THURSDAY OCTOBER 1ST - SUNDAY OCTOBER 4TH, 2026
HOT AIR BALLOON + ALBUQUERQUE ADVENTURE
TOTAL COST: $1,000 | DEPOSIT: $400 (THIS IS NON REFUNDABLE)
REGISTRATION OPENS: FRIDAY 06/05/2026
COORDINATOR: HILLARY HUMMEL
TRIP DETAILS + INFORMATION
There are some experiences that feel almost too magical to be real and this is one of them. Join us in Albuquerque, New Mexico for an unforgettable weekend centered around one of the most iconic events in the world, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. This experience blends adventure, connection, and awe as we explore the desert landscape, immerse ourselves in local culture, and take to the skies in a hot air balloon. From sunrise balloon flights over the Rio Grande Valley to glowing evenings under a sky filled with color, this is a weekend designed to feel expansive, intentional, and completely unforgettable. Here is a quick look at what our itinerary could look like for the long weekend:
Thursday - Oct 1st
Arrive anytime after 4:00pm and settle into our cozy New Mexico Airbnb. This evening is all about easing into the weekend, getting comfortable, and connecting with the group. We will get some sleep after a long travel day in anticipation for our early morning!
Friday - Oct 2nd
We begin the day early with a true bucket list moment, a sunrise hot air balloon ride with Rainbow Ryders. Watch as the balloons come to life during inflation and take in the quiet magic of the morning as the sun rises over the Sandia Mountains. Once in the air, you will float above the Rio Grande Valley, taking in sweeping desert views and experiencing the peaceful stillness that only a balloon flight can offer. After landing, we will celebrate with a traditional toast and a commemorative flight pin.
The rest of the day is filled with exploring Albuquerque. We will enjoy lunch and shopping in Old Town, visit the Hot Air Balloon Museum, and ride the tram for breathtaking mountain views followed by casual mountaintop dining.
Saturday - Oct 3rd
We will head out early for a truly unforgettable morning at the Balloon Fiesta. Watching hundreds of balloons rise into the sky during mass ascension is something that simply cannot be put into words.
Our general admission tickets allow flexibility to attend either a morning or evening session, but we anticipate choosing the morning for a more peaceful experience. You will have time to explore the grounds, enjoy local food, browse artisan vendors, and fully take in the energy of the festival. That evening, we will head out together to enjoy Albuquerque’s local food scene and reflect on the day’s experience. We will close out the day with a sunset hike before returning home to rest.
Sunday - Oct 4th
A slow and easy morning before we say our goodbyes and head home, carrying this once in a lifetime experience with us.
WHAT IS INCLUDED
-Three nights in a beautiful New Mexico Airbnb
-Sunrise or sunset hot air balloon ride with Rainbow Ryders
-General admission ticket to the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
-Time to explore Old Town Albuquerque with shopping and local experiences
-A thoughtfully planned and fully supported Her Wilderness experience from start to finish
This is more than just attending a festival. This is your chance to step into the experience. You will witness the inflation of the balloons, feel the anticipation build as they rise, and have the opportunity to be as hands on or as relaxed as you choose. As you lift off, the world quiets and the views open wide, offering a perspective few ever get to experience. Between the mountains, the desert, and the sky filled with color, every moment of this trip is designed to help you slow down, take it all in, and feel fully present.
AIRPORTS + TRAVEL INFORMATION
It’s always a good idea to book your flight after joining the facebook group! That way you are able to communicate with others attending the trip to book your flights in sync and split rental car or uber costs!
5 miles: Albuquerque, NM (ABQ / KABQ) Albuquerque International Sunport
56 miles: Santa Fe, NM (SAF / KSAF) Santa Fe Municipal Airport
94 miles: Los Alamos, NM (LAM / KLAM) Los Alamos County Airport
277 miles: El Paso, TX (ELP / KELP) El Paso International Airport
WHY HER WILDERNESS
Her Wilderness delivers professional, women-focused outdoor experiences that are organized, intentional, and built with care. Each trip provides flexible payment options, access to a private trip group, a pre-trip video call, and a comprehensive participation guidebook to ensure you arrive informed and confident. Each adventure is led by a Her Wilderness coordinator who supports you throughout planning, travel, and the experience itself.
Since 2019, Her Wilderness has been redefining outdoor adventure for women. Our mission is to provide growth-oriented outdoor opportunities, whether fishing, hunting, hiking, or travel, within a community that encourages strength, personal development, and connection. Our trips are designed for comfort, learning, and camaraderie, welcoming women of all backgrounds and experience levels into safe, supportive environments where confidence can thrive.
WHAT SETS US APART
Flexible payment plans
Private trip group for communication & connection
Pre-trip video call for preparation & introductions
Dedicated coordinator support before, during & after travel
Detailed guidebook sent well in advance
Women-only community built on respect & encouragement
Trusted outfitters, guides & lodging partners
Transparent pricing
Safety-driven planning & procedures
Expert gear + packing guidance
Strong culture of friendship & community
Alumni priority access to future trips
LODGING ACCOMMODATIONS
All lodging is thoughtfully selected to provide a comfortable, welcoming environment that encourages rest, connection, and community. Accommodations typically include shared bedrooms, shared bathrooms, and communal living spaces that allow guests to gather, socialize, and unwind. Please note that room and bed sharing may be required depending on the trip structure. Specific lodging information will be provided by your trip coordinator once your group is finalized, along with packing suggestions and expectations to ensure you feel fully prepared.
EXPECTATIONS + GROUP CULTURE
Outdoor travel requires flexibility. Weather conditions, guide recommendations, and environmental factors may lead to schedule adjustments, activity changes, or alternate species pursuits. These decisions are made with safety, conservation, and experience quality in mind. Her Wilderness maintains a strong, positive group culture. We are committed to a drama-free environment built on mutual respect, encouragement, and professionalism. Disruptive or disrespectful behavior toward participants, staff, or guides will not be tolerated and may result in removal from the trip without refund.
What You Can Expect:
Plans may shift due to weather or conditions
You may share lodging spaces
Remote locations may have limited amenities
No harvest or catch is guaranteed
We work diligently to deliver the best experience possible
What We Expect:
A respectful, flexible, collaborative attitude
Willingness to adapt when conditions require it
Commitment to a positive team environment
REGISTRATION & COMMUNICATION
All registrations are completed through the WeTravel platform, where you will receive confirmation and payment management support. After booking, your coordinator will contact you with next steps, access to your private trip group, and invitations to scheduled virtual meetings. To ensure communication is efficient and organized, coordinators will provide their preferred contact method and will not communicate through personal social media accounts. For general questions or assistance, please email questions@herwilderness.co. We can’t wait to adventure with you!
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