Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
Including a visit to Santa Fe
October 2 - October 6, 2026Up, Up and Away! Come visit Albuquerque and experience firsthand the spectacular Hot Air Balloon Fiesta. Each day just after dawn when the winds are calmest, a mass ascension fills the skies over Albuquerque with hundreds of colorful balloons of all shapes and sizes. And just as spectacular is the evening "glow," which showcases the tethered balloons in the light of their own fires. But we'll do so much more and gain a better appreciation of this unique destination. As a bonus, you can sign up for an optional activity to experience the thrill of riding in a hot air balloon. What fun!
Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
October 2 - October 6, 2026Highlights
- Watch the Mass Ascension of Balloons
- Ride the Sandia Tramway for Spectacular Views
- Visit the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
- Ride the Rails to Santa Fe
- Option to Add a Hot-Air Balloon Ride
- Time to explore personal interests
- Suggestions for additional things to see
- And More... See itinerary for details
Itinerary
Friday, 02 October 2026: Arrive Albuquerque; Welcome Dinner (D)
Schedule your arrival into Albuquerque no later than 2:30pm and take local transportation to the hotel. The tour begins at 4:00pm in the hotel lobby where we will have our Welcome Meeting followed by a casual dinner within walking distance of our hotel. It's off to bed early tonight as we have a very early wake up call. Overnight Albuquerque - 4 nights
Saturday, 03 October 2026: Balloon Mass Ascension; Indian Pueblo Cultural Center (B,L)
Due in part to its 310+ days of sunshine, unique weather patterns and geographical setting, Albuquerque has become the hot-air ballooning capital of the world. Our day begins extremely early as we arrive at Fiesta Field to walk among the balloons as they inflate. Shortly after dawn we witness the spectacle that is the mass ascension (weather permitting), when the brilliant blue skies fill with a cacophony of color. There will be time to talk with many of the balloon pilots and handlers, perhaps help with the inflations, see the exhibits and just enjoy the atmosphere. We return to our hotel late morning to refresh and then head out to grab lunch together before visiting the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, gateway to the 19 Pueblos of New Mexico, to become better acquainted with the Native American culture of this area. This evening is free to do as you please or just head to bed early to catch up on sleep.
Sunday, 04 October 2026: Sandia Peak Tramway; International Balloon Museum; Balloon Glow & Fireworks (B,L)
Today begins a bit more leisurely. If you're up early, be sure to step outside to see the mass ascension from afar. It's certainly a different perspective. Later this morning, we depart for a ride on the world's longest passenger tramway up the Sandia Mountains to take in the fabulous views. The observation deck is situated at just over 10,000-feet above sea level, making it a bit chilly on top, but well worth the panoramic view of the Rio Grande Valley. Afterward, we head to the Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum to learn about the art of ballooning and the history of the balloon pioneers, Ben Abruzzo and Maxie Anderson. Late this afternoon, we return to the balloon park to witness the Balloon Glow, where at twilight, all the tethered balloons ignite their burners and illuminate the night. This is perhaps the most spectacular single moment in all of Balloon Fiesta. Once dark descends, it is time for AfterGlow, New Mexico's most spectacular fireworks display.
Monday, 05 October 2026: Day Trip to Santa Fe, Walking Tour; Farewell Lunch (B,L)
This morning we depart on the Rail Runner express train for Santa Fe, capital of New Mexico. Sit back and enjoy the desert scenery on this 1.5-hour ride. Upon arrival in Santa Fe we'll enjoy a brief walking tour to orient ourselves and learn a bit about the history of this 400-year-old city. Santa Fe is a living artists' colony and contains some of the most beautiful sculpture and works of art anywhere. Be sure to stop in at Loretto Chapel, a former Roman Catholic church that now serves as a wedding chapel. It is known for its unusual helix-shaped spiral staircase. We'll meet up again to enjoy a late Farewell Lunch before returning to Albuquerque later this afternoon.
Tuesday, 06 October 2026: Optional Balloon Ride; Return Home (B)
Sadly, our time together has come to an end. Make your return flight at your discretion. If you are interested in riding in a hot air balloon, WTT will organize a group balloon ride early on this morning that includes a transfer to the airport at the conclusion. Simply add the balloon ride as an option on your space reservation form. The cost of balloon ride (approximately $550) is not included in tour price. WTT will update the price when rates become available for the current year. If you do opt to stay for the morning balloon ride, you will not be finished until after 10:30am. Therefore, make your return flight home no earlier than 1:30pm.
Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
October 2 - October 6, 2026Pricing
Room Share
$2,621.00Single Room
$3,587.00 (Sold Out)Non-Members
ADD $50.00Status of this Tour
Trip Full, Accepting Standbys
Tour Pricing Includes
- All meals and activities expressly listed in the itinerary, PLUS...
