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6 destinations best observed from a hot-air balloon

The basket of a hot-air balloon gives a fantastic perspective on the likes of Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys, Yangshuo’s limestone pinnacles and the Serengeti’s wildlife

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Travellers taking photos of hot-air balloons in flight in the town of Göreme in the early morning in Turkey. Photo: Shutterstock

There’s nothing quite like floating above some of the most spectacular landscapes at dawn. Once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences rarely come cheap, and hot-air ballooning is no exception. However, the thrill of drifting silently skywards as the first light of dawn colours the horizon is likely to make it worth every penny. The stillness of the early morning air enhances the serenity as rolling landscapes, historical landmarks and natural wonders are gradually illuminated.

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If ballooning is on your wish list, here are six destinations you might want to consider:

1. Cappadocia, Turkey

Cappadocia, in central Turkey, is known for its distinctive volcanic geographical formations and hot-air balloon rides. Photo: Xinhua
Cappadocia, in central Turkey, is known for its distinctive volcanic geographical formations and hot-air balloon rides. Photo: Xinhua
A dawn flight over the fairy chimney rock formations, ancient cave dwellings and valleys of Cappadocia is a surreal adventure. Passengers arrive before sunrise to be briefed on safety procedures and route data by the pilot and crew, then watch as the balloon is inflated. At this time of day, the cool, calm air is ideal for heading up, up and away, and, as the giant rig begins its ascent, the silence is interrupted only by occasional bursts of the burner, which controls altitude.

The magical vistas distract passengers from any in-flight nerves but for those still apprehensive, bear in mind that, according to data from the United States’ Federal Aviation Administration, hot-air ballooning is considered one of the safest forms of transport and has a very low accident rate compared with other methods of travel. This is mostly because sightseeing balloons are launched only in good weather.

Flights in Cappadocia cost between €150 (HK$1,200) and €250 per person, depending on the duration of the flight

2. Yangshuo, China

Yangshuo has become a popular hot-air balloon destination, with its karst scenery. Photo: Getty Images
Yangshuo has become a popular hot-air balloon destination, with its karst scenery. Photo: Getty Images
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