Best Magical things to do in Cappadocia
This has to be one of the most incredible experiences ever! There are so many magical things to do in Cappadocia, but imagine waking up at the crack of dawn, precisely 4:15 am, and finding yourself in a field surrounded by 110 majestic balloons from Air Kapadokya, all waiting to be inflated for the breathtaking sunrise ride. As you await your turn to board the balloon alongside 20 other adventurous souls, a mix of excitement and butterflies fills your stomach at the thought of soaring thousands of feet above the awe-inspiring Cappadocia fairy chimneys and pigeon houses. It’s like being in a floating sardine can in the sky, but in the most thrilling way possible!
As the balloon starts to fill with hot air from the colossal torch-like burners, the anticipation intensifies. The pilot gives the signal, and with one last burst of fiery heat, the balloon gracefully lifts off the ground, ascending toward the twinkling stars that still linger in the sky. As the air thins and you feel weightlessly suspended, it becomes strikingly clear just how infinitesimally small we humans truly are. It’s a delicate dance through the air, where you can’t help but marvel at the vastness of the world around you.
In what feels like mere seconds, the hour and a half flight swiftly passes by. The skilled pilot maneuvers the balloon with precision, taking us on a mesmerizing journey from soaring heights to hovering just a few dozen feet above the ground. The views and perspectives we witness are beyond imagination. From the land appearing as tiny dots to getting up close and personal with the iconic fairy chimneys, this experience is truly unparalleled and cannot be replicated. It’s a magical adventure that etches itself into your memory forever.
As we approach the end of our remarkable journey, we are humbly reminded of Mother Nature’s whims, as a mere puff of wind has the power to alter our course. With a hair’s breadth of clearance from a telephone wire, we gently touch down in a vineyard, approximately a mile away from our intended landing spot. However, the chase vehicles promptly arrive, swiftly securing the balloon for transportation back to the launch site. As we disembark, we are greeted with a sparkling juice toast, celebrating the success of our expedition. With the nerves settling, we take a moment to reflect on the extraordinary adventure we have just shared.
Returning to our hotel, Artimis Cave Suites, we catch a glimpse of the final balloon descending over Göreme, a gentle reminder of the extraordinary nature of this quaint fairytale town nestled in the middle of nowhere. Rarely do I express a desire to revisit a place, but the pure enchantment that permeates this corner of the world makes me long for a future return.
If flying high over the magical fairy chimneys isn’t your cup of tea, exploring other things to do in Cappadocia by land offers equally enchanting experiences. You can choose from several tour options: Red, Green, or Blue, each offering unique insights into the region’s wonders. I highly recommend securing a guide to learn about the history as you travel through the valley. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect on each tour:
Red Tour: The Red Tour typically covers the northern part of Cappadocia. Highlights include the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site with its stunning rock-cut churches and frescoes. You’ll visit the ancient village of Çavuşin, known for its rock houses and churches, and the picturesque town of Avanos, famous for its pottery workshops. The tour often includes stops at Pasabag (Monk’s Valley) to see the remarkable fairy chimneys and Devrent Valley, known for its uniquely shaped rock formations resembling animals.
Green Tour: The Green Tour takes you to the southern parts of Cappadocia, focusing on its natural beauty and underground wonders. Key stops include Derinkuyu or Kaymakli Underground City, where you can explore the intricate network of tunnels and chambers used by early Christians as a refuge.
You’ll also visit the stunning Ihlara Valley for a scenic hike along the Melendiz River, with opportunities to see ancient churches carved into the valley walls. The tour usually includes a visit to the Selime Monastery, a rock-hewn complex with impressive frescoes and panoramic views.
Blue Tour: The Blue Tour covers less-visited but equally fascinating areas of Cappadocia. This tour often includes stops at the ancient city of Mustafapaşa (Sinasos), known for its well-preserved Greek architecture. You’ll explore the hidden gems of the Soganli Valley, with its rock-cut churches and dovecotes, and the Keşlik Monastery, a serene and lesser-known monastic complex. The tour might also include a visit to the Sobesos Ancient City, with its Roman mosaics and bathhouse ruins.
Whether you choose the Red, Green, or Blue Tour, each offers a unique perspective on Cappadocia’s diverse landscapes, rich history, and cultural heritage, ensuring an unforgettable journey through this magical region. We opted for the Red and Green tours, and both were equally fascinating, perfectly fulfilling our wanderlust.
Cappadocia is a must-visit destination for its breathtaking and surreal landscapes, rich historical heritage, and unique cultural experiences. The iconic fairy chimneys and rock formations, carved by nature over millennia, create a dreamlike setting perfect for exploration. Whether soaring above in a hot air balloon at sunrise or wandering through ancient cave dwellings and underground cities, every moment in Cappadocia is filled with awe and wonder. The region’s captivating history is brought to life through its rock-cut churches adorned with Byzantine frescoes and its intricate underground cities. Additionally, the warm hospitality and vibrant local culture add a charming touch to your visit. Cappadocia offers a blend of adventure, tranquility, and profound beauty, making it an unforgettable destination for any traveler.
