Ulubey Canyon, known as the second largest canyon in the world, will begin hot air balloon flights next year.
Ulubey Canyon is a unique natural beauty formed as a result of geological processes that have taken place over thousands of years. The collapse of the Büyük Menderes Graben and the karst formation processes have contributed to the canyon’s magnificent appearance today. Shaped by the erosion of the Ulubey and Banaz rivers, the canyon boasts an impressive depth of up to 200 meters in some areas.
Located in the Ulubey district of Uşak province in western Türkiye, the canyon attracts numerous local and foreign tourists each year.
The canyon is not only a natural wonder but also houses ancient water channels, rock tombs, caves, and the ancient city of Pepouza.
The hiking trails for visitors also include the ancient city of Blaundos.
Balloon flights will start in 2025
Following the first flight test conducted in September 2020, a report was prepared by a team that included faculty members from Cappadocia University. Based on this report, the application process for hot air balloon flights and the necessary permissions for flight suitability were completed. At the beginning of this year, the Ulubey Municipality purchased a hot air balloon with a capacity of 12+2 people.
Ulubey Mayor Veli Koçlu stated, “All our preparations are almost complete. The General Directorate of Civil Aviation requested a final report from us. We have received the results, and there are no negative issues. Hot air balloon flights will take place in Ulubey Canyon in 2025.”
Additionally, there is an adventure park in Ulubey Canyon that features a glass terrace 125 meters above the ground, as well as a zipline, giant swing, and climbing wall.
The canyon was visited by approximately 250,000 to 300,000 people within 9 months. It is expected that around 450,000 tourists will visit by the end of the year.
Cover Photo: kulturportali