Hot Air Balloon Flights
Overview
We fly just about every day of the week. Always in the early morning hours along with the sunrise to guarantee the best weather conditions. The meeting point is at 6 o’clock in the morning (time and place to be confirmed). At first we take you to the edge of town where you will get to watch how the balloons and equipment are prepared. Once the Captain says we’re ready we launch into the sky floating effortlessly over San Miguel de Allende and it’s beautiful surrounding countryside. Sometimes we fly just a few meters from the ground and treetops, and other times we soar high above the clouds on different air currents.
And sometimes, when the winds are just right we get to fly right over the historic center of San Miguel to get a bird’s-eye view of its magnificent churches and their ornate spires. By 9 o’clock (approx.) You will be back in San Miguel, where a delicious breakfast is included.
(age and medical restrictions may apply)
A deposit of 50% is required at least one week before the flight.
**IF YOU REQUIRE TO MAKE A RESERVATION WITH LESS THAN 24HRS NOTICE PLEASE CONTACT US: silvano@casacirla.com**
Date Expired !
F.A.Q
How long are the flights?
On average, passenger flights are approximately one hour in length. Some flights can vary from 45 minutes to 1 1/2 hours depending on the amount of fuel on board, the passengers' combined weight, the temperature of the air and when the pilot finds a suitable landing field.
What time of day do the flights take place?
Flights take place in the early morning. Hot Air Balloons are not able to fly during the middle of the day due to thermal activity, which makes the air unstable.
What type of clothing should we wear?
Special clothing is not required for hot air ballooning. We always suggest practical wear, such as long pants, a light jacket, a hat and no sandals or high heels. We do not fly high enough for a change in temperature so plan to dress for the temperature of the day.
What makes the hot air balloon rise?
Hot Air! A pair of high-powered propane burners ignites and heats liquid propane that is aimed into the balloon to make it rise. The burners create 30 million BTU's of heat. In comparison, an average home barbecue generates 30,000 BTU's. Each flight uses approximately 100 litres of propane.
How do you steer the balloon?
Hot Air Balloons can not be steered like a plane or helicopter. Balloons travel only in the direction of the wind. There may be different wind directions at different altitudes that the pilot may use to maneuver the balloon. Upon landing, our 'Chase Crew' that has been following the balloon since lift off retrieves the balloon and passengers and returns them to downtown.
Can I bring my camera and binoculars?
Yes, we encourage it. Some of the greatest pictures of the surrounding area can be taken from 500 feet in the air. Don't forget to bring batteries for your camera and a protective case for landing.
How high do you fly?
Though the altitude record for hot air ballooning is 64,997 feet, the height of passenger flights range anywhere from treetops up to 2,500 feet.
What can cause a cancellation of a flight?
As safety of the passengers, crew and equipment is of utmost priority, flights will sometimes have to be cancelled. Various factors can cause cancellation such as weather conditions. Your safety is our concern and we will not fly if this is jeopardized. If your flight is cancelled you simply reschedule for another flight.
How far in advance should I make my reservation?
We recommend calling at least 1-2 weeks in advance; weekends, holidays and the months of December, January, August, September and October are generally the busiest. However, we can usually accommodate a limited number of last minute reservations, so don't hesitate to give us a call even if it is the day before.
What is the cancellation policy?
FULL REFUND is given for flights cancelled due to inclement weather and we will make every effort to reschedule you if your schedule allows. Cancellations by the passengers must be made within 48 hours of your flight date for a full refund of your deposit. No-shows or cancellations with less than 48 hours notice will be charged 100% of the confirmed fare.
Is commercial ballooning regulated?
Yes. Our pilots are all DGAC certified (Mexico's equivalent to the USA-FAA) and our equipment is inspected regularly at DGAC designated repair stations. Our insurance meets the requirements of the Mexican DGAC required by law.
Is ballooning appropriate for everyone?
Ballooning is a fun activity for people of almost any age. There are some individuals for whom ballooning may not be appropriate. Infants, very young children (under the age of 5) who are not tall enough to see over the side of the basket, pregnant women, individuals who have done a recent deep scuba dive, and people suffering from chronic pain or have had recent major surgery. If you have a medical condition which could cause discomfort or be aggravated during the flight, or have been advised to restrict your activity because of a medical condition, please consult your physician in advance. Passengers stand during the hour-long flight, and may need to walk a distance from the balloons to the chase shuttles, sometimes over uneven ground. The balloons do not have doors, and a certain amount of flexibility and upper body strength are desirable for getting in and out of them. Ballooning is best appreciated by those who have a sense of adventure. For more information, see our Passenger Information Sheet, which is provided with your confirmation materials.