Balloons Watching Tour with Pickup, Breakfast & Photographer — A Practical Look
If you’ve ever dreamed of watching the vibrant spectacle of Cappadocia’s hot air balloons from up close without actually soaring in one, this tour might just be your ideal choice. It offers a chance to witness hundreds of balloons lift off and drift across the famous valleys, all while enjoying expert photography and a comfortable start to your day.
It’s not a hot air balloon flight itself but a dedicated balloon chase experience that puts you right in the middle of this magical scene.
We were unlucky because the balooning was cancelled last minute. So nothing to watch. Even though we already made it to the first view point, they refunded 50% of the cost. Very fair.
Highly recommend, just do it. This company is very organized, on top of communication, easy pickup and drop-off and very fun upbeat staff ensuring a fab experience. Locations are great to see prep and launch up close and then the chase part…takes you to picture perfect love valley sunrise balloon watch! Professional photographer shoots your pics and you're going to love them 💯. I would do it again!
really loved this experience and very worth going. The staff were very friendly and pick up was on time.
What immediately appeals about this tour is the ease of logistics and the focus on photography. For a modest price—about $23.26 per person—you get pickup from your hotel, a guided chase through stunning locations, and a professional photographer to capture your moments. Plus, the early morning timing promises some of the most photogenic light of the day and fewer crowds, which is always a bonus.
A potential consideration? Since it’s a chase and viewing experience, you don’t get to actually go up in a balloon. If that’s what you’re after, you’ll need a different tour. But if you’re more interested in the sights, the colors, and capturing beautiful shots, this could be a perfect fit.
It suits travelers who love photography, want to see Cappadocia’s balloon spectacle from a prime vantage point, and enjoy a relaxed start to their day.
Key Points:
– Early morning start ensures spectacular lighting and fewer travelers.
– Includes a professional photographer to help you get memorable photos.
– Great value for money, especially considering the quality locations and service.
– Comfortable transport and pickup make logistics hassle-free.
– Limited group size (max 15) means less crowding and more personalized attention.
– Not an actual balloon flight, but a close-up viewing and chase experience.
This experience made our article of Which Goreme Photography Experiences To Choose? Our Best 15 Picks.
- Why We Think the Tour Works Well
- The Itinerary: Step-by-Step
- Stop 1: Balloon Setup at Rose Valley
- Stop 2: Watching Balloons Launch and Chase
- The Photographer's Role
- Duration and Timing
- What the Reviews Say
- Transportation and Group Size
- Pricing and Value
- Who Should Consider This Tour?
- The Sum Up
- FAQ
- The Best Of Goreme!
- More Photography Tours in Goreme
- More Tours in Goreme
- More Tour Reviews in Goreme
- Our NewestGoreme Activity Reviews
Why We Think the Tour Works Well
This experience is designed to maximize your chances of seeing the balloons in action, without the expense or effort of a full flight. We loved the way the tour centers around the iconic valleys of Cappadocia, especially Rose and Love Valley, which are renowned for their stunning scenery and fairy chimneys. Watching the balloons take off in the early dawn, with the sun casting warm hues over the landscape, offers a kind of magic that’s hard to beat.
The tour starts with an early pickup—most travelers find waking up at 4:40am totally worth it for the photos and views. Once at the launch site, you’ll have time to observe the balloon preparations closely. It’s a different perspective from just watching from afar; you get to see the intricate process of inflating and launching these colorful giants. Several reviews mention how cool it is to see the setup and get up close to the balloons, which adds a bit of behind-the-scenes charm.
Everything happens for. Reason! My original photographer cancelled due to “weather” on the sunniest and warmest day in a week. Little did I know that it would be a blessing in disguise! I booked at the very last minute and my dress was dropped off in my hotel lobby waiting for me. Hotel pickup with smooth and timely. The van was modern and warm. The gentlemen that took my photos were absolutely superb, suggested beautiful poses. Unlike other tour companies, they offered us a light breakfast which made the experience even more amazing. They knew the best locations and it was not crowded at all. It was as if we had that look out point to ourselves!! Thank you so much! You guys were beyond …
Seeing the balloons get setup was cool and then seeing them in flight up close helped me get over my FOMO of not being able to get on the balloon itself. I am afraid of heights so this is the next best thing! Our guide even took some wonderful photos of us. Super worth it!
This tour is totally worth it and a very good value for money. John is an amazing Photographer and a very friendly human being. They show you how the balloons are prepared for flight, the boarding and then the beautiful view of them flying over the rose valley or the love valley depending upon the wind condition. It was totally worth waking up at 3 am and functioning on 1 hour of sleep 😀
Next, the chase begins. You’ll be driven to spots like Rose and Love Valley, where the balloons fly with the sunrise. Here, you’ll enjoy unobstructed views and the chance to snap photos from a variety of angles. Several reviewers have shared how the experience of seeing the balloons floating among fairy chimneys is like something out of a movie. The flights are set against a backdrop of clear skies and the soft glow of morning light, making for truly memorable images.
