Cappadocia Green Tour: Underground Cities & Valleys
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore the depths of Derinkuyu Underground City
- Trek through the scenic Ihlara Valley
- Discover the ancient Selime Monastery
- Marvel at the unique rock formations of Cappadocia
- Learn about the region's rich history and culture
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Guided tour of Derinkuyu Underground City
- Visit to Ihlara Valley and Selime Monastery
- Transportation in a comfortable vehicle
- Meals and personal expenses
Itinerary
our full day excursion begins in the morning, when our team members will pick you up from your hotel. You will be driven towards your first stop with a modern, fully air-conditioned and comfortable bus, accompanied by your tour guide.
The first stop of your excursion is at the Göreme Panorama. From there, you can enjoy magnificent panoramic views over the Göreme town. Therefore, make sure that you will snap some stunning photos of the area’s fairy chimneys.
Derinkuyu is one of the largest underground cities in Cappadocia, Turkey, reaching depths of up to 60 meters. Carved into volcanic rock, it was used as a refuge by early Christians. The city features multiple levels with rooms for living, kitchens, and wine cellars, as well as defensive mechanisms like large stone doors. Its advanced ventilation system ensured air circulation, allowing it to house thousands of people. Today, Derinkuyu stands as a remarkable example of ancient engineering, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's fascinating history.
After that, Cappadocia Green Tour continues towards Ihlara Valley which is a 14Km green river canyon. The bus will leave you at a certain point and together with your guide you will enjoy a 3,5Km walking along the river. There, you will get the chance to observe Ağaçaltı cave church that was built in the 4th century and includes paintings from the 10th century. The walking session ends at a point where a river side restaurant is.
At a river side local restaurant you will enjoy a much needed lunch break. During your time there, you will have the chance to recharge your batteries with energy and relax before continuing your excursion. The lunch includes soup, salad, and a choice between, trout, chicken, vegetarian meal, or meatballs.
Right after your lunch, the Cappadocia Green Tour continues towards the next stop which is the Selime Cave Monastery. The area showcases some interesting rock formations and the monastery is built at a cliff. When you are at the lower section of the cliff you can visit fairy chimneys and took some photos. The monastery dates back in 8th and 10th centuries. It includes a church, a living area and a missionary school. The design is imposing as it has high ceilings and balconies carved into the rock. On the opposite cliff you can observe the twin female monastery. Once again, the guide will provide an interesting briefing regarding the monastery’s history and importance.
A short photo-break follows at the Pigeon Valley, on the skirts of Göreme. Take a chance to admire nature and enjoy some panoramic views over the area. An interesting highlight is that the valley was named after the ancient pigeon houses that were carved into the cliff. The guide will provide an interesting description of the valley and will let you know everything you need to know about the area.
Onyx jewel factory is the last stop of this exciting excursion. After that, the bus will continue on its way back.
Cappadocia Green Tour finishes by the moment you arrive back at your hotel. By the end of your full-day excursion you will be amazed by the landscape and the attractions that Cappadocia region has. With great experiences, this tour will surely be a long lasting memory from your vacations.
Meeting point
Start Location
Unknown location
Important information
Know before you book
- The tour involves moderate physical activity, including walking and hiking.
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking.
- Not wheelchair accessible.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen to protect against sun exposure.
- Carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated during the hike.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Infants Required On Laps
Traveler reviews
Great combination of history and nature
The tour included a number of interesting stops. Melih was A great guide. The van was comfortable and not crowded.
Beautiful Capadoccia
Everything went very well! We enjoyed the tour very much! The guide was knowledgeable, friendly and helpful. The places very beautiful and interesting, mainly the geological formations and the historical part. I recommend it to visitors coming to Capadoccia.
Amazing tour with an amazing guide
This was an amazing tour. We visited so many cool sites around Capadoccia with our tour guide Gigi, who was fantastic in informing us everything about those places. Her enthusiasm and energy was really infectious. I especially loved the underground city tour. It’s a must visit for sure. The trip coordinator Eric was also great in getting the reservation done right and scheduling the pickup at the hotel.
Excellent
The guide named Hunda was extremely competent, spoke very good English and was funny, friendly and very accommodating. That's all you could ask for. The organization was perfect and everything worked out well and without any problems. Only the visits to the shops did not have to be.
Great Experience
The tour was epic.. Jiji/Gigi was great.. So much knowledge and well organised.. She was great and made our tour so great.. My wife and sister had a great time. Eric was checking on us every moment to make sure all was going well.. I can tell you, the company takes so much care.. It was worth it..