Soganli Valley Kaymakli Underground City and All Highlights of Southeast Cappadocia

Discover the Best of Southeast Cappadocia for $80

This full-day sightseeing tour in Goreme, Turkey, offers an engaging journey through five major attractions in Southeast Cappadocia for just $80 per person. Spanning approximately 7 hours, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a Turkish lunch, and all entrance fees—except for the underground city ticket, which is paid separately. With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 from 11 reviews and a 91% recommendation rate, this experience suits travelers eager to explore iconic sites with a knowledgeable guide.

The tour’s highlights include visiting Soganli Valley’s cave churches, the UNESCO-listed Kaymakli Underground City, Roman-era ruins at Sobesos, and the peaceful ManastIr Vadisi village. Its small group size of up to 12 travelers ensures a personal feel, while the professional guide enhances each stop with insightful commentary. This is a well-rounded choice for those wanting an immersive day packed with history, culture, and scenic views.

Key Points

• Full-day tour covering five major attractions in Southeast Cappadocia
• Price of $80 includes transportation, lunch, and most entrance fees
• Hotel pickup and drop-off offer convenience for visitors
• Stops include Soganli Valley, Kaymakli Underground City, Sobesos Roman ruins, and ManastIr Vadisi
• The tour emphasizes personalized guidance with a fluent English-speaking guide
• Small group size (maximum 12 travelers) ensures an intimate experience

Soganli Valley: Exploring Cave Churches in a Local Village Setting

The tour begins at Soganli Valley, a site renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty and cave churches. Here, a hiking walk reveals rock formations and historical cave dwellings. The valley is situated in a local village, making it a rare site where visitors can experience authentic rural life alongside ancient structures.

This stop lasts about an hour, offering an opportunity to walk among the caves, admire Byzantine-era mosaics, and appreciate the quiet charm of this less-visited area. Since admission is free, the focus is on enjoying the scenery and exploring at a relaxed pace. It’s particularly favored for its authentic atmosphere and untouched landscape.

Kaymakli Underground City: UNESCO World Heritage Site

Next, the tour visits the Kaymakli Underground City, one of the largest underground complexes in Cappadocia. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it features multiple levels carved into soft volcanic rock, historically used for shelter and protection.

The 45-minute visit includes guided insights into how ancient inhabitants lived underground, with tunnels, rooms, and corridors to explore. While admission is not included in the tour price, the visit offers a fascinating glimpse into underground architecture and the ingenious ways early residents adapted to their environment. Walking through the tunnels provides a tangible connection to the area’s history.

Roman and Byzantine Ruins at Sobesos

At Sobesos, the tour uncovers Roman-era ruins, including ancient mosaics and archaeological remains from the Byzantine Empire. This site, which is free to visit, showcases historical artifacts that highlight Cappadocia’s long-standing importance as a crossroads of civilizations.

Expect a 30-minute stop where the guide explains the significance of the excavations, displaying mosaic floors and archaeological structures that offer a snapshot of life during Roman and Byzantine times. The site is ideal for those interested in ancient history and archaeology.

ManastIr Vadisi: A Peaceful Village with Architectural Charm

The tour then takes you to ManastIr Vadisi, a picturesque village famed for its architecture, reflecting centuries of Turkish and Greek influence. The 45-minute walk through the village reveals traditional houses, churches, and a serene atmosphere.

This stop stands out for its cultural harmony and beautiful scenery, where Turkish and Greek communities coexisted peacefully for hundreds of years. It’s an excellent spot for photography and soaking in local village life away from the crowds.

Convenient Transportation and Lunch in Local Restaurants

Throughout the tour, brand-new minivans with A/C and comfortable seats transport the group between sites, making the day easy and comfortable. The hotel pickup and drop-off service adds significant convenience, especially in a spread-out region like Cappadocia.

A Turkish lunch at a local restaurant is included, providing a chance to try authentic regional cuisine. While drinks are not included, vegetarian options are available upon request, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, with children required to be accompanied by an adult.

The Guide: Knowledgeable and Friendly

The tour features a fluent English-speaking guide who accompanies you at every stop. According to reviews, guides like Farida are praised for their expertise and engaging storytelling, elevating the experience with personalized insights. The small group size allows for easy interaction and focused attention.

Logistics and Booking Details

The tour starts at 10:00 am from Goreme, with a confirmation received immediately upon booking. It operates with a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring an intimate atmosphere. Cancellation is free if made at least 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility in case of change in plans.

Participants are advised to wear smart casual clothing, and to mention any dietary requirements when booking. Most travelers can participate, making this tour a practical choice for a broad audience interested in history, culture, and scenery.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and those seeking a comprehensive day exploring Southeast Cappadocia. It suits travelers who appreciate guided tours with informative commentary and small group environments. The scenic hikes and archaeological sites are accessible to most, but some walking is involved, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Final Thoughts on the Southeast Cappadocia Tour

This $80 full-day tour offers exceptional value for its range of historical sites, natural landscapes, and cultural experiences. The inclusion of lunch and entrance fees, plus hotel pickup, simplifies planning and makes it a convenient option for visitors. The small group size enhances the experience, ensuring that each guest gets attention from the guide.

While the underground city ticket is paid separately, the overall itinerary provides a well-rounded glimpse into Southeast Cappadocia’s diverse attractions. It’s particularly suited for those who want a comfortable, informative, and scenic day without the hassle of organizing separate visits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided during the tour?
Yes, transportation in brand-new, air-conditioned minivans is included, providing easy and comfortable travel between sites.

What is included in the tour price?
The $80 fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off, a guided commentary, lunch at a local restaurant, and all included entrance fees, except for the Kaymakli Underground City ticket.

Can dietary requirements be accommodated?
Yes, vegetarian options are available, and travelers are advised to specify any special dietary needs when booking.

How many people participate in each tour?
The tour operates with a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a small, personalized group experience.

What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation is free if made at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time, allowing patrons to plan with confidence.

This tour combines history, culture, and scenic beauty in a manageable, well-organized day—perfect for those eager to explore Southeast Cappadocia’s most notable highlights with ease and insight.