- All tipping of local guides
- WTT Tour Leader to enhance the individual & group experience
- Arranged room sharing with another solo traveler
- Travel Dollar credits (a benefit of WTT membership) toward future travel with WTT
Not Included In The Price
- Airfare or other transportation from your home and return to your home
- Airport transfers
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
- Any personal expenses or expenditures
- Any gratuities for the WTT Tour Leader
- Travel Insurance
Payment Dates -and- Cancellation Terms for This Tour
You have 3 days to cancel and receive a refund. Thereafter, the amount required at time of reservation is non-refundable and the following cancellation penalties will be enforced.
Sunday, 5 Apr 2026: Last day $250 deposit can be converted to a credit for use on a new reservation; thereafter the deposit is forfeited.
Saturday, 4 Jul 2026: Balance Due. Cancellation after this date but before Tuesday, 18 Aug 2026 results in a cancellation penalty of 50% of your Total Tour Cost. NOTE: See separate cancellation terms for Optional Balloon Ride listed next.
Saturday, 4 Jul 2026: Cancellation after this date of the Optional Balloon Ride results in 100% forfeiture of the optional cost.
Tuesday, 18 Aug 2026: Cancellation on or after this date results in a cancellation penalty of 100% of your Total Tour Cost.
Using Parked Credits: If traveler cancels during the 3-day cancel without penalty period, used credits will be re-parked with the original expiration date(s). Thereafter, cancellation will result in forfeiture of the total amount of parked credits used. If applicable, additional cancellation penalties will be assessed based on date of cancellation.
To Cancel: Should you need to cancel after your space on this tour is confirmed, you must use the Cancellation Form. Cancellation penalties are based on the date we receive your cancellation form. No other method of communicating a cancellation will be accepted.
Insurance Reminder
Trip Cancellation / Trip Interruption Insurance is not included in the cost of the tour. It is your responsibility to determine the amount and type of coverage you require to recoup some or all of your travel investment, whether you cancel, are unable to complete the tour, or the tour cannot operate. Section 4.0 of WTT Terms & Conditions explains what will happen to your payments in the unlikely event that your tour cannot operate.
WTT is not licensed to sell travel insurance. You can purchase travel insurance from any provider you choose. To get an idea of rates, please go to NTA Travel Protection Plan (Enter 206063 for the "Tour Operator Location #") or TravelGuard.
Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
October 2 - October 6, 2026Flights, Transfers & Lodging
Documents Required for this Tour
Arrival & Departure Information
Travelers will make their own air reservations as follows:
When searching for flights for this trip, be sure to search "Multi-city" or "Multiple Destinations." For comparison, you may also want to search for one-way fares.
Arrival Airport: ABQ - Albuquerque, NM (Albuquerque Int'l Sunport)
Arrival Date: Friday, October 2. Arrive no later than 2:30pm.
Arrival Transfer: Use local shuttle or taxi service. Details provided in Final Travel Instructions.
Departure Airport: ABQ - Albuquerque, NM (Albuquerque Int'l Sunport)
Departure Date: Tuesday, October 6th. Depart at your convenience. If purchasing the optional balloon ride, make your return flight no earlier than 1:30pm.
Departure Transfer: Use local shuttle or taxi service. WTT Tour Leader will assist in coordinating ride sharing.
When to Book Your Air
Once you have booked your flights (or other transportation arrangements), use the Travel Arrangements Form to send WTT your flight details. Use the same form to update your information should it change.
Airport Transfer Information
When arrival transfers are not included: WTT will provide suggestions to get to the hotel in your Final Travel Instructions about 2-3 weeks before the start of the tour. You'll also be able to see who else is arriving at the same time if you want to coordinate ride-sharing to the hotel.
Don't Worry. We're Expecting You: One of the reasons we ask for your travel arrangements is so we know when you're arriving and can approximate when you should be at the hotel. Your Final Travel Instructions will have instructions on what to do and who to contact if your flight is delayed.
Lodging / Hotels
Albuquerque: Sheraton Albuquerque Uptown
Whenever possible, we choose hotels that are near the city center and/or where there are things to do and places to eat within walking distance of the hotel. When the chosen hotel is not within walking distance of much, transportation options, at the traveler's expense, are typically available.
In the unlikely event WTT is unable to provide the hotel accommodation(s) listed, for whatever reason, WTT will substitute similar quality accommodation(s) at no additional cost to the traveler.
Want to Arrive a Day Early?
- The room (standard check-in times apply.)
- Breakfast the following morning
- Optional activity suggestions prior to tour
$152.00 Roomshare pp $303.00 Single Occupancy
The pre-tour package is an optional service. Rates are established at time of tour posting. Early check-in is solely at the discretion of the hotel and cannot be arranged in advance.
Early Arrival Hotel: This tour uses the same hotel used on the first night of the tour.
Optional Purchases For This Tour
In addition to the Early Arrival Optional Package - available on all WTT tours - this tour offers the following optional purchases.
- Hot-Air Balloon Ride + airport transfer $587pp
CANCELLATION TERMS: Cancellation of the Balloon ride after Saturday, 4 Jul 2026 will result in 100% forfeiture of optional cost.
Additional Reminders About This Tour
Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
October 2 - October 6, 2026Destination Information
What do others say about this tour and traveling with WTT?
How Does Room Sharing Work?
