Hot Air Balloon

A rocky landscape of natural wonders and human aptitude, Cappadocia is Turkey's very own fairy-tale kingdom. Initially shaped by volcanic eruption and erosion, locals and religious refugees worked the already-breathtaking topography into an impressive network of underground chambers, tunnels, and cities thousands of years ago.

Now a World Heritage Site, Cappadocia's rich and diverse cultural and political history is enough to attract anyone to the region — but what brings tourists to Cappadocia these days is the chance to see it from a hot air balloon.

With fairy chimneys and pillars, river valleys and cliffs, the region is certainly a magnificent sight to behold from the air. Luckily, it's fairly easy to book a trip to the area and see it for yourself.

Scroll to learn how to plan your Cappadocia hot-air balloon excursion and take your next favorite travel photo.

01 How to Choose a Hot-air Balloon Tour
Hot Air Balloons, Cappadocia, Turkey

There are many Cappadocia hot-air balloon tours to choose from. The one you want will depend on your personal preferences in terms of length of flight, capacity of balloon, and cost.

02 Types of Flights
Hot Air Balloons, Rock Landscape, Cappadocia, Turkey

Tour companies offer a few options to meet your needs. Standard flights carry more people and don't last as long, but they are more economical. Although deluxe flights cost more, they carry fewer people and stay up in the air longer. Most companies also offer private tours for that special occasion.

03 Duration of Flight
Hot Air Balloons, Sunrise, Goreme National Park, Cappadocia, Turkey

Flights can last anywhere between 45 minutes to two hours. It depends on who you book your tour with, and which flight deal you pick. For example, Kapadokya Balloons' Standard Program lasts 45 to 65 minutes, while their Deluxe Program lasts 90 minutes.

04 Capacity of Balloon
Hot Air Ballon, Close-up, Nevsehir, Cappadocia, Turkey

The capacity of the basket again depends on the company and the flight. Urgup Balloons' Classic Flight carries 28 people, while their Deluxe Flight carries 16. Butterfly Balloons' Butterfly Beyond Flight carries up to two people per compartment, which amounts to no more than eight passenger's total.

05 How Much Does It Cost?
Hot Air Balloons, Desert Landscape, Cappadocia, Turkey

Private flights cost a lot more than group flights. Urgup Balloons' Classic Flight costs about $170 per person, their Comfort Flight about $185 per person, and their Deluxe Flights about $210 per person. Renting the entire basket for a private flight cost upwards of $1,400. Prices can vary slightly by date and availability.

06 Prepare for Unpredictable Weather
Hot Air Balloons, Winter Cappadocia, Turkey

Hot-air balloon flights are weather dependent and may be canceled. In that event, many companies will offer you a full refund or help you reschedule. Plan to spend a few days in Cappadocia so you can rebook if this happens to you.

07 When to Go
Hot Air Balloons, Hoodoos, Cappadocia, Turkey

You can take a hot-air balloon flight any time of year, but with Cappadocia's hot, dry summers and cold — and sometimes snowy — winters, the best time to go is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September and October).