Göreme , Turkey

Cappadocia Green Tour with Small Group

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About this experience

The Green Tour, also known as ‘Ihlara Valley’ tour, includes the southern part of Cappadocia and is a fairly long tour compared to the other tours. In Green Tour you will visit both historical and natural attractions of Cappadocia. The major attractions of the Green Tour are the Kaymaklı Underground City which is a spectacular ancient underground town and the Ihlara Valley, which allows hiking and breath-taking views. One of the best things that is included in the Green Tour itinerary is a visit to an underground city in Cappadocia. You’ll have Kaymaklı Underground City on the list.

Available options

cappadocia

Pickup included

Tur

Minivan<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Rehberlik Hizmeti

Lunch

Landing and facility fees

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Our first stop will be Kaymaklı Underground City that has been listed as a part of UNESCO World Heritage List. Once you enter the underground city you will be impressed by the various amenities including ventilation shafts, sleeping quarters, food storage room, living rooms to churches and graveyards. Kaymakli's ventilation system ensured all rooms had equal access to oxygen via air shafts on every level. Kaymakli used to be inhabited by 5000 people. The most interesting and impressive aspect of Kaymakli is its organized, carved, and exceptionally well-thought nature.

Stop 2

Our next stop Ihlara Valley, one of the most spectacular canyons in Turkey. It was formed by the volcanic actions of Mount Hasan, next to Ihlara Valley. The Valley is fourteen kilometers long. In the past, generally Christians lived in the several parts of the Valley. We will hike through the canyon for about 1 hour along the river, passing by Byzantine rock-cut churches decorated with frescoes. It is also surrounded by various types of trees such as walnuts, poplars, weeping willows, various fruit trees and surprisingly pistachios

We will have our lunch in Belisirma, in a riverside restaurant.

Stop 4

we will drive to Selime Monastery located in the end of the Ihlara Valley. Selime Monastery looks like a castle, but shelters, churches, chapels, bedrooms, storages and big cathedral proves us its being a monastery. Experts believe it took more than 200 years to shape the monastery which could house some 5,000 people. You will learn more about it from your tour guide.

Upon arrival to Pigeon Valley, pigeons will meet you on the top of the valley. Pigeons have always been important for Cappadocian people. Their eggs and droppings were used for different purposes. For this reason, local people carved houses for them to the slopes of valley. You will learn more about Pigeon Valley from your tour guide.

What's not included

İçecek

Bahşiş

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Göreme

Göreme is a small town in the heart of Cappadocia, renowned for its unique rock formations, cave dwellings, and hot air balloon rides. This enchanting region offers a blend of natural wonders, ancient history, and cultural experiences that make it a must-visit destination.

Top Attractions

Göreme Open-Air Museum

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring rock-cut churches and monasteries with stunning frescoes dating back to the Byzantine era.

Historical/Religious 2-3 hours Approximately 50 TRY

Love Valley

A scenic valley known for its phallic-shaped rock formations and hiking trails offering panoramic views of the region.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Uçhisar Castle

A towering rock castle offering the highest panoramic view of the Cappadocia region.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Approximately 20 TRY

Derinkuyu Underground City

An ancient multi-level underground city carved into volcanic rock, used as a refuge during times of invasion.

Historical 2-3 hours Approximately 30 TRY

Hot Air Balloon Ride

A must-do experience in Cappadocia, offering breathtaking aerial views of the unique landscape.

Adventure 1-2 hours Approximately 150-250 EUR

Must-Try Local Dishes

Testi Kebab

A traditional dish cooked in a sealed clay pot, containing meat, vegetables, and spices.

Dinner Non-vegetarian

Pide

Turkish flatbread with various toppings, similar to pizza.

Lunch/Dinner Can be vegetarian or non-vegetarian

Göreme Salad

A fresh salad made with local vegetables, cheese, and herbs.

Lunch Vegetarian

Manti

Small dumplings filled with spiced meat, served with yogurt and garlic sauce.

Dinner Non-vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hot air balloon ride Hiking ATV tours Horseback riding Spa and wellness treatments Wine tasting Picnicking in the valleys Visiting the Göreme Open-Air Museum

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to November

The weather is pleasant, with comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. This is the ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Turkish
Widely spoken: English, German, Russian
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Turkish Lira (TRY)

Time Zone

GMT+3

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Göreme is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
• Use reputable tour operators and guides
• Agree on prices before starting your journey in taxis or shared vehicles

Getting there

By air

Kayseri Erkilet Airport • 75 km (47 miles)
Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport • 35 km (22 miles)

By bus

Göreme Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Local buses are infrequent and not very reliable. They are best suited for short distances.

Taxis

Available • Apps: BiTaksi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Göreme Town Center Uçhisar Çavuşin

Day trips

Derinkuyu Underground City

30 km (18.6 miles) • Half day

Explore the fascinating underground city of Derinkuyu, a multi-level subterranean refuge dating back to ancient times.

Ihlara Valley

50 km (31 miles) • Full day

A scenic valley with lush greenery, ancient churches, and hiking trails along the Melendiz River.

Avanos

20 km (12.4 miles) • Half day

A traditional town known for its pottery workshops and pottery-making demonstrations.

Festivals

Cappadocia International Music Festival • September Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Festival • April Çavuşin Culture and Art Festival • July

Pro tips

Book your hot air balloon ride well in advance, as they often sell out during peak season
Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring the rocky terrain
Bring layers of clothing, as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day
Learn a few basic phrases in Turkish to enhance your interaction with locals
Visit the Göreme Open-Air Museum early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat