Visit Cappadocia's top rated and must-see attractions on this full day guided tour. Enjoy a 4km hike through the beautiful Ihlara Valley along the Melendiz River, explore the underground city of Derinkuyu, the deepest in Cappadocia, and visit a giant fairy chimney.
Turkey is a country renowned for its rich historical and cultural heritage. Amongst its many wonders, the Ihlara Valley and the underground city of Derinkuyu are fascinating destinations for those wishing to immerse themselves in the ancient wonders of this diverse country. This tour explores these remarkable sites, highlighting their historical significance and breathtaking scenery.
Ihlara Valley
Nestled in the heart of Cappadocia, the Ihlara Valley is a mesmerising natural wonder waiting to be explored. This stunning gorge stretches for approximately 14 kilometres and is carved by the Melendiz River. Upon entering the valley, a sense of tranquillity envelops the surroundings, transporting visitors back in time to an era dominated by the opulence of nature.
Aside from its awe-inspiring beauty, the Ihlara Valley is also of immense historical significance. It is believed that during the Byzantine era the valley was a refuge for early Christian communities fleeing persecution. Evidence of their presence can be found in the rock-cut churches, decorated with ancient frescoes depicting scenes from Biblical stories. By venturing into these hidden chapels, visitors can witness the preservation of religious artistry dating back over a thousand years.
Beyond its historical and cultural significance, the Ihlara Valley offers visitors a visual feast. Towering cliffs, lush vegetation, and the serene melody of the Melendiz River paint a picture of splendid harmony. Walking along the well-marked trails, explorers can revel in a tranquil ambiance while relishing the stunning views of the valley's unique rock formations. The vibrant colors of the surrounding flora and fauna only add to the valley's allure, leaving visitors spellbound by nature's artistic prowess.
Derinkuyu Underground City
Located in the Nevsehir province of Cappadocia, the Derinkuyu Underground City is a testament to human ingenuity and resilience. Delving deep beneath the Earth's surface, this subterranean marvel stretches eight levels below the ground, showcasing an elaborate network of passages, chambers, and living quarters carved by ancient civilizations.
The Derinkuyu Underground City stands as a testament to the resourcefulness of ancient Anatolian civilizations. Built thousands of years ago, it served as a refuge for communities seeking protection during times of invasion, acting as an underground fortress. With its ventilation shafts, wells, stables, churches, and even schools, the city showcases the remarkable adaptability and ingenious engineering capabilities of its architects.
Exploring the corridors of the Derinkuyu Underground City offers visitors a unique and unforgettable adventure. Ducking through narrow passages and stepping into hidden rooms, one can't help but marvel at the ancient craftsmanship that went into creating this underground labyrinth. The sense of awe and mystery is enhanced by the various chambers that served different purposes - from communal kitchens to wineries - allowing visitors to imagine the daily lives of those who once sought refuge within these rocky walls.
The Ihlara Valley and Derinkuyu Underground City serve as magnificent examples of Turkey's historical and natural wonders. As visitors traverse these awe-inspiring locations, they can soak in the profound cultural heritage woven into the fabric of Anatolian history. Whether captivated by the mystic beauty of the Ihlara Valley or awestruck by the architectural marvel of the Derinkuyu Underground City, these destinations will leave an indelible mark on all who venture within their depths.
An unforgettable adventure in Cappadocia, a region in central Turkey well known for its stunning scenery above the magnificent fairy chimneys, its historical riches and its unique geological formations. However, one of the most exhilarating and unforgettable experiences Cappadocia has to offer is tandem paragliding.
Before taking off, you will be given a safety briefing by experienced paragliding pilots who have intimate knowledge of the area. They will give you all the necessary instructions to ensure a safe and enjoyable flight.
We will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel, so you do not have to think about anything, just let go and enjoy this amazing and unique moment!
Our day begins with a visit to Devrent Valley, also known as "Imagination Valley", this is the most surreal-looking landscape. We continue on to Pashabagi also known as the Monks Valley because Christian hermits chose to locate hermit cells and churches in these three-headed pinnacles symbolic of the Holy Trinity.
Here you can witness all the stages of the formation of fairy chimneys. Next we proceed to Avanos set on the banks of the Kizilirmak (Red River) named due to red clay deposits. Here you will see potters at work and lunch is taken in a Local Restaurant. Next you continue with Goreme Open Air Museumm the world's most significant Byzantine cave churches are found in these once remote valleys where monks and nuns pursued monastic life from the 3rd century on.
