Flying in a balloon over Cappadocia was one of those experiences that exceeded my expectations. I thought it would be more touristy than exciting, but the truth is, being up there at dawn, watching the sun illuminate the rock formations and the other balloons around, was breathtaking.
It's hard to describe in words what I felt standing up there, suspended in silence, looking down at that snowy landscape that seemed like something out of a fantasy story.
In this post I'm going to tell you about my experience flying in a balloon over Cappadocia, from how I booked it and how much it costs, to some practical tips so you can make the most of this unique moment and experience one of Turkey's most iconic postcards.
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Cappadocia and balloons: Turkey's most famous postcard
Cappadocia is synonymous with hot air balloons. Sunrise views of dozens of balloons floating over the valleys and rock formations are undoubtedly one of Turkey's most recognizable postcard images.
And with good reason: the landscape is already impressive from the ground, but seeing it from the air makes it even more epic.
When I arrived in the region, I was eager to take the flight, although at the same time I was hesitant about the price. I had read that it cost around €150 to €250, which, for a long trip like the one I was taking, was a difficult figure for my budget.
But as soon as I arrived, in December, I learned that during the low season the prices were much more affordable, which gave me courage, although the weather didn't allow me to celebrate at all.
Waiting for the storm to pass
For the first four days I was in Cappadocia, flights were canceled due to bad weather.
At the hostel they told me that the balloons can't fly if there are winds over 5 km/h or if there are storms in the area, so out of season it's quite common for them to be suspended.
I was almost resigned. I even saw several tourists who had come to the hostel for just two days, hoping to fly, and had to leave without being able to.
It seemed like the same thing was going to happen to me, but luck smiled on me on the fifth day, when the weather finally gave way and the balloons once again soared through the sky.
How I booked my balloon flight and how much I paid
As for booking, it was a story in itself. Balloon flights during peak season typically range between €150 and €250, depending on the company and the type of tour.
But since my visit was in December, the middle of winter and low season in Cappadocia, the prices dropped considerably.
The morning before the flight, the staff at Goreme Hostel told me that the price for the day was around 100 euros, although they recommended that I wait a bit, since the price usually decreases as the hours go by if the companies are unable to fill the balloons.
I decided to follow his advice, and it was almost like being at an auction: every couple of hours I'd ask again, and the price would drop a little further. Agencies adjust prices throughout the day based on demand and weather conditions.
Finally, late in the afternoon, I got the flight for 70 euros, an excellent price for such an experience.
However, traveling during the off-season has its drawbacks.
Pros and cons of flying during high and low season
Ballooning in Cappadocia can be done year-round, but there is usually a distinction between high season and low season.
Peak season
The high season mainly covers spring and autumn (April to June and September to October), when the weather is more stable and the landscapes are at their most beautiful.
Pros:
- Greater probability that the flight will not be cancelled due to bad weather.
- More picturesque landscapes with clear skies and vibrant colors.
- “Standard” experience without having to worry too much about cancellations.
Cons:
- Prices are much higher, reaching more than double those of the low season.
- There are more tourists, so flights can be very crowded.
Low season
The low season is usually extreme winter and summer, especially December to February, when there are fewer tourists and the weather can be very cold or even snowy.
Pros:
- Significantly lower prices, ideal for those looking to save.
- Fewer tourists, allowing for a more relaxed experience.
- Winter or snowy landscapes can be spectacular and unique.
Cons:
- Increased risk of cancellations due to wind, snow or rain.
- Very low temperatures require appropriate clothing to stay warm during takeoff and flight.
What is the famous balloon tour in Cappadocia?
The day finally arrived. The balloon tour starts very early, usually between 4:30 and 5:30 in the morning, although it usually starts later in winter, as dawn comes later.
A company vehicle will pick you up from your accommodation and take you to the takeoff point, which is usually located near Göreme or nearby valleys such as Love Valley or Red Valley.
Arrival at the take-off point
As we arrived at the launch area, I was surprised to see hundreds of balloons preparing in the early morning light, as if they were at the starting line of a race.
The sound of the fans and the flares igniting the balloons broke the silence of the early morning, and watching them take shape at incredible speed was mind-blowing.
Everything seemed like something out of a movie, at times I felt like I was still dreaming in the hostel.
When it was our turn, we were dropped off next to the balloon, and the pilot gave a few brief safety instructions. It all happened fairly quickly, as they have to take advantage of the exact time slot for takeoff.
That prelude, between the darkness, the fire, and the anticipation, was undoubtedly the most adrenaline-filled moment.
What balloons are like and how they fly
One of the things that surprised me most was the size of the balloons. From below, they look big, but when you stand up close, you realize how enormous they are.
Most are between 20 and 25 meters high, and the basket can vary depending on the company: the smallest carry around 12 to 16 people, while the largest can carry up to 24 or even 28 passengers, plus the pilot.
Each balloon is first inflated with cold air using massive fans, and then with hot air using burners. This combination allows the balloon to rise smoothly.
