Cappadocia Green Tour (South of Cappadocia)

A Guide to the Cappadocia Green Tour (South of Cappadocia)

If you’re looking to uncover the soul of Cappadocia beyond the hot air balloons and fairy chimneys, the Green Tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into its deep history and stunning landscapes. This 7-hour guided journey takes you through some of the most iconic sights in the region, providing insights you won’t get if you explore alone.

What makes this tour stand out? We love how it combines amazing viewpoints, historic underground cities, and scenic nature walks—all in one day. The knowledgeable guides help you see the region’s stories unfold, while the lunch at a local restaurant adds a genuine taste of Turkish hospitality. Plus, the visit to Selime Monastery offers a fascinating peek into civilizations carved into volcanic rock.

The only thing worth considering is that the tour involves quite a bit of walking, especially along the Ihlara Valley, so comfortable shoes are a must. That said, this tour is ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, and travelers wanting a full, authentic Cappadocia experience without the hassle of planning each stop.

Who is this suited for? If you enjoy guided excursions that blend cultural sights with natural beauty—and prefer a structured day with transportation included—this Green Tour is a perfect choice.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive itinerary covers underground cities, valleys, and monasteries.
• Expert guides provide engaging, informative commentary.
• The tour includes lunch at a traditional local restaurant.
• Comfortable shoes and sun protection are essential.
• It’s suitable for travelers who want a balanced mix of history and scenery.
• Not designed for those with mobility issues or pregnant women.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Highlights of the Cappadocia Green Tour

The Green Tour is a fine way to see the most eye-catching parts of Cappadocia in a single day. From panoramic viewpoints to underground cities, each stop offers a new perspective on the region’s unique charm. Here’s a detailed look at what to expect and why each site is worth your time.

Convenient Pickup and Transportation

The day begins with a hotel pickup around 9:30-9:50 am, with options from key towns like Göreme, Ürgüp, Uçhisar, Mustafapaşa, Avanos, and Ortahisar. The use of air-conditioned vans makes the journey comfortable, especially on warmer days.

Traveling in a small group usually means a more personal experience, and the guiding team keeps the day moving smoothly. The tour duration is about 7 hours, giving you enough time at each site without feeling rushed.

The Göreme Panorama: A Must-See Viewpoint

The first stop, the Göreme Panorama, offers an immediate wow factor. From here, you can gaze upon the incredible landscape that has captivated travelers for generations. The guide explains how this scenery came into being, giving context to the towering fairy chimneys and rock formations.

Many reviewers mention how this view sets the tone for the whole day. It’s the perfect spot for photos, and you’ll get a sense of the region’s scale and geological history in just a few minutes.

Uçhisar Castle: Elevated Perspectives

Next, the tour takes you to Uçhisar Castle, a natural fortress perched high above the landscape. With about 30 minutes here, you’ll experience stunning panoramic vistas and see the carved-out pigeon houses. The guide enriches the visit with stories about how these structures were historically used for communication and food storage.

Expect some steps and a bit of a climb, but the views make it worthwhile. Reviewers praise the guide’s storytelling, which makes the site more meaningful.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Underground Wonders at Kaymakli

The Kaymakli Underground City is one of the tour’s highlights. It’s a labyrinth of tunnels, chambers, and caves, once used for protection during invasions. Built by the Phrygians and expanded during the Byzantine era, this site showcases ancient ingenuity.

The tour includes about an hour here, enough to explore the tunnels and learn about the city’s 4,000-year-old history. The underground city feels like stepping into a different world, and many visitors appreciate the detailed explanation provided by guides like Emre, who was described as friendly, knowledgeable, and lively.

Some reviewers suggest that spending a bit more time wandering the tunnels could be beneficial, as the site is fascinating and well-preserved.

The Scenic Ihlara Valley Walk

After the underground adventure, it’s time for a different kind of exploration—the Ihlara Valley. The tour includes a 2.5-hour walk along the river, where you meander through a deep canyon, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush vegetation.

What makes Ihlara special are its numerous cave churches carved into the rocks, testament to early Christian monks’ devotion. The gentle walk offers a refreshing contrast to the underground city, with scenic views and a chance to see some of the region’s softer natural beauty.

While many praise the walk, one reviewer wished for more time here, suggesting that a longer stroll would have allowed a deeper connection with the landscape.

Lunch at a Traditional Turkish Restaurant

A highlight for many is the lunch break, where a kebab-style meal awaits at a local restaurant. This is an authentic experience, giving you a taste of regional cuisine in a relaxed setting. The included meal provides good value, especially considering the quality and ambiance, which adds to the overall experience.

Selime Monastery: An Artistic Marvel

Post-lunch, the tour visits Selime Monastery, claimed to be the largest rock-carved monastery in the region. It spans multiple levels, with chapels, kitchens, and living quarters carved into the volcanic rock. The site’s history stretches from Hittite civilization through Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans.

The guide’s explanations make the site come alive, revealing how these structures served various civilizations over centuries. Expect some climbing and walking, but many find it worth the effort for the remarkable architecture and sweeping views.

Final Stop at Pigeon Valley

The last stop is at a viewpoint in Uçhisar, overlooking Pigeon Valley. The ancient pigeon houses carved into the cliffs give this valley its name. It’s a peaceful spot to reflect on the day’s sights, take photos, or purchase souvenirs.

The tour concludes here, with a drop-off back to your hotel around 6-6:30 pm.

Is This Tour Worth It?

The Cappadocia Green Tour offers a satisfying balance of history, nature, and local culture. The inclusion of entrance fees, transportation, and a hearty lunch makes it a convenient and cost-effective way to see the region’s highlights in one day.

Many guests, like Amra, found the tour to be more extensive than expected, especially praising guides such as Emre for their friendly and informative approach. The scenic viewpoints and underground cities stand out as the most memorable moments.

However, keep in mind that the tour involves a fair amount of walking and climbing. If mobility is an issue, you might find some parts challenging. Also, the schedule can be busy, so arriving early and being prepared for