Cappadocia, Turkey - best known for the stunning rock formations and the Hot Air Balloons that hover above this unique landscape. In this video, I visit Cappadocia and tell you a number of things that I wish I would have known before my visit. During the first half of this video, I discuss the Cappadocia region and specifically the place I stayed in Göreme. During the second half I talk in depth about the balloon ride, including price and reservation tips, and some other useful things to know before taking a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia.
0:00 Introduction
0:40 Cappadocia Region Map
1:20 A look around Göreme
1:59 Rock formations as homes and hotels
2:59 Castle Cave Hotel in Göreme
3:55 Trails and Fairy Chimneys
4:37 Rent a Car in Cappadocia
5:01 Uçhisar Castle
5:45 Love Valley
6:15 Dondurma (Turkish Ice Cream)
6:40 Hot Air Balloon Ride Shuttle Bus
6:57 Balloon Ride Times and Weather
7:33 Prime Season vs. Winter vs. Spring/Fall
8:25 Getting the Best Spot for your Balloon Ride
9:30 History of the Hot Air Balloons in Cappadocia
9:45 Safety Record of Balloons
10:36 Length of flight and details
11:35 How High do they Fly?
12:00 What happens if balloons collide?
12:41 Are there smaller hot air balloons?
13:05 Cost and Reserving a Hot Air Balloon Ride
14:11 Smooth Landing
14:35 Final Thoughts
In this video I share my experience in Cappadocia, Turkey during a recent visit with my wife.
Nestled in central Turkey, this place is just an hour's flight from Istanbul and is renowned for its breathtaking hot air balloon rides.
First off, it's essential to know that Cappadocia isn't just a city; it's an entire region. Landing in the charming town of Göreme, situated on the far eastern edge, offers proximity to the captivating rock formations and fairy chimneys. Staying here has its perks – from the surreal rock formations literally within the town to a myriad of amenities like restaurants, hotels, and unique cave dwellings that define the landscape.
One fascinating aspect of Cappadocia is how homes and facilities seamlessly integrate into the rock formations. It's a different approach compared to some places in the American West. In Cappadocia, people have been living in these rock formations for thousands of years, some converted into luxurious cave hotels, creating a unique and immersive experience.
And speaking of unique experiences, I had the chance to stay in a cave hotel. The room was comfortable, but the real treat was the view from the deck overlooking Göreme, making it an unforgettable stay.
A quick tip for exploration: venture to the outskirts of Göreme, where trails offer opportunities for horseback riding, hiking, and even climbing into fairy chimneys. It's the same area where hot air balloons take off, but exploring it later in the day provides a different perspective.
Renting a car is a wise choice to explore the broader Cappadocia region. Places like Uchisar, with its ancient castle, and Love Valley, though a bit touristy, are worth a visit. Love Valley might raise an eyebrow with its name, but the rock formations are intriguing.
Now, let's delve into the main attraction – the hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia. It's a bucket list item for many, and for a good reason. The experience is surreal, offering a unique vantage point of the extraordinary landscapes.
The process begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel, typically between 5 a.m. and 6 a.m., and a transfer to the launch site. However, the ride is weather-dependent. If conditions aren't optimal, the meteorologists won't give the green light. In the summer, chances are high; in winter, it's the opposite. In-between seasons, like April, it's a bit of a gamble.
Landing a spot on the outer edge of the basket is a smart move for better photo opportunities. The liftoff is gradual, providing a calm and controlled ascent. The pilot's confidence and the stable, secure feeling contribute to a memorable experience, even for those uneasy with heights.
The flight, lasting around 45 minutes to an hour, takes you close to rock formations, fairy chimneys, and offers spectacular views. It's a visual feast, with everyone on board capturing the moments on their phones. The landing is typically smooth and uneventful.
Regarding reservations, booking online beforehand ensures a guaranteed spot, but it comes at a premium – 300 Euros as opposed to 200 Euros if booked locally. Keep in mind that if weather conditions prevent the balloons from flying, you'll get a refund.
As the journey comes to an end, there's a mix of exhilaration and a touch of sadness that it's over. The views, the experience – it's all so extraordinary that you wouldn't want to miss this opportunity. Cappadocia, with its enchanting landscapes and the magical hot air balloon ride, is indeed a destination that should be on everyone's bucket list.
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