A Hot Air Balloon ride is a wonderful way to experience the Rio Grande Valley. Sailing high up in the air can give you a soothing panoramic view of the valley. A view that is even better at a sunrise or sunset, which are the peak times to fly as the winds and thermal are at their calmest in these hours. So, the sights you'll see will be illuminated by the beautiful glow of the sun. But what sights will you see and how will your flight be?

Most Hot Air Balloon rides over the Rio Grande Valley will only last for about an hour, but it could possibly be one of the most exhilarating hours you'll ever experience. You'll be able to watch the sun rise or set from perhaps the best viewpoint in the entire valley. In flight, an FAA-certified pilot will float you around the valley and provide informative commentary about the Rio Grande Valley and New Mexico in general. The tour commentary is a feature offered by many tours and tour companies, so be prepared to learn something new.

The balloons typically climb to heights of 1,000 to 3,000 feet, with 1,000 feet being the norm for most tours. However, it's normal to start out high, as it will give you a beautiful vista before the balloon descends, providing different viewpoints of the landscape below during the flight. You'll fly high, but the hot Air Balloon won't go any faster than 8 to 10 miles per hour, especially near the ground. Balloons typically only fly 2 to 10 miles, but this short distance will be filled with views of dynamic sights.

As the sun sets are rises over the mesa, you'll be able to take in the astonishing reds and oranges that color the sky and highlight the many beautiful landmarks of the Rio Grande. One of the most notable landmarks you'll see are the Sandia Mountains to the east of Albuquerque. The breathtaking twilight views of the mountains will astonish and thrill you. You'll also have a bird's-eye view of the people on the ground and the desert landscape. During the ride, the balloon may even fly low enough for you to wave to those enjoying the Rio Grande from below.

From above you'll be able to admire birds in flight, the flora and fauna of the valley, and the sparkling Rio Grande River, all sights that can only truly be seen and savored from a hot air balloon. On many balloon rides, the balloon is even taken low enough to splash in the river, allowing you to see the raging waters up close and personal. Birds are not the animals you'll see while gliding over the valley. You may also see big horn sheep or deer running around in the flora and fauna or roadrunners, jackrabbits and coyotes in the desert.