Teotihuacan, whose name in Náhuatl means “the place where gods were created”, was once one of the largest and most advanced cities in Mesoamerica. At its peak between the 3rd and 5th centuries A.D., it had more than 100,000 inhabitants and became a political, cultural, and religious powerhouse whose influence reached as far as Tikal. Its wide avenues, extraordinary murals, and monumental pyramids were built in alignment with the cosmos, reflecting the worldview and spirituality of its people.
Today, only about 10% of the city has been excavated, yet visitors can still admire impressive monuments like the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987, Teotihuacan continues to captivate travelers with its mystery and grandeur.
And while exploring it on foot is already an awe-inspiring experience, seeing Teotihuacan from above on a hot air balloon ride offers a perspective like no other. Floating peacefully over the pyramids gives you a true sense of the city’s scale and beauty—an unforgettable adventure that combines history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.
Some travelers describe it as:
“The experience is a must on your trip in Mexico. Peaceful, surreal, with stunning panoramic views. Floating over the ancient pyramids is an absolute must-do.”
👉 In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know before booking your balloon flight: safety, best time of year, practical tips, what’s included, and more.
Table of Contents – Quick Navigation
- Why Flying Over Teotihuacan is Worth It
- Best Time of Year to Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Teotihuacan
- Safety & Weather Conditions for Hot Air Balloon Flights
- How Long Does the Flight Last?
- How to Get to Teotihuacan
- What’s Included in the Experience?
- Family-Friendly? Kids and Elderly Travelers
- Photography and Drones
- What to Expect on the Day of Your Flight
- What should I wear for a hot air balloon ride in Teotihuacan?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Watch: Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Teotihuacan (Video)
The flight is serene and peaceful, offering a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of one of Mexico’s most important archaeological sites. From the air, you’ll truly appreciate the scale and mystery of this ancient city, with the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon rising majestically from the valley below.
Is the hot air balloon over Teotihuacan worth it?
Yes—most travelers describe it as the highlight of their trip to Mexico.
Best Time of Year to Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Teotihuacan
Hot air balloon flights in Teotihuacan operate all year round—365 days a year, as long as weather conditions allow. Every flight is unique, and there really isn’t a “bad” month to fly.
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🌤 November to January: Popular months with many balloons in the air and colorful mornings.
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☀️ Year-round: Balloon rides operate every month, each season offering its own charm and perspective over the pyramids.
👉 Tip: If your travel dates are flexible, November–January is very popular, but any time of year is a memorable experience.
Safety & Weather Conditions for Hot Air Balloon Flights
When planning a hot air balloon ride, two of the most common concerns are safety and weather.
At Qué Loco Tours, we work with providers that comply with all requirements of the Agencia Federal de Aviación Civil (AFAC), Mexico’s Civil Aviation Authority:
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Licensed commercial pilots with updated medical exams.
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Annual equipment inspections.
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Permit for panoramic flights, authorizing tourist balloon flights.
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Valid passenger insurance policies.
👉 Thanks to these measures, balloon flights are not only breathtaking but also safe and fully legal.
Is it safe to fly a hot air balloon in Mexico?
Yes. Certified operators follow strict regulations. Avoid “pirate” companies that don’t meet AFAC standards.
What happens if it rains or is too windy?
If winds exceed 15 km/h, or if there is fog or rain, flights are rescheduled. Your booking remains valid and you can reprogram your flight within 90 days at no extra cost.
How Long Does the Flight Last?
🎈 Flight time: ~45–60 minutes
🕒 Total time (from balloon port): 1.5–2.5 hours (including check-in and return)
🚐 With transport from Mexico City: 6–7 hours (includes breakfast + archaeological site visit)
How to Get to Teotihuacan
Option 1: From Mexico City (with transport included)
The easiest option is to book with round-trip transport. Passengers meet at the Ángel de la Independencia, in front of the Sheraton Hotel.
📍Open location on Google Maps
This option includes breakfast and time to explore Teotihuacan. Hotel pickup may be available depending on season and location (extra cost—contact us).
Option 2: Going directly to the balloon port (without transport)
If you’re already in Teotihuacan, you can arrive directly by car, taxi, or ride-hailing apps such as Uber or Didi.
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From Mexico City, Uber usually costs $500–1,000 MXN one way depending on service type and time.
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Travel time: ~1–1.5 hours.
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Exact check-in location and instructions are sent after booking.
👉 Tip: Many travelers prefer the transport option to avoid early-morning logistics.
Exact meeting point: Ángel de la Independencia, Mexico City (map below)
From Teotihuacan Balloon Port:
☕ Coffee & cookies during check-in
🎈 Shared flight
🥂 Wine toast at the end
🎶 Music on board
📜 Personalized flight certificate
🅿️ Parking at the balloon port
🛡️ Passenger insurance
From Mexico City (Round-trip):
🚐 Round trip from Ángel de la Independencia
☕ Coffee & cookies during check-in
🎈 Shared flight
🍳 Buffet breakfast after the flight
🏛️ Entrance to Teotihuacan archaeological site
🥂 Wine toast at the end
🎶 Music on board
📜 Personalized flight certificate
🅿️ Parking at the balloon port
🛡️ Passenger insurance
Family-Friendly? Kids and Elderly Travelers
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Children can fly starting at 4–5 years old.
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Younger kids are not allowed for safety reasons.
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Elderly travelers are welcome as long as they don’t have medical restrictions.
Photography and Drones
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📸 Passengers can bring cameras, phones, and GoPros at their own responsibility
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⚠️ Tip: Use a strap and secure your phone when taking photos
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🚫 Personal drones are not allowed
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🎥 Drone service available for 3–5 minutes of footage (extra cost)
What to Expect on the Day of Your Flight
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⏰ Arrive calmly and on time (flights start ~10 min after the agreed hour)
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👕 Dress for the outdoors (like a picnic or hike) and bring layers to stay warm
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🎒 Leave large bags in your car or at the office
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🎈 Flights are smooth and gentle—you won’t feel dizzy
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🌡️ Temperature in the air is almost the same as on the ground
What should I wear for a hot air balloon ride in Teotihuacan?
Dress as if you were going on an outdoor excursion. Temperatures in the early morning can be chilly, but once the sun rises it warms up quickly, so wearing layers is the best option. Comfortable shoes are essential since you’ll be standing during the flight and walking at the balloon port. Avoid high heels or sandals. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also recommended, as the sun can be strong even in the morning.
👉 Pro tip: bring a light jacket or sweatshirt that you can easily take off once the flight ends and the day warms up.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Balloon flights are smooth and stable—you don’t feel turbulence like on an airplane.
Private flights can be just 2 passengers. Shared flights usually fit up to 11 passengers.
The temperature in the air is almost the same as on the ground. Dress in layers to stay comfortable.
Always early morning, when the winds are calmest.
Yes, kids from 4–5 years old can join. Younger children are not allowed for safety reasons.
Watch: Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Teotihuacan
Ready to experience it for yourself? Book your Hot Air Balloon Ride over Teotihuacan with Qué Loco Tours today.
CONTACT US
+52 222 8601743 – Customer service and sales
info@quelocotours.com – Customer service, reservations and sales