Rio Grande Balloons

Our balloon ride over the Taos Gorge with Sol as operator was nothing short of magical. Sol has an enormous amount of experience (over 1000 flights) and inspires utmost confidence in terms of safety and expertise. The views from the balloon were spectacular, and our descent directly into the gorge was a special moment. The post-flight champagne-and-snacks session, which featured a short speech by Sol describing the origins and history of ballooning, was a bonus surprise at the end, and a nice way to wrap up the outing. All around a fantastic experience, and one that I will likely be repeating in Taos. Highly recommend.

If you’re thinking of doing a hot air balloon flight at all stop thinking and just book it. You won’t be disappointed. If you’ve never considered it- well why not? I felt completely safe, comfortable, and awe-struck the entire time. Sol and his crew are the kind of professionals that put one totally at ease. And honestly I can’t imagine a better backdrop for a balloon flight than Taos and the gorge. This was a dream come true and a memory that will last a lifetime. Every bit of the process from booking to meeting up to inflating the balloon, riding, landing, and packing up was communicated clearly. The champagne and snacks afterward were a nice treat, too. I’m thankful there’s such an awesome company here in Taos providing this incredible experience for people.

We recently had the honor of flying with Rio Grande Balloon for a very special occasion in memory of our beloved Aunt Sue Parsons. The entire experience was truly magical and meaningful for everyone there. From the moment we arrived, the team at Rio Grande Balloon treated us with kindness, professionalism, and genuine care. Floating peacefully above the stunning Rio Grande Gorge at sunrise was breathtaking—an experience filled with beauty, reflection, and quiet awe. We’re incredibly grateful to Rio Grande Balloon for helping us create a moment that we will treasure forever. Thank you for making it so special

Wow! What an amazing experience we had with Sol and his Hot Air Balloon. We booked online which was very straightforward and the day before our flight filled out the paperwork and got final confirmation that we were able to fly as hoped (less than perfect weather can change your plans). Everything about our trip was explained by Sol and it was fascinating to watch the balloon be constructed and made ready for flight. We flew down the Rio Grande Gorge and had many opportunities for awesome photos in the early morning hours. Towards the end of the flight we rose up and had the most spectacular view of the mountains around Taos and into Colorado. Afterwards we participated in a traditional Champagne toast and Sol told the origin story of Hot Air Ballooning. We cannot express enough what a delightful experience this was and suggest that given the chance you should take a trip with Rio Grande Balloons. If we could give more than 5 ⭐️ we would.

This is definitely an experience that me my mother and my children will never ever forget. SOl, the pilot, was very informative from the very beginning to the very end of the flight. Thank you for the experience

We have the most amazing experience with Rio Grande Balloons! The flight was absolutely beautiful and the pilot and crew were all so friendly and kind. Highly recommend!

Great way to start the new year!! Our hot air balloon ride was beautiful and Sol plus his two grounds operators were so kind. Sol takes pictures for you, lets you help be hands on with the hot air balloon and even gave us a traditional hot air balloon toast afterwards. Definitely recommend this once in a life time experience!

Amazing! I can't believe I forgot to review Rio Grande Balloons. We did a balloon flight in 2023. This was one of the coolest experiences I and my family have ever had. The pilot Sol is so skilled. He landed us almost exactly where we started (I guess that's not an everyday occurrence but it was cool). He flew us down into the gorge - it's not narrow there so it isn't scary. He explained how everything with the balloon worked and his team on the ground were in constant communication with him, telling him info about the wind, etc. At the end, he treated us to a spread of locally made treats. It was such a great experience and I can't recommended it highly enough.

This was a great experience! Went with my kids. We all had a lot of fun! Very unique too, with a flight over (and a bit into) the Rio Grande gorge! Very peaceful up there (with periods of loud noise and fire right above you as the burners come on, LOL). Totally worth it as an experience that is very different than anything really that I ever tried. We were very comfortable with our pilot and were glad to help a little during preparation and packing of the balloon.

I cannot recommend this experience highly enough!! Sol and his crew were extremely kind and diligent, which helped ease any jitters right away. The actual experience was breathtaking, surreal and so peaceful! Highly recommend!

Beautiful experience. The pilot & crew did a great job. I felt safe the whole time, and they were very knowledgeable. The view of the gorge & mountains is unbeatable. I can't recommend it high enough. If you have an opportunity to go ballooning in Taos, this is the way to go!

