaintances to form lasting bonds. that by sharing our local knowledge, you will find your vacation more memorable and satisfying. in giving back. For every participant on our tours, a portion of our proceeds is donated to the Esperanza Community Bike Shop, a local outreach program whose goals include teaching bicycle repair and safety to the greater Albuquerque area.

    Aerogelic Ballooning

    Aerogelic Ballooning

    (4 reviews)

    North Valley/Los Ranchos

    Went on a girls trip to Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Unfortunately festival flights…read morewere $$$$$ We found Aerogelic Ballooning online. They offered a festival week discount. It is a few miles from the fiesta but when you're in the air you will see lots of other balloons. The balloon holds 20 people and they schedule 40. While the first 20 go up, the rest follow in the chase vehicle. After they land the group switches. It was an amazing experience! (See photos) The pilot, Shane has been flying for 25 years and his family works with him. Everything was smooth from ordering tickets, to meet up, and of course the actual ride. Things to remember: 1. Get there early so you have time to make a pit stop and still leave on time. 2. If you notice a giant slit in the balloon while it is being inflated....Don't Panic. It's just a vent (thanks Dakota) 3. Stop and enjoy the amazing sunrise views in Albuquerque from high in the sky!

    I would give this place -5 stars if I could…read more This hot air ballon company has wronged my husband and I. They're was a miscommunication error when my husband was trying to schedule our flight. When we went online to call them to schedule our flight we picked "New Mexico, Albuquerque and found a phone number to call. We assumed that it was to the Albuquerque location but it was ACTUALLY to the Phoenix, Arizona main location. Neither did the lady my husband talked to named Misty or my husband knew that when the flight was scheduled. So come the day before of we are trying to get in touch with them to confirm our flight no luck straight to voice message. The morning of we look at the email again and see the location for the balloon flight is at "the Starbucks on I-7 and Happy Valley Rd". (I posted a pic of the location directions they sent us) I mean you'd think a legit business would give you an actual address but. When we asked about the address we found out that our flight was scheduled for the Phoenix, Arizona location at 3pm. We were devastated! We're road tripping from Kansas to Nevada and we thought what a great idea to stop in Albuquerque NM and enjoy a hot air balloon ride a first for us both. Now before we both completely lost it my husband was trying to work with Misty to see if we could find a solution both parties would be happy with. We first asked for a refund. Misty told us flat out "No" to the refunds and that they were basically gonna keep our $100 deposit regardless of the communication error being just as much my husbands fault as well hers. She said that the whole refund was out of her hands and jurisdiction. Now mind you we were driving around the mountain area of New Mexico so the call got dropped twice. Every time my husband called back politely and apologetic about the spotty reception Misty got upset and offended because she thought he was doing it intentionally. She said that it's his and his phones fault and basically blamed this whole situation on my husbands lack of understanding. Whoa now! You call that you're customer service?!?The fact that this employee can not work with us but instead is against us makes me question the integrity of this business. Misty did nothing to help us feel that we made the right decision in choosing them. My husband worked hard to urge her to help us see if there was anyway we could reschedule. She finally told him to call this guy named Glenn who runs the Albuquerque location. So we did, we called Glenn. When we told Glenn our story we had hopes that maybe we found someone who would show some kindness and help us. WRONG!!! Glenn said well you got two choices 1. You can be on stand by and just check back with us daily to see if we have any open spots available. Your standby would last for 6 months and it's only good at the Phoenix location. I don't recommend this because it's very unlikely you'll get a flight. 2. Just accept you're out $100. Like seriously?! Can you believe that?!? I said to my husband there's no way we can win so he can make the decision. Sure enough my husband decided on the standby because after moving out and the holidays we just can't waste $100. Glenn said "Okay I'll be sure to let Misty know since she is the boss, the manager of operations." Whoa whoa whoa back that up! You mean to tell me that the MANAGER OF OPERATIONS IS UNABLE TO ISSUE A $100 REFUND?!? Smh what kind of place are you running here?!?! So we're both confused, upset and I myself am now crying my eyes out because the whole point of us being here just got cancelled. And now we're $100 out. This is some sneaky snake like business you have running here. I personally don't even want to business with this place anymore but understand my husbands strife. Why would I want to trust this place after the horrible customer service I just experienced. Soooo Misty calls back to confirm that we're doing the standby thing. Now here's the icing on the cake. My husband after talking with Misty points out so that another poor couple or family doesn't encounter the same problem we did, that the phone number we found online for the Albuquerque location was incorrect and was actually for the Phoenix location. Guess what she said? "Oh we know you guys actually aren't the first couple whose had this kind of mistake" ARE YOU FRICKEN KIDDING ME??!!?!?!?!?!?!?!???!! Livid just livid!!! It's a Whole big scam a con for them to keep your money.NO HELP from MISTY or GLENN and almost an admittance that this business will intentionally set your reservation up for failure just to keep your hard earned money. Worst experience of my life!!! Still crying and upset about it!!! I honestly don't know if I even want to get in a hot air balloon anytime soon knowing this is a possible experience. THEY TOOK OUR MONEY FOR THE EXPERIENCE WE DID NOT WANT. NEVER DO BUSINESS WITH THIS DISHONORABLE PLACE.