👉 See our pick of the Goreme’s 11 Top Workshops & Classes
The Itinerary: Step-by-Step
You can also read our reviews of more photography tours in Goreme
Stop 1: Balloon Setup at Rose Valley
This is where it all begins. You’ll leave your hotel early in the morning, with most pickups happening just before sunrise. The drive to Rose Valley offers a quiet, peaceful start to your day, and many travelers find the sight of balloons being prepared and inflated fascinating. It’s a rare chance to see the behind-the-scenes effort that makes the balloon flights possible. As one reviewer notes, “Seeing the balloons get setup was cool and then seeing them in flight up close helped me get over my FOMO of not being able to get on the balloon itself.” This spot provides excellent photo ops, with the balloons silhouetted against the early morning sky.
Stop 2: Watching Balloons Launch and Chase
Once the balloons lift off, the tour shifts into chaser mode. You’ll hop into your air-conditioned vehicle, which smoothly takes you to the next viewpoints—most notably Love Valley. Here, the sunlight hits the fairy chimneys just right, creating a stunning scene of balloons drifting overhead. Many reviewers emphasize how spectacular the views are and how the timing of the tour lets you capture the balloons with the distinctive rock formations.
The Photographer's Role
This tour’s highlight for many is the inclusion of a professional photographer. You'll be taken to scenic spots to have your photos taken, with some reviewers praising how “John is an amazing photographer and a very friendly human being.” You get a set of curated shots, which many say they cherish as one of the best souvenirs of their trip. The photos are sent via Google Drive, making access easy, although some reviewers have reported initial delays but note that the company responded promptly to resolve any issues.
Duration and Timing
The entire experience lasts about 2 hours, making it a manageable morning activity that leaves plenty of time afterward for breakfast or other sightseeing. Waking up early might not be everyone's favorite, but many find that the stunning visuals and the quiet, peaceful start make it worthwhile.
What the Reviews Say
This tour has a perfect 5.0 rating from 184 reviews, with 99% of travelers recommending it. Multiple reviews highlight how well-organized and friendly the staff are, mentioning timely pickups and a warm, upbeat attitude that creates a relaxed atmosphere. Guests also appreciate the value for money, especially given the professional photography and prime viewpoints included.
One reviewer mentioned, “Everything happens for a reason,” pointing out how a last-minute booking turned into a delightful experience thanks to the staff’s flexibility and hospitality. Others praise the location choices, noting that watching balloons in Love Valley or Rose Valley provides incredible backdrops for photos and videos.
A common theme among the reviews is the value of the photos. Several travelers say their pictures turned out beautifully, with one mentioning, “The guide even took some wonderful photos of us,” and “the photos are going to love them.” These make excellent keepsakes, especially because you’re not just watching from afar but getting close and personal with the balloon activity.
However, not every review is perfect. One traveler pointed out that they initially received no photos after the tour, but the company responded and sent the images later. It’s a reminder that even good experiences can have hiccups, but overall, the professionalism shines through.
Transportation and Group Size
Your pickup is included, and the vehicle is air-conditioned, making the early start more comfortable. The group is small—max 15 travelers—which fosters a more intimate experience, giving you space to move around and take photos without feeling crowded.
Pricing and Value
At just over $23 per person, this tour offers excellent value—particularly considering the quality of locations, the inclusion of a personal photographer, and the breathtaking views. It’s an affordable way to add a memorable visual element to your Cappadocia trip, especially if you’re into photography or just want a different perspective of the balloon scene.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is perfect for travelers who want to capture great photos of Cappadocia’s iconic balloon scene without participating in a full balloon flight. It’s also ideal if you’re an early riser or enjoy serene sunrise views. If you’re interested in learning about the preparation and launch process or simply want to see the balloons floating at eye level, you’ll enjoy this chase.
If you’re traveling with photography enthusiasts or want high-quality images as souvenirs, the professional photographer and the scenic locations make this a top pick. Conversely, if you’re after the thrill of flying in a balloon, you’ll need a different tour that includes the flight itself.
The Sum Up
The Balloons Watching Tour with Pickup, Breakfast & Photographer offers an accessible, affordable way to experience Cappadocia’s legendary balloon scene from the ground. It balances stunning visuals, expert photography, and smooth logistics to deliver a memorable morning. It’s especially suited for those who want beautifully captured moments and a relaxed, scenic start to their day.
While it doesn’t include a balloon ride, the vantage points and close-up views make it a worthwhile addition to your trip, giving you a new appreciation for the effort and artistry behind ballooning in Cappadocia. The small group size and attentive staff further enhance its appeal, making it a practical choice for travelers seeking quality over quantity.
If you’re up for waking early and want to spend your morning immersed in the magic of balloons drifting over fairy-tale landscapes, this tour definitely deserves consideration.
Balloons watching Tour w/ PickUp, Breakfast & Photographer
"We were unlucky because the balooning was cancelled last minute. So nothing to watch. Even though we already made it to the first view point, they ..."
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup from your hotel is included, and you'll be driven in an air-conditioned vehicle to the viewing spots.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 2 hours, starting around 4:40am, making it a quick but impactful experience.
Can I get photos of myself?
Absolutely. A professional photographer will take photos of you during the tour, and they’ll be sent to you via Google Drive.
What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers. Early mornings can be chilly, especially before sunrise, but it warms up quickly once the sun rises.
Is this suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but note that it involves an early start and being outside in the morning. Perfect for anyone comfortable with waking early and interested in photography or scenic views.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you'll be offered a different date or a full refund.
This chase experience offers a perfect mix of scenic beauty, memorable photos, and ease of access—all at a budget-friendly price. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a small group, it’s a solid way to lock in some of Cappadocia’s most iconic sights.
