Off the Beaten Track in Cappadocia and Zelve Open Air Park
Active
7h - 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
Avoid the crowds at jam-packed tourist attractions with this off-the-beaten-track tour. Soak in the scenic views at the Ortahisar Panorama viewpoint. Admire the beet-red frescoes at Pancarlik Church. Hike along the peaceful and tranquil Soganli Valley. See the Greek-inspired town of Mustafapasa and pass by the Constantine and Helena Church. Explore the ancient monasteries and learn about the history of the Zelve Open Air Museum. Enjoy the intimacy of a small group tour.
Available options
Private Tour in Spanish
Private Tour in Spanish: Select this option for a Private tour with a Spanish Guide. Complimentary hotel pick-up from select areas. Entrance included<br/>Pickup included
Private Tour in French
Private Tour in French: Select this option for a Private tour with a French Guide. Complimentary hotel pick-up from select areas. Entrance included<br/>Pickup included
Small Group Tour
Pickup included
Private tour
Private tour<br/>Pickup included
What's included
English-speaking tour guide
Bottled water
Entrance fees
Lunch
Air-conditioned vehicle
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Detailed itinerary
1
Want to avoid the congested and jam-packed touristy spots but still want to go around Cappadocia to soak in the history and culture? We’ve got the perfect trip for you! This off-the-beaten-track tour in Cappadocia features less crowded areas that are just as beautiful.
We’ll start the day with some gorgeous views at the scenic Ortahisar Panorama. This viewpoint, just a short walk from Ortahisar Castle, has stunning 360-degree views that stretch all the way to Uchisar and Goreme.
2
Up next, we’ll head to Pancarlik Church. One of the longest-used church spaces in the world, it is said to have been used as a place of worship for almost 1,400 years! We’ll explore this monastic church housed in a group of cone-shaped rocks and admire the beet-red frescoes before making our way to Soganli Valley.
3
We’ll hike along this peaceful and tranquil valley, discovering the ancient courtyard monasteries, cave churches, and numerous dovecotes. After exploring the area, we’ll stop for lunch before heading to Mustafapasa.
4
This quaint and charming town has a heavy Greek influence, which can be seen in the village’s churches, mosques, and stone houses with carved and ornamented facades. We’ll pass by the Constantine and Helena Church, a once-prominent building during the Ottoman period.
5
Stop 5
Our last stop of the day is the Zelve Open Air Museum, which is one of the earliest-settled and last abandoned monastic valleys in Cappadocia. We’ll marvel at the ancient monasteries that were carved into the rock and learn about the history of the civilization that once lived in the area.
What's not included
Personal expenses
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
ES
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
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
Important notes
This experience is subject to weather conditions. Some roads may be closed during the winter due to inclement weather.
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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
