cappadocia green tour

The Cappadocia Green Tour offers a comprehensive day of exploration in one of Turkey’s most captivating regions. Priced at $65 per person and lasting approximately 7 hours, this tour takes you through some of the most iconic sights around Goreme. Starting with hotel pickup at 09:30, the tour features visits to underground cities, stunning valleys, and historic monasteries, making it a great choice for those interested in a well-rounded experience.

While the tour covers many highlights and offers photo opportunities at panoramic viewpoints, it is best suited for active participants comfortable with walking. It includes a lunch at a riverside restaurant, with all fees and taxes covered. However, the tour is not ideal for those with mobility challenges, as it involves some walking and hiking. The guide, provided by fairyland travel, leads the group through each stop, sharing insights into the area’s history and geology.

Key Points

• Price: $65 per person for a full-day tour lasting about 7 hours
• Includes: Hotel pickup, lunch, all fees and taxes
• Highlights: Underground city of Derinkuyu, Ihlara Valley hike, Selime Monastery, panoramic views at Goreme and Uchisar
• Physical activity: Moderate walking and hiking, not suitable for those unable to walk long distances
• Booking: Confirmation received at booking, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

Starting at Goreme Panorama for Spectacular Views

The Green Tour begins with a pickup from your hotel at 09:30, followed by a visit to Goreme National Park. Here, the panoramic views of Goreme town stretch out, giving an excellent introduction to the landscape. This spot provides a perfect photo opportunity with views over the fairy chimneys and volcanic formations that define Cappadocia.

This initial stop sets the tone for the day, highlighting the unique geological features that make the region famous. The guide is available to explain the significance of the formations and to help you capture memorable images before moving on to the next attraction.

Exploring Pigeon Valley and Uchisar Pigeon Caves

Next, the tour takes you to Pigeon Valley, where the cliffs are riddled with ancient pigeon cavities. You’ll also enjoy views of Uchisar town from this vantage point, with Evil Eye Tree nearby. The cavity dwellings, carved into soft volcanic rock, once served as pigeon houses for local inhabitants and are a striking feature of the landscape.

The walls of Pigeon Valley show how residents have adapted to and utilized the volcanic terrain for centuries. Visitors can admire the wild pigeons’ cavities and appreciate the view over Uchisar, a significant town with a high rock castle that offers further photo opportunities.

Descending into Derinkuyu Underground City

One of the highlight stops is the underground city of Derinkuyu, which dates back to around 1500 BC and was carved by the Hittite civilization. The seven levels of this underground labyrinth go deep underground, with tunnels, rooms, and chapels that once sheltered thousands of people.

The underground city was created as a refuge during times of war and invasion. Visitors walk through narrow passageways, exploring storerooms, wineries, and even a chapel. The experience offers a tangible connection to the area’s history and the ingenuity of ancient engineering.

Visiting the Gözlügöl (Crater Lake) with Scenic Views

After uncovering underground secrets, the tour visits the Gözlügöl Crater Lake for plenty of gorgeous views. This serene crater lake provides a peaceful break and fantastic photo opportunities, with its calm waters contrasting the rugged terrain around it.

The site allows visitors to take in the natural beauty of Cappadocia’s volcanic landscape, perfect for capturing images or simply enjoying the tranquility. It’s a great spot for a short rest before the next historical site.

Hiking and Exploring Ihlara Valley’s Orthodox Churches

The Ihlara Valley is a lush canyon carved by the Melendiz River, stretching for about 14 kilometers. The tour involves a walk along the river, with visits to Orthodox churches built around 800 AD and dating back to around 300 AD. The churches are notable for their frescoes and historical significance.

The valley’s greenery and river setting offer a refreshing change from the rocky terrain. The guide explains the history behind the churches and the valley’s significance as a monastic site. Participants enjoy a lunch at a riverside restaurant, where local flavors are on offer, adding to the authenticity of the experience.

Visiting Selime Monastery and Cathedral

In the afternoon, the tour visits Selime Monastery, a large cave complex from around 800 AD. This site, carved into the rock, features a cathedral-like structure and numerous chapels, offering insight into monastic life centuries ago.

The monastery’s scale and architecture make it a fascinating stop. After exploring, the group returns to Goreme, concluding the day’s visits around 18:00. The journey back provides an opportunity to reflect on the days’ highlights and take in the last views of Cappadocia’s stunning landscape.

Practical Details and Group Size

The tour operates with a maximum of 16 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience with personalized attention from the guide. It includes pickup from your hotel, making logistics straightforward. The group size helps maintain a relaxed pace, allowing enough time for photos, questions, and breaks at each stop.

The tour’s physical demands include some walking and hiking; therefore, it is best suited for individuals who are comfortable with these activities. The walking involved at sites like Derinkuyu and Selime Monastery may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or difficulty walking long distances.

Cost, Inclusions, and Booking Policies

For $65 per person, the tour covers all fees and taxes, as well as a tasty lunch by the river. The mobile ticket and pickup service add convenience to the experience. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility in planning.

It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot. The guide from fairyland travel is known for providing knowledgeable commentary, which enhances the overall experience.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This Green Tour caters well to travelers who enjoy history, scenic views, and moderate physical activity. The combination of underground cities, valleys, and monasteries offers a diverse glimpse of Cappadocia’s landscape and heritage. It suits those looking for a full-day guided experience that balances sightseeing with comfort.

However, individuals with mobility limitations might find some stops challenging due to walking and hilly terrain. The lunch at the riverside restaurant adds a local touch but is not a gourmet experience; it’s more about authentic regional flavors.

Cappadocia Green Tour: A Practical and Diverse Day of Discovery

The Cappadocia Green Tour provides a well-organized, engaging way to see many of the region’s most famous sites in one day. Its mix of natural beauty, ancient architecture, and historical underground dwellings makes it a compelling choice for those eager to explore Cappadocia’s depth.

The inclusion of panoramic views, hiking, and historical sites ensures that guests experience both the landscape and the stories behind it. While it does involve some walking, the overall pacing and group size make it manageable for most travelers.

This tour offers good value, especially considering the lunch and all fees included. For travelers seeking a comprehensive, guided day in Cappadocia with a focus on history and scenery, this Green Tour from fairyland travel remains a solid option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the Green Tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel in Goreme.

How long does the Green Tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 09:30 and returning around 18:00.

What are the main stops on the tour?
Key stops include Goreme Panorama, Pigeon Valley, Derinkuyu Underground City, Gözlügöl Crater Lake, Ihlara Valley, and Selime Monastery.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, the tour includes a lunch at a riverside restaurant.

What should I be prepared for physically?
Some walking and hiking are involved, especially at Derinkuyu and Selime Monastery. It’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate activity.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
It is suitable for most travelers who can handle walking and some uphill terrain; those with mobility issues may find it challenging.

Does the tour operator have good customer service?
The guide from fairyland travel is known for providing informative commentary and organized logistics, enhancing the overall experience.

Are there any additional costs not included in the price?
Alcoholic beverages are not included. All other fees and taxes are covered.

Where can I learn more about similar experiences in Cappadocia?
Explore options like hot-air balloon rides, shuttle transfers, and private tours via the links provided by the tour operator.

Is there any reason I might want to contact the operator directly?
Yes, since the tour on TripAdvisor has not been offered recently, direct contact with fairyland travel can confirm availability and any updates.

This detailed review highlights the practical aspects of the Cappadocia Green Tour, focusing on its highlights, logistics, and suitability to help you plan an enriching day in this exceptional region.