Cappadocia Green Tour (with Derinkuyu, Ihlara and Selime)

Key Points

• Affordable full-day guided tour in Goreme for $85 per person with 8 stops.
• Includes entrance tickets to major sites like Derinkuyu underground city, Ihlara Valley, and Selime Monastery.
• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned vehicles with pickup service.
• Guide-led explanations in English, providing detailed insights into each location.
• Long stops at scenic viewpoints such as Goreme Panorama and Pigeon Valley, perfect for photos.
• Tour is highly rated, with a perfect 5-star rating from 151 reviews, and 99% recommend the experience.

An Overview of the Cappadocia Green Tour

This full-day guided experience in Goreme costs $85.01 per person and lasts around 8 hours and 20 minutes. The tour is organized by Paphlagonia Tour and departs at 9:30 am, with pickup included, making logistics straightforward. It’s designed for those who want to see both natural wonders and historical sites across Cappadocia.

The tour covers 8 key stops, including Derinkuyu underground city, Ihlara Valley, Selime Monastery, Goreme panoramic views, Pigeon Valley, Uchisar Castle, Narligol Krater Golu, and Yaprakhisar Köyü Muhtarl. What makes this tour appealing is its combination of scenic viewpoints, archaeological sites, and natural landscapes, all accessible in one day with convenient transportation.

While this experience suits most travelers, it offers a good balance of sightseeing and light hiking, especially in places like Ihlara Valley. The tour’s great reviews, with a 4.9 out of 5 rating, reflect strong satisfaction, particularly for the knowledgeable guides and well-organized schedule.

Goreme Panorama: The Perfect Wake-Up View

The tour begins with a 15-minute stop at Goreme Panorama, offering a sweeping view of Goreme town and central Cappadocia. This spot provides a breathtaking high vantage point to appreciate the landscape’s unique formations. It’s an excellent starting point for photo enthusiasts and sets the tone for the day.

There’s no admission fee here, so it’s a quick stop to capture panoramic shots before heading to the next location. The early morning light enhances the views, making it a favorite for those who enjoy scenic overlooks.

Pigeon Valley: Iconic Views and Photo Opportunities

Next, the tour visits Pigeon Valley, which offers the best panoramic view of Uchisar Castle and the pigeon houses carved into the cliffs. This 15-minute stop allows visitors to take in the distinctive rock formations and photograph the valley’s charm.

The free admission makes it an accessible highlight, perfect for capturing memorable photos of Cappadocia’s landscape. The location also offers an excellent overview of the Uchisar region, adding context to the sites ahead.

Ihlara Valley: Nature and Light Hiking

One of the most engaging stops is Ihlara Valley, where visitors enjoy a 1.5-hour hike along the Melendiz River. This beautiful canyon is famous for its lush greenery, rock-cut churches, and the sound of flowing water amid nature.

The admission ticket is included, and the experience offers a serene natural setting that contrasts with the archaeological sites. The music of the river and the greenery creates a peaceful atmosphere, making it a favorite for those who like light outdoor activity. Be prepared for a gentle walk that’s suitable for most fitness levels.

Selime Monastery: Clifftop Views and Silk Road History

Following Ihlara Valley, the tour stops at Selime Monastery, a rock-cut religious complex perched on a hill near Selime Village. The 1-hour visit includes exploring rock chambers, chapels, and the monastery’s vast structure.

Visitors enjoy spectacular views from this high vantage point and gain insight into Silk Road caravansarais that historically passed through Cappadocia. The site’s unique architecture and historical significance make it a highlight for history buffs and photography fans alike.

Derinkuyu Underground City: Deep History Beneath the Surface

One of the tour’s most impressive features is Derinkuyu Underground City, which extends 55.5 meters deep over 8 floors. As the deepest underground city in Anatolia, it offers a rare glimpse into ancient subterranean life.

The 1-hour visit allows exploration of narrow tunnels, rooms, and escape routes used by early inhabitants. The underground city’s labyrinth of tunnels can be physically demanding but is highly praised for its fascinating architecture and historical importance.

Narligol Krater Golu: A Pristine Lake

The tour includes a 20-minute stop at Narligol Krater Golu, one of the most beautiful and untouched lakes in Cappadocia. This virgin lake provides a peaceful setting for photos and relaxation, away from the busier tourist spots.

This free admission location offers a serene environment, perfect for a quick break and enjoying scenic views of the water surrounded by the landscape’s distinctive terrain.

Yaprakhisar Köyü Muhtarl and Uchisar Castle Views

While the itinerary mentions stops at Yaprakhisar Köyü Muhtarl, it also highlights Uchisar Castle, accessible during the panoramic views. Uchisar Castle is a notable site for its highest point in Cappadocia, offering panoramic views across the region.

The stops often include photo opportunities and the chance to learn about local life and history. Some reviews note the importance of timely access to avoid crowds, which the guide manages well.

Convenience and Comfort Throughout the Day

The transportation in this tour comprises air-conditioned vehicles, making long drives comfortable. The pickup service simplifies logistics, and the small group size (up to 40 travelers) ensures a more personalized experience.

Included in the package are entrance tickets, a small bottle of water, and guidance from an English-speaking guide. The lunch provided adds value, though beverages at lunch are not included.

Recognized Guide Quality and Tour Pacing

The reviews consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Feruk, Ali, Mali, Bekir, and Shahin. Visitors appreciate the balance between detailed information and attention to individual needs.

The timing at each site is well-managed, allowing enough time for photos, exploration, and light walking. Some mention that the long rides between stops are manageable because it’s a good chance to rest or re-energize, especially during warmer months.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Most participants find the tour well-organized and suitable for most travelers, with most activities involving light walking. However, some stops involve narrow tunnels or uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes are advised.

The tour does include visits to shops selling jewelry and souvenirs, which some reviews regard as part of the typical group tour experience. The lunch is included but drinks are not, so bringing water is recommended.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This Cappadocia Green Tour appeals most to history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and photo enthusiasts who appreciate scenic viewpoints and archaeological sites in a single day. The comprehensive itinerary suits those wanting a full overview of Western Cappadocia without the need for multiple separate excursions.

Travelers looking for a well-organized, informative, and comfortable day will find this tour provides excellent value for money. The high ratings and detailed reviews reflect its status as a trusted choice for exploring Cappadocia’s highlights in one day.

Cappadocia Green Tour (with Derinkuyu, Ihlara, and Selime) Summary

This full-day experience offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, historical sites, and panoramic views. With entrance tickets included and air-conditioned transport, it simplifies planning while delivering insightful guidance.

The diverse stops, from underground cities to lakes and monasteries, ensure a varied and enriching adventure. Despite some visits to shops, the overall value and quality remain high, making it a popular choice among travelers.

This tour is perfect for those who want to cover significant sites in a single day and enjoy professional guidance in a small group setting. It’s a reliable, well-reviewed option to experience the essence of Cappadocia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of this tour?
The price covers entrance tickets, lunch, air-conditioned transportation, a small bottle of water, guidance in English, and seat insurance.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours and 20 minutes, starting at 9:30 am with pickup included.

Are there any physical demands?
Most activities involve light walking and short hikes, such as in Ihlara Valley. Some sites, like Derinkuyu, feature narrow tunnels that may require caution.

Can I customize or cancel the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Changes made less than 24 hours before are not accepted.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues might find some sites challenging due to terrain and narrow passages.

What should I bring?
It’s best to bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and drinking water. Lunch is included, but drinks are not, so plan accordingly.