Mexico City | Soaring Over the Pyramids of Teotihuacán

Mexico City is a destination that could easily fill weeks of exploring. Take it from me, it's my second time visiting, and my list of places to visit is now longer than when I initially departed for my trip.

Its world-class museums, vibrant neighborhoods, bustling markets, and renowned dining scene make it one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world. Yet as captivating as the city is, it’s worth taking a day to venture just beyond its limits.

One of the most rewarding excursions is to visit Teotihuacán, the ancient “City of the Gods” located just an hour outside Mexico City. It has the monumental Pyramids of the Sun and Moon, sweeping views from the Avenue of the Dead, and a history that predates the Aztecs. Teotihuacán offers an unforgettable glimpse into Mexico’s past. A day trip here is remarkably easy to plan and provides a different perspective to the modern bustle of Mexico City, making it a must-add to any itinerary.

While it’s absolutely possible to plan a visit to Teotihuacán on your own, many find it easier to book through a tour company. Yes, there are public buses that run regularly and private drivers available for hire. Still, a guided experience not only takes the stress out of logistics but also brings the ruins to life with stories and context you might otherwise miss. From small group excursions to sunrise hot air balloon rides, there are plenty of options to match your style of travel.

We decided to leave it to the experts and went with Flying Pictures Mexico.

Flying Pictures Mexico offers an assortment of packages available to guests. We opted for the Transportation and Pyramids package. This package included round-trip transportation from Mexico City to Teotihuacán, a coffee/tea break while watching the hot air balloons prepare for launch, and a breathtaking 40-minute sunrise balloon flight over the Teotihuacán Valley. Upon landing, guests enjoy a celebratory sparkling wine toast and a personalized flight certificate from Flying Pictures. If you are looking to capture this experience, Flying Pictures has you covered. Not only do they take assorted photos before your balloon ride, but there are drones along the way capturing in-the-moment footage. Of course, this is all available for purchase afterwards.

Additionally, this package includes a lovely breakfast buffet and entrance to the archaeological site for up to two hours.

If this sounds like the perfect adventure, book HERE with Flying Pictures.

Soaring Over The Pyramids: What You Need To Know

If you’re dreaming of seeing Teotihuacán from above, a hot air balloon ride is an unforgettable way to do it. Like anything, there are a few things to keep in mind before you take off. Most flights lift off at sunrise, which means an early, early wake-up call and pick up ( think 4:30 AM pick-up). Trust me, even the biggest bed slugs would say that the view of the pyramids bathed in the early morning sunlight is worth every single yawn.

As you are planning your packing list, make sure that you dress warmly ( aka layers), wear a comfortable pair of sneakers, and have your favorite sunnies on hand. We all know that the weather in Mexico City can be unpredictable, but it’s quite chilly in the morning. Plan accordingly by wearing your favorite hoodie or scarf—one more thing that’s not mentioned on the website- attire. Aside from planning for the weather, be prepared to climb in and out of the balloon basket. Pants or shorts are a must. Trust me, ladies, save your cute dresses and heels for dinner in CDMX. Crawling into a balloon basket is possibly the least graceful thing you will do all day.

Last but not least, bring a camera or phone to capture the magical view, but keep it secure with a wrist strap or in your pocket.

After touching down, most tours transition into a guided visit of the pyramids. Be prepared for a bit of climbing. The Pyramids of the Sun and Moon aren’t exactly stroller-friendly, but the reward is the panoramic views and the firsthand connection to an ancient civilization.

However, if you are still trying to sort through exactly what you are looking for, here are a few things to take into consideration when planning your adventure.

From Buses To Balloons- Picking The Perfect Tour

Group Size

Are you the type of person who loves meeting new people, or do you prefer to avoid being herded around like a school field trip? While big group tours can be more budget-friendly, they come with less flexibility. Smaller tours or private guides usually offer a more relaxed, tailored experience.

Tour Inclusions

Some tours keep it simple and stick to the basics: transportation and tickets. Others pack in extras like breakfast, stops to sample local beverages like pulque or tequila, and to learn about the landscape of the area. Think about whether you want the express version or the all-inclusive.

Timing

In this case, the early bird catches the view and avoids the crowds, not to mention that intense midday sun. Morning tours are cooler and less crowded, while late afternoon tours can be quieter and shorter. If you are feeling adventurous, I highly recommend a sunrise hot air balloon ride. It’s the ultimate way to see the pyramids.

Duration

What else do you have on your itinerary? Are you thinking half-day or full-day? If you’re tight on time, a quick trip works, but if you’ve got the flexibility, a full-day tour lets you explore at a more leisurely pace. Keep in mind, if you include the hot air balloon ride, your day starts pretty early. We started our day with a pick-up at 4:40 AM and then were dropped off back at our hotel around 1:30 PM. Transportation back to the city is a bit longer because of the traffic.

Language and Expertise

This might seem a bit obvious, but make sure your tour offers a guide in your preferred language. Otherwise, you might spend the day nodding and using Google Translate without really knowing what you are looking at.

Whether you choose to float above the pyramids at sunrise or explore them step by step on the ground, visiting Teotihuacán is one of those experiences that stays with you long after you’ve left. The combination of history, scale, and the sheer wonder of it all makes it much more than a day trip. However you decide to get there, by bus, by tour, or even by balloon, the magic of Teotihuacán is undeniable and absolutely worth making room for in your Mexico City Itinerary.

Until Next Time!