The moment of takeoff
Once everything is ready, the passengers climb into the basket, and suddenly, almost without realizing it, the balloon begins to rise. In a matter of minutes, you're floating above one of the most surreal landscapes on the planet.
It's a moment that combines surprise and excitement: you look around and see dozens of balloons rising at the same time, crossing at different heights, with the sunrise illuminating the valley in the background.
From above, Cappadocia is completely transformed. The fairy chimneys, rock carvings, villages, and canyons look like a miniature map, and it was only then that I realized why this place is so famous.
During the flight
During the flight, the pilot regulates the height by opening or closing the fire passage, and although the balloon cannot be "steered" like an airplane, it can change direction by taking advantage of the different air currents at different heights.
The balloon sometimes rises and other times descends, so much so that at times it seems like it's about to land, but it quickly rises again. This allows you to pass very close to the rock formations and valleys, adding a touch of adrenaline to the ride.
As I was in the air, I couldn't help but wonder how they managed to get so many balloons to fly so close without colliding. But the answer came naturally. Yes, they do sometimes collide, but it's just a small, gentle touch, without any major shocks.
Watching the sunrise progress from above, with the sky changing color and dozens of balloons floating around, was truly epic.
It all seemed like a dream, and I didn't want to wake up. The hour-long flight literally flies by, and although it was very cold, there wasn't a single moment that wasn't worth it.
Landing and closing the experience
The landing was smooth. The balloon touched down slowly, often landing on the trucks that transport them, and although you feel a slight bounce, everything was well controlled.
Once on the ground, they usually take a group photo with the balloon in the background, and many companies offer a small celebration with a symbolic toast and the presentation of a flight certificate.
Finally, they take you back to the hotel, just in time to wake up from that dream and have a good breakfast.
Tips and recommendations for ballooning in Cappadocia
- Book in advance, but take advantage of the low season: Prices vary greatly depending on the season. During high season, flights can cost over €200, while during low season, there are significant discounts. Some hostels even let you know when prices drop during the day, like a last-minute sale.
- Patience with the weather: Flights are canceled if there are winds exceeding 5 km/h or adverse conditions. Don't be discouraged if your flight is delayed for several days; this is normal during the off-season.
- Don't plan just one day: Ideally, you should stay at least 4 or 5 days in the region to increase your chances of favorable weather and enjoying your flight. Some people arrive for just a couple of days and miss out on the experience due to weather conditions.
- Wrap up warm: Although the trip is magical, the cold in winter can be intense, especially in the early morning. Thermal clothing, gloves, a hat, and a scarf are essential.
- Choose your company and type of balloon: Balloons come in a variety of sizes, from small groups to 20 people. Some include transportation from your accommodation, photos, and a toast at the end.
- Enjoy every moment: From preparation and takeoff to flight and landing, every step has its own magic. Watch the balloons float around you, the sunrise progress, and the rock formations from above.
- Combine with trekking and land visits: Take advantage of your days in Cappadocia to explore nearby trails and villages. The balloon experience is perfectly complemented by hikes through the valleys and underground cities.
Hiking in Cappadocia (coming soon)
In short, although getting up early and braving the cold in winter may seem like a sacrifice, the reward of seeing the surreal landscape from above makes it totally unforgettable.
See the balloons without paying for the tour
If you don't want to pay for the balloon flight, you can still enjoy the spectacle from the ground. The Göreme area and the surrounding valleys offer several vantage points for observing the balloons at sunrise.
One of the most famous is the Göreme Viewpoint (see on map), just a few minutes from the village center. From there you can watch the balloons take off, float over the valleys, and disperse into the sky, with the surreal landscape of Cappadocia in the background.
Other recommended places are the nearby valleys, such as the Monks' Valley (Pasabag) or the Red Valley, from where you can also get an impressive view of the balloons, especially when there are many of them at the same time, although you have to walk further.
Arriving early is key, as the balloons typically take off just before dawn and don't wait for visitors on the ground.
Although it's not the same as being inside the balloon, viewing them from these viewpoints allows you to capture spectacular photos and experience part of the magic of Cappadocia without spending a cent.
My final thoughts on the balloon flight
At first, I thought the experience was a bit overrated. With so many videos and photos I'd seen on social media, I had a feeling I was going to be disappointed.
However, now that I've done it, I can say with certainty that this isn't the case: flying over Cappadocia was like being in a dream.
The combination of the unique scenery, the hundreds of balloons floating around, and the feeling of being suspended in the air is hard to compare with any other activity.
Today, other destinations have joined the balloon trend, such as Pamukkale, also in Türkiye, or Luxor in Egypt. But, due to the terrain, the density of hot air balloons, and the magic of the sunrise among the rock formations, I still consider Cappadocia to be the perfect place to experience this experience.
It's definitely worth planning the trip to experience it, even if it means waiting for the right weather or paying extra.
Video resumen del vuelo en globo en Capadocia
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