Booking choice: The sunrise flight with breakfast, from $239 per person. Check dates Compare the options below
Operators all give the same advice: comfortable casual clothes, closed-toe shoes, a light jacket, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. The details matter more than you might think, because you stand for an hour, you may help with the balloon, and you land wherever the wind puts you.
The quick answer
Wear layers you can peel off, closed-toe shoes with grip, and a cap or hat to protect your head from the burner's heat. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen and a phone on a strap. Skip sandals, heels, loose hats and anything you would hate to get dusty.
What should you wear on a hot air balloon ride?
Comfortable casual clothes in layers: the air in the basket is about the same temperature as on the ground, so dress for a desert dawn that warms up fast.
In winter that means a fleece or light jacket over a T-shirt; in summer, light breathable clothes. Long trousers protect your legs from scrub and cactus at the landing site.
Packed and ready? Check dates for the sunrise flight with breakfast.
Check dates for the sunrise flight with breakfastHow cold is it at sunrise in Phoenix?
Cold in winter, warm in summer: January dawns are chilly, while summer mornings are already warm at 5 AM.
Check the forecast low for your date; that is close to what you will feel at check-in. The burner adds warmth on your head and shoulders in flight, but not to your legs.
Which shoes are best?
Closed-toe shoes with grip, such as trainers or light hiking shoes; operators ask for closed shoes.
You walk across uneven desert at launch and landing, you may need to brace during landing, and there are spiky plants everywhere. Sandals, flip-flops and heels are a bad idea.
Do you need a hat?
Yes, ideally a cap: the burner fires right above you, and flyers mention feeling its heat on their scalp.
A cap that fits snugly is better than a wide-brimmed hat, which can blow off or bump other passengers. Tie long hair back.
What should you bring?
Pack light: there is not much room in a shared basket.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Phone or camera on a strap or lanyard
- A light jacket you can tie around your waist
- A little cash to tip the pilot and crew
- Any medication you need
- Your booking confirmation and a photo ID
Ready for an early start? Rainbow Ryders flies sunrise from Glendale with a champagne toast.
Explore Rainbow Ryders at sunriseWhat should you leave behind?
Big bags, loose hats, selfie sticks and anything fragile; the basket is shared and the landing can bump.
Leave valuables in your car or hotel. There are no lockers at the launch site, and no restrooms at launch or landing, so use the one at check-in.
Can you take photos?
Yes, bring your own phone or camera; keep it on a strap so it cannot fall from the basket.
Crews often take photos of guests, and the best shots are usually during inflation and as the sun comes up. Keep both hands free for the landing.
What if you get motion sick or are afraid of heights?
Balloons move with the wind, so the ride feels very smooth, and many nervous flyers say they barely noticed leaving the ground.
There is no rocking like a boat. If you are worried, stand near the middle of the basket and look at the horizon. See balloon rides with kids for age and health rules.
Weather looking good? Book with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
Check dates for the sunrise flight with breakfastFrequently asked questions
Can I wear shorts on a hot air balloon ride?
Yes, in warm weather, but long trousers protect your legs from cactus and scrub at the landing site.
Is it cold in a hot air balloon?
About as cold as the ground: chilly on winter dawns, warm in summer. The burner warms your head, not your feet.
Should I wear sunglasses?
Yes. You fly towards and around the rising sun, and the desert glare is strong after sunrise.
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Choose your flight
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before on every option. Prices are from-prices in USD and move with the season.
Sunrise Balloon Ride with Champagne Breakfast
- A 45 to 60 minute sunrise flight with an FAA-licensed pilot
- Champagne or sparkling cider toast at the landing site
- Catered breakfast in the desert, served at tables
Sunrise Balloon Ride with Champagne Toast
- About 45 minutes in the air at sunrise
- Van from the meeting point to the launch site and back
- Champagne toast, orange juice and bottled water after landing
Rainbow Ryders Sunrise Balloon Flight
- Sunrise hot air balloon flight of about 45 to 60 minutes
- Live commentary from the pilot
- Option to help the crew inflate the balloon
