Antalya/Alanya: Pamukkale With Hot Air Balloon Option

Travelers looking for a day filled with history, natural beauty, and a touch of adventure might find this Pamukkale tour from Alanya intriguing. It offers a blend of exploring ancient ruins, bathing in thermal pools, and the chance to add a hot air balloon ride — if you’re lucky with the schedule. But as with all group excursions, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before booking.

We love the fact that this trip takes you to Hierapolis, an ancient city with well-preserved ruins, and Pamukkale’s travertines, which are truly one-of-a-kind. The inclusion of swimming in Cleopatra Pool adds a relaxing and memorable element, and the opportunity to see Salda Lake, dubbed Turkey’s Maldives, promises a scenic finale. However, some reviews hint at issues like poor communication and long travel times, which can take away from the experience if not managed well.

This tour suits travelers who want a full-day adventure, are interested in history and natural wonders, and don’t mind a lengthy bus ride. It’s best for those who appreciate guided tours and are comfortable with a packed itinerary. But if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are sensitive to discomfort from long hours on a bus, you might want to consider other options.

Key Points

• Historical significance: Visit the ancient city of Hierapolis and learn about its past.
• Natural wonder: Walk the famous travertines of Pamukkale and relax in thermal waters.
• Unique swimming experience: Swim in Cleopatra Pool among ancient artifacts.
• Added shopping: Opportunity to buy onyx, leather, and textiles.
• Optional hot air balloon: Available only on certain days, at extra cost.
• Travel time: Around 6 hours each way, so expect a long day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

This tour kicks off early in the morning with a roundtrip transfer from Alanya. Expect to be picked up by a midibus, which will take approximately 6 hours to reach Pamukkale, with scheduled breaks along the way. While the long journey might seem daunting, the promise of a full day exploring makes it worth considering if you’re eager for this region’s sights.

Breakfast in Korkuteli Town

The first stop is a breakfast in Korkuteli, a charming town famed for being the only place in Anatolia that was not conquered historically. This is a good chance to stretch your legs and enjoy a local breakfast, setting the tone for the day ahead.

Visiting Hierapolis

Once in Pamukkale, you’ll be guided through Hierapolis, the ancient city dating back around 2500 years. Expect to see streets, gates, baths, the agora, and notable monuments like the St. Philippe Martyrion Church. The ancient theater offers a fantastic photo opportunity, and the Hierapolis Archeology Museum provides insight into this area’s long history.

The guide will recount stories and facts about the city’s archaeological sites, so listening closely will enrich your visit. Be aware that some reviews mention the tour commentary could be more detailed or clearer, so don’t hesitate to ask questions.

The World-Famous Travertines and Cleopatra Pool

Next, you’ll visit Pamukkale’s travertines, a surreal landscape of terraces formed by mineral-rich thermal waters. Walking barefoot on the white calcium formations, you’ll understand why this site is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Swimming in the Cleopatra Pool is optional, but it’s a highlight for many. It’s a thermal pool filled with ancient artifacts and columns, where you can relax in waters ranging from 35°C to 100°C. One review notes that swimming is at an additional cost, so budget accordingly if you want to indulge.

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Shopping and Scenic Stops

After exploring the ruins and travertines, there are stops at the Onyx Stone Store, where you can browse and buy local onyx jewelry and crafts. Also, a visit to the red water travertines of Karahayt offers a different, striking landscape to photograph. These stops provide a chance to pick up souvenirs and appreciate local craftsmanship.

Salda Lake: Turkey’s Maldives?

Later in the day, the tour includes a stop at Salda Lake, famous for its crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches. Often called Turkey’s Maldives, it’s a perfect spot to relax and take photos of the stunning scenery.

Return Journey and Dinner

After a full day, you’ll head back to Alanya, stopping for dinner along the way. The return trip also involves the same long drive, so prepare for a roughly 6-hour journey. Some reviews mention poor communication and long delays, so bringing snacks and patience is advisable.

Is the Hot Air Balloon Option Worth It?

The tour offers a hot air balloon ride on specific days (Monday and Friday), at an additional cost of around 145. If you’re lucky with the schedule, this can be a breathtaking way to see Pamukkale’s landscape from above. However, it’s only available on limited days, so check in advance.

Practical Tips for Balloon Enthusiasts

• Confirm your booking early, as spaces fill quickly.
• Expect an early start if you want this add-on.
• Keep in mind that the balloon ride is weather-dependent, and cancellations can occur.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers roundtrip transfers, English-speaking guides, entrance fees, and lunch if you select the option. However, swimming in Cleopatra Pool, the hot air balloon, and Salda Lake are not included and require extra payment or pre-arranged bookings.

Shopping at onyx, leather, and textile stores is included, which can be tempting but also might turn into a lengthy stop. Use this time wisely—some travelers find it an enjoyable souvenir hunt, others see it as a sales pitch.

Review Insights

One traveler bluntly states, “Some of the views were ok but the whole long day from start to finish was horrendous! Poor communication throughout.” This sentiment hints that the experience could be marred by logistical issues. Long travel times, combined with what appears to be rushed or disorganized guiding, can make this day less enjoyable.

Another review highlights the long hours on the bus, reminding travelers to bring snacks, water, and patience. The experience is very much a full-day commitment requiring endurance but offering rich sights in return.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re eager to see both natural wonders and archaeological sites in a single day, and don’t mind a lengthy trip, this tour offers good value. It’s ideal for travelers interested in history, landscape photography, and thermal pools.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are sensitive to long hours on a bus or busy shopping stops, consider alternative options or splitting the experience into separate day trips. Also, if the hot air balloon is a priority, verify availability in advance.

Final Thoughts

This Pamukkale tour from Alanya offers a comprehensive experience with key highlights like Hierapolis, travertines, and Cleopatra Pool. The inclusion of Salda Lake and opportunities for shopping add variety, making it suitable for those wanting a full day of sightseeing.

That said, it’s not without its flaws—long travel times and mixed reviews about communication are worth considering. If you’re prepared for a full day and want to explore some of Turkey’s most iconic sites, this tour can be a rewarding adventure.

For travelers seeking value and convenience in a guided format, it’s a solid choice. But for those who prioritize comfort and pace, you might want to explore other options or plan separate trips.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Generally yes, but keep in mind the long bus ride and walking involved at the sites. It’s not ideal for very young children or seniors with mobility issues.

Can I swim in Cleopatra Pool?
Swimming is optional and at an extra cost. The pool features hot spring waters with ancient artifacts beneath the surface, making it a unique experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, sunscreen, camera, and water are recommended. The tour involves walking around archaeological sites and natural wonders.

Is the hot air balloon ride included?
No, it’s an optional add-on available only on certain days, at an additional fee of about 145. Book early to secure a spot.

How long is the transfer from Alanya?
Approximately 6 hours each way, with scheduled breaks. Expect a long day, but with scenic views and interesting stops.

Are meals included?
A lunch is included if you select the option. Otherwise, you might want to bring snacks for the trip.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

Would I recommend this tour?
It depends on your interests and patience for long travel days. If you love history, natural landscapes, and don’t mind the long journey, it’s a worthwhile day out. If you prefer a more leisurely experience, consider other options or splitting the trip.

This tour offers a snapshot of Turkey’s natural and historic treasures, but it’s best approached with realistic expectations about the journey and organization.

You can check availability for your dates here: