There are few images that are as inextricably linked with Turkey as the sunrise scene over Cappadocia filled with hot air balloons. Anyone who has stood in the basket there will understand why. Before you book, here are nine things you should know - including when you actually have to take off.

1. start is actually in the dark

You will be picked up at the hotel at 4.30 am. The balloons must be in the air before sunrise so that you ascend in the perfect light. It is therefore worth choosing your hotel in Göreme, Ürgüp or Uçhisar so that the transfer is short. Breakfast is served before the start - coffee, pastries, juice.

2. the season: April to November

Flights are only operated in stable weather. April-May and September-October are the best months - mild weather, less wind, fewer tourists. July/August is warm, but the high season also means full balloons and higher prices. In winter (December to March) some flights do take place, but around 60% are cancelled due to wind.

3. cancellations are normal - plan flexibly

Turkey's civil aviation authority only allows balloons to take off when conditions are safe. Around 20-30% of all flights are cancelled at short notice in the morning. Therefore: don't spend the only day of your trip on the balloon, but plan at least 2-3 days in Cappadocia. In case of cancellation you will get your money back or a new date.

4. what will it cost in 2024?

The standard flight (60 minutes, approx. 20 people in a basket) costs between 180 and 250 euros per person, depending on the season and provider. Premium flights (90 minutes, smaller baskets with 8-12 people, often with champagne) are between 280-400 euros. Beware of bargains under 150 euros - usually overcrowded baskets or less certified providers.

5 Which provider is reputable?

Look out for TUR-OP certification and SHGM licence (Turkish aviation). Established names are Royal Balloon, Voyager Balloons, Kapadokya Balloons, Butterfly Balloons. Read recent reviews - Pilot experience and balloon maintenance make the difference. At Coastiva we only work with certified partners.

6 What to wear?

Dress warmer than you think. Even in summer, it is much cooler at 600 metres above sea level at sunrise. Closed shoes are mandatory (sandals are forbidden because of the landing). A light hat is useful against the burner above you - it gets hot. Take sunglasses with you for the sunrise.

7. the landing can be jerky

Hot air balloons do not land as gently as they rise. Depending on the wind and ground conditions, the basket may tip when touching down - this is normal and not dangerous. The pilot announces the landing position beforehand. Hold on to the loops and bend your knees. After the touchdown there is traditionally champagne and a flight certificate.

8. the best photo position

If photos are important to you, ask the pilot for a spot on the outside of the basket before take-off. A smartphone is all you need - the scenery will do the rest. If you want to bring a drone: drones are prohibited in Cappadocia without a special licence and there are severe penalties.

9. what if you are afraid of heights?

Surprisingly, the experience is more pleasant than expected, even for people with a fear of heights. The basket is high (about chest-high), you don't look straight down, and the feeling is more floating than frantic. However, if you really have problems, you should consider a ground tour to the viewpoints - the view from Red Valley or Love Valley is also magical at sunrise.

A balloon flight in Cappadocia is one of those experiences that people talk about for years. Plan flexibly, choose a good operator, dress warmly - and be ready to soar in the morning light over a landscape that looks like another planet.