Full-day Cappadocia Green Tour to Ihlara Valley

The Full-day Cappadocia Green Tour to Ihlara Valley offers an immersive journey through some of the most remarkable sights in South Cappadocia. Priced at $87.08 per person and lasting around 7 hours, this tour is designed for those eager to explore iconic underground cities, breathtaking valleys, and ancient monastic sites. With a small group limit of 13 people and hassle-free hotel pickup, it provides a comfortable and personalized experience.

This tour is especially suitable for travelers interested in history, unique landscapes, and regional architecture. It features admission to key sites like Derinkuyu Underground City, Selime Monastery, and the scenic Ihlara Valley walk, all complemented by a delicious Turkish lunch. While the pace is well-balanced, visitors should come prepared for moderate physical activity, including walking and exploring uneven terrain.

Key Points

• Visit the impressive Derinkuyu Underground City, dating back to the 7th century, with access to 8 interconnected levels.
• Enjoy a scenic drive and viewpoints, including Pigeon Valley and Goreme Panorama, showcasing stunning rock formations and fairy chimneys.
• Walk through the Ihlara Valley, a 4 km trail along the river with ancient cave churches carved into the canyon walls.
• Explore Selime Monastery, the largest rock-cut monastery in the region, used by various civilizations from the Hittites to Ottoman times.
• All-inclusive experience, with transportation, parking fees, fuel surcharge, and a traditional Turkish lunch included.
• Small group size enhances interaction, with a maximum of 13 travelers, led by knowledgeable guides.

Exploring Derinkuyu Underground City: The Largest and Deepest Settlement

The tour begins with a visit to Derinkuyu Underground City, the largest subterranean complex in the region, dating back to the 7th-8th centuries. This site features 8 levels interconnected by narrow tunnels and stone-carved stairways. Visitors walk through spaces that once served as kitchens, food storage areas, animal stalls, a winery, and a church, offering a glimpse into the daily life of ancient inhabitants.

The admission fee is included, allowing for easy access without additional cost. The walk through Derinkuyu takes roughly 30 minutes, and the site’s scale impresses with its depth and complexity. Travelers should be comfortable navigating narrow tunnels and uneven surfaces.

Pigeon Valley: The Iconic Viewpoint Over Uçhisar

Next, the tour stops at a spectacular viewpoint in Uçhisar overlooking Pigeon Valley. Here, the impressive stone pigeon houses carved by early inhabitants are easily visible. This 20-minute stop provides an excellent opportunity for photos of the rock formations and the valley’s unique pigeon houses.

The view captures the essence of Cappadocia’s landscape, with soaring fairy chimneys and rugged cliffs. This stop is perfect for those who appreciate scenic vistas and want to understand the historical use of pigeons for communication and farming.

Tasting the Scenery at Ihlara Valley

After a traditional Turkish lunch, the tour proceeds to the Ihlara Valley, known for its deep canyon and lush greenery. A 4 km walk along the river takes approximately an hour, revealing cave churches carved into the canyon walls by early Christian monks. The landscape combines natural beauty with historical intrigue, making it a favorite for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

The admission ticket covers access to the valley, and the walk’s gentle pace makes it accessible for most physically fit travelers. The scenery along the river is peaceful, with rock-cut churches and frescoes providing a glimpse into monastic life.

Visiting Selime Monastery: The Largest Rock-Carved Complex

The tour then visits Selime Monastery, the region’s largest rock-cut monastery, with structures spanning multiple levels. It served as a religious and administrative center, used by Hittite, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman civilizations. The site features churches, monks’ quarters, and a vast cathedral, all carved directly into the soft volcanic rock.

Participants spend around 30 minutes exploring this historical site. Its vast size and detailed carvings highlight the importance of monastic life in historic Cappadocia. Visitors should be prepared for some climbing and uneven surfaces.

The View of Goreme and Fairy Chimneys

The final highlight is the Goreme Panorama, offering a sweeping view over the town and its iconic fairy chimneys. This 20-minute stop allows travelers to admire the surreal landscape, with its tall, cone-shaped rock formations. It’s an ideal spot for photos and soaking in the region’s unique terrain.

The panoramic view emphasizes Cappadocia’s geological artistry, and the scene remains memorable long after the tour ends.

Practical Details: Logistics, Pacing, and Comfort

The tour departs at 9:30 am from your hotel in Goreme, with pickup included. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during transfers between sites. Parking fees and fuel surcharges are covered, simplifying the experience.

With moderate physical activity required, including walking and exploring uneven terrain, this tour suits those with average fitness levels. The small group size fosters a friendly environment, and the guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness.

The Local Cuisine and Meal Experience

A key part of the experience is the delicious Turkish lunch, included in the price. The meal offers a taste of regional flavors, adding a cultural layer to the sightseeing. The meal’s quality and authentic flavors are appreciated, making the day both scenic and flavorful.

Booking, Cancellation, and Value

Booking is typically done at least 17 days in advance, showing strong demand. The cost of $87.08 per person includes all major expenses—admission tickets, lunch, transportation, and parking—making it a good value for an all-in experience.

The free cancellation policy allows cancellation up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund, providing flexibility in case of weather issues or changes in plans.

Final Thoughts on the Full-day Cappadocia Green Tour

This small-group tour offers a well-rounded exploration of South Cappadocia’s highlights, combining history, natural beauty, and local culture. The expert guides and carefully curated itinerary make it suitable for those who want an informative, comfortable, and scenic day.

While the pace is moderate and involves some walking, the experience is accessible for most physically fit visitors. The inclusion of lunch, transportation, and entry tickets simplifies planning, and the small group size enhances the personal feel.

For travelers seeking a comprehensive introduction to Cappadocia’s underground cities, valleys, and monastic sites, this tour serves as an excellent choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 9:30 am.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hassle-free pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Goreme.

What sites are visited during the tour?
You visit Derinkuyu Underground City, Pigeon Valley viewpoint, Ihlara Valley, Selime Monastery, and Goreme Panorama.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour is recommended for those with moderate physical fitness, as it involves walking and exploring uneven terrain.

Are meals included?
Yes, a traditional Turkish lunch is included in the tour price.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 13 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are fully refundable.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera are advisable for the day’s activities.

How do I book this tour?
Booking can be made in advance, typically 17 days ahead, via the reservation platform linked in the source.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the tour requires good weather to proceed. If canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

This full-day Cappadocia Green Tour combines convenience, expert guidance, and rich sights, making it a rewarding experience for those eager to explore South Cappadocia’s most captivating sites.