Fantastic ride with a very personable and reliable pilot, Sol. He answered many questions with great patience, accommodated the needs of each passenger regardless of their age and physical ability, and pointed out both the technical aspects of ballooning (and there are many) as well as wildlife and flora we saw on our flight- all with a sense of humor. I would recommend this to anyone on the fence, given one needs to be up at 4:00 am. The ride time time can vary based on wind, but we were lucky enough to experience a 80 min balloon ride with a very smooth landing. At the end of the ride we had a traditional champagne toast along the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, where he explained briefly the history behind it all. His helpers (setting up the balloon, and packing it back in, is hard work) are super nice and courteous too. Just do it, it will be a memory you will cherish.

Worth every penny. I cannot take credit for booking the experience, but I know she did some looking into reviews as well as calling the owner. It's an expensive adventure, but in a word; AMAZING! And I know a great deal of that was because of on the company and our pilot. I would've had fun on another balloon, but it wouldn't have compared, I just wouldn't have known. Personally, I couldn't have asked for a better experience, it was everything I could've asked for and more! Early morning, crisp air, a chance to get hands on, and then FLY! Our pilot was the epitome of control and calm, he resonated confidence and I trusted him implicitly. He also let me help, you didn't HAVE to help if that's not your thing, but I got to and I was STOKED! Highly recommend =D big smiles all around and an experience that I will never forget. Thanks Sol, we'll have to come back and visit again soon!

An amazing trip with a true professional and his amazing crew! Sol was so knowledgeable, friendly and an absolute expert pilot! Can't recommend them enough - if we make it back to Taos we are definitely booking this again!

Fantastic small group experience - eight on a 12-person capacity balloon. We felt safe throughout - nary a bump, and enjoyed Sol's explanation of the technical aspects of ballooning as well as learning something about the history of the craft as well. Even had (optional) hands-on experience with helping inflate and deflate the balloon, which was not something we had experienced on prior ballooning experiences!

It was my first time to New Mexico and first time going on a hot air balloon ride! I loved everything about it! Rio Grande Balloons was so professional and so accommodating that I would definitely recommend it! Taos was the perfect setting since it is more remote and we got to see the most beautiful sunrise! Sol and his team were friendly and super knowledgeable! It was peaceful and so much fun. We will never forget this trip ever because of this adventure! It's the small touches like them taking photos for us, a time lapse of prepping the balloon for departure was super cool! We also landed with a surprise toast of champagne and snacks set up so nicely on a table! I would come back and do this again! Worth the money!

I had the best experience with this team! I had been a local for 25 years, went back home to visit and they really made me and my friends feel welcomed and we had the best experience. I would 10/10 recommend. If I can I will definitely love to join another flight. They were kind enough to offer snacks and great banter, and some wonderful tales of how hot air ballooning all began.

We had a wonderful flight with our pilot Sol! He was full of information, stories and had a quick sense of humor. We started off with the beautiful sunrise and nice weather. He flew us to an altitude of 3000 ft over the expanse of the field below and surrounded by gorgeous mountains. The highlight was taking us into the Rio Grande gorge so close to the water that we could hear the fast flowing Rio Grande river! He flew for some distance through the gorge and we saw see an eagle flying and even bighorn sheep climbing the rocky walls of the gorge! Flying up to come out of the gorge was as thrilling as his taking us inside the gorge! Sol and his team are great! A must not-to-be-missed activity in Taos! Thank you Sol!

If you want to go on a memorable and fun balloon ride, you had better call Sol! This was our second time with him, the first time my husband dragged me kicking and screaming, and despite that I loved it. Fast forward four years and we were in New Mexico once again and naturally we decided to repeat. Sol and his gang were just as good. He is very knowledgable about his trade and clearly loves his job. I love his job as well. We spent close to 2 hours ascending the heavens, down into the Rio Grande Gorge and then soaring up above, in the friendly skies of the Taos region, some 3500 feet above the valley for a sum total of 10,000 feet of elevation. I never once felt afraid. We landed at the airport and were treated to an interesting show watching planes take off and land both below us and then above us. When we were done we were taken to the bridge over the Gorge where Sol explained to us the story of the first balloon ride while drinking a toast of Gruet Sparkling wine and snacks!

