Cappadocia Balloon Tour: 50 to 75-Minute Sunrise Flight

The defining image of Cappadocia is hundreds of balloons rising out of the valleys at sunrise. This Cappadocia balloon tour puts you inside that picture: you spend between 50 and 75 minutes in the basket, looking down on the fairy chimneys and ancient valleys as the light changes around you.

How the morning works

The team collects you from your hotel and drives you to the launch site. While the balloon is prepared you warm up with tea, coffee and snacks and watch the crew inflate the envelope. After the pilot's safety briefing you climb into the basket and lift off with the first light. Because pickup follows the sunrise, your exact time is sent to you on the day before the flight.

Time in the air

The flight lasts at least 50 and at most 75 minutes. Depending on the wind, the pilot may drop down into the valleys to glide close to the rock formations or climb high to show you the wider landscape. On landing there is a traditional non-alcoholic champagne toast and you receive your flight certificate as a keepsake.

Good to know

Every flight depends on the morning weather and permission from the Civil Aviation authority; if the wind or visibility is not right, the balloons stay on the ground. The flight is not recommended for pregnant travellers or anyone with poor cardiovascular health. A video filmed on the pilot's camera is not included but can be bought separately.

Practical tips

The launch site is chilly at dawn, so dress in layers and wear comfortable flat shoes. If you are staying several nights in Cappadocia, booking your flight for the first morning leaves room for another try if the weather cancels it.

To round off your trip, browse more experiences on our Cappadocia (Göreme) tours page, and find somewhere to stay among our hotels in Göreme.