    Private Flight Balloon Rides

    Private Flight Balloon Rides

    (1 review)

    We made our hot air balloon trip plans in June for the Oct 2013 Hot Air Balloon Ride. We called…read moreseveral places and liked the Private Balloon Flights package - they try hard to promote it. This was a bucket list trip for me. We made the hot air balloon trip a stop on our move from San Antonio to San Diego - quite a ways out of the way. We woke up at 4:30 am in the morning to meet in the parking lot as instructed. It was freezing weather and we waited in line. Here we were told that we would not be in the sunrise hot air balloon group after all, but group 2. This was never told to us when we signed up in June (4 months in advance). After we signed in we were instructed to another park. We went and waited outside in the freezing cold for about an hour for the winds to calm down. While we were waiting we met the other people in our group. We learned that we had in fact signed up prior to the people in group 1 - so we are not sure why we were chosen to be in group 2. Another couple that was in group 2 had actually been signed up for a flight the day before and bumped to today - so they should have also been in group 1. At any rate the operator said we were lucky because Group 2 means we get a longer balloon ride. Well we get in the chase vehicle and our chase driver is very friendly, enthusiastic and knowledgeable. We start chasing the group 1 balloon all over ABQ and the chase driver tells us that the balloon driver is actually from out of town and isn't that familiar with the geography. Well this didn't worry us until there were several sites for the balloon pilot to set down but didn't. It seemed like every other balloon in the sky that day found a spot to set down except the balloon we were supposed to be on. After about an hour the pilot radioed our driver and told her to take us back to the park because we would not be getting our balloon ride. I did everything I could do not to start crying. This was the most exciting thing I had planned on our trip. With the government shutdown our entire family vacation road trip was ruined. None of the national parks were open and now to top it off our hot air balloon ride was cancelled. We had done everything right - made our reservations early in advance, showed up on time! The chase driver said to talk to the reservationist Pam to see what she could offer us. When we got dumped off back at the park Pam met us and told us "sorry, sucks when mother nature doesn't cooperate". It was the most UNheartfelt apology ever. She didn't even have the class to offer us breakfast at least - nothing! Not even a sweatshirt for all of our troubles. I think at the very least they could have offered us a discount if we returned to a different day to ride and invited us to stay for breakfast anyway. This company didn't even have the business sense to offer us ANYTHING! I was appalled. They said we could book another balloon flight on Tuesday - three days later! Well, sorry we were leaving in the morning.... our trip was ruined. I get that mother nature has to cooperate, but it was apparent that there was more than just mother nature participating in this disaster! The other couple that was with us drove all the way from Louisiana for this and the couldn't offer them anything either. I mean seriously - was breakfast too much to ask for? What a waste of time! My advice is to go with a different balloon ride operator - someone with more tact and customer service! There are plenty to choose from.

    Rainbow Ryders - hot_air_balloons - Updated May 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...