BEEP! BEEP! BEEP!
It’s 6am and my phone alarm shocks me awake. I roll over wondering why in the world I have set an alarm at such a ridiculous hour of the morning, especially while I’m on holidays. Then it hits me – sunrise hot air ballooning!
This experience was definitely one of the highlights I had whilst travelling around Turkey, if not one of my most memorable experiences.Period.
Yes, waking up early on a holiday is not what I would call fun,but to see views like this?
Definitely worth it.
Cappadocia is one of the most popular destinations for hot air ballooning in the world and is also one of the few places where it can be done all year round – summer through to winter. Just be mindful if you are planning to go in the colder months.I travelled there in February 2019, towards the end of winter and was lucky to get a ride as the previous few mornings had been cancelled due to poor weather.
Upon waking up (if you don’t hit snooze 15 times like I did), it’s a good idea to grab some breakfast before heading off. By 7am, everyone meets in the foyer of your hotel and is ready to go– each tour operator will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel afterwards.
Heading out to the fields, it is still pitch-black outside, and everyone is half asleep on the tour bus. In the distance, small pockets of light can be seen flashing all around. As we near our drop off point the view we are met with is breath-taking.
Hundreds of balloons surround us on the valley floor as incredible bursts of flame come short, fast and loud, leaving all thoughts of sleep behind. Finally, our balloon is ready, and we pack into the basket. Each basket has 4 compartments which fits 5 people in each- a total of 20 people plus one Pilot for each balloon.
The take-off is smooth and before you know it the balloon is ascending higher and higher with a maximum climb allowed of 800m. As the morning goes on, more and more balloons join in with up to 150 operating every day!
Each balloon drifts slowly up and down, getting carried in all directions by the wind allowing you to see the mesmerising landscape beneath – breathtaking views of endless valleys, canyons and unique fairy chimneys.
The balloon ride lasts an hour, giving you ample time to take countless photos of the scenery. However, try not to get caught up in taking the perfect picture, make sure to appreciate being in the moment as it is a fantastic once in a lifetime experience.
To book in a trip, all you need to do is ask your hotel reception and they can organise for a tour operator to come to your hotel in the evening , although it will be very likely one is already organised to come give information and take bookings. If you are keen to join in for the following morning’s tour, add your name to the list and expected to pay a fee of approximately AUD$350pp (the price may vary in the Summer peak season). This fee includes hotel pick up and drop off, a 1-hour balloon ride, refreshments upon landing (my group was treated to fresh cherry juice and cake) and a personalised certificate of completion.
For those of you less keen on spending the money or simply afraid of heights (like my boyfriend), there are spectacular viewing spots that can be found all throughout town which still allow for that perfect Instagram shot, and on the plus side you can get a bit of a sleep -in.
But honestly, if you have flown halfway around the world to Turkey and find yourself in Cappadocia, just do it. Splurge a little. I can promise you it is worth every penny.
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