More Ride for the Buck! A 45-60 minute commercial balloon ride in Albuquerque goes for $375/adult. My wife and I have taken five of these and I'd say closer to 35-45 minutes. This ride was 1 hr and 20 minutes! There is good scenery in Albuquerque with the gently flowing Rio Grande and the Sandias, but it pales in comparison to the Rio Grande Gorge with the Sangre de Cristo Mountains as backdrop. Rio Grande Balloons price is $325/adult. This is slightly higher than the other Taos balloon offerings ($285 and $300). I can't speak for the latter, but I can speak to our other five commercial flights: You get what you pay for. This was my wife's and my 6th balloon ride. This 6th ride is like comparing riding in a Mercedes to riding in a compact economy car on a rough road, that is, there is no comparison. We didn't know what we had been missing! Read on. Bonus: Photos and videos -- FREE! On our previous five balloon rides there was no photographer. Sol uses his smart phone to take pictures of us in the basket. His ground crew also takes pictures and videos from below! When you complete the ride, you go to the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge picnic area for a traditional post balloon ride celebration. Set you smart phone to airdrop. Sol will explain how to do this. Within seconds you will have photos and videos of your flight! By the way, you will enjoy the post balloon flight tradition and Sol tells it better than anyone. Sol has his personally trained crew of four. Our other flights had a crew of two and paying passengers helped set up and take down. Let me tell you, Sol's balloon and sundry equipment is professionally unpacked and repacked by the people who know how to do it. Yes, you can help, but the point is this balloon is ready to fly when it is unpacked, and ready to fly again after it is repacked. That's important. The pilot, Sol, is also the owner of the company and the balloon you are going to be riding in. I am retired Air Force with over 5,000 hours of flight time. Sol is a professional; a pilot's pilot. His preflight is the most thorough I have seen for a hot air balloon. He guides his crew of four to set up the balloon launch. If they hook something up, he reinspects it on his preflight inspection. A good flight starts with attention to detail and safety. Maybe since my other balloon flights were not with the owner, it makes a difference. But I believe that Sol is just a safety-detail guy. Sol briefed us on landing after we got into the basket. For landing we would be crouched down with our backs against either the middle partition or the basket wall with our backs facing the direction of landing. In all of my other rides we were standing up. My wife hurt her back on flight 5 in Albuquerque when we bounced and flipped over (winds were about 12 mph on landing). Not good. Sol's landing safety position must be uncommon sense. Excellent! You're not going to ride with a better pilot. Sol contacted a small private plane flying over to check on winds aloft. This is important to navigation because in this area the wind direction aloft is often opposite of that at, say, 2500 above the ground. That way you can navigate better down the canyon and return to a landing spot of your choosing. Sol knows how to lead a conversation and get people to participate. As if the balloon ride wasn't enough, he puts everyone at ease and opens conversation between passengers. He encourages questions -- so ask! One question asked was "How do you control the flight of the balloon?" Easily understood answer! Landing. By landing the winds had crept up to probably 10 mph. This happened probably during the last minutes of our approach. But Sol had us in position. He had selected a smooth, sandy field to land in that was pretty free of vegetation. He greased it in with a steady flat drag of the basket. When we came to a stop the basket was at a 45 degree angle, paused there and then gentry settled. My wife was ecstatic with the landing. Let's go again!

This was an amazing first Hot Air Balloon experience & adventure for my husband & I. We were traveling to Taos from Florida, & Sol added us to his roster the day before, as our scheduled balloon trip backed out because of health issues. Sol's detailed explanations, were not only educational, but made us feel secure that he is a great pilot. The trip ran smoothly from start to finish, with beautiful sunrise, & weather. The views of the Rio Grande river were spectacular. We appreciated his good humor, & photographing our memorable experience! We highly recommend Rio Grande Balloons. Don't worry.. you're in good hands!!

Sol and his crew at Rio Grande Balloons were awesome. It was our 1st time ever in a hot air balloon and they made us feel safe with the whole process. They really really know the landscape by the gorge bridge and take the time to give you an experience you will never forget. Will do it again next time we come to Taos. All in all we spent about an hour up over the Taos gorge and surrounding area. Awesome.

