Frequently asked questions about hot air balloon rides near Mexico City
Balloons fly over Teotihuacan every day of the year when the weather allows. Here we answer what travelers ask most before they fly.
How much does a hot air balloon ride in Mexico City cost?
A hot air balloon ride from Mexico City costs from MX$2,100 (about US$115) per person for the sunrise flight over Teotihuacan. The All Inclusive package costs MX$3,700 (about US$202) and adds hotel pickup, breakfast in a cave and the return trip. A private balloon costs MX$3,750 per person with a minimum of 2 travelers.
Where do hot air balloons fly near Mexico City?
Hot air balloons near Mexico City fly over Teotihuacan, an ancient city about 50 km (31 miles) northeast of downtown. The flights pass over the Pyramid of the Sun, the Pyramid of the Moon and the Avenue of the Dead. Balloons do not fly over Mexico City itself.
Is a hot air balloon ride near Mexico City safe?
AFAC-certified pilots fly every balloon, and every package includes passenger insurance. The pilot cancels the flight when surface wind on the launch field exceeds 10 km/h (about 6 mph), and you reschedule for free. Our safety guide lists the documents you can ask any operator for.
What time does the balloon ride start?
Balloons fly only at sunrise, when the air is calmest. The All Inclusive van collects you at your Mexico City hotel around 4:30 AM. If you drive yourself, we send the exact check-in time by WhatsApp.
How long is the hot air balloon flight?
The flight lasts 45 to 60 minutes in the air. The full experience takes about 3 hours at the launch field, or about 8.5 hours door to door with transport and breakfast.
Is transport from Mexico City included?
The All Inclusive package includes shared round-trip transport from your Mexico City hotel. Every other package lets you add round-trip transport for MX$1,500 per person during checkout.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The pilot decides at the launch field at first light. If wind, rain or low cloud make the flight unsafe, you reschedule for free, as many times as the weather requires.
Can I cancel my booking?
If you cancel or miss the flight, your full payment stays as credit in your name for 12 months. If we cancel for a reason other than weather, we refund 100% of your payment.
Who cannot fly?
Children under 5 cannot fly, and pregnant travelers cannot fly at any stage of pregnancy. Every adult must show a valid government-issued photo ID at check-in.
How do I pay?
You pay online in Mexican pesos by card or PayPal. You choose to pay the full amount or to reserve with 50% and pay the rest on the day of your flight.
Will I get motion sick?
No. The balloon moves gently with the wind, with no shaking and no sudden changes.
Is it cold during the flight?
The temperature in the air is almost the same as on the ground, and the burner above the basket gives off heat. Dress in layers for a cold dawn.
How many people ride in the basket?
A shared basket carries up to 16 travelers, or up to 12 on the birthday flight. The private balloon carries only your group of 2 to 8.
What should I bring?
- A valid government-issued photo ID for every adult.
- Warm, comfortable layers and closed shoes.
- A cap and sunscreen.
- Your phone for photos, held firmly.
- No backpacks or large bags in the basket.
Is the ticket to the pyramids included?
No. The INAH admission ticket to walk the archaeological zone is not included in any balloon package. You buy it at the site entrance.