Here we’ll explore the best hot air balloon companies in Cappadocia, and find answers to the most common questions; “Which balloon company in Cappadocia?”, “How do I choose a hot air balloon in Cappadocia?” and “Where is the best place to watch balloons in Cappadocia?”.
Which balloon company in Cappadocia?
Below you can find our recommendations. Each company directly operates the hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia with their team of experts. So you will book your flight directly from the company. No men in the middle.
- Royal Balloon (over 5,500, 5-star reviews, from €130)
- Discovery Balloons (over 3,200, 5-star reviews, from €160)
- Turquaz Balloons (over 2,400, 5-star reviews, from €100)
- Butterfly Balloons (over 1,650, 5-star reviews, from €140)
- Balloon Turca (over 800, 5-star reviews, from €100)
- Turkiye Balloons (over 350, 5-star reviews, from €130)
- Skyway Balloons (over 550, 5-star reviews, from €110)
- Atmosfer Balloons (over 150, 5-star reviews, from €100)
- Guvercin Balloons (over 150, 5-star reviews, from €130)
Why Book with These Balloon Companies?
- Highly rated with thousands of 5-star reviews
- Experienced, licensed pilots for a safe flight
- Premium service, including hotel pickup, breakfast, and champagne toast
- Operate with state-of-the-art balloons for maximum safety and comfort
The Truly Top 10 Best Balloon Companies in Cappadocia
Experiencing a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia is a bucket-list adventure, offering a breathtaking aerial view of the region’s famous fairy chimneys, valleys, and rock formations.
Below, we’ve listed the top-rated balloon companies in Cappadocia, each known for exceptional service, experienced pilots, and outstanding reviews.
No Regrets Booking Advice
Tip: Note that if you book one of these top rated companies we listed below, you can be sure that you’ll get the best service. Because they all have very very good traveler rates and if they fail or cheat you, than they will loose their years of popularity building.
1. Royal Balloon (⭐ Over 5,500 Five-Star Reviews)
Why Choose? Royal Balloon is widely regarded as the best balloon company in Cappadocia, offering premium flights with smaller basket sizes for a more exclusive experience.
Highlights:
- Operated by the Dinler Family, a trusted name in tourism for over 35 years
- Includes a gourmet buffet breakfast before your flight
- Featured in Lonely Planet and other top travel guides
Book Your Flight:
Reserve with Viator | Reserve with GetYourGuide
2. Discovery Balloons (⭐ Over 3,200 Five-Star Reviews)
Why Choose? A trusted name since 2011, now under the Kelebek Group, offering high-quality flights.
Highlights:
- Fleet of 10 hot air balloons with 104 seat capacity
- Team includes 6 commercial pilots and experienced ground staff
- Safety and guest satisfaction are top priorities
Book Your Flight:
Reserve with Viator | Reserve with GetYourGuide
3. Turquaz Balloons (⭐ Over 2,400 Five-Star Reviews)
Why Choose? Known for operating smaller balloons (6-28 passengers) for a more personalized experience.
Highlights:
- Part of the renowned Kelebek Group
- Highly skilled pilots, ensuring smooth and controlled landings
- Operates a fleet of 10 modern balloons
Book Your Flight:
Reserve with Viator | Reserve with GetYourGuide
4. Butterfly Balloons (⭐ Over 1,650 Five-Star Reviews)
Why Choose? Expert pilots with 25+ years of experience, offering a more intimate experience with smaller groups.
Highlights:
- Follows the “Butterfly Way”, focusing on quality over quantity
- Personalized service with a friendly, experienced team
- A warm and inviting breakfast before takeoff
Book Your Flight:
Reserve with Viator
5. Balloon Turca (⭐ Over 150 Five-Star Reviews)
Why Choose? A 15-year veteran in Cappadocia ballooning, offering incredible sunrise flights.
Highlights:
- Combines history, nature, and adventure
- Highly skilled pilots with a focus on passenger comfort
- A friendly and accommodating team
Book Your Flight:
Reserve with Viator | Reserve with GetYourGuide
6. Turkiye Balloons (⭐ Over 250 Five-Star Reviews)
Why Choose? Founded by four top pilots, Turkiye Balloons brings expertise and passion to every flight.
Highlights:
- Pilots with over 2,500 hours of flying experience
- English-speaking guides to enhance your experience
- Operates with high-standard safety measures
Book Your Flight:
Reserve with Viator | Reserve with GetYourGuide
7. Skyway Balloons (⭐ Over 150 Five-Star Reviews)
Why Choose? 16+ years of experience in Turkey’s tourism sector, providing high-quality balloon rides.
Highlights:
- Uses modern Cameron and Kubicek balloons
- Offers scenic and smooth flights
- Focuses on personalized service
Book Your Flight:
Reserve with Viator
8. Atmosfer Balloons (⭐ Over 150 Five-Star Reviews)
Why Choose? Known for professional pilots and top-tier service, Atmosfer Balloons ensures an unforgettable ride.
Highlights:
- A well-established company with years of experience
- Operates like a tight-knit family, ensuring excellent customer service
- A trusted name in Cappadocia hot air ballooning
Book Your Flight:
Reserve with GetYourGuide
9. Urgup Balloons (⭐ Over 100 Five-Star Reviews)
Why Choose? A dedicated team of 60 professionals, operating a fleet of 16 balloons.
