Luxury Travel Blog

Ideas to inspire your world: luxury, culture, food, travel, style

September 21, 2012

Flying in a Hot-Air Balloon over Cappadocia, Turkey

Cappadocia is one of the most unusual and atmospheric destinations in Turkey. A rural region in Central Anatolia, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site of ancient underground cities, fresco-filled cave churches and fantastical rock formations.

947-Cappadocia.jpg

In addition to excellent cultural touring, Cappadocia’s dramatic landscapes and sunny climate make it one of the best places in the world to enjoy a hot-air balloon ride.

946-balloons.jpg

Hot-air balloon flights in Cappadocia start around dawn, when the air is cool and calm.

953-moonlight.jpg

Depending on the time of year, you might be treated to a dusting of snow on the fairy chimneys. But even in summer, be sure to dress warmly, as you’ll be flying thousands of feet up into the fresh morning air.

956-mountain.jpg

At the launch site, the crew uses fans to inflate the fabric envelope with air.

950-ground.jpg

Next, they ignite burners that heat the air inside the balloon, causing it to rise off the ground.

949-closeup.jpg

After you climb into the gondola, the balloon slowly lifts off into the quiet of the morning.

955-cappadocia_above.jpg

The hot-air balloon pilots study the day’s weather conditions and air currents to optimize the flight path.

During the flight, the pilot explains balloon flying technique, such as climbing or descending to catch the appropriate air currents.

952-aerial.jpg

A good pilot can make vertical adjustments of just a few inches.

951-distance.jpg

While drifting over the beautiful countryside, the pilot also points out notable features in Cappadocia’s unique topography.

958-chimneys.jpg

The highest altitudes in the flight provide spectacular views of vineyards, whitewashed villages and colorful rock formations.

957-overview.jpg

As the balloon gradually descends, the pilot skillfully guides it through Cappadocia’s rugged valleys.

948-caves_balloon.jpg

You might even get low enough to wave at guests having breakfast on the terrace of their hotel.

At the end of the flight, the balloon touches down in a field, where you can enjoy a Champagne toast and look through the many photographs you will undoubtedly have taken during your unforgettable journey.

954-jeep.jpg

Artisans of Leisure can easily incorporate hot-air balloon rides into any of our Turkey tours that feature Cappadocia. We can also arrange hot-air balloon flights over the temples in Bagan, Myanmar (Burma); above the wildlife-filled Serengeti in Tanzania or Maasai Mara in Kenya; and above the vineyards of the Loire Valley or Beaujolais, France.

Destinations:  Europe, Turkey

Tags:  activities, adventure, adventure travel, Cappadocia, exclusive experiences, excursions. hot air balloon ride, hot air ballooning, luxury tours, tours, Turkey tours