Göreme , Turkey

Private Cappadocia Ihlara Green Tour

Active

6h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Green tour is a perfect day trip to a green oasis in Cappadocia. Ihlara valley with Belisırma river running beside you is an excellent trekking route. The experience of this tour is a balanced combination of history and nature of Cappadocia. Get ready to be surprised from a decent to underground city and paradise like visit to Ihlara valley.

Available options

Private Cappadocia Ihlara Green Tour

Pickup included

What's included

All Fees and Taxes

Bottled water

Air-conditioned vehicle

Guide

All parking tickets

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Our tour begins with a descent towards the center of the earth, with a trip to the underground city. There are more than 200 underground cities in Cappadocia up to 8 floors. These troglodyte cave-cities were excavated as early as Hittite times and expanded by early Christians and others over the centuries, as various invader armies targeted Central Anatolia in search of captives and plunder. Underground cities surprise every traveler with its amazing ancient engineering. It is a privilege to get to know about this ancient sight.

Stop 2

We drive to Ihlara Valley which can be considered as a canyon as well. We will be walking for about 4km through the canyon to Belisirma village, the ancient name of which is Peristrema. The walk is on a path set by the Melendiz River. There are hundreds of churches carved in the volcanic tuff rocks such as Agacaltı church. Ihlara is a great get-away for travelers who enjoy hiking in nature. The valley stands almost like an oasis in the middle of vast Anatolian steppes.

Selime Monastery is one of the most unexpected surprises in Cappadocia. It is a wonderful rock-cut monastery in Selime town. The frescoes that can be seen inside the cathedral dates back to the 10th and 11th century, some of which depicts scenes like Adoration of the Magi, the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and the Baptism among many others. The complex charms all travelers with its fascinating views while exploring numerous cave dwellings from medieval era.

Stop 4

A short break to enjoy a classic viewpoint of Cappadocia stands at Pigeon Valley. Thousands of pigeon houses carved into the rocks at the valley’s façade can be seen here. It is also one of the best panoramic lookouts of the town of Uçhisar.

We visit a local gemstones workshop where local artisans are experts at making items of jewelry as well as beautiful vases, chess sets, and numerous other attractive artifacts.

What's not included

Tips for guide and driver

Museum Enterance Tickets

Available languages

Guide guide

DE RU PT JA EN IT FR ES

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

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