If soaring among hot air balloons isn’t thrilling enough for you, how about paragliding in Cappadocia?
That’s right – in addition to balloon rides, you can also glide on the wind with a parachute and an instructor, giving you a high-adrenaline way to see the landscape from above.
Paragliding is a tandem experience (you fly with a certified pilot), so no prior experience is necessary- just a spirit for adventure!
What to Expect
You’ll be picked up from your hotel and driven to a take-off site on one of the hills or small mountains around Cappadocia.
There, your pilot will give a safety briefing and get you into the harness.
After a few steps or a short run, you and the pilot take off from the slope, and suddenly, you’re flying over the valleys of Cappadocia!
It’s an incredible rush to be up in the sky with fairy chimneys, vineyards, and villages far below your feet.
Paragliding flights last around 15–20 minutes (depending on wind conditions), during which you’ll ride thermal currents and enjoy panoramic views that only eagles (and balloonists) usually get to see.
Book Your SessionWhere to Fly and How to Book
Paragliding is offered out of towns like Ürgüp and Göreme.
Popular take-off points are near Ortahisar or Çat village, where cliffs provide the altitude needed.
You can book tandem paragliding through local agencies, but because they are in demand, we suggest you book them online in advance as soon as your travel plans are confirmed.
The paragliding experience costs roughly around ₺4000-₺4500 ($110-120) per person, including hotel pickup and drop-off. This often includes a basic video or photos taken by the pilot’s GoPro (though sometimes they upsell the video package separately).
Sunrise or Sunset? Choosing Your Flight Time
You can choose different times of day, including sunrise or sunset flights for the most beautiful light.
Sunrise paragliding is amazing because you might be up in the air at the same time as the hot air balloons – imagine gliding near balloons as the sun comes up.
Sunset flights are equally stunning with golden light on the rocks.
Safety and Flight Duration
Safety is a priority – Cappadocia’s paragliding pilots are professionals, and they provide all the gear (helmet, harness, etc.).
The pilot controls the flight speed and direction, and it can be a gentle glide or they can do some fun swoops and turns if you’re up for it.
Feel free to communicate with your pilot about what kind of ride you’re comfortable with.
Listen to the safety briefing, and you’ll feel secure throughout.
The landing is usually on open ground where the pilot brings you down softly.
In total, the whole activity takes about an hour with transport and prep.
Weather Tips
Keep in mind that paragliding is weather-dependent – it won’t run in strong winds or bad weather, so flexibility is key.
That’s why we always recommend that you plan your paragliding (and hot air balloon ride) in the initial days in Cappadocia – even if it gets cancelled you can reschedule.
If your paragliding gets canceled, you’ll get a refund or an option to reschedule.
But on a clear, calm day, this is one of the most exhilarating things you can do in Cappadocia.
As many travelers have put it, seeing Cappadocia from a paraglider is like “flying through a dream.”
So, if you’re an adventure-seeker, definitely consider adding a tandem paragliding experience to your itinerary. It’s a thrill you’ll never forget!
