Turkey Day 2
Hot air balloon rides in Cappadocia can be easily canceled due to weather conditions. Strong winds, rain, or poor visibility are common reasons for cancellations, as safety is the top priority. It's always a good idea to book early in your trip to allow for flexibility in case rescheduling is needed even in summer. We were woken up by the pick-up driver before 4am, and all the riders gathered in one place, eagerly waiting to see if the ride would take off that day. Thankfully, after an hour of anticipation, our ride was confirmed, and we were all set to go! Watching the balloons rise above the horizon, shining in the sky against the backdrop of Cappadocia’s unique terrain, was truly magical. The colorful balloons floated gracefully, contrasting beautifully with the dramatic rock formations and fairy chimneys below. It felt like a scene from a dream, with the vibrant hues of the balloons illuminating the sky as the sun began to rise, casting a soft, golden light across the surreal landscape. These balloon baskets can hold anywhere from 12 to 28 people, depending on the size of the balloon. Both options offer incredible views. You can book the tour here.
After the balloon ride, we went back to hotel for a nap and breakfast. Our guide took us to Uçhisar. Uçhisar Castle was carved into the soft volcanic rock cave which monks and other locals may have used for living and shelter during ancient times. We hiked all the way up to the top of the castle against our guide’s suggestion. It turned out the best decision we had made. We were thrilled to finally step into these caves in the mountain, which we had only seen from the panoramic viewpoint earlier! As we ventured inside, it felt like we had uncovered a hidden world. The caves, carved directly into the rock, were like ancient time capsules—living spaces and shelters from centuries past. The narrow tunnels and rooms were both mysterious and exhilarating to explore. The curves and contours of the walls felt like something out of a dream, as if the mountain itself had sculpted them with a sense of playfulness and mystery.
We visited the Treasure Center to learn more about Cappadocia’s famous stones. The guide there spoke fluent Mandarin and shared a wealth of information with us. Cappadocia is known for its beautiful stones like onyx, turquoise, and agate. Onyx, with its striking black, white, and brown layers, is often used in jewelry and decorative items. Turquoise, prized for its vibrant blue color, is another popular choice for crafting stunning pieces. Agate, with its unique bands of color, is also widely used in jewelry. These stones, along with tuff, the soft volcanic rock that shapes the region’s landscape, reflect the natural beauty and craftsmanship of Cappadocia.
Kaymakli Underground City is one of the largest and most well-preserved underground cities in Cappadocia. We had the chance to explore its fascinating tunnels, rooms, and chambers, which extend several levels deep into the earth. The city was used as a refuge during invasions, with intricate ventilation systems, wells, and food storage areas designed to sustain life underground. As we ventured through the narrow passageways and into the larger communal spaces, it was incredible to think of how people once lived in such an elaborate, hidden world.
Our last stop was the Turkish carpet workshop. We were able to watch skilled artisans at work, weaving beautiful carpets by hand using traditional methods passed down through generations. The working staff at the Turkish carpet workshop welcomed us with incredible hospitality. They patiently explained the history and techniques behind the carpets, and their passion for their craft was evident in every word. At the end of our visit, even though we didn’t purchase anything, we wanted to show our appreciation with a tip, but they kindly refused. Their warm generosity and dedication to sharing their art made the experience all the more memorable.