What you'll do:

You'll rise above the Sonoran Desert on a scenic afternoon hot air balloon flight, floating between 3,000 feet and just above the desert floor while taking in sweeping views of Scottsdale and the surrounding Arizona landscape.

• Meet at Deer Valley Airport!: Check in, complete your waiver, meet your driver, and relax during the approximately 45-minute shuttle ride to the desert launch site.

• Watch the balloon take shape!: Before takeoff, your pilot leads a safety briefing while you watch the balloon inflate right in front of you.

• Float above the Sonoran Desert!: Spend approximately one hour in the air, moving between different elevations while taking in 360-degree views and spotting desert wildlife, native plants, and Arizona landmarks below.

• Toast after landing!: Once you're back on solid ground, celebrate with sparkling wine and a catered fruit and cheese spread served right in the desert.

• Take home the memory!: Each guest receives a frameable commemorative flight certificate along with membership in the Balloonist's Society.

• Ride back to the airport!: Your driver handles the return trip to Deer Valley Airport, so the entire experience is taken care of from check-in through the final toast.

This is more than a sightseeing flight. It's a slow, peaceful way to experience the Sonoran Desert from a perspective you simply can't get from the ground.

Why we love it for your group:

• A full hour in the sky!: The approximately 60-minute flight gives your group plenty of time to take in the scenery, take photos, and enjoy the experience without feeling rushed.

• The post-flight toast!: Sparkling wine, fresh fruit, and cheese turn the landing into a celebration rather than simply the end of the flight.

• A keepsake everyone gets!: The commemorative certificate gives each guest something tangible to remember the experience by.

• Perfect for a Scottsdale getaway!: The seasonal afternoon schedule makes this a memorable addition to fall and winter group trips when you want something beyond the usual desert activities.

• A genuinely unique group experience!: Floating quietly above the desert gives your group plenty of time to disconnect, take in the landscape, and enjoy something none of you are likely to forget.

About this experience partner:

Hot Air Expeditions is a family-owned, women-led Arizona company that has operated hot air balloon experiences across Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tucson for more than 30 years. The company offers morning flights throughout the year, with seasonal afternoon flights available in the Phoenix and Scottsdale areas from November 1 through March 15.

Additional information:

• Guests should be in good general health and able to step off the second rung of a ladder to board the balloon basket.

• The experience is not recommended for guests who are pregnant or have recently undergone surgery or experienced significant injuries or broken bones.

• Wear closed-toe shoes and dress appropriately for the outdoor temperature, as conditions in the balloon are similar to those on the ground.

• Recommended items include sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a light jacket, and a camera.