First of all, this is a once in a lifetime experience. Forget seeing the Gorge from the bridge. That's nothing compared to seeing it from a balloon. Sol is a very calm and kind presence. He has a way of bringing the group riding in the balloon together, making everyone comfortable with his presence of calm serenity that you would want to see in the person piloting your balloon. I felt more safe in the hot air balloon than in my car or an airplane because I intuitively knew that Sol was wholly competent and he projected confidence. He's been piloting baloons since the 90s. The experience started off with an early morning meet up and continued with a drive to the balloon launch site. It's a great place to watch the sun rise behind the mountains and above the Gorge. As Sol's team of hardworking folks analyzed the wind and set up the balloon, we were able to explore a bit or chat with the folks who were soon to share the hot air balloon experience with us. (NOTE: Since most of the experience is outdoors, it's COVID safe, but Sol also takes proper precautions asking you to wear a mask in the car.) Once the balloon was ready, everyone got in it quickly before it floated away! Sol communicated with his team on walkie talkies, and the journey began. I have no words to describe the beauty, exhilaration or freedom felt in a hot air balloon, particularly in such a beautiful location. Once we drifted with the wind going high and low, taking in the scenery in a way that was very unique, Sol expertly landed the balloon. I was holding my young child in my lap and had no problem with the landing. The entire experience was beautifully completed with a communal wrapping up of the balloon, thoughtfully appointed snacks and a champagne toast along with a beautiful story and historical overview of Hot Air Ballooning. I had some unique challenges, as Sol welcomed me and my 2 children on board. He helped me acclimate my young child to the noise and heat, and my son had a blast. My autistic child started having a hard time, despite his initial declarations of excitement for the upcoming ride. Sol helped accommodate his needs and maintained a sense of calm throughout. I would strongly recommend taking a ride with Rio Grande Balloons. Its an experience you'll never forget.

Fantastic experience flying with Rio Grande balloons!! An incredible memory my family will never forget. Thanks to Sol and his awesome crew!!

Sol was an amazing pilot, professional and very knowledgeable. This was my first ride and I felt safe the entire ride. It was a breathtaking experience I recommend to anyone!!

This was the highlight of our trip! Thanks for the crew for such an amazing time and making this special!

Wonderful doesn't describe. Take the leap if you are afraid!!!! This is an event of a lifetime. There is just smooth sailing. This company is not only experts but also knowledgeable, nice and have attention to detail. I was nervous but cannot stress enough how this day is now etched in my memory. The champagne toast was a lovely end to an unforgettable experience! Thanks to the entire crew!

The location of Rio Grande Balloons, adjacent to the geography of the Rio Grande Gorge, allows for truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Flying below the Taos Plateau and into the depths of the gorge during sunrise is an experience that should not be missed. Sol and his crew were professional, personable and passionate about ballooning. The crew was enthusiastic to explain the process of configuring the balloon and they even encouraged participation (not necessary). Everyone went out their way to ensure that we had the best time possible. One crew member even offered their own gloves to a passenger. It's worth noting that I felt more immersed in the experience than I have on previous air tours. The unobstructed views while aloft, feeling the warmth from burners, and even the stillness of the air made for a sensory experience that set this trip apart from merely humming along onboard a helicopter or airplane. If this isn't on your "bucket list" it should be. I would recommend this business to any individual or family looking for an unforgettable adventure while in Taos. Fly with Rio Grande Balloons!

I truly cannot say enough about the fantastic experience we had with Rio Grande Balloons! Sol, Derek, and the team were a delight to spend several hours with. If anyone in the group is slightly trepidatious about taking a balloon flight, Sol does a great job of providing detailed explanations and hands-on opportunities to make everyone comfortable. He and my dad "geeked out" together with pilot talk, which actually helped everyone else understand how the winds guide the balloon, etc. We learned things while experiencing the magical landscape of the Rio Grande Gorge. It was such a peaceful and awe-inspiring morning. If you haven't taken a balloon ride, it is a must-do for your bucket list, and I can unequivocally say that Rio Grande Balloons is the team to go with!

This was the Highlight of our " Ten Days in Taos" adventure. We are a very Senior couple and the team went way out of their way to accommodate us. We participated in the Launch Prep felt involved in the activity. The Pilot and his Chase Team were so friendly and informative. Sunrise, Rio Grande, Gorge, Big Horn Sheep and being involved in the entire event made it so special. Had never "flown" a baloon before. Other rides were just that "rides"! Dave & Sally Sutherland

We had a perfect ballooning experience with Rio Grande. The pilot Sol was friendly and professional and clearly loves what he does. The team was excellent, especially when the wind picked up and we had to take a brief break before starting the lift off again. The ride over beautiful Taos was the highlight of a fun trip. Sol flew the balloon with so much control and our landing was so soft and smooth. The champagne toast was also special. Highly recommend!

