Looking for recommendations for a ballon ride company for morning of June 1 2025 in Cappadocia
Length of time and number of riders would be helpful
Cost estimates would be appreciated
Thank you
Jerry
PS we know we have to get up a 4 am and leave hotel at 5 am first time for both of us thanks again
Posted by
Atlanta, GA
841 posts
We used Royal Balloons and were extremely pleased with them. We paid $125 in 2015, but my impression is that prices have more or less doubled since then. My recollection is that the balloon was designed to hold 16 people, and we had around 12 people. They took us to their office and provided breakfast before the flight, and then drove us to the launch site. My photos show that we were in the air for almost exactly one hour. They served us champagne to celebrate afterwards.
I have take three balloon rides, and the one in Cappadocia was the best. The views were amazing, the landing was so smooth that we couldn't even tell that we had touched down, and the logistics were like clockwork.
Posted by
Centennial, CO, US
2239 posts
We used Butterfly Balloons years ago and had a wonderful experience as well. Not sure of current cost or numbers — you can research that. We stayed at the Kelebek Cave Hotel in Goreme, which was very near the gathering place for the balloon ride, so we just walked over.
My only caution is that balloon rides are weather dependent — so you should book one for your first morning in case it’s cancelled, so you could rebook.
Posted by
Salem, Oregon, USA
3125 posts
On my RS tour we used Kapadokya Balloons. In 2023 I think it was around $300 for a one hour ride at the exchange rate at the time. Our balloon had 28 people in a large basket. I don't know what level of service we had because RS guide coordinated it for us (the company has several options). There are likely cheaper options, but make sure the company you select one that is officially registered with the Ministry of Transportation. This is a once in a lifetime experience - definitely want an experienced and safe pilot.
Whatever company you select, make sure you VERY carefully read the terms and conditions, especially about refunds if your trip is canceled due to conditions or if you cancel for any reason. Note that the balloon company doesn't make the decision about whether to fly, it's a decision imposed by the ministry.
My only caution is that balloon rides are weather dependent — so you
should book one for your first morning in case it’s cancelled, so you
could rebook.
If you have only one day available, I hope you have favorable conditions that day. If you have more than one morning as an option, schedule it the first day so you have another day to try again (most companies allow you to do this).