Full Day Green Tour Natural History of Cappadocia Tour

Explore the Natural History and Unique Landscapes of Cappadocia

The Full Day Green Tour in Goreme offers an in-depth look at the region’s fascinating natural formations and historical sites. Priced at $92.19 per person, this 9-hour guided experience is designed for curious travelers eager to understand Cappadocia’s geological and cultural marvels. With pickup included and a mobile ticket, it combines comfort with comprehensive sightseeing.

This tour stands out for its thoughtfully curated stops, including the Kaymakli Underground City, the Ihlara Valley, and the Selime Monastery. It is well-suited for those interested in deepening their understanding of the region’s natural features and monastic history. The tour’s popularity is reflected in its booking pattern—most participants reserve their places 8 days in advance—and its high overall rating of 4.5 out of 5.

However, it is a long day, with substantial driving time between stops, making it ideal for active travelers who enjoy a full schedule and diverse scenery. The inclusion of entrance fees, lunch, and transport enhances the overall value, though visitors should be prepared for a busy day with walking and exploration.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $92.19 and lasts approximately 9 hours.
• Highlights Include: Kaymakli Underground City, Ihlara Valley, Selime Monastery, and Kapadokya Onyx.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Sunny, Rafik, Attila, Serpil, and Ozan Can are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to entertain.
• All-Inclusive: Entrance fees, lunch, and air-conditioned transport are included.
• Limited Group Size: Max 18 travelers ensures personalized attention.
• Booking: Most book 8 days in advance, making planning straightforward.

The Starting Point and Daily Schedule in Goreme

The tour begins promptly at 9:00 am with pickup from Goreme. Travelers are transported comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle, with the day packed with visits to some of Cappadocia’s most iconic sites. The schedule balances sightseeing, learning, and some physical activity, making it a robust introduction to the region.

Visiting Goreme Panorama and Pigeon Valley

The tour kicks off at the Goreme Panorama, which offers sweeping views of the town’s distinctive rock formations. This 30-minute stop is perfect for capturing photos and getting an initial impression of Cappadocia’s landscape.

Next, the journey continues to Pigeon Valley, also a 30-minute stop. Here, visitors see caves carved into the cliffs, known for their pigeon houses—a characteristic feature of the area. These stops set the tone for the geological and cultural themes of the day.

Discovering the Kaymakli Underground City

One of the tour’s highlights is the Kaymakli Underground City, where admission is included. This 8-storey subterranean complex once housed nearly 200 underground cities. Visitors explore narrow corridors, massive bolt stones, and hidden rooms that reveal how ancient inhabitants protected themselves during times of conflict.

The giant bolt stones and cider houses demonstrate early defensive engineering, offering a glimpse into how people in the past used natural rock formations for protection. The underground city is a testament to Cappadocia’s layered history and remains one of its most intriguing features.

Walking and Exploring the Ihlara Valley

The Ihlara Valley stands out as a highlight, with an earthly length of 18 kilometers and a depth of 150 meters. This largest canyon in the world where humans once lived offers a 2-hour 30-minute walk along the Melendiz River, which feeds the lush environment.

The valley features thousands of rock-cut dwellings and churches, blending natural beauty with historical significance. Visitors will appreciate the easy access to cave churches and the opportunity to understand how the terrain shaped monastic life. The scenery is complemented by the river, which provides a calm setting for exploration.

Exploring Selime Monastery’s Grand Scale

The Selime Monastery is a massive complex believed to have taken over 200 years to build. Dated to the 8th or 9th century, it could accommodate up to 5,000 people. The 45-minute visit showcases its size and historical importance, with visitors walking through rock halls, tunnels, and courtyards.

This site highlights the monastic architecture and the region’s spiritual history. Its impressive scale and well-preserved structures make it a must-see stop on the tour.

Onyx Carving and Stone Crafting at Kapadokya Onyx

The Kapadokya Onyx stop features a free visit to see how special stones like zultanite are sculpted. Visitors observe masters at work transforming raw stones into jewelry and decorative items, gaining insight into local craftsmanship.

This stop offers an opportunity to buy unique souvenirs, making it a worthwhile addition to the day’s experiences. It also provides a relaxing break in the schedule.

Lunch by the Melendiz River in Ihlara

The tour includes a delicious lunch next to the Melendiz River in the Ihlara Valley. This 1-hour meal allows travelers to enjoy local flavors amid scenic surroundings, providing a restful pause before continuing with the day’s sightseeing.

The dining experience enhances the overall value, combining culture with culinary enjoyment.

Scenic Drive Connecting the Highlights

Between sites, the tour features a 2-hour 15-minute drive, connecting the various locations comfortably. This period is essential for relaxing and appreciating the region’s landscape outside of walking stops. The smooth transportation ensures a seamless experience across Cappadocia’s diverse terrain.

Practical Details and Booking Information

This tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, lunch, and entrance fees for all major sites. It departs from Goreme at 9:00 am and concludes around sunset, with most bookings made 8 days in advance. Group sizes are limited to 18 participants, fostering an engaging and personalized atmosphere.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues should be aware of walking at sites like Ihlara Valley and Selime Monastery. The pickup service makes access easy, especially for visitors staying in Goreme.

Insights from Reviews and Guides

Guides like Sunny, Rafik, Attila, Serpil, and Ozan Can frequently receive praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make explanations engaging. Reviewers often highlight guides’ fluency in English and their enthusiasm, which enriches the experience.

The tour is described as well-paced, with worthwhile visits and ample time for photos and questions. Some reviews mention the long day but emphasize that it remains valuable and rewarding. A few critical voices note issues with guides in other languages or expectations, but overall, the tour consistently receives high marks.

Who Will Enjoy the Green Tour in Cappadocia?

This full-day experience is ideal for those who want to see multiple sites in one trip, learn about geological formations, and explore underground cities and monasteries. It suits travelers who appreciate guided commentary and are comfortable with a busy schedule.

Since lunch and entrance fees are included, it offers good value for money, especially given the variety of locations visited. Visitors should be prepared for a full day of walking and sightseeing, with some driving between stops.

Summary of the Green Tour’s Benefits and Considerations

In summary, the Green Tour in Cappadocia provides an immersive and educational experience at a reasonable price point. The expert guides and carefully curated stops create a rundown of Cappadocia’s natural and historical highlights. The all-inclusive package with lunch, entrance fees, and comfortable transport makes it a convenient choice for most travelers.

The main limitation is the length of the day—it involves lots of walking, some bus time, and a packed itinerary. Those seeking a more relaxed pace or shorter excursions might prefer different options. But for travelers eager to maximize their sightseeing in a single day, this tour delivers a memorable and enriching experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include all entrance fees?
Yes, all entrance fees to sites like Kaymakli Underground City and Selime Monastery are included in the price.

What is the typical group size?
The maximum group size is 18 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and engaging experience.

Is lunch included, and what does it involve?
Yes, a lunch is included, served next to the Melendiz River in Ihlara Valley, offering local flavors and a relaxing break.

What should I wear or prepare for?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to walking at sites like Ihlara Valley and Selime Monastery. Be prepared for a full day with some physical activity.

Can the tour accommodate specific dietary restrictions?
The provided data does not specify dietary options; it is advisable to check with the tour operator Melendiz Travel beforehand if special needs exist.

Is pickup service available from anywhere in Goreme?
The tour offers pickup, generally near public transportation points; confirm with the provider for specific pickup locations.

How long in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 8 days in advance, but early reservation is recommended during peak seasons.