Turkey series 3 - Hot Air Balloon

 Hot Air Balloon in Cappadocia

This blog is not a third series per se. Rather it is an extension of the second blog in the series. In the end of my previous blog, I mentioned that just visiting the valleys in Cappadocia is not the only activity one can undertake.

A major and the most famous attraction here is the Hot Air Balloon. This blog will be a short one, but I had to make it separate because of the experience in this.

(Hot Air Balloon)

(A lit-up balloon)

So, what is this hot air balloon? How does this work?

Basically, this is a balloon that blows up when hot air or a flame is blown into it. Due to this hot air, the balloon starts to rise. A basket attached to this balloon will also be pulled up. People can stand in these baskets and they too will rise up to catch the views from up above. The lit-up balloon picture shows a flame being blown to inflate the balloon.

Hot air balloon was first started in 1980's as a part of marketing activity. However, the first balloon with passengers was launched in 1991 to promote tourism in this region. Gradually, the activity became popular in Cappadocia. The reason why this became popular is because of the picturesque views that can be seen while above. Check out the pictures below on the views (Zoom in to view them better).

(Balloon as it rises)

(Views from above)

On a good, sunny day, almost 170 balloons fly up together. That's a sight to behold.

Every day, the weather feasibility is checked before they are flown. A test balloon is sent up and the weather conditions, wind speed etc are checked. Only if all conditions are favourable, the balloons are allowed to be flown. If not, none of the balloons fly. So, if you are travelling here in winters, make sure to check if the weather is favourable for ride the balloons.

(Valley view with a number of balloons)

(Sun rise at the background)

(View from the highest point from balloon)

The max height the balloon goes will be around 1000-1200 m from the ground level. That is indeed some height covered and one can imagine the views from such height. On a good day, the sun rise in the background adds flair to the already extravagant scenery.

A lot of balloon operators undertake this activity. I chose Voyager Balloons. The cost of the ride is 180 Euros per person. Booking can be done either online or by cash payment on the day of flight. The operators pick you up from your hotel early morning to their office. The flight happens every morning only at around 7.30 AM. At the office, a small breakfast is provided. Once the breakfast is done, you are taken to the take off point.

As I mentioned, there is a basket tied to the balloon in which people can stand. Voyager balloons allow 16-20 people in a basket. This gives more space to move around and enjoy the views. Other operators allow 30, sometimes 40 people in a basket. This makes it congested. However, more the people, lesser the price. These rides cost 120-130 Euros per person making it cheaper. The ride is about 1 hour 15 mins (1 hour in the air). The landing is smooth albeit in a different place than the take off point. A small celebration with champagne takes place in the end (non-alcoholic juice will also be provided) and certificates will be distributed.

(Certificate)

If you are planning a small trip to Turkey, then visit only Cappadocia and go for a balloon ride. This is one of the lifetime experiences and it is very memorable. I am happy and proud to say that I have BEEN THERE, DONE THAT!! For now, enjoy this blog while I will be back with more. Cya. 

(Video of the balloon rise)

If you haven't read my previous blogs, here are the link for you:

Cappadocia
Istanbul