Cappadocia, Turkey. 15 Things I Wish I knew Before My Visit !
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- Опубликовано: 1 июн 2024
- Cappadocia, Turkey - best known for the stunning rock formations and the Hot Air Balloons that hover above this unique landscape. In this video, I visit Cappadocia and tell you a number of things that I wish I would have known before my visit. During the first half of this video, I discuss the Cappadocia region and specifically the place I stayed in Göreme. During the second half I talk in depth about the balloon ride, including price and reservation tips, and some other useful things to know before taking a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia.
0:00 Introduction
0:40 Cappadocia Region Map
1:20 A look around Göreme
1:59 Rock formations as homes and hotels
2:59 Castle Cave Hotel in Göreme
3:55 Trails and Fairy Chimneys
4:37 Rent a Car in Cappadocia
5:01 Uçhisar Castle
5:45 Love Valley
6:15 Dondurma (Turkish Ice Cream)
6:40 Hot Air Balloon Ride Shuttle Bus
6:57 Balloon Ride Times and Weather
7:33 Prime Season vs. Winter vs. Spring/Fall
8:25 Getting the Best Spot for your Balloon Ride
9:30 History of the Hot Air Balloons in Cappadocia
9:45 Safety Record of Balloons
10:36 Length of flight and details
11:35 How High do they Fly?
12:00 What happens if balloons collide?
12:41 Are there smaller hot air balloons?
13:05 Cost and Reserving a Hot Air Balloon Ride
14:11 Smooth Landing
14:35 Final Thoughts
In this video I share my experience in Cappadocia, Turkey during a recent visit with my wife.
Nestled in central Turkey, this place is just an hour's flight from Istanbul and is renowned for its breathtaking hot air balloon rides.
First off, it's essential to know that Cappadocia isn't just a city; it's an entire region. Landing in the charming town of Göreme, situated on the far eastern edge, offers proximity to the captivating rock formations and fairy chimneys. Staying here has its perks - from the surreal rock formations literally within the town to a myriad of amenities like restaurants, hotels, and unique cave dwellings that define the landscape.
One fascinating aspect of Cappadocia is how homes and facilities seamlessly integrate into the rock formations. It's a different approach compared to some places in the American West. In Cappadocia, people have been living in these rock formations for thousands of years, some converted into luxurious cave hotels, creating a unique and immersive experience.
And speaking of unique experiences, I had the chance to stay in a cave hotel. The room was comfortable, but the real treat was the view from the deck overlooking Göreme, making it an unforgettable stay.
A quick tip for exploration: venture to the outskirts of Göreme, where trails offer opportunities for horseback riding, hiking, and even climbing into fairy chimneys. It's the same area where hot air balloons take off, but exploring it later in the day provides a different perspective.
Renting a car is a wise choice to explore the broader Cappadocia region. Places like Uchisar, with its ancient castle, and Love Valley, though a bit touristy, are worth a visit. Love Valley might raise an eyebrow with its name, but the rock formations are intriguing.
Now, let's delve into the main attraction - the hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia. It's a bucket list item for many, and for a good reason. The experience is surreal, offering a unique vantage point of the extraordinary landscapes.
The process begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel, typically between 5 a.m. and 6 a.m., and a transfer to the launch site. However, the ride is weather-dependent. If conditions aren't optimal, the meteorologists won't give the green light. In the summer, chances are high; in winter, it's the opposite. In-between seasons, like April, it's a bit of a gamble.
Landing a spot on the outer edge of the basket is a smart move for better photo opportunities. The liftoff is gradual, providing a calm and controlled ascent. The pilot's confidence and the stable, secure feeling contribute to a memorable experience, even for those uneasy with heights.
The flight, lasting around 45 minutes to an hour, takes you close to rock formations, fairy chimneys, and offers spectacular views. It's a visual feast, with everyone on board capturing the moments on their phones. The landing is typically smooth and uneventful.
Regarding reservations, booking online beforehand ensures a guaranteed spot, but it comes at a premium - 300 Euros as opposed to 200 Euros if booked locally. Keep in mind that if weather conditions prevent the balloons from flying, you'll get a refund.
As the journey comes to an end, there's a mix of exhilaration and a touch of sadness that it's over. The views, the experience - it's all so extraordinary that you wouldn't want to miss this opportunity. Cappadocia, with its enchanting landscapes and the magical hot air balloon ride, is indeed a destination that should be on everyone's bucket list.
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This is the best Cappadocia video I have seen. It's informative and very professional. Thank you very much.
Thank you for your kind words!
Yes and to the point.
Best thing I came to know is the airport . I was checking flights to nevseher airport which were not direct.
So I was planning by bus which was too much time taking. Thanks for info🙂
Well made review. Thanks for sharing. Learnt a lot!
Thank you. It was very detail and helpful.
I've been to Capadocia 3 times since 2008 an amazing place .
Very useful. Thank You!
We just went there i loved Cappadocia
👍thanks for sharing. Good to know that the chances for the hot air balloons to take off in the winter is much lower than the summer time. I was originally planning to do it around Xmas time.
