Side
15 Hours
Full Day
100 persons
Side
Love is in the air! Experience the enchanting beauty of Pamukkale from a whole new perspective with our Pamukkale Balloon Tour from Side. Set out on an extraordinary journey that merges rich historical heritage with stunning natural beauty, culminating in an exciting hot air balloon ride above the remarkable landscapes of Pamukkale.
Pamukkale, which is a 'cotton castle' in Turkish, is well-known for its beautiful white terraces made of travertine. Mineral-rich thermal waters have created These remarkable formations over thousands of years. With our Pamukkale Balloon Tour from Side, you'll explore these breathtaking terraces and uncover the rich history of the ancient city of Hierapolis, nestled beside them. You'll also have the chance to relax and soak in the thermal pools, including the legendary Cleopatra's Pool. However, the true highlight of the journey is the hot air balloon ride, offering a spectacular aerial view of Pamukkale's surreal landscape. Throughout the day, savour delicious cuisine, take in mesmerizing scenery, and create unforgettable memories.
The Pamukkale Balloon Tour from Side is a fantastic alternative for guests who wish to experience a hot air balloon ride over Pamukkale. After the balloon flight, the tour follows a similar itinerary to our regular Pamukkale tour. If you prefer the standard excursion, please visit our website's 'Day Trip to Pamukkale from Side' page for more details.
This tour is available from any accommodation along the Turkish Riviera between Antalya and Alanya. Pamukkale is approximately 300 km from Side, and hotel pickups in the Side region begin around 01:00 AM. If you are joining from outside this area, please inform us in advance.
Your adventure begins with a comfortable, air-conditioned bus ride departing directly from your hotel's security gate. The journey takes approximately four hours, with short breaks for your convenience. A friendly English- and German-speaking guide will accompany you, providing fascinating insights into Pamukkale and Turkey's rich culture. Upon arrival, we head to the balloon launch site.
As the crew prepares the balloons, you'll have time to capture Instagram-worthy photos of the stunning scenery. After a brief safety briefing, you'll step into the basket, and the most exciting part of the tour begins. Floating hundreds of meters above the ground, you'll witness the breathtaking travertine terraces and ancient ruins from a spectacular aerial perspective. The balloon ride lasts approximately one hour, followed by a champagne celebration and a flight certificate ceremony.
Following the balloon experience, our guide will take you to the entrance of Pamukkale. Now, it's time to explore the travertine terraces and the ancient city of Hierapolis, which you admire from the sky. You will have around four hours of free time to walk along the terraces, wander through ancient streets and monuments, or even take a refreshing dip in Cleopatra's Pool, just as Egyptian royalty once did.
Around 1:00 PM, we will enjoy a delicious open-buffet lunch at a nearby restaurant, offering a variety of fresh, local dishes. At 2:00 PM, we begin our return journey to Side, and by approximately 7:00 PM, all guests will be dropped off at their hotels, concluding an unforgettable day of adventure and discovery.
Overall, the Pamukkale Balloon Tour from Side promises to be the highlight of your vacation. Not only will you enjoy an exhilarating hot air balloon ride over Pamukkale, but you will also have the opportunity to explore the natural and historical wonders of this iconic region in Turkey.
Upon arriving in Pamukkale, our tour guides will take you to the hot air balloon launch site. You can observe the crew as they prepare the balloon and capture beautiful photos of the process here. Remember to bring your passport for the balloon tour, as you'll need it to complete the required paperwork before departure.
The balloon baskets accommodate up to 16 passengers. Your thrilling adventure begins once everyone is on board and the crew provides a brief safety briefing. Floating high above Pamukkale, you'll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of its natural wonders from a unique perspective. The flight takes place at sunrise, allowing you to witness Pamukkale's beauty bathed in the soft, golden hues of the morning light.
The hot air balloon flight starts around 06:00 AM and lasts approximately one hour. Upon landing, a celebratory champagne toast awaits you, followed by presenting official flight certificates to all participants. After this unforgettable experience, our guides will escort you to the entrance of Pamukkale to continue your tour.
Please be aware that the balloon flight is subject to weather and wind conditions. If the flight cannot take place due to unfavourable conditions, you will receive a full refund of the balloon tour fee (€80) if already paid. The minimum age for participation in the balloon tour is six years. Unfortunately, children under this age are not permitted to join this activity.
The Cleopatra Pool, often called the Ancient Pool of Pamukkale, is a renowned thermal bathing destination worldwide. With its mineral-rich thermal waters maintaining a constant temperature of 36°C year-round, scientific studies have shown its therapeutic benefits for various ailments. According to legend, the Egyptian queen Cleopatra frequently bathed in this pool, believing in its healing properties.
The pool's floor is scattered with ancient ruins and surrounded by lush greenery, creating a truly unique and serene atmosphere. This historic thermal pool attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually and offers a distinctive and memorable experience. During this tour, you can swim in these famous waters, just as the ancient Romans did thousands of years ago.
Your tour guide will provide information about the itinerary in English and German, as well as insights into the history and significance of Pamukkale. They will accompany you to the balloon launch site and later to Pamukkale, but you will explore the sights at your own pace during your free time.
The cost of the tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off, comfortable transportation to Pamukkale via an air-conditioned bus, guided services, and lunch. However, entrance fees for Pamukkale and Hierapolis, access to Cleopatra’s Pool, food and beverages, and personal expenses are not included. You are welcome to bring a breakfast package for the journey.
Since the hot air balloon ride falls under the flight category, you must complete the necessary paperwork upon arrival in Pamukkale. Therefore, you must bring your passport with you. Our tour operator will also request a photo of your passport before the tour to reserve your flight seat.
This tour is not advisable for children younger than 6 years old. Children up to 6 years old are exempt from entrance fees for Pamukkale and Hierapolis. Additionally, there will be a brief stop at a production centre during the tour for promotional purposes.