On the Reservation Form there are 3 choices regarding room-sharing.
Note: Certain room-types may be unavailable at the time you make your reservation. If a room-type is unavailable the choice will be greyed out.
- Select "Yes, I want to share a room" and WTT will assign you a roommate when Final Travel Instructions are sent.
- You can specify a roommate by entering her name where indicated. If your named roommate is not on the tour, for any reason, WTT will assign you a roommate unless you pay to have your own room, if available.
- Select "No, I do not wish to share a room" if you want to have your own room. Additional costs apply.
- All shared rooms have 2 beds
- All shared rooms are non-smoking
- No special requests about your roommate can be accommodated
- See "Frequently Asked Questions" TAB for more details
How Active is this Tour?
- 55% Easy
- 45% Moderate (city and park walking, crowds, early mornings)
Walking is a key component of this tour. The fiesta grounds are spread out and you can expect to walk 3-5 miles over the course of a day. In addition, we enjoy a walking tour in Santa Fe as well as spend time perusing museums, and walk to nearby restaurants when warranted.
Santa Fe is situated at 7,000 feet above sea level. If you are coming from sea level, your body may take time to adjust. Staying well-hydrated helps with acclimatization.
Your Responsibilities as a Solo Traveler
As a solo traveler you are responsible for yourself, your possessions, your physical fitness, and all other aspects related to participation in the WTT tour you have chosen. Be sure to read the itinerary closely to better understand the physical requirements necessary for the tour.
WTT tours are not suitable for anyone whose mobility is challenged or compromised. If you struggle with walking, standing or negotiating stairs or if you are in doubt as to your ability to meet the physical activity requirements, you should not sign up for this trip.
What is the Group Size?
You will be introduced to the WTT Tour Leader when you receive your Final Travel Instructions, about 2-3 weeks before the tour begins.
Learn about your fellow travelers after final payment by visiting MyWTT. Room sharing assignments will be listed in the Final Travel Instructions.
What meals are included and how are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Each day of the itinerary lists the included meals for that day (B,L,D,O=Other). When a meal is not included, the WTT Tour Leader will have suggestions for where to eat.
You do not have to dine alone unless it is your personal choice. You'll most likely be dining with new acquaintances you've made, or you can join the Tour Leader.
Dietary Restrictions: Vegetarian and gluten-free dietary restrictions can be accommodated on this tour with limited selections.
What clothing and items should I pack for this trip?
NOTE: Those going on the optional balloon ride will want to pack warm clothing!
For This Trip You May Want—
- Lightweight but warm jacket/sweater for the cool mornings and evenings or a brisk day.
- Gloves, warm hat & scarf. These can go a long way towards taking the chill off.
- One smart casual outfit if you’d like to dress up a bit for dinners.
- Swimsuit
- Refillable water bottle
Good Packing Habits—
- Bring what you need to get a good night's sleep, such as ear plugs, white noise generator, sleeping aids, etc. Unfamiliar noises of all types can disrupt your rest.
- Pack a limited amount of comfortable, casual clothing that layer and coordinate. Your fellow travelers will not mind or even notice – seeing you in the same clothing.
- Bring only two pairs of everyday shoes: one pair of well-broken-in walking shoes, and a second pair that could do double-duty as a walking shoe or a slightly dressy shoe.
- Pare down your beauty regimen to the bare minimum and always pack travel-sized toiletries.
- Pack medication in your carry-on and pack only as much as needed for the duration of your tour plus a few extra days as a precaution.
What are the luggage restrictions for this tour?
- We strongly recommend you bring only one suitcase plus small shoulder bag/day pack/purse.
- You are responsible for managing your own belongings.
How much money should I bring on this tour?
What are the tipping guidelines for this tour?
- Tipping wait staff, porters, or other individuals who provide a service to you at the hotel, or other public locations.
- You may want to tip your WTT Tour Leader for an outstanding job. The amount is entirely a personal preference. If you'd like a guideline, consider $8-$10 per day.
- Balloon riders may want to tip their pilot. A suggested amount is $25-$50, depending on the level of service received.
What other Additional Information do I need to know?
Can I transfer my deposit to another tour?
To get off this tour and register for another tour, you must follow these steps - in the order shown:
2) WAIT before submitting your new reservation! You must receive the Cancellation Confirmation email before submitting your new reservation. This can take up to 2 business days. The Cancellation Confirmation email will list the amount of parked credits from this tour that are now available to use on a new reservation.
3) COMPLETE the new Reservation Form and USE the parked credits towards your deposit on the new tour.
Note: If you used Parked Credits to pay the deposit on this tour, these credits cannot be used a second time and are not eligible to be transferred.
What happens if I need to cancel this tour?
Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
October 2 - October 6, 2026STANDBY REQUEST FORM
1)There is no obligation to take the tour if you submit a standby request. 2)If an opening occurs, WTT will email you based on the room-type available. 3)WTT membership is not required to go on standby, however we do notify our members ahead of non-members.
Our Promise to You
It doesn’t matter which tour you choose.
You’ll find your people and make memories that last a lifetime.