I always been fascinated by the photos I’ve seen of the Cappadocia Balloon Festival, one of the largest balloon festivals in the world, organized every July. The region’s stunning natural landscape of dramatic rock formations, fairy chimneys, and lush valleys is one of a kind. It has always been on my bucket list to visit this place and take a balloon flight regardless of when the festival is held. I somehow managed to take two, both times unable to contain my excitement. Here is why you may want to put this on your bucket list…..

 

But First a Bit of History

The first hot-air balloon flight started in 1985 by a cassette company for promotional purposes. From there, it became the interest of the Turkish Aeronautical Association who began training pilots and opening opportunities for commercial purposes. By 2000, the first commercial flight with passengers became possible. By 2015, it expanded to over 15 commercial companies requiring regulations and an air traffic system. Today, there are over 25 balloon companies with over 225 registered balloons and up to 100 flying most mornings during good weather. This makes the balloon industry competitive, offering both reasonable pricing and promotions. To learn more about visiting Cappadocia as a destination, click here.

 

Flying in a Hot-Air Balloon in Cappadocia

 This is not my first time as a passenger, as hot-air balloons has always fascinated me having flown my first one in Virginia, becoming hooked. Unfortunately, the cost for a one-hour flight in the US is ridiculous. Although, Albuquerque, New Mexico’s Balloon Festival has been on my bucket list for some time.

The process is almost the same. You are expected to get picked up by 5:00 am and taken to the grounds. There you are given flight instructions and something to eat. You get to watch how the staff and the pilot use the burners to fill the balloon with hot air and helium. Once it is almost full, you are helped into this enormous basket with up to 12 – 24 passengers depending on its size. By the time the balloon is released, dawn is piercing through the sky. Up and away you go with a bit of chilly wind in your face, warming up to the burst of hot flames from the burners.

Once you are in flight, it is nothing less than floating in the sky. It is both magical and serene. Once high enough, you get to see the natural beauty of Cappadocia’s landscape uniquely different, comprising of thousands of fairy chimneys and unique rock formations of a bone white color dominating the landscape. Every minute the sun is rising, the more you see breathtaking views, a panoramic scenery, awe-inspiring. A balloon flight offers a perspective that you will never get from any other form of transportation. It is truly a celebration.

 As the minutes tick away, the balloon begins to gently move to your final destination where the crew is already there to welcome you back to earth. The landing can be a bit bumpy but for both times, it landed right into the truck as planned. The staff works fiercely to bring down the balloon before helping you climb out of the basket. While the crew is closing it down, the pilot brings out the bubbly to celebrate another successful voyage, handing out certificates with your name printed and dropping you off. Not bad for an early morning rise.

 

The Impact of the Balloon Industry in Cappadocia

Cappadocia’s hot-air balloon rides have become one of the region’s most iconic tourist experiences, having an economic impact on the region providing jobs for pilots, ground crew and support staff. This has led to more jobs and opportunities within the hospitality, transportation and retail industry. It has clearly improved the standard of living for local communities that were impoverished decades ago as well as welcoming new residents.

However, its continue success depends on maintaining a high standard of safety to further enhance the industry’s positive reputation. There are environmental concerns impacting the landscape as the industry grows and over tourism creates crowd problems, especially during peak seasons. Over time, the balloon industry will need to implement sustainable practices using more environmentally friendly materials and reducing the overall carbon footprint of balloon operations to minimize the erosion of the rock formations that has been gradually taking place.

 

Lastly, My Photos

My photos are of both balloon flights from the beginning to the final stage of completing this unique adventure. As always remember to click the center of the photo for a full view of each photograph.

 

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