Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of this UNESCO World Heritage site in Turkey.
Cappadocia is Turkey’s fairy-tale kingdom, a rocky landscape of natural wonders and human ingenuity.
The breathtaking topography was initially shaped by volcanic eruption and erosion.
Credit: EyeEm/Getty Images
How do I choose the right Cappadocia hot air balloon tour?
Many operators also offer private tours for special occasions.
or “Can I book a flight with your most experienced pilot?”
TAMVISUT/Getty Images
to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.
How much does it cost?
Prices can vary greatly depending on the time of year you fly and how far in advance you book.
Ascent Xmedia GmbH/Getty Images
Unsurprisingly, private flights cost a lot more than group flights.
How long is the flight?
Flights can last anywhere between 45 minutes and two hours.
Achim Thomae/Getty Images
It depends on your hot air balloon ride operator and which style of flight you pick.
Royal Balloon’s rides are 60 or 75 minutes (Royal Queen vs. Royal King flights).
How many people can fit inside a basket?
Ayhan Altun/Getty Images
Butterfly Balloons' flights typically carry 16 passengers.
There is, however, an eight-person option for those who wish to have a more intimate experience.
When is the best time to fly?
Anadolu/Getty Images
Between the time of day and the elevation during your flight, warmer temperatures should still be comfortable.
In that event, balloon operators will offer you a full refund or will reschedule.
How high up do the balloons go?
Richard I’Anson/Getty Images
Royal Balloon and Voyager Balloons, for example, fly at a maximum of 3,000 feet above ground level.
When do flights take off?
Because wind conditions are best around sunrise, hot air balloon timings in Cappadocia tend to be early.
TAMVISUT/Getty Images
Balloons typically take off at about 5 to 5:30 a.m., depending on the season.
Most tour companies change their departure site according to the day’s wind direction and speed.
What should I wear?
Kerry Whitworth/Getty Images
Be sure to wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be on your feet for a long time.
In winter, you’ll need an extra layer, gloves, and a warm hat.
Is it safe?
Moment RF/Getty Images
While hot air ballooning is considered a relatively low-risk activity, accidents still happen.
Is there turbulence?
What happens after landing?
N. Eisele-Hein/LOOK-foto
Depending on the flight you book, some options include a light breakfast before you take off, too.
At the end of the trip, tour companies generally hand out certificates or medallions to commemorate the event.
Where can I take the best photo from the ground?
Anna Shvets / Getty Images
If you want to re-experience your time in the air (who wouldn’t?)
How do I get to Cappadocia?
The airports that serve Cappadocia are Nevsehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV) and Kayseri Erkilet Airport (ASR).
Perspectives/Getty Images
Ask your Cappadocia hotel if it offers airport transfers.
If not, you might reserve a shuttle throughArgeus Travel and Eventsor take a taxi to your accommodations.
you might also take a bus fromIstanbulor Ankara to Nevsehir on the outskirts of Cappadocia.
MDC Cave Hotel
Book your tickets throughMetro Turizm.
Where should I stay?
Cappadocia is a region composed of multiple cities and villages.
Esin Deniz/Getty Images
The most popular destinations for tourists are Goreme, Urgup, and Uchisar.
Most tourists go to Goreme because it’s easily accessible and within walking distance of the Goreme Open-Air Museum.
Many travelers also choose to stay in Urgup, which has similar architecture to Goreme.
ralucahphotography.ro/Getty Images
At the highest point in Cappadocia, Uchisar is another popular town for visitors.
Home to Uchisar Castle, this rock citadel offers a beautiful panoramic view of the region and Mount Erciyes.
Get the full troglodyte experience at one of Cappadocia’s famous cave hotels.
Consider these options:Goreme Suites,Erenbey Cave Hotel, andAydinli Cavein Goreme orKayakapi Premium CavesandMDC Hotelin Urgup.
Where should I eat?
For a taste of true Anatolian fare, order a kebab atOld Cappadocia Cafe and Restaurant.
What else is there to see and do?
While the view from the skies is unforgettable, Cappadocia is just as beautiful on the ground.
Outfitters offering beginner group tours by horseback includeThe Dalton BrothersandCemal Ranch.
