Hot air ballooning in Turkey? Most people immediately think of Cappadocia – and for good reason.
But there’s another stunning spot where you can take to the skies: Pamukkale. With its cotton-white terraces and ancient ruins, it’s a beautiful setting for a sunrise flight.
So the question is – should you go ballooning in Cappadocia, Pamukkale, or both? Let’s break down the differences to help you choose.
Landscape & views
Cappadocia’s scenery is more dramatic and varied. You float above cone-shaped rock formations, canyons, and cave towns – truly unique geography.
Plus, you typically see 100+ other balloons around you in peak season, which is an incredible sight in itself.
Pamukkale’s landscape, on the other hand, features the famous white travertine terraces and the ruins of Hierapolis below.
It’s beautiful, but the area is smaller – basically a white hillside and some green farmland around. You’ll likely see at most a dozen or two balloons in the air.
Pamukkale’s highlight is viewing the cotton-white hot spring pools from above, which is lovely but less varied than Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys.
Atmosphere
Cappadocia’s balloon scene is almost like a balloon festival daily – very vibrant and bustling.
Pamukkale’s is more low-key and tranquil with fewer balloons, which some might find more peaceful.
If Cappadocia’s balloons are an “ultimate bucket list” item, Pamukkale’s are a nice “extra” if you have time and budget. Some travelers actually prefer the quieter experience in Pamukkale, and it is usually cheaper.
Price & practicality
Pamukkale balloon rides tend to cost less than Cappadocia’s. Fewer tourists balloon there, so prices might be 20–30% lower (roughly ₺2,500–₺3,500, for example).
If you’re on a tight budget and visiting Pamukkale anyway, doing a balloon there could be a more affordable way to get a balloon experience.
Also, Pamukkale is a shorter flight (often 35–60 minutes). Note that Pamukkale’s balloon season and weather dependency are similar – they also fly at sunrise and skip bad-weather days.
Bottom line
Cappadocia is globally renowned for ballooning for good reason – if you only do one, do Cappadocia. The experience of dozens of balloons over surreal rock valleys is unmatched.
However, if you have the time and budget, try the hot air balloons at both Cappadocia and Pamukkale.
Some people do Pamukkale’s ride as a warm-up and Cappadocia’s as the grand finale. Or, if you missed out on flying in Cappadocia due to weather (or cost), Pamukkale can be a great second chance to get in a balloon.
Each place offers a different perspective: Cappadocia feels like flying over a fairy tale kingdom, and Pamukkale feels like drifting above a natural wonder spa and ancient ruins.
Recommended balloon tours
Pamukkale balloon rides
- Pamukkale Hot Air Balloon with Flight Certificate & Champagne Toast: Includes hotel pickup, at least a 1-hour flight over the travertines and Hierapolis, a flight certificate, and a post-flight non-alcoholic champagne celebration. A great way to remember your trip – and the certificate makes a fun souvenir.
- Antalya to Pamukkale Trip with Hot Air Balloon & 2 Meals: Includes pickup from Antalya, a sunrise hot air balloon ride over Pamukkale, and visits to the travertines and Hierapolis. Breakfast and lunch are included. Perfect for seeing Pamukkale in one easy, full-day trip from Antalya.
- Marmaris to Pamukkale Day Tour with Balloon Flight: Includes pickup from Marmaris, a sunrise hot air balloon ride over Pamukkale, and free time to explore the travertines and Hierapolis ruins. A great way to see Pamukkale in one day if you’re staying in Marmaris.
Cappadocia balloon rides
- Cappadocia Balloon Ride with Champagne Breakfast (Royal Balloon): Comes with hotel transfers, a light breakfast before take-off, and a traditional sparkling wine toast upon landing. Royal Balloon is known for its exceptional service.
- Cappadocia Group Balloon Flight with Certificate (Discovery Balloons): Includes snacks, hotel pickup, and a flight certificate. Discovery’s pilots, especially Ibrahim, are praised for their professionalism and friendliness.
Pro Tip: Book early – even in Pamukkale! Balloon rides sell out quickly, especially during summer months.
