Overview:

Escape the usual tourist trails and immerse yourself in the lush wilderness of Cappadocia with our incredible Green Tour! Discover the breathtaking Ihlara Valley, hike alongside the serene Melendiz River, and uncover the mysteries of ancient underground cities and remarkable rock-cut monasteries. Perfect for nature lovers and history buffs alike, this hassle-free tour includes comfortable hotel transfers, insightful guidance from local experts, and a captivating blend of adventure and culture.

Tour Highlights:

• Convenient Hotel Transfer: We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Ürgüp, Göreme, Uçhisar, or Avanos in the morning for a comfortable 1.5-hour drive to our first stop: the fascinating Kaymaklı Underground City.
• Delve into Kaymaklı Underground City: Descend into Cappadocia’s deepest subterranean maze, expertly carved by the ancient Hittites and later expanded by early Christians as a refuge during invasions. Learn about how thousands of people once lived hidden within these intricate tunnels.
• Hike the Stunning Ihlara Valley & Lakeside Lunch: Embark on a memorable trek through the breathtaking 4-kilometer Ihlara Valley, surrounded by towering 100-meter cliffs and dotted with beautifully preserved Byzantine churches adorned with ancient frescoes. We’ll start with a descent down 350 steps to the valley floor, followed by a scenic 1-hour hike along the tranquil Melendiz River. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a charming riverside restaurant in the peaceful Belisırma Village.
• Explore the Impressive Selime Monastery: Climb and explore the remarkable Selime Monastery, a massive Byzantine monastic complex carved directly into the towering cliffs. Discover its fascinating network of kitchens, churches, and living quarters, offering a glimpse into the lives of the monks who once resided here.
• Marvel at Pigeon Valley (Güvercinlik): We’ll make a photo stop at the picturesque Pigeon Valley, famous for its unique fairy chimneys and the thousands of pigeon houses carved into the rocks centuries ago, originally used for collecting valuable fertilizer.
• Discover Cappadocia Handicrafts: Visit a local Cappadocia Handicraft Center and discover the unique art of volcanic stone carving and other traditional crafts. Watch skilled artisans meticulously carve delicate “Cappadocian lace” from the soft tuff rock. (Shopping is optional, of course!).
• Comfortable Evening Return: As the day concludes, we’ll ensure a comfortable drop-off back at your hotel, leaving you with incredible memories of your Green Tour adventure.

Good to Know:

Please note that the descent into the Kaymaklı Underground City may not be suitable for travelers who experience claustrophobia due to the enclosed spaces.

For families with children, please be aware that children will be asked to present their valid passports at the entrance of the museums to verify their age for potential discounts.

We highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes as there will be a significant amount of walking involved, especially during the Ihlara Valley hike and may not be suitable for guests with significant walking difficulties. It’s also advisable to bring a hat and plenty of sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.