You’re in one of the world’s most magical places – Cappadocia – and want to book a hot air balloon.
Where do you start?
What should you expect?
I didn’t have much of an idea and also scrambled to book a hot air balloon days before taking it. It all turned out fine and I also wanted to share these tips as well.
Take not of the following factors when determining your hot air balloon in Cappadocia:
1. Takeoff time. The majority of companies take off a little before dawn so will pick you up around 5 am. Some, like the one we took, fly a little after dawn or slightly later in the morning which was fine too.
2. Flight length. Most companies we saw offered 1 hour flights which IMO is more than enough time. It is relaxing, but you will see everything in that timeframe. My daughter was pretty impatient and done after 30 minutes though.
3. Cost. Cost is relatively comparable, but may differ based on number of passengers and any freebies offered at the end. Smaller, private baskets are more expensive. Some companies offer champagne at the end which is more expensive than companies like ours that offered sparkling juice.
4. Basket Size. We booked last minute and for one of the most affordable prices of $153. It was a huge basket with 20 people, not including the pilot and crew. But I actually was fine with it. The basket was divided into 8 compartments and I felt there was sufficient space within ours.
I didn’t mention company and reputation. If you book through your hotel or a travel agent, you may not even know the balloon operator company until you arrive! There are so many balloon companies in Cappadocia and this competition keeps tour operators and balloon companies safe and performing well. Thus, I felt safe going with the tour guide’s recommendation.
I ended up booking through an agent via Airbnb. He was responsive and the ride on Kaya Kapadokya was safe, timely and entertaining. This was also one of the most affordable options at $153/person.
I’m so glad I took this epic hot air balloon ride with my daughter and it’s an adventure I will treasure!
