
Sunset Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Phoenix
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September 2026
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Who is going?
Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
4.8/5
Based on 239 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Sunset Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Phoenix worth booking?
Sunset Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Phoenix is a 3.5-hour experience in Phoenix, United States, from $125 per person. It scores 77 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 239 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 77 / 100
- Rating
- 4.8/5 (239)
- Duration
- 3.5 hours
- From
- $125 per person
Enjoy a one-hour hot air balloon flight as the sun sets over the Sonoran Desert in Phoenix, Arizona. You'll experience breathtaking 360-degree views of the famous Sonoran Desert landscape throughout your flight. Upon lan
What you get
About this experience
Enjoy a one-hour hot air balloon flight as the sun sets over the Sonoran Desert in Phoenix, Arizona. You'll experience breathtaking 360-degree views of the famous Sonoran Desert landscape throughout your flight. Upon landing, enjoy a celebratory toast and light refreshments.
What's included
Included
- Post flight snacks
- Alcoholic beverages
- Live commentary on board
- Local taxes
Not included
- Gratuities
- Souvenir Merchandise (available to purchase)
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
What you'll see and do
Rainbow Ryders Hot Air Balloon Ride Co.
Upon meeting at the check-in office, your pilots and crew will transport you to the launch site location, where you will have the option to become hands-on and help the crew or take in the view as the gentle giant comes to life. Before loading into the basket, the pilot will conduct a safety briefing, so make sure to listen carefully! Then you are up, up and away into the beautiful Arizona sky.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Phoenix
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Options you can book
2:45 PM Departure
Sunset Hot Air Balloon Ride over Phoenix
300lbs+ (Extra Space Policy)
Extra Space Policy: Passengers 300+lbs must purchase an additional space to ensure safety, comfort, and proper weight distribution during flight Premier Ride Operator: Rainbow Ryders, Inc. is the premier and largest hot air balloon business serving the Southwest since 1983. Duration: 1 hour: Your flight will be about 45 minutes - 1 hour (depending on Mother Nature), with the entire experience lasting about 3 hours. Celebratory Toast included Sonoran Desert views
3:00pm Departure
Phoenix Sunset Hot Air Balloon Ride - 3pm Meeting time
3:45 PM Departure
Sunset Hot Air Balloon Ride over Phoenix
4:30 PM Departure
Sunset Hot Air Balloon Ride over Phoenix
4:15 PM departure
Sunset Hot Air Balloon Ride over Phoenix
2025 Sunset Experience
Premier Ride Operator: Rainbow Ryders, Inc. is the premier and largest hot air balloon business serving the Southwest since 1983. Duration: 1 hour: Your flight will be about 45 minutes - 1 hour (depending on Mother Nature), with the entire experience lasting about 3 hours. Celebratory Toast included Sonoran desert views
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 6 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Rainbow Ryders
Know before you go
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- All flights are weather permitting
- Children must be 5 years of age or older
- Must be able to stand for 60 minutes unassisted
- Must be able to sustain the impact of jumping off a chair
- Minimum drinking age is 21 years
- Light layered clothing
- Closed toe shoes
- Unable to fly anyone who is pregnant
- This is a shared basket flight, there will be anywhere from 10-16 total passengers in each basket
- Passengers 300lbs+ must purchase an additional space to ensure safety, comfort, and proper weight distribution during flight
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 239 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Photo opportunities
3 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Organization
3 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Traveler reviews
239 verified traveler reviews for Sunset Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Phoenix. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Nothing like seeing the Sunrise from 5500 feet!
Check prices with the vendor directly as sometimes have discounts. Even solo, you meet others and everybody gets a view - no fighting for best view. Bucket is much higher than expected so it's really not scary. 5500 feet. Even though we got up in the air later than other balloons, I think it was perfect for the sunrise. Our driver was great - been doing this since he was 12 years old! It's a serene experience - calm and everybody in basket talks (or you don't have to). Great pictures of sunrise, the desert, and of other ballons in the sky. It's great to see the ballon being prepped, feeling the heat of fire, and it being put away at end. Worth the early rise.
Response from the operator: Thank you for such a thoughtful and detailed review! We’re so happy to hear you enjoyed every part of the experience — from watching the balloon inflate and feeling the heat of the burners to taking in the sunrise views high above the desert. It’s wonderful to know you felt comfortable and relaxed during the flight, especially with how spacious the basket views can be for everyone onboard. We also love hearing that our pilot and crew helped make the morning memorable with their experience and hospitality. Thank you again for the recommendation, and we’re thrilled the early wake-up call was worth it!
via Tripadvisor
Great Experience
Had a wonderful ride. Was sceptical at first because of the height, but was very rewarding and the pilot was fun. Would go again.
Response from the operator: Thank you for sharing your experience! We’re so glad you decided to take the leap despite being skeptical about the height, and even happier to hear it turned into such a rewarding adventure. A fun and experienced pilot can make all the difference, and we’re thrilled you felt comfortable and enjoyed the ride. We’d love to have you fly with us again someday!
via Tripadvisor
Yes! A big check on the bucket list✔️
Perfect day for a ride. The staff was friendly, competent and well-informed. We received excellent instructions on how to enter and exit the basket and what to expect during landing. I wish we had gotten off a bit earlier as the sun was already up before we were aloft but once up the view was spectacular.
Response from the operator: Thank you for your review. We’re glad you had a perfect day for your flight and enjoyed the spectacular views. It’s great to hear that our staff provided clear instructions and made your experience safe and enjoyable. We hope to welcome you on another flight in the future.
via Tripadvisor
Pure serene adrenaline rush
Phenomenal experience that cannot be put into words, has to be experienced...bucket list => check => just do it! Mike & Brandy C, China Twp Michigan US of A
Response from the operator: Thank you for sharing your experience. We’re thrilled to hear that your flight was both exhilarating and memorable. We appreciate you choosing Rainbow Ryders and hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable adventure.
via Tripadvisor
bucket item -- Check
We loved our sunset hot air balloon ride! It was one of my bucket list items and it did not disappoint. I would highly recommend Rainbow Ryders for the experience. Our trip was amazing. The pilots were excellent. We couldn't have asked for more.
Response from the operator: Thank you for your review. We’re thrilled to hear that your sunset flight was a bucket list experience and that our pilots made it so enjoyable. We appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you back for another memorable flight.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 3.5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $125 to $500
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 84
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Why this scores 77
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Sunset Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Phoenix: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Phoenix.
How much does Sunset Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Phoenix cost?
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Prices start at $125 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Phoenix usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Sunset Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Phoenix take?
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Plan for about 3.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Phoenix is not rushed.
Is Sunset Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Phoenix worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 77 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 239 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Phoenix, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Sunset Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Phoenix?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Sunset Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Phoenix suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Sunset Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Phoenix?
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Around 84 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Phoenix can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Phoenix and add a light layer if any part of the 3.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Sunset Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Phoenix start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Phoenix within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Phoenix?
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Phoenix runs on desert experiences: sunrise hot air balloon lifts over the Sonoran, Camelback and South Mountain hikes, off-road Tonto Forest tours and day trips to Sedona and the Grand Canyon. Heat safety and start times decide whether a tour is good, so we weight timing detail in the ranking. On Outty we rank every Phoenix experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Kayaking the Salt River Foxtail Trip, Grand Canyon with Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon Van Tour, Phoenix Hot Air Balloon Ride at Sunrise. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Phoenix?
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November to April. Summer tours run at dawn or not at all. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Phoenix?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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