Explore Ihlara Canyon, Selime Monastery & Hidden Wonders
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Explore Ihlara Canyon, Selime Monastery & Hidden Wonders

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(4 reviews)
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discovering Cappadocia's captivating nature and history, the Green Tour offers a panoramic view of the region's most iconic landmarks. You'll begin your tour with a high-altitude view of the fairy chimneys at the Göreme Panorama and enjoy nature in the tranquil atmosphere of Pigeon Valley. Then, discover local handicrafts at the Onyx Handicrafts Workshop and learn about Cappadocia's traditional crafts.

Feel the power of nature at Nar Crater Lake, take in a panoramic view of Ihlara Valley, and recharge with local delicacies at the panoramic restaurant in Belisırma. Take in the magnificent views of the fairy chimneys at the Yaprakhisar Panorama, and finally, explore the history beneath the surface at the Derinkuyu Underground City.

This tour, steeped in Cappadocia's unique natural beauty, history, and cultural heritage, offers an unforgettable experience.

Available options

Excluded Entrance Fee

Museum tickets are not included in this option. Guests can purchase their own tickets at the museum entrance.<br/>Pickup included

Trekking and Selime Monastery

Trekking and Selime Monastery: This tour includes a 3 km trekking in the Ihlara Valley and entrance to the Selime Monastery.<br/>Pickup included

Green Tour Cappadocia with Lunch and Tickets

Pickup included

What's included

Lunch in Panoramic Restaurant
Transfers from / to Hotels
The Museums Entrance Fee
Professional Tourist Guide

Detailed itinerary

1

Göreme Panaroma is one of the most popular vantage points in Cappadocia, offering one of the most impressive views. Located just outside the town of Göreme, Nevşehir, it offers a bird's-eye view of the valley's captivating fairy chimneys.

From here, you have a clear view of Göreme Valley, Uçhisar Castle, and the surrounding rock formations. Especially at sunrise and sunset, with hot air balloons, the view resembles a painting. It's an ideal spot for photographers, nature enthusiasts, and couples seeking a romantic getaway.

2
Stop 2

Pigeon Valley Panaroma is a stunning viewpoint located in the Uçhisar region of Cappadocia, showcasing the region's natural beauty at its best. Named after the pigeon nests carved into the rocks, the valley stands out for its history and natural beauty.

From the panoramic viewpoint, you can clearly see the fairy chimneys, vineyards, and pigeon nests that line the valley. The imposing view of Uçhisar Castle adds depth to the landscape. At sunset, the valley takes on a hue of red and gold, creating a unique setting for photographers.

It's a peaceful and impressive stop for those who want to hike, take photos, or simply enjoy the scenery. It's also home to small cafes and souvenir stands.

3

Located on the Aksaray-Niğde border of Cappadocia, Narlıgöl is one of the region's hidden natural wonders. A crater lake formed by an extinct volcanic mountain, Narlıgöl offers stunning panoramic views from surrounding vantage points.

Thanks to its crater structure, the lake is almost perfectly circular, offering a stunning view from above.

The lake's surroundings are also known for their thermal properties, thanks to its mineral springs. Panoramic vantage points are located at locations where the lake can be viewed from a height; these areas are often favored by campers, photographers, and nature lovers.

Color Change: The lake sometimes takes on shades of green, blue, or turquoise due to the effects of the minerals.

It offers a quiet and tranquil setting, ideal for those seeking tranquility away from the crowded tourist attractions.

The Narlıgöl Panorama, unlike the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, reveals its volcanic past and natural thermal beauty.

4
Stop 4

The Ihlara Valley Panoramic Point offers a panoramic viewpoint, intertwined with nature and history, from where you can admire the Ihlara Valley, one of Cappadocia's most impressive natural sites, from above. It's typically located on high points at the valley entrance or around Ihlara Village, Belisırma, and Selime Monastery.

Valley View: From the panoramic point, the steep cliffs of the 14-kilometer-long Ihlara Valley, the verdant winds of the Melendiz River, and the churches carved into the valley appear like a painting.

Natural Beauty: Especially in spring and autumn, the trees along the valley are bathed in shades of green, yellow, and red, creating a magnificent gradation of colors.

Historical Depth: The valley boasts approximately 100 rock-carved churches and settlements. This panoramic point offers a general view of these historical structures.

5

Belisırma, a village located in Cappadocia's Ihlara Valley, is renowned for its natural beauty and historical heritage. Panoramic restaurants nestled along the valley's edge offer regional delicacies with stunning views of the Melendiz River. These restaurants typically serve Cappadocian specialties such as testi kebab, sağı kavurma (a type of roasted lamb), tandoori, and gözleme (a type of flatbread). Enjoy a quiet, peaceful atmosphere while enjoying the tranquility of nature. Dining with a view, especially at sunset, offers an unforgettable experience.

6

Yaprakhisar Panoramic Point, located within the Aksaray district of Cappadocia, near the Ihlara Valley, offers one of the region's most impressive natural and historical views.

Scenic Features: From Yaprakhisar, deep valleys, the Melendiz River, ancient settlements carved into the rocks, and steep slopes are visible. The caves and ancient structures nestled within the cliffs are particularly striking.

"Star Wars Valley": The region is sometimes referred to as "Star Wars Valley" due to its intriguing rock formations. Indeed, the landscape resembles a science fiction film set.

Historical Richness: Numerous rock-carved churches and settlements are located in the surrounding area. These historical structures are clearly visible from the panoramic point.

Ideal for Photography and Nature Enthusiasts: It's one of the few places where you can capture both the valley and the rock formations in the same frame with a wide angle.

7
Stop 7

Derinkuyu Underground City, located in the Derinkuyu district of Nevşehir, is one of the largest underground cities in Cappadocia. Approximately 85 meters deep, this structure was designed to accommodate thousands of people.

Built for defense in ancient times, it houses living quarters, food depots, water wells, churches, and ventilation shafts. The city, eight of which can be visited, extends to a total of 12 stories. It was used as a shelter for people fleeing attacks, particularly during the Byzantine period.

This subterranean engineering marvel is one of Cappadocia's most mysterious and impressive historical structures.

What's not included

Gratuities
Alcoholic Beverages
Soda/Pop
Coffee and/or Tea

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0
4 reviews
5★
4
4★
0
3★
0
2★
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1★
0

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 18-65
1
Childs
Age 6-11
0
Infants
Age 0-5
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
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Free cancellation available
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