Cappadocia Balloon Tours Cappadocia is one of the most popular tourist areas in Turkey and for good reason.  With its breathtaking scenery, including unique geological rock formations, Cappadocia is one of the most visually striking regions in the world.  At one time, Cappadocia was home to many active volcanoes, but over time, the volcanoes, along with other natural elements, have worked together to form one of nature's most beautiful canvasses.  Visitors to this amazing region can view the amazing landscape of Cappadocia from the majestic skies aboard a hot air balloon.  Whether you're in for the sheer adventure or romance, Cappadocia balloon tours offer an experience like no other. What To Expect Cappadocia balloon tours occur very early in the morning; you'll get started around 5 or 6 am, depending on the season.  You'll ride in a hot air balloon that accommodates anywhere from 8 to 20 people, although some have chartered hot air balloons to be married while floating over the astonishing landscape.  Contrary to popular belief, there is no sensation of movement aboard hot air balloons, no turbulence or feeling of wind at all.  Instead, while the wind moves the balloon with the pilot guiding it, you'll feel nothing but serenity as you glide over majestic naturescapes.  The basket won't sway or even rock at all; instead, it will gently glide over the region as you take in the breathtaking sights.  In fact, balloon tours in Cappadocia offer unique opportunities to see many of the sights, as no other form of transportation can tour some of the incredible sights in the region.  Just imagine the pictures you'll add to your albums as you tour the countryside! Hot air balloon pilots routinely test the weather conditions before taking passengers up and won't risk flights unless the conditions are right.  Cappadocia balloon tours take place in the early morning because of the stability of the winds right after sunrise, so be prepared to get up early.  You'll be taken to the launch site by the tour company, who will also meet you after your flight, as the ground crew will follow the balloon tour.  Although the entire flight will last approximately an hour, you may be away as much as 3 to 4 hours, given the transportation to and from your hotel, the time needed to inflate the balloon, and general flight preparations. Do dress for comfort for balloon tours in Cappadocia and wear walking shoes.  You can expect the temperature in the balloon to be about the same temperature on the ground, so you can dress as you would if you were simply touring the countryside.  It is possible you could land in a field, so do be prepared to walk a short distance to the road. What You Can Expect To See Although hot air ballooning is exciting in itself, Cappadocia balloon tours are far more exciting than some because of the breathtaking beauty below.  In fact, depending on the altitude, you can see most of the Cappadocia region.  You'll see valley after valley, including the Goreme, Zelve, and the Love.  You'll see volcanoes and picturesque rock formations, castles, and rivers.  You'll also be able to see churches and even people, as most balloons fly below 2500 feet. There are also balloon tours Cappadocia during the winter months as well.  Most touring companies fly from March through November, so you have a long season in which to fly.  In fact, the winter may provide even more sightseeing opportunities because the trees will be bare, allowing you to see almost right through them.  While passengers of all ages are usually welcome, keep in mind that very young children could be frightened and could then upset the ride for everyone.  Most rides last about an hour and depending on the wind, you can expect to travel up to 10 or 15 miles. Best Conditions For Hot Air Ballooning Weather conditions need to be ideal for hot air ballooning, so you want to be flexible if possible when you plan your trip.  In other words, you would not want to plan balloon tours in Cappadocia on the very last day of your trip in case the weather was not suitable for flying that day and the tour had to be postponed a day or two.  Therefore, try to leave another day or two to visit the Cappadocia region, if possible, so you won't miss the most exciting part of visiting Cappadocia. Because hot air balloons need stable winds in which to fly, too much wind or not enough wind would mean that the flight would have to be postponed.  Also, since it is cooler in the morning, that makes it an ideal time to operate a hot air balloon because the cooler temperature provides a better lift for the balloon.  In addition, in the case of rain or fog, the flight would be canceled as well.  Fortunately, it rains very little in Cappadocia, so that is not a concern very often. What To Look For In A Tour Company Beware of any hot air balloon tour company that does not take the weather seriously or does not check the weather conditions immediately before the flight.  In addition, you want to make sure that the basket is not overcrowded.  While it is standard to stand during the flight, most hot air balloon tour companies will make special concessions for those who need to be seated.  However, you don't want your tour to be spoiled by feeling that you're packed in like sardines.  Also, don't be afraid to ask about the pilot's level of experience and if he is licensed.  However, hot air ballooning is generally considered safe, and it is the oldest form of successful flight. Riders should follow all directions given to them by the pilot to ensure everyone's safety at all times.  While it is true that the wind carries the hot air balloon, the pilot does have some control.  All the pilots at Cappadocia balloon tours are highly qualified and licensed, so anyone traveling to Cappadocia for the scenic balloon tours should be in good hands and have an experience to remember for a lifetime.