5 Best Temecula Hot Air Balloon Tours Over Wine Country

LOOKING FOR AN EXTRAORDINARY TIME ON A HOT AIR BALLOON TOUR IN TEMECULA? 

Having lived in Southern California for three years, Temecula is the go-to getaway for fresh wining and dining and golf courses galore. I suck at golfing, so it’s mostly the wining. The coolest part is in the mornings when the sight of hot air balloons dot the sky over endless vineyards. 

Definitely not the average daily adventure; I’ve hot-air ballooned in Cappadocia, Turkey, and am just vying for the chance to do it again. But if a Temecula vineyard ride is catching your eye, which company should you choose? 

For other packages, check out all these other top-rated Temecula hot air balloon tours, expertly led by local guides and thoroughly vetted by us.

My Top 2 Picks: Best Temecula Hot Air Balloon Tours

Top Temecula Hot Air Balloon Rides

1. Skyward at Sunrise: Premiere Temecula Balloon Adventure

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH:  3-4 Hours | 😍 Book it!

Join this early morning hot-air balloon ride with Skyward at Sunrise to fly over Temecula’s vineyards and citrus groves like a bird. Start off at the well-known Vindemia Winery. Here, an FAA-licensed pilot will steer your balloon over 1500 feet high, giving you a great view of the sunrise lighting up the expansive wine country beneath you.

After your hour-long flight, toast to your successful flight with champagne or sparkling cider, right there on the beautiful grounds of the Vindemia Estate. 

If you’re up for more fun, make use of a two-for-one wine-tasting deal to try some of Vindemia’s fine wines to cap off the day.

The ground crew were very pleasant and helpful and the pilot, Dave, and his 46 years experience made it a wonderful experience. The flight itself was beautiful and very smooth. Extremely worth while.

– john (Read more reviews)

2. Temecula Shared Hot Air Balloon Ride

⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH:  2.5 Hours | 😍 Book it!

This hot-air balloon tour over Temecula shows the vineyards and hills from above.

Start your day early, watching your balloon inflate, which I can attest is super fun to see and to photograph. Once it’s ready, you’ll hop in and, under the watchful eye of your pilot, head up into the sky. As you’re moving along, the pilot will point out landmarks and share some local trivia.

One of the best parts of this trip is getting to see all the greenery – the vineyards, orchards, and fancy houses. You might even spot some wildlife or see some lakes, mountains, and maybe even the ocean off in the distance. It’s a pretty special way to spend a few hours.

This tour isn’t just a balloon ride, though. You also get breakfast, drinks, and a two-for-one deal on wine-tasting tickets at six local wineries. Plus, you’ll go home with some free photos and a certificate to remember your flight. The tour group is kept small, with a maximum of 15 people.

Worth every cent! Such a unique experience. The crew assured safety, and walks you through every part of the experience. Safety is a priority along with making the trip fun and memorable.

– brianna (Read more reviews)

3. Temecula Shared Balloon Flight

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH:  3 Hours | 😍 Book it!

As the sun rises, see the wineries and natural beauty of the area from above on this shared hot-air balloon flight over Temecula. 

Your pilot knows his stuff and will share interesting local history and culture facts. The shared basket is a budget-friendly option that still gives you a great experience.

You’ll fly over some key landmarks, see the wine country, check out the outdoor activities from above, and the scenery from a different angle.

Once you’re back on the ground, there’s food and drinks to end your trip on a high note. The outing includes alcoholic beverages, bottled water, and private transportation. The tour is kept small, with a maximum of 10 others.

Wonderful experience! Great hosts, very professional. Unique way to start a new year, seeing how the first Sunrise of 2024 surprise us.

– susana (Read more reviews)

4. Temecula Private Flight for up to 4 People

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH:  4 Hours | 😍 Book it!

Check out Temecula from way up high with this Private Hot Air Balloon Flight for the whole family. You’ll start at Akash Winery & Vineyard, then head skyward to see the wineries from a whole new angle. It’s a nice change of pace from your usual wine-tasting tours.

You and up to three others will get to see some great views of vineyards, hills, and the scenery. This excursion comes with drinks and snacks, so you can have a little picnic while you’re up in the sky. It’s just a fun thing to be dropping crumbs over down below that makes the experience even better.

After the flight, a cool, air-conditioned car is waiting to take you back to comfort. On top of the balloon ride, you also get drinks, bottled water, snacks, and a ride back to your starting point.

Cielo hot air balloons is a great company Joe made sure we had everything we needed and our pilot Alex did a great job. Highly recommend.

– christopher (Read more reviews)

5. Private Hot Air Balloon Ride of Temecula Valley

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ LENGTH:  3 Hours | 😍 Book it!

Thinking of the epic proposal spot? I couldn’t think of something more romantic than a morning with this private ride over Temecula Valley. Start your day in the wee early hours, heading straight up into the sky in your own balloon. It’s a cool way to celebrate a special event wink wink or just some private excitement.

Spend the morning soaking in great views of the local scenery. The flight itself lasts about an hour, but you’ll want to set aside about three hours total. Don’t forget your camera – you’re going to want to remember this!

They’ve got breakfast covered too. There’s a champagne toast and some tasty pastries and snacks for just the two of you.

The whole experience was simply amazing! We had such a good time. Debi made everything super smooth and comfortable and Alex was an amazing pilot. 10/10 loved it!

– brian (Read more reviews)

Temecula Travel Guide and FAQ

What is Temecula CA famous for?

Along with trips to Napa and Sonoma Valley in northern California, Temecula, further south, is also renowned for its wine country, with numerous tours and tastings. It’s also known for Old Town Temecula, a hub of antique shops, galleries, brewpubs, and restaurants.

How much does it cost for a hot air balloon ride in Temecula?

The cost for a hot air balloon ride in Temecula may vary by company and package, but typically, it can range from $150 to $250 per person.

Are hot air balloon rides worth it?

Hot air balloon rides are generally considered worth it if you enjoy bucket list aerial experiences. They offer a bird’s-eye view of scenic landscapes, making them popular among tourists and locals alike.

When can you see the hot air balloons in Temecula?

Hot air balloons in Temecula are usually flown early in the morning, around sunrise, when the wind conditions are calmest. Always check with your chosen company for their specific schedule, and it may be earlier in the summer months.

How long is the hot air balloon ride in Temecula?

A typical balloon ride in Temecula lasts about an hour. However, the entire experience, including preparation and landing, can take 3 to 4 hours.

Do they weigh you before a hot air balloon ride?

Yes, it’s common practice for companies to weigh passengers before a hot air balloon ride. This helps ensure the balloon is not overloaded and maintains safe flying conditions.

Do you tip after a hot air balloon ride?

While tipping is not required, it’s appreciated. A standard tip is about 10-20% of the ride cost.

How many people can fit in a hot air balloon?

The capacity of a hot air balloon can vary. Smaller balloons might hold 2-6 people, while larger ones can accommodate up to 16 passengers.

What month is best for hot air balloon rides?

While hot air balloon rides can be enjoyed year-round, the best months are usually during the spring and fall when the weather is milder, and the wind conditions are more predictable.

Final Thoughts: Hot Air Balloon Rides in Temecula

A hot air balloon trip is hands-down one of the best activities you can do anywhere, and if you happen to be in Temecula from a day trip from Los Angeles or from San Diego, here’s your opportunity to cross off this bucket list item.

It’s definitely not an everyday thing, but I still remember the first time I got in one and the jaw-dropping feeling of awe as I drifted over the landscape, with the early morning sun painting everything in gold. Yah, you should try it at least once.

In case you’re still not sure which to pick:

• Get a budget-friendly ride; join this shared balloon experience. 
• Focus on sharing the moment with just your group; sign up for this private ride over the endless valleys. 

Before you Close That Tab…Where to Next in California?

I’ve lived and vanlifed around, about, and through all of California for 3 years. If you’re looking for more information on California, check out these other destination itineraries.

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