Cappadocia Green Tour (South of Cappadocia)

Experience Cappadocia’s South Highlights in One Day

The Cappadocia Green Tour, also known as the South of Cappadocia Tour, offers a comprehensive day exploring some of the region’s most iconic sites. Starting around 9:30–9:50 am, this 7-hour guided excursion covers the Kaymakli Underground City, Ihlara Valley, and Selime Monastery, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.

What makes this tour especially appealing is the combination of historical sites, stunning landscapes, and an authentic Turkish lunch. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a structured, in-depth look at Cappadocia’s rich past and natural beauty, though it involves several walking stops and some moderate physical activity.

While crowds can be common at popular viewpoints, the tour’s well-organized itinerary and knowledgeable guides make it a rewarding experience. The tour does not include personal expenses, and it’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and outdoor exploration.

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Key Points

• Comprehensive 7-hour guided tour covering major southern sites of Cappadocia
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring convenient access
• Visit the Kaymakli Underground City, carved over 4,000 years ago
• Walk through the scenic Ihlara Valley along a 4 km trail by the river
• Explore the Selime Monastery, the largest rock-carved monastery in the region
• Enjoy a traditional Turkish kebab-style lunch at a local restaurant

From the Hotel to the Göreme Panorama Viewpoint

The tour begins with hotel pickup from six possible locations: Göreme, Ürgüp, Uçhisar, Mustafapaa, Avanos, and Ortahisar. Around 9:30–9:50 am, a comfortable air-conditioned van transports travelers to the first scenic stop, the Goreme Panorama viewpoint.

At this vantage point, visitors are treated to a breathtaking view of Cappadocia’s landscape. The guide explains how the region’s distinctive formations came into being, setting the stage for the day ahead. This initial stop offers excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the expansive volcanic terrain.

Discovering the Kaymakli Underground City’s Deep History

Next, the tour heads to the Kaymakli Underground City, once known as Enegup. This site features caves built in soft volcanic rock by the Phrygians in the 8th and 7th centuries BC. It was expanded and fortified during the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) era as a refuge against Arab raids.

Visitors are led through narrow tunnels, rooms, and tunnels that extend beneath the surface, revealing how ancient civilizations created secure underground living spaces. The guided visit lasts about an hour, providing insight into the protective functions and historical significance of the site.

Exploring the Scenic Ihlara Valley and Cave Churches

The journey continues with an approximately 2.5-hour walk in Ihlara Valley, a deep canyon carved by the Melendiz River. The 4 km trail offers an easy walk through lush scenery, lined with cave churches that date back to early Christian monks.

Travelers walk along the river, discovering cave dwellings and religious sites etched into the canyon walls. The walk includes photo stops and sightseeing, making it an engaging way to connect with Cappadocia’s natural and historical landscape. The easy, scenic route is suitable for most fitness levels, but it involves walking on uneven terrain.

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Lunch at a Traditional Turkish Restaurant in Belisirma

Midday, the tour pauses for a lunch break at a local restaurant in Belisirma. The meal features kebab-style dishes typical of Turkish cuisine, served in a relaxed setting by the river. This break allows for rest, refreshment, and an authentic taste of regional flavors.

The around 75-minute lunch provides a chance to enjoy good food and local ambiance before the afternoon activities. It’s included in the tour price, making it a convenient way to enjoy regional cuisine without extra planning.

Visiting the Majestic Selime Monastery

After lunch, the group visits the Selime Monastery, the largest rock-cut monastery in Cappadocia. This site was historically used by Hittite, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman civilizations. Carved into a volcanic mountain, it features churches, tunnels, and living quarters.

The guide explains the historical layers of the monastery as visitors walk through its cathedral-sized chambers and intricate passageways. This site showcases the artistry and resourcefulness of ancient builders in the region.

Final Stop at Pigeon Valley and Uçhisar Viewpoint

The last sightseeing stop is in Uçhisar, where a stunning viewpoint overlooks Pigeon Valley. Here, ancient pigeon houses carved into the rock are visible, a feature that historically supported local agriculture and communication.

The viewpoint provides excellent photo opportunities of the rock formations and valley below. Visitors can enjoy a brief walk, take in the scenery, and purchase souvenirs if desired. The tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel around 6:00–6:30 pm.

Practical Details and What to Bring

The tour is supported by a live guide speaking English, Spanish, Chinese, or Portuguese, ensuring clear explanations throughout the day. It includes entrance fees, transportation, and lunch, but personal expenses are not covered.

Travelers are advised to bring comfortable walking shoes, a sun hat, camera, water, and appropriate clothing for varying weather. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to some walking and uneven terrain.

How the Tour Compares to Other Options

This Green Tour offers a balanced mix of cultural, historical, and natural sites in a single day, ideal for visitors wanting a rundown. The inclusion of the underground city, Ihlara Valley, and Selime Monastery distinguishes it from other regional tours. Its well-paced itinerary and knowledgeable guides are often praised, though some may wish for longer walks or more time at each stop.

The Sum Up: A Strong Choice for Exploring Southern Cappadocia

The Cappadocia Green Tour provides an informative, engaging, and well-organized way to see key sites in the south of Cappadocia. The excursion’s highlights—underground city, canyon walk, and rock monastery—are compelling and accessible.

While crowds may be present at popular viewpoints, the inclusive lunch and convenient hotel pickup add to its overall value. This tour suits travelers eager to experience the region’s history and landscapes in one day with guided insights.

If you enjoy natural scenery, historical architecture, and comfortable pacing, this tour offers a practical and rewarding way to explore the southern part of Cappadocia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the Green Tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, guide services, transport by air-conditioned van, entrance fees, and a lunch.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts approximately 7 hours, starting around 9:30–9:50 am and ending around 6:00–6:30 pm.

Are there any physical requirements?
Yes, the tour involves walking on uneven terrain, including a moderate walk in Ihlara Valley and exploring caves and monasteries. It is not suitable for wheelchair users or pregnant women.

Do I need to bring anything special?
It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes, bring a sun hat, camera, water, and dress in layers for changing weather.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a guide available in languages other than English?
Yes, the tour provides live guides speaking Spanish, Chinese, and Portuguese.

What is the focus of the tour?
The tour emphasizes historical sites, scenic views, and natural landscapes, with highlights like Kaymakli Underground City and Selime Monastery.

How crowded are the stops?
Some sites, especially viewpoints and popular landmarks, can be busy, so early start times help avoid the largest crowds.

Is food included?
Yes, a traditional Turkish kebab-style lunch at a local restaurant is part of the package.

How do I book and pay for the tour?
You can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility, and full payment is due upon booking.

Would you recommend this tour?
For those seeking a comprehensive, guided experience of Cappadocia’s southern sites with convenience and insightful commentary, this Green Tour stands out as a reliable choice.

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