Nice video. Thanks.
Very informative. Thank you.
Thanks for watching.
Nice video i enjoyed viewing it & nice picturization
Thanks for your kind words 🙏🏼
That was so informative and enjoyable! Thank you so much! 😊🙏👏👏👏👏👏
Thanks for watching!
Been here was amazing
thank you very informative ❤❤
Superb
Nice video! We just came back from Turkey. We did the comfort flight as it was my birthday. It was a small basket max 10 people. Minus the 2 pilots, it was divided into two sections where a family of 4 stood and us plus a lady. Very comfortable indeed!
What company provides the comfort /small basket ride ?
@@kimstlaurent631 we booked with Voyager via our hotel
12:30 SO MANY PEOPLE IN THAT BASKET?? DANGEROUS !!
Thank you for sharing. Will be there in 6 weeks ;)
Thanks for watching, enjoy your visit!
me too! have a great time
excellent
Thanks for watching!
You can video editing for attract your audience
Brad,thanks a lot for your wonderful video. This is Flor from Argentina. I was looking for an interesting and captivating video to teach about this place to my students. I teach English as a foreign language and now teaching adults. Loved how you described, organised the information and I have learnt a lot about the place. Permission to use it in my lessons. Thanks again, I will have to visit this place soon. Regards
Glad you liked the video. Full permission to use for your lessons. Enjoy!
The most informative video on Cappadocia hot air balloon ride. Thank you!
Glad it was helpful!
Great video till you spoke about the balloon ride like it was a space launch. Loved your B roll videos. Lots of info. Thank you ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Sweet video lol cant wait we do 1 month in turkey in april
Have fun... I'm sure you'll enjoy it.
great video. Thank you. also did you ask how they are able to steer the balloon? thanks
My only question are their 2 pilots for each balloon just in case of an emergency?
Dont book online for the hot air balloon rides if you have extra time there and don't want to get ripped off. Go to the tour agencies in person there and make them compete. I got it for 55 euro per person. Never let your hotel book it - they will overcharge you.
Thanks for your comment.. it’s such a supply and demand game. I agree with you - if you can negotiate in person, that’s probably the best bet. My understanding is that it becomes tricky when wind or weather cancels out some days and you have pent up demand. I think if you can get a ride for 55 euro, you’re getting a very good deal!
Really, this is an amazing price for it, can you send me more info pls
Wow Amazing so beautiful video ❤❤❤🪂
I want to plan a photoshoot at cappadocia but online it’s very costly. Would you know if I can walk-in and get a photographer over there
I bought a ticket to the balloons last minute and paid a lot less than $200. I think it was $120.
Well done! I think that’s a good strategy… particularly if you’re there for a few days and have flexible travel options.
Please share the balloon company :) I found Turquaz Balloons for $175
It depends on the days. Sometimes it does not fly because of air conditions so the next day prices can be 2 or 3 fold unfortunately.
Can you please share with us which company !?
Hello friend, how many days would you suggest. My friend is suggesting a week and that seems a bit much
I think a week is a bit long. I was there 3 days and felt like I saw everything I needed. 3-4 days is good.
When did u visit ? is may mid a good time to visit ? does it rain in may?
My understanding is that May - September is the best season where you have the greatest chance of lifting off in a balloon.
It is better to visit in July or August because it is really cold at night during May or June.
My visit was in April and it was delightful weather… chilly at night (needed a jacket) but very pleasant otherwise. I think May or June would be just fine.
Great video, but I have a question. I am going to visit cappadocia for a week later this year, and I want to rent a car. Do I need to have an international driving permit alongside my driving licence from my home country to drive in Turkey? Because I have read online that if I am visiting for less than 3 months then my license is enough, there is no need for IDP. However, some other websites said that I need an IDP alongside my license no matter the duration I will be visiting Turkey for, if I want to drive in Turkey. Could you please clarify? Thanks 🙏
I rented a car and had no problem - they accepted my American drivers license in Turkey without any questions. Just to be sure, I would rent from a large well known American car rental company (such as Hertz, Avis, Enterprise). Some rental car companies in Europe are starting to get more particular (i.e. Europcar).
@@bradball Thx
It is only phone cameras allowed onboard or can you take a bigger camera on?
I’m sure they’ll let you take any Digital camera on board.
They are not too concerned about the weight. I had my DSLR with me and a pretty big 26L backpack. No questions asked - all went into the basket.
Hi, where did you book your tickets from Istanbul to Cappadocia? From US or took a chance to book after going to Istanbul? Which website did you use? Booking from US looks expensive and package trip companies are asking for 40% non refundable down. Thanks
We flew into Kayseri and rented a car. Tickets were booked directly with the airline about 2 weeks prior. Renting and driving in Turkey is easy. Kayseri is a larger city than Nevsehir (where most tour groups go) booking a flight should be easy and relatively inexpensive (depending upon the season).
Note: Kayseri is further away from Gorome… but still an easy 1 hour drive. If possible, I would try to rent a car. So many things to see in Cappadocia and a car provides the freedom and flexibility.
