Cappadocia Balloon Festivalone of the largest hot air balloon festivals in the world, takes place every year in the province of NevşehirIn Central Anatolia (290 kilometers from the capital Ankara)among the main destinations of Cappadocia. Going up in the sky with a hot air balloon is the best way to have a panoramic view of the natural and historical beauties of this magical corner of Turkey, famous for fairy chimneys, valleys And underground cities.
Hot air balloon rides take place every morning throughout the year, but during the Cappadocia Balloon Festival, concerts, exhibitions, workshops and various shows are also organized, suitable for everyone, adults and children. The dates of the festival vary from year to year, but the event usually takes place in the summer, in the months of July and August.
More than 160 hot air balloons from all over the world gather at dawn and then fly up to around a thousand meters high to allow tourists to live a truly unique and memorable experience.
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The Cappadocia Balloon Festival was organized by the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism. It is a major cultural event that aims to bring together art, culture and entertainment, showcasing the region's unique cultural heritage.
It is a meeting point for local and foreign tourists who wish to discover the rich cultural fabric of Türkiye and the beauties and traditions of Cappadocia.
What you see during the hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia
During the hot air balloon ride, it is possible to admire, from almost a thousand meters high, Goremethe suggestive stone city, the Goreme National ParkUNESCO National Heritage Site; there Valley of Love or Valley of Love famous for the presence of fairy chimneys; the Çat Valley near Nevşehir and the Soğanlı Valley.
How to book and organize a hot air balloon ride
To book your hot air balloon ride, you need to contact one of the many companies available in Cappadocia. There are more than 20 of them. Here are some of the most famous and popular ones:
Royal Ball: This is one of the largest and most established hot air balloon companies in Cappadocia. They have experienced pilots and offer high quality service.
Butterfly balloons: is a family business offering personalized service and a more intimate experience with smaller groups.
Kapadokya Balloons: this company has existed since 1989 and organizes hot air balloon flights in traditional and luxury versions.
Sultan Balloons: This company offers a unique experience thanks to a special observation platform.
Traveler's Balloons: This company operates morning and sunset flights with experienced pilots and places emphasis on safety.
Or for reservations and more detailed information you can consult the Get Your Guide website on the page dedicated to hot air balloon tours or the Civitatis and Viator portals.
It is always advisable to book well in advance (at least two or three months in advance) to be sure of finding places available.
How much does a hot air balloon ride cost?
THE hot air balloon flight prices They vary greatly depending on the airline, booking period, tourist influx, number of participants, season and duration of the trip.
In general, the various airlines mostly organize tours of 30 – 60 – 90 minutes, respectively (and as an indication) of 150-170 euros, 190-250 euros and 300-390 euros.
Prices refer to hot air balloon flights of approximately 20-25 seats, with the possibility of sharing the experience with people from other countries around the world.
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There is also the possibility exclusivein a cabin with reduced capacity, maximum 4 seats, for all those who wish to try a more intimate experience, but with much more exorbitant prices, starting from 3 thousand euros. For example, some choose this option for marriage proposals or to celebrate birthdays.
There are also full-day, two-day, one-night, three-day, two-night, four-day, five-night tours. On the official website of Cappadocia Tour Ticket It is possible to view all the alternatives and consult the prices in detail.
What is included in the price
It depends on the company and the business, but generally the cost of each visit includes:
Pick up and drop off from all hotels in Cappadocia (this is a shuttle service that picks up the tourist from the hotel and takes him to the starting point of the tour).
Light breakfast
Briefing by the pilot
One-hour hot air balloon flight
Higher altitude to see the landscape
Free Wi-Fi on board
Champagne toast after landing (non-alcoholic)
Flight frequency certificate
Group photo with the pilot
Full insurance
How long does a hot air balloon ride last?
Hot air balloon flights usually last half an hour to an hour. They take place at dawn, in summer from 4:30 to 5 a.m. and in winter from 6:30 to 7 a.m., when weather conditions are optimal, with cooler and more stable air.
Hot air ballooning requires very stable wind conditions for safe takeoff and landing. In Cappadocia, a wind speed limit of 10 knots has been established, above which flight is not allowed.
The most favorable time of year for a hot air balloon ride, with a generally more stable climate, is summer. That is why it is always recommended to choose this season for tours and visits in Cappadocia.
How to get to Cappadocia
To reach the Cappadocia SinceItaly you have to fly to Istanbul and from there take a direct domestic flight to Kayseri Or Nevsheir to Cappadocia (domestic flight time is about 1.5 hours). Alternatively, you can take a bus from Istanbul, which takes about 11 hours.
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Once you arrive in Cappadocia, it is advisable to book a hotel near the city of Goremethe most common starting point for hot air balloon flights, thanks to its central location and proximity to Goreme National Park.
Useful information about hot air balloon flights
Who can't fly a hot air balloon?
The hot air balloon activity is not suitable for children under 5 years old, pregnant women and people with reduced mobility.
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What to bring
You should bring with you your passport or ID card, comfortable shoes and clothes. It is also recommended to bring a jacket as it gets cold early in the morning.
