02 May, 2017
Located in the Anatolian region of Turkey, Cappadocia is one of the most surreal landscapes in the world. Volcanic eruptions nearly four million years ago left the landscape dotted with rock structures known as fairies, leaving the region looking like something out of a Star Wars film. Now scattered with underground cities and carved out cave dwellings, Cappadocia has only begun to attract visitors (and their imaginations) in recent years.
A well-kept travel secret until the 80s, Cappadocia was a spot for backpackers hitchhiking the famous hippie trail from Europe to Asia. Now known as one of the most unique places in the world, this largely untouched region is gaining traction among tourists - make sure you're among them.
We recommend visiting in in spring or autumn when the temperatures are moderate.
With modest living quarters and an active schedule, you'll want to go with someone who's up for anything.
Well-travelled backpackers and adventure-seekers.
A hot air balloon ride through Fairy Valley. Famous as one of the best hot air ballooning destinations in the world, Cappadocia is the perfect location to scratch one off your bucket list. Go early in the morning right after sunrise and enjoy a Turkish style breakfast while soaring above the lunar-esque landscape below.
A good pair of hiking boots; whether you're trekking through the highlands, exploring underground cities, or riding horseback through the valleys you'll want sturdy shoes to carry you through.
Make a connecting flight through Istanbul to one of the region's two airports, Nevsehir Kapadokya or Kayseri Erkilet. There are direct flights daily to either airport, although Nevsehir is closer to the main towns of Goreme and Urgup where you are likely to stay.