We take an opportunity to view Goreme from Esentepe a complete view of the village and Goreme valley , fairy chimneys, rock formations and cave houses our day ends with Uchisar Castle.
This tour opens with a spectacular view over Goreme from Esentepe. Unfolding before you , Goreme valley and Goreme village: fairy chimneys, rock formations and cave houses that will enchant you. We continue driving to Derinkuyu Underground City, one of the best preserved and deepest Underground Cities in Cappadocia. From here we proceed to Ihlara Valley.
This gorge is 16 km long and both sides are lined with rock carved churches, more than a hundred little churches and houses. You will walk about 4 km along the river in the valley exploring the hidden churches. At the end of your walk lunch will be served at Belisirma Village by the river.
After your substantial lunch we visit Selime Monastery,it was carved out of the rock by Christian monks in the 13th century (this is also the spot wherethe movie "Star wars" was shot).
Join us on a full day tour that takes you through some of the most scenic parts of Cappadocia and see the legendary 'fairy chimneys' passing through Pigeon Valley, Goreme Open Air Museum, Cavusin village, Avanos and Urgup, before the tour culminates at the 'Summit of Cappadocia'.
We see some spectacular scenery as we go through the Pigeon Valley and the valleys around Goreme, before we stop at the Goreme Open Air Museum. One of Turkey's Unesco World Heritage Sites, it is an essential stop on any trip where you can admire Byzantine art as well as the churches and chapels that were carved into the rocks. We then stop to see one of the oldest cave churches in the area situated in the village of Cavusin, which dates from the 5th century.
The tour continues on to Pasabag, where you can see the famous 'fair chimneys' with their mushroom-like structure before arriving into Avanos; where you have time to have lunch and appreciate the ceramic work that the region is famous for. We then head through the striking Devrent Valley, where you can even catch sight of a rock shaped like a camel! Admire more rock churches in Urgup, such as the spectacular Tavsanli Church and Church of Saint Basileious and take unforgettable photos at the Ortahisar Panorama point, by the entrance to the Red Valley. End the tour on a high note at Uchisar, the tallest point in Cappadocia.
Important information
Free shared transfer to and from the airport is included when booking this tour.
While in Cappadocia, don't forget a rare horseback riding trip of fairy chimneys through the breathtaking valleys.
Cappadocia, also known as the' Land of Beautiful Horses,' has all the conditions necessary for a performance and unforgettable ride: well-groomed, gentle and strong horses, beautiful scenery, roads far from the crowds, hospitable people who take care of you all through the day.
It's a great way to explore the area for 2 hours. Enjoy riding on horseback away from the roads and crowded tourist attractions in a peaceful environment. You will be accompanied by a professional guide who will show you the trails with incredible rock formations and the most spectacular fairy chimneys. Continue riding the local apricot orchards and traditional vineyards enjoying unique landscapes in all directions. This tour also includes a visit to the rock-cut monastery of Hallacdere, one of Cappadocia's many treasures.
Cappadocia's 2-hour riding is a very memorable experience because there is nothing more special than seeing the area from the back of the horse.
The Green tour is also known as South Cappadocia tour because of its itinerary covering all the main attractions of the South Cappadocia. You will visit the largest excavated underground city in Turkey, do trekking in Ihlara valley, visit one of the biggest rock-cut monasteries and enjoy stunning views over the Cappadocian valleys.
Itinerary
Goreme Panorama
Goreme Panorama is located exactly 2 km from the center of Goreme. You can enjoy the unique view on a bench or a chair. The view on the Goreme Uchisar road is at the end point of the Guvercinlik Valley. Erciyes Mountain, which is the most magnificent mountain of the region with a height of 3917 meters, can be seen from here. It is one of the most beautiful photo spots of Cappadocia, revealing the panorama of Erciyes and the magnificent Pigeon Valley.
Kaymakl? Underground City
Kaymakli Underground City is the biggest and deepest underground settlement in the Cappadocia region. Located in the Kaymaki Village, Kaymakli Underground City is also one of the most popular places to visit in Cappadocia.
Pigeon Valley
Pigeon Valley is located in the heart of Cappadocia, a region famous for its unique landscapes, rock formations, and underground cities.
