Cappadocia in Turkey offers a surreal view of the Earth’s natural rocky landscape, and it is considered Turkey’s own fairytale kingdom. This astounding natural wonder was shaped by erosion and volcanic eruption. Thousands of years ago, religious and local refugees worked on the already-breathtaking landscape and made tunnels, underground chambers, and cities.
Today, Cappadocia is now a World Heritage site, and aside from its rich and diverse cultural history, there’s one thing that makes this a trendy tourist spot: hot air balloon rides. You can get a chance to see the beauty of Cappadocia from up above. From river valleys, cliffs, pillars, and fairy chimneys, Cappadocia is a sight to behold from the air. In this article, we are going to talk about the things that you should know before you book a travel to Cappadocia.
Types of Hot Air Balloon Flights
A typical hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia lasts from 45 minutes to one hour, and the baskets are built to fit 16, 20, or 24 people, including the flight captain. The price of the experience often includes the pick-up, and drop-off at your hotel, breakfast before you go, then drinks and snacks after the hot air balloon ride.
Other companies offer a luxurious hot air balloon experience. Take note that the main difference is the basket size because, in this type of flight, the hot air balloon can only fit 12 to 16 passengers. Aside from that, the flight time typically lasts up to 75 minutes in the air.
Probably the most expensive and exclusive option is a private hot air balloon tour just for your group or family. Private flights only accommodate the number of people in your group, and the flight time is up to 75 minutes.
The standard flight cost about $185 per person, and the deluxe flight costs about $208, and private flights are around $254 per basket.
What You Will See
Hot air balloon rides in Cappadocia are an early morning activity. That is why you will be able to see the sunrise over the famous valleys such as the Rose Valley, Red Valley, Love Valley, and Meskender Valley, as well as the villages of Cavusin and Goreme. However, the hot air balloon paths depend on the direction of the wind, which is why the valleys’ views aren’t always guaranteed. One of the main reasons why Cappadocia is a popular spot for hot air ballooning is that because the thermal and wind conditions here are very favorable. This means that there’s a big chance that you will be flying over some photogenic landscapes.
What to Expect During the Flight
During the flight, you will go at around 3,000 feet up in the air, and this is an incredible time to have a bird’s-eye view of the astounding valley networks. Your flight captain will probably also act as your tour guide because he will point out local topographical features.
When you’re descending, you’ll sometimes fly into the valleys themselves or over orchard-filled plateaus. If you’re lucky and the wind permits, the captain will have the hot air balloon flick through the tops of Cappadocia’s fairy chimney rock formations.
You will not have to worry about where you’re going to land because while you’re in the balloon, there is a ground crew that is chasing you on land below. The ground crew will meet the hot air balloon as it goes down at the landing site.
After Landing
After getting off the balloon, you will have small snacks at the landing site while the ground crew packs the balloon ready for transport. Most balloon companies like to give their passengers certificates that commemorate their flight. Once the balloon is packed, you will ride a minibus, and it will drop you off at your hotel. The entire hot air balloon experience takes three to four hours.