We flew with Sol and his phenomenal crew on Sun, Sept 26, 2001. The ride lasted over an hour and took us into the Rio Grande gorge and landed us gently on the Taos Mesa north of the gorge bridge. From there, Sol explained the origins of ballon flight over a champagne toast. Sol and his protege Ricky made you feel very comfortable as they explained their actions and answered any technical questions about balloon flight or the Toes landscape in general. It was a wonderful experience and I would recommend Rio Grande balloon to anyone wanting to spend a morning flying in a balloon!

This experience so far exceeded any expectations I had for a hot air balloon ride. Sol and his crew are so professional and patient. This was a highlight on my trip to Taos. You can not go wrong by booking this trip!

We did this for my sister's birthday and it was SO worth it! The ride of a lifetime, from start to finish. Sol is calm, explains everything so well, and we had the most amazing views of the Rio Grande, including dipping down into the gorge. We finished with the 240-year old traditional champagne toast, and heard the story behind the tradition. From beginning to end, this experience was well planned and so thoughtful. They even sent us incredible photos and videos afterwards!

What a lovely business! The owner is such a kind and cool guy. I didn't get to do the trip because I had a mountain biking accident while I was in town, but Rio Grande Balloons was very understanding and accommodating when I was considering whether or not I could still make it work. I was really bummed because I looked into a few different hot air balloon companies and this one definitely looked the coolest (definitely better than Albuquerque) because of the prettier setting and the fact that they take you into the gorge! I'm sure it would have been amazing. If I get the chance to come back here I would like to do it!

INCREDIBLE. No need to look further: the highlight of your trip awaits. Saul took us on an hour + STUNNING ride that culminated in a champagne toast with tons of fun history. Just book!

First class operation and can highly recommend Sol & his crew for a great experience. Even flying in February with colder temps, we still had an awesome time. Great views of the Rio Grande gorge with multiple sunrises as we went above & below the canyon ridge. Sol is a superb pilot and his crew is super friendly. Proposed to my fiancee on the ride and Sol made sure it was a memorable occasion!

My husband and I celebrated our 10th wedding anniversary above the Rio Grande Gorge, and it, somehow, exceeded our soaring expectations. The crew was fun, informative, and, most importantly, competent and reassuring as we nervously lifted higher into the air. From start to finish, it was a magical experience, and it was nicely capped with a champagne toast and delicious locally-made snacks. Thank you for a truly memorable experience!

There is a reason why Rio Grande Balloons is so highly rated. I have flown with balloon outfits around the world and would say that Sol is among the very best, hands down. He is clearly a skilled pilot, very attentive to his customers, and has a great crew. Look no further and book with Rio Grande Balloons!!!

Sol and his crew gave us an amazing experience! Such a memorable activity. Calm and serene yet full of excitement. 100% recommend

To Sol and the Team, thank you for a magical morning. Everything was perfectly executed and with such bright spirits at 5AM! Whats your secret? Maybe be the magic of the hot air balloon or maybe just really really good people. Thank you for continuing the legacy and traditions of the Montgolfier Brothers! Thank You for a day that will never be forgotten. For any nervous first timers, Rio Grande Balloons will put you at ease!

We had the best time hot air ballooning with Saul. We felt safe and he was very informative about the process and the area in which we traveled. Going through the rio grande was amazing. It was beautiful and peaceful. Our ride was so smooth and comfortable that it allowed us to enjoy the peacefulness of ballooning. I highly recommend this company and can't wait to fly again.

Just went ballooning for the first time and it was amazing! This company and crew are spectacular. If you are in Taos, ballooning with this company is a must!

This was amazing! Our pilot, Sol, was outstanding! He was so capable and knowledgeable. It was one of the most amazing experiences in my life. If you are in the Taos area Rio Grand Balloons is not to be missed!

From start to finish this was an awesome experience. Sol, the pilot was knowledgeable, personable and got his guests involved in the flight (to the extent they want to). Didn't quite understand the champagne toast at the end beforehand, but again, Sol tied it all together (and they have non-alcoholic option as well). Worth every penny!