Hot-air ballooning was THE reason I wanted to visit Turkey. Don’t get me wrong, Turkey is beautiful, but hot-air ballooning in Cappadocia had been on my travel bucket list forever. I am so happy that we finally got to do it and it was every bit as magical as I imagined.
The pick-up time was around 5:10 am. We were first brought to the tour office for payment, briefing and allocation of basket/pilot. There was some bread and coffee provided for people who were hungry.
Thereafter, we were driven to the take-off spot. Our balloon was not ready yet so we were able to observe the setting up process. All around us were other balloons being set up and taking off. I loved seeing the flare of fire and the glowing balloons.
In a surprisingly short time, our balloon was ready and it was time to climb into our basket and take-off. The sun rose as we rose.
At some point, the pilot brought us on a controlled ascent and we could see the top of other balloons.
During the descent, we got a much closer look at the landscape.
Getting closer to the ground.
Touchdown! To close off the experience, they even had a mini award presentation where they gave everyone a certificate for participation and a glass of champagne.
Other Thoughts
I have a strong fear of heights but this activity wasn’t scary at all. The balloon was very stable throughout, almost like being on land. Also, I was very glad I was not in a skirt or dress for this activity as everyone had to climb over the rims of the basket to get in and out.
This experience was amazing but I do not think hot-air ballooning would be as fun if the scenery was boring. You don’t do very much in the balloon. A large part of the magic was due to Cappadocia’s unique and spectacular landscape. Add in sunrise and tens of balloons rising around you, it was surreal.
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