The expansive open skies of Arizona, the dust and dry desert air make for spectacular sunrises and sunsets. What better way to appreciate them than from the basket of a Phoenix hot air balloon?
Do you choose a balloon rise at sunrise or sunset? That's the burning question that we're going to discuss here to help you decide.
Technically, There's Not Much Difference
Most balloon rides set off just after sunrise or a couple of hours before sunset. Hot air balloon pilots will tell you that these are the times when the air temperature and wind conditions are most stable, and most suitable for Phoenix hot air ballooning.
When the surface wind is calm, it makes inflation of the balloon and the launch itself a gentle experience.
Outside of sunset and sunrise, the winds are not as calm. The sun heats the ground, causing columns of warm air to spiral skywards. These thermals cause unpredictable downdrafts, making the balloon more difficult for pilots to control.
So, choosing to take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise or sunset is a matter of personal preference.
Points in Favour of Rides at Sunrise
Surface winds at sunrise are fractionally calmer than at sunset. But as we said, not enough to make a difference. tends to be a little calmer.
If tranquillity is what you seek, then sunrise is the time for you. For a start, traveling to the sunrise launch site will be pleasant, quick and quiet since there is no much traffic on the roads in the early morning.
Not a morning person? All the more reason to make the effort to get up with the sparrows' pre-dawn birdsong. Not any old sparrows, but the eight different species of sparrow that call the Sonoran Desert their habitat. They'll give you a chirpy greeting at the break of day!
We have heard so many habitual late risers say that a sunrise ride in a hot air balloon has been the best morning of their life. Can we persuade you to join the chorus of praise coming from these sleepyheads?
Besides, most balloon rides offer you a "champagne breakfast" to salute the dawn. Does that tempt you?
Amateur and professional photographers alike love the more favorable lighting conditions present at sunrise. Caught at the right moment, the brilliant palette of colors at sunrise can be every bit as dramatic as those at sunset.
Even if you don't catch the perfect photo, the inspiration views come with the cool briskness of fresh air that'll make you feel glad to be alive.
Once your sunrise adventure in the skies is over, you still have the whole day ahead to enjoy yourself.
Phoenix Hot Air Balloon - The Sunset Advantage
Don't get us wrong, photography at sunset is amazing too. If you're looking for the richer, dusky and possibly slightly smudged effect, riding the crest of the desert sunset is the ballooning experience for you. And if you are a fan of hot weather sunshine, Phoenix hot air ballooning is sure to please almost year-round!
Of course, if the thought of sparkling wine at the crack of dawn makes you feel ill, then perhaps a relaxed sundowner is more gentle on your nerves. Toasting life, the universe and everything in the intense colors of the desert sunset is an ideal prelude to a relaxing evening out.
You can do this as a romantic evening for two, or plan a more boisterous night of fun with a handful of good friends. Remember that as many as 12 passengers can be accommodated in one balloon at any one time. If there are more of you, think about booking two balloons.
From the high vantage point of the balloon at sunset, you get to see for miles all around. The same is true at sunrise, granted, but there is something magical about the sunset ride as cityscapes and desert-scapes prepare for nightfall.
The quality of light at dusk is a special moment for many. It's a time for reflection, gratitude for the day, and calm. When the hot air balloon descends to land is magical too. The sun is low, magnificent and bright in the sky while casting a multicolored haze over the land.
How High? How Far?
Depending on the wind, your Phoenix hot air balloon ride will travel at an average of five to six miles per hour, although because you are traveling in the direction of the wind in mid-air. you will not have the sensation of speed.
Balloons cover a distance of between two and five miles during the standard one-hour flight. You can make reservations for longer flights if you wish. It is therefore advisable to take drinking water with you, regardless of the possible offer of sparkling wine once on board.
The altitude will vary during your flight. You will likely fly at between 1,000 and 3,000 feet up in the air. At around 400 feet, you will be able to experience the sights and sounds of life in the famous Sonoran Desert. Hot air balloons can go higher if wind conditions allow.
It is said that most people who have a fear of heights soon lose their fear once aloft and enthralled by the wonderful views.
The Choice is Yours
Whether you go ballooning at sunrise or sunset, we feel sure that you'll find the experience thrilling.
Riding in a hot air balloon is considered very safe, thanks to numerous advances in technology. And yet you get to see views that are normally only the preserve of skydivers and hang-gliding experts, and so on.
A Phoenix hot air balloon is a special kind of something too. Not only are the sunrises and sunsets unlike any other place in the world, but the wide-open spaces of the Arizona desert and its rich landscape also give you a sense of ultimate freedom.
If you cannot decide between the sunrise and the sunset, it might be time to plan a stay in Phoenix lasting several days. That way, you can do both!
If you love the great outdoors, we invite you to read our other posts to get you thinking of your next holiday break-away.