Belisirma River
Lunch at a local restaurant in Belisirma by the river.
Onyx Demonstration
The black onyx is characteristic of the region of Cappadocia. The hardness determines the most prized variety for jewelry and craft work.
Selime Monastery
Selime Monastery is undoubtedly one of the most amazing places to visit in Cappadocia region, due to its size. The monastery is thought to have taken over 200 years to shape, and it can house as many as 5000 people at once. It was converted into a caravanserai after 11th century, and has lots of stables for camels. Selime Monastery is the biggest and most impressive monastery in Cappadocia dating back to the 8th or 9th century.
Ihlara Valley
Ihlara Valley is a fantastic canyon with a depth of about 100 meters and about 10 km. length that was formed by the volcanic activity from Mount Hasan and erosion by the Melendiz River hundred thousands of years ago. One of the best side trips from Cappadocia.
What's included?
* Hotel pick-up and drop-off.
* Lunch.
* Professional guide.
* Air-conditioned vehicle.
* Entrance fees to Underground City EUR12 (if option is selected).
* Entrance fees to ?hlara Valley EUR15 (if option is selected).
Take in the best of northern Cappadocia on a full day tour. Explore the Devrent and Pasabag valleys and visit the open-air museum.
Discover Cappadocia on a 7-hour guided tour. Visit the town of Avanos, famous for its pottery. See a demonstration of the Hittite technique.
Explore Cavusin, one of the oldest settlements in the area. People still live in cave dwellings and stone houses. Walk among the fairy chimneys of the Devrent Valley and marvel at the unique animal-like rock formations.
Visit the open-air museum and see centuries-old rock-cut churches and monasteries. In the Pasabag Valley, see the best collection of fairy chimneys in Cappadocia.
Uchisar Rock Castle is the highest point in the area. Take in the panoramic views from the top of the castle.
Itinerary
Uchisar Castle Panorama
It's the highest point in Cappadocia and if you climb it, you'll have a holistic view of all the valleys and lands. It's charming and the climb is relatively easy.
Love Valley
Love Valley, also known as Baglidere Valley, is one of the most fantastic valleys in Cappadocia. Located between the Avanos and Goreme roads, the valley is named after the interesting fairy chimney formations and is popular with couples for marriage proposals. The soil of the region is very rich in minerals, making it an ideal place for growing fruit and vegetables. The fairy chimneys in the valley are a must see. Love Valley is also on the popular hot air balloon routes of Cappadocia.
Lunch
Lunch is served in a traditional local restaurant.
Avanos Pottery Demonstration
Throughout history mankind has always been resourceful. They have taken the features and advantages of the landscape and used them to their advantage, whether it was building castles on hills to get the best view of their approaching enemy, or building settlements and villages near a water source. The small town of Avanos in Turkey is no exception.
The Red River
The Kizilirmak (Red River) is aptly named for the red clay that litters its banks. The people of Avanos have been extracting the clay and using it to make household products since Hittite times.
Devrent Valley
A lesser known cousin of the other Cappadocian valleys, the Devrent Valley is also known as the Imagination Valley or the Pink Valley because of its colour. The valley doesn't have any cave temples like the others, but instead has an incredible lunar landscape with fairy chimneys that seem out of place and belong to another world.
You will witness Sema, a ceremony representing the mystical journey of man's spiritual ascent through love and his search for truth and perfection. Turning towards the truth, a dervish grows through love, deserts his ego, finds the truth, and arrives at Perfection. The he returns from this spiritual journey as a man who reached maturity and a greater perfection, so as to love and to be of service to all of creation, and to all creatures without discriminating in regard to belief, class, or race. The dervishes, with their head-dresses and white skirts are spiritually born to the truth by removing their black cloaks, and they journey and advance to spiritual maturity through the stage of the Sema ceremony.
From the onset and at each stage of the Sema ceremony, holding their arms in a crisscross position, they represent the number one, and testify to god's unity. While Whirling, their arms open, their right hands directed toward the sky and ready to receive God's beneficence, gazing up, they turn their left hands toward the earth and turn from right to left, pivoting around the heart. This is his way of conveying God's spiritual gift to the people upon whom God "looks with a divine" watchfulness. Revolving around the heart, from right to left, they embrace all of humankind and all of creation with affection and love.
