Travel guide · Teotihuacán
The best time for a hot air balloon ride in Teotihuacan is usually the dry season, from November to April, when mornings tend to be clearer and colder. Flights also run in the rainy season, but the chance of rescheduling due to weather goes up.
You don’t get to pick the time of day: flights take off at dawn. Check-in is at 5:30 a.m. and takeoff is around 6:15 a.m., although the schedule shifts with sunrise, weather and wind.
Dry season: November to April
During these months, mornings in the valley tend to be clearer, which makes the views from the air easier to enjoy. They’re also colder, especially before sunrise.
- Clearer, colder mornings.
- Less chance of rescheduling for rain than from June to September.
- It includes the spring equinox in March, when crowds are large.
Valley mornings are cold even in summer, and you’ll feel it more in the dry season. Dress in layers and bring a jacket you can take off as it warms up.
Read next: What to Wear on a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Teotihuacan
Rainy season: June to September
From June to September it rains more, usually in the afternoon. Flights leave at dawn, before the afternoon rain, but rescheduling for weather is more likely in these months.
One upside of these months is that the valley usually looks greener. If you’re visiting in this season, leave a spare day in your itinerary.
If the weather isn’t safe, the flight doesn’t go. You can then reschedule for free or get a 100% refund.
What time do flights leave, and why so early?
Hot air balloon flights take off at dawn, when the wind is usually calmer. This is the reference schedule, which shifts with sunrise, weather and wind:
- 5:30 a.m.: check-in and coffee break at the balloon port.
- 5:45 a.m.: balloon inflation and photos.
- Around 6:15 a.m.: safety briefing, boarding and takeoff.
- About 45 minutes in the air over the Teotihuacan Valley.
- Around 7:00 a.m.: landing, toast and flight certificate.
- Around 7:30 a.m.: the ground crew takes you back to the balloon port.
- Around 8:00 a.m.: buffet breakfast at a local restaurant.
Because of the early check-in, the public bus won’t get you there in time. You’ll need your own car, a room nearby the night before, or a package with transportation from Mexico City.
The archaeological site opens at 9:00 a.m., so the flight is over before it opens. You can easily combine the flight and a visit to the pyramids on the same day.
Spring equinox: high-demand dates
The spring equinox falls around March 20 or 21, and in 2027 it’s on March 20. Many people head to Teotihuacan on those dates, and INAH, the national institute that manages the site, sets up special visitor operations.
If you want to fly around the equinox, book weeks ahead and arrive early. For regular dates, booking at least 3 days in advance is recommended.
Read next: Spring Equinox in Teotihuacan: Tips and Hot Air Balloon Rides
Best time for a hot air balloon ride in Teotihuacan: weekday or weekend?
If your dates are flexible, consider a weekday: popular sites like Teotihuacan usually see fewer visitors than on weekends. Keep in mind that admission to the archaeological site is free for Mexican visitors on Sundays.
Whatever date you pick, think about who you’re flying with too. Ruta Mágica offers shared flights, private flights for two and birthday flights, all priced in Mexican pesos (MXN).
If you’d like to add a private tour of the pyramids after your flight, guides are available in Spanish or English.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the best month for a hot air balloon ride in Teotihuacan?
There’s no single best month, but November to April is the dry season, with clearer mornings. From June to September it rains more and rescheduling is more likely.
Can you fly in the rainy season?
Yes. Flights leave at dawn and rain usually falls in the afternoon, but if the weather isn’t safe the flight doesn’t go, and you can reschedule for free or get a refund.
How far in advance should I book?
At least 3 days ahead is recommended. For the spring equinox, book several weeks ahead.
Is it cold on a hot air balloon ride in Teotihuacan?
Valley mornings are cold even in summer, and colder in the dry season. Wear comfortable, warm clothes, ideally in layers.
Can I fly and visit the pyramids on the same day?
Yes. The flight ends before the site opens at 9:00 a.m., and admission is paid separately.