Generally when I travel I choose NOT to book with tour operators, but like the freedom and flexibility of traveling independently when possible.
Thank you! So renting and driving for US people is easier there? Would guides be available in places where we visit? Because package trip is offering their own English speaking guide to explain about places. I appreciate you taking time to respond. Thanks again
Hi, which month did you do this hot air balloon ride?
This was in April.
How did you choose which company? Which did you fly with?
Simply did a search on Trip Advisor. I think service and price are very similar for all.
8:10 do you recommend to book the Experience of the hot Baloon online or with local guides ?
N what if the weather don't allow you, would you you get full refund ?
Yes, you will get your money back if the balloons can't go.
If you are in Cappadocia for 3-4 days (especially in the summer) I would purchase from a local guide in town. You will save a lot of money.
If you only have 1-2 days and you want to guarantee a spot, I would probably pay extra to reserve online beforehand.
@@bradball thank you. Much appreciated
Look for balloon operators at AirBNB and ask their prices for specific days.
If there was a no-fly day or two before the day - the prices can easily double or triple.
On the other hand - if no cancelations prior to your dates - you can fly much cheaper. I got 3 of us flying in Aug. for 400USD total and I bet I could find even cheaper if I spent more time.
Excellent insight. Thanks for your comment/. @@Arsenit
@Arsenit did you got ask for your Pasport # ?
Thanx for info.m going next week there for specially this ride.n what about red and green tours after flight of hot air baloon?are they iseful to visit or not?
I think it depends. If you have a rental car, you can go everywhere on your own without joining a specific tour - that is what I prefer to do. However, it you don't have your own car, or if you prefer to be with a group, it could make sense to join the red or green tour. Good luck on your trip - you will surely enjoy Cappadocia!
@@bradball thank u
How many days you stayed in cappadocia ?
Stayed in Gorome for 3 days.
On 1:27 you stayed where?
We stayed at a place called Castle Cave Hotel in Gorome. The clip at 1:27 was taken along the Main Street in Gorome.
Very nice!! But the prices for the balloons is too expensive. Another company can cut it by at least half.@@bradball
GOreme with an O. Not GEreme. Please learn to say the places names correctly. I did actually enjoy the visuals and it brought back fabulous memories of our stay at Coza Cave Hotel and hot air ballooning whilst spending a week in this amazing town
Actually it's Göreme (phonetically spoken as Geu-ré-mé)
Excellent video. I agree with everything you had to say about Cappadocia. One correction I do have to make is the following:
"Two Spanish Tourists Killed in Air Balloon Accident in Turkey's Cappadocia. Oct. 18, 2022, at 4:47 a.m. ANKARA (Reuters) - Two Spanish tourists were killed and three were injured on Tuesday when the hot air balloon they were travelling in made a hard landing in Turkey's Cappadocia, the local governor's office said.Oct 18, 2022 "
We were scheduled to take the balloon ride, 8 passenger balloon, in Oct the day after this incident but due to high winds no balloons flew the next day. Extremely disappointed.
Janet - thanks for watching and got your comment. I feel for you not being able to take a balloon ride while in Cappadocia.
Also - you are very correct, there have been a few incidents over the years (my statement in the video was wrong)… including the fatal accident last October.
@@bradball Millions of people ride a hot air balloon every year. this flight is as safe as a commercial plane or as dangerous as a commercial plane...
Which hotel did u stay in?
Castle Cave Hotel in Gorome
Millions of people ride a hot air balloon every year. this flight is as safe as a commercial plane or as dangerous as a commercial plane...
These are old world inherited structures. Melted. Not carved into.
if you have money you can take a ride of hot Air balloon for 4,6 people.maybe with your family or your friends
HAHA been about 20 years before the previous incident! A quick youtube search could tell you thats a lie!
Sir, you are very correct. There have been multiple incidents over the last decade, including a fatal accident in 2022. My information source (the pilot shown briefly in the video) was clearly incorrect.
I still believe the hot air balloon rides to be a relatively safe activity, but there have clearly been incidents over the years.
Hot air balloon flight in Cappadocia is CHEAP. Too bad they don't do private flight anymore.
Hi joyjoy534 how cheap is cheap? Pls advise as we r planning to visit
@@renushah7729 Less than US$200 per person. A fraction of the cost of staying at 4S Suttanahmet for 1 night.
Ridicilous asking 200€ per person. 20ppl in each basket per day 1 balloo ride will make around 4000€ 🥴🥴 I wonder whether lower prices are charged for children and locals
Very expensive… but there seems to be no shortage of demand.
My sense is that there may be some… but probably not too many locals or children who fly in the balloons. I’m unsure whether or not they get a special deal.
I want to plan a photoshoot at cappadocia but online it’s very costly. Would you know if I can walk-in and get a photographer over there
There are definitely places in Gorome where you can walk up and schedule a photography session.
I want to plan a photoshoot at cappadocia but online it’s very costly. Would you know if I can walk-in and get a photographer over there
generally photographers are prereserved but you can contact when you come.