Would you like to experience one of the most memorable moments of your life? Hop on to a hot air balloon in Cappadocia and engross yourself in the mesmerising landscape. Here is a comprehensive guide to everything you should know if you’re planning a Cappadocia hot air balloon experience.
How do I get to Cappadocia?
The region of Cappadocia is worthy of exploration, so one may want to consider hiring a car or booking a tour.
However, if you’re wondering how to get to Cappadocia by bus, note that most of the bus companies have connections to Nevsehir and Göreme.
The fastest and most expensive way to travel to Cappadocia is by plane. There are two main airports to which you can fly: Kaysei Erkilet Airport (ASR), a one-hour drive to the centre of Cappadocia region. The other airport is Nevsehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV), in Gülsehir, Nevsehir Province. Turkish Airlines operates a direct flight from Istanbul to Nevsehir twice a day.
If you are visiting Istanbul and travelling to Cappadocia from there, you might consider buying an all-inclusive package that includes transportation by bus or plane, an overnight stay in Cappadocia, and a hot air balloon ride. It might end up being cheaper.
How much do Cappadocia hot air balloons cost?
The price to ride a hot air balloon is in the range of $140 and $250 (€125 and €220) per person. The cost depends on the duration of the flight, the time of day, and whether it is peak season or not. Usually, the minimum duration is a 1-hour flight, and it can go up to 3 hours. Very often, the price is lower if you are in a group and want to book a private flight.
Due to the COVID-19 situation, the number of tourists in Cappadocia has dropped a lot. Now, there are deals for as low as €60 (US$70).
The price can be higher if there are additional services included.
How do I book a hot air balloon ticket?
There are many providers offering Cappadocia hot air balloon flights. They offer many tours with different features and prices according to the seasons, inclusions, and discount campaigns using a specialised search engine.
You can book hot air balloon rides with local agencies, at your hotel in Cappadocia, and offline, but remember:that the number of flights allowed per day is limited by law. Therefore, if you do not book in advance, it is very likely that you will not have the chance to ride a hot air balloon in Cappadocia.
Is it safe to go on a hot air balloon?
Some people can find going on a hot air balloon a bit spine-tingling, which is understandable. You always get a brief explanation of the basic rules and safety measures. Apart from that, the takeoff is so gentle you won’t even notice. Anyhow, it’s advised not to go on a hot air balloon when there is a strong wind; this can be dangerous.
What is the best time to fly?
Make sure you choose the correct moment to visit Cappadocia in order to avoid crowds. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit because the temperatures are generally moderate and there are fewer crowds.
The best time of the day to go on the hot air balloon is either sunrise or sunset.
