Goreme Hot Air Balloon Tours | A Detailed Guide

Why go on a Goreme Valley hot air balloon tour?

Spectacular views: Gain a bird's-eye view of the region's otherworldly terrain dotted with fairy chimneys, rock formations, orchards and vineyards, and ancient cave dwellings. It's a completely different perspective than what you'd experience on foot or by car.
Sunrise spectacle: Witness one of the most stunning sunrises imaginable as the first light of day illuminates the rugged landscape below, creating a mesmerizing play of colors and shadows.
Bucket list worthy: Add a hot air balloon ride in Goreme to your bucket list and check off a truly remarkable experience that combines serenity, adventure, and natural beauty.
Photographer's paradise: Capture incredible photographs from a vantage point few get to experience, making your trip to Cappadocia truly memorable.

Plan your visit to Goreme Valley

Goreme hot air balloon tour options

Hot air balloon tour

Witness the sunrise from high above Cappadocia as you glide peacefully over the otherworldly landscapes.
The ticket includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, a delightful breakfast before the flight, and a champagne toast post-flight to savor the experience.
Choose the option of a standard flight (group of 28 people) or a premium flight (group of 20 people) based on your preferences. The standard flight is an economical option, while the premium flight offers you more space to move around and enjoy unobstructed views of the scenery below.

Hot air balloon watching tour

This tour is perfect for those who do not want to go on a hot air balloon flight but see the serene beauty of Cappadocia's morning sky dotted with colorful balloons.
Enjoy a 2-hour professional photoshoot with hundreds of balloons in the background, ensuring you have the most iconic photos to commemorate your visit to Cappadocia.
You'll also get the option to choose 20 expertly edited photos to take home with you.
Enjoy convenient transfers for a hassle-free experience and light snacks to keep you refreshed during the tour.

Recommended ticket: Hot Air Balloon Watching Tour with Photoshoot

Your visual guide to Goreme hot air balloon tours

Plan your Goreme Valley hot air balloon tour

best time to fly in hot air balloon in cappadocia

Cappadocia Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Tour with Breakfast & Transfers: Starts from 4:30am
Hot Air Balloon Watching Tour with Photoshoot: 6am

Best time to fly: While you can enjoy hot air balloon tours all year in the Goreme Valley, the prime seasons are spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). These periods offer the most stable weather and mild temperatures, ensuring a pleasant flight experience.

Cappadocia hot air balloon tour timings

Hot air balloon tours are quite popular, so it's best to book your tour at least 2-3 weeks in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Layered clothing is best for a Goreme hot air balloon ride. Early mornings can be quite chilly, but it tends to warm up quickly once the sun rises. Also, wear comfortable shoes since you'll be standing for the entire flight and might have to walk through fields when you land.
Please follow all the safety guidelines provided by the crew and pilot to ensure a safe experience for all.
Please don't carry sharp objects near the hot air balloon or go onboard with them.

For safety, hot air balloon rides in Cappadocia only take off when the weather is favorable. The government has set specific guidelines for when flights can take place.

If your flight is canceled due to bad weather, you'll have the option to either get a full refund or reschedule your trip.

Feel confident about your safety on a Goreme hot air balloon tour. Operators follow strict safety protocols, the pilots are highly trained, and the balloons undergo thorough maintenance checks daily to ensure everything is in top condition.
Certain individuals are advised against taking the flight for their own safety. This includes pregnant women, people with mobility issues, those who have recently had surgery or sustained injuries, and children younger than six years old.

Hot air balloon safety tips

Exploring Goreme after the flight

Your adventure doesn't end with the hot air balloon ride. Goreme and its surrounding areas are rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, offering a myriad of attractions to explore. Let's take a look at some of the most popular ones.

Goreme Open Air Museum

Step back in time at the Goreme Open Air Museum, a complex of ancient churches and monasteries carved into the rock. Marvel at the Byzantine-era frescoes depicting scenes from the Bible, which have survived for centuries.

Goreme Open Air Museum

Cappadocia Red tour

The Red Tour is a popular day trip that takes you to some of the most famous sights in northern Cappadocia, including the Uchisar Castle, Pasabag (Monk's Valley), Avanos (known for its pottery), and the Devrent Valley with its imaginative rock formations.

Red tour

Cappadocia Green tour

Explore the southern region of Cappadocia on a Green Tour. See fascinating underground cities and the Selime Monastery and wander through the stunning Ihlara Valley and Pigeon Valley. It's the perfect way to soak up the natural beauty of this incredible region.

Green tour

Nearby valleys

Don't miss the opportunity to visit other nearby valleys like Love Valley, Pigeon Valley, and Rose Valley. These areas are perfect for hiking and offer spectacular views, unique rock formations, and hidden cave churches.

Valleys near Goreme

Underground cities

The underground cities of Derinkuyu and Kaymakli are fascinating subterranean networks of rooms and tunnels that once provided refuge for thousands of people. These multi-level cities include living quarters, kitchens, wineries, and even chapels.

Churches of Goreme

Explore the numerous rock-cut churches in and around Goreme, such as the Tokali Church, the Dark Church, and the Al Nazar Church. Each church is unique, with intricate frescoes and historical significance.

Goreme National Park

Embark on a hike through Goreme National Park to discover more of Cappadocia's lunar-like landscapes. Wander among fairy chimneys and rock-cut churches, or simply soak in the tranquility of the unique environment.

Goreme Hamam

Treat yourself to a classic Turkish bath at a hammam in Goreme. These traditional baths offer a soothing experience with steam rooms, exfoliating scrubs, relaxing massages, and a cozy, inviting ambiance.

Top sights in Goreme Valley >

Frequently asked questions about Goreme hot air balloon tour

What makes Goreme Valley in Cappadocia ideal for hot air balloon tours?

Goreme Valley's allure for hot air balloon tours lies in its breathtaking landscape. Imagine drifting above an outlandish terrain of fairy chimneys and ancient rock formations shaped over eons by volcanic forces. This UNESCO World Heritage site promises a backdrop that turns every balloon ride into a remarkable journey.

Are Goreme Valley hot air balloon tours suitable for everyone?

Goreme Valley hot air balloon tours are generally suitable for everyone aged 6 and above. However, they are not suitable for pregnant women and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions that could be affected by altitude changes.

How long does a typical Goreme hot air balloon tour last?

Typically, these tours span between 60 to 90 minutes in the air. However, the entire experience, including preparations and breakfast before takeoff and celebratory moments after landing, generally lasts about 3 to 4 hours. Goreme Valley hot air balloon tours often kick off at dawn to catch the sunrise, enhancing the enchantment of the adventure.

What can I expect during a hot air balloon flight in Goreme?

As you rise into the sky, you'll be treated to a breathtaking view of valleys, fairy chimneys, and ancient rock formations. Your experienced pilot will guide the balloon, pointing out landmarks and sharing fascinating insights about the area. The sunrise adds a magical touch, painting the surreal terrain with warm hues and creating an unforgettable experience that blends tranquility with excitement.

What else should I explore in Goreme after my hot air balloon tour?

After your exhilarating hot air balloon ride, Goreme offers a myriad of attractions to explore. Visit the Goreme Open-Air Museum to discover ancient cave churches adorned with frescoes, hike through Love Valley for stunning vistas, or unwind with a traditional Turkish bath experience. Don't forget to sample local delicacies and shop for handmade crafts to complete your visit to this remarkable destination.