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I believe that during fiesta time, rides start at @300.00 pp, more if you are lucky enough to go up in a mass ascension. Be very careful selecting a balloon operator you do not know. Some local companies like Rainbow Ryders ( the "official" balloon ride company sponsered by the fiesta ) have a pretty good reputation, ask about the safety record as well. If the cost is too high, you might consider one of the companies that leaves from the West Side near the Bosque or Rio Rancho. Depending on how the winds drift, you wind up seeing a lot of the other balloons up close and the views are just as good.
The web site for the fiesta ( balloonfiesta.com ) lists participating balloons/companies and you can contact them and ask about rides ( this will give you more time to investigate them )or just inquire from various balloonists at the park and see if you can arrange something.
oh cool..........do you know the names of any of the other companies.....i called and found out that the official ride company - im guessing your right "rainbow ryders" - is charging $375.............
Thats super high i think.........so I'm hope'n to find better priced rides......dang...
Unfortunately you're doing what everyone else wants to do when everyone else wants to do it. You're paying a 'Balloon Fiesta' premium due to that. Obviously you're not going to change your plans for a better rate, but I just wanted you to know that getting away from the 'Fiesta' can change the rates quite a bit. The cost for the operator is mostly in equipment maintenance and crew, so the time of flight is pretty much moot. My wife bought me a ride for my birthday a couple years back. I'll check with her on the operator and price.
The only time I went up was in a mass ascension with a friend of a friend and it was amazing...and free. I've never had another opportunity and as nice as it was, I don't think I'd pay 300.00 plus to have done it.
Here's a link to other operators...sorry I do not have experience with any of them.
Also, every year the weather plays a factor in possible cancellations of events. Make sure you check with the company and understand and agree to their weather cancellation policy. Will they let you reschedule? Is the ride non-refundable or do you get credit, etc.
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