Highlights:
- Safety and comfort are top priorities
- Exceptional guest care and smooth flights
- One of the most reputable operators in the region
10. Guvercin Balloons (⭐ Over 50 Five-Star Reviews)
Why Choose? A fast-growing company known for its friendly service and skilled pilots.
Highlights:
- All-inclusive packages with insurance, transfers, and refreshments
- Pilots undergo continuous training and flight preparation
- Operates with newly manufactured balloons (2022 models) for maximum safety
Book Your Flight:
Reserve with GetYourGuide
Some Things to Know
How to Choose the Best Hot Air Balloon Company in Cappadocia?
When selecting a hot air balloon in Cappadocia, consider:
✔ Safety: Choose companies with licensed pilots and modern balloons
✔ Experience: Opt for operators with years of successful flights
✔ Group Size: Smaller balloons = more personalized experience
✔ Inclusions: Some flights offer breakfast, transfers, and post-flight champagne
Tip: Book in advance, as hot air balloon rides sell out quickly, especially in peak seasons!
Booking your hot air balloon trip directly with the companies that own and run the balloons, pilots, and ground staff is the best option.
Where is the Best Place to Watch Balloons in Cappadocia?
Cappadocia offers several stunning viewpoints to watch the hot air balloons take off at sunrise. Some of the best locations to experience this magical sight include:
- Lovers Hill (Aşıklar Tepesi) – A popular spot in Göreme, offering panoramic views of the balloons floating over the valleys. Arrive early for the best spot.
- Göreme Panorama – A fantastic elevated viewpoint providing uninterrupted views of the sky filled with balloons.
- Red Valley Viewpoint – One of the most scenic places to watch the sunrise and balloons, with its unique red-colored rock formations.
- Uçhisar Castle – The highest natural viewpoint in Cappadocia, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the entire region with balloons in the sky.
- Love Valley Viewpoint – A great location to see balloons hovering above fairy chimneys, perfect for photography.
Tip: Arrive 30–45 minutes before sunrise to secure a good viewing spot. Some viewpoints may require a small entrance fee.
Wanna learn more about best places to watch Cappadocia hot air balloons?
Is a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Cappadocia Worth It?
Absolutely! A hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia is often considered one of the most unforgettable travel experiences in the world.
Floating above the region’s unique rock formations, fairy chimneys, and valleys as the sun rises creates a breathtaking and surreal moment.
Here’s why it’s worth it:
✔ Once-in-a-lifetime experience – Cappadocia is one of the best places on Earth for hot air ballooning.
✔ Incredible views – Witness the region’s otherworldly landscapes from a unique aerial perspective.
✔ Expert pilots & safety standards – Licensed and highly trained pilots ensure a smooth and safe ride.
✔ Perfect for photography – Capture unparalleled sunrise shots with balloons filling the sky.
✔ Champagne toast after landing – Many flights include a traditional post-flight celebration.
Tip: Book in advance as flights sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons (May–September).
Which Month is Best for a Balloon Ride in Cappadocia?
The best time for a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia is from April to October, when the weather is stable and skies are clear. However, May to September is the most popular time due to warm temperatures, calm winds, and minimal rain.
Here’s a breakdown of the seasons:
- Spring (April – June): Ideal weather, colorful landscapes, and blooming flowers.
- Summer (July – September): Peak season, warm temperatures, and clear skies.
- Autumn (October – November): Cooler weather and fewer crowds.
- Winter (December – February): Balloons still operate, and the snow-covered scenery makes the ride even more magical.
Tip: Cappadocia’s weather can be unpredictable, so check with balloon companies in advance. Flights may be canceled due to strong winds, but companies usually reschedule or provide refunds.
What Time of Day is Best for Balloon Flights?
The best time for a hot air balloon flight in Cappadocia is at sunrise. Flights typically take off before dawn, offering breathtaking golden-hour views as the sun rises over the fairy chimneys and valleys.
Why is sunrise the best time?
✔ Perfect lighting – The golden hues of sunrise create a stunning visual effect on Cappadocia’s landscapes.
✔ Calm wind conditions – Early morning has less wind, making it safer for balloon flights.
✔ Cooler temperatures – More comfortable for passengers, especially in summer.
✔ Magical atmosphere – Watch 100+ balloons ascend simultaneously, creating a dreamlike scene.
Tip: Some companies offer sunset balloon flights, but they are less common. Sunrise remains the most magical time to experience Cappadocia from the sky.
What Should I Wear on a Hot Air Balloon Ride?
Dressing appropriately for a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia is essential, as temperatures can be chilly in the early morning even in summer. Here’s what to wear:
✔ Layered clothing – Mornings are cool, but it warms up as the sun rises. Bring a light jacket or sweater.
✔ Comfortable pants – Avoid skirts or dresses as you may climb into and out of the basket.
✔ Closed-toe shoes – Sneakers or hiking shoes are ideal, as landing areas can be uneven.
✔ Hat & sunglasses – The morning sun can be strong, so a cap and sunglasses help protect your eyes.
✔ Gloves & scarf (winter months) – If flying in winter, bundle up as temperatures can be freezing.
Tip: Avoid bringing large bags or backpacks, as storage space in the basket is limited. A small crossbody bag or camera strap is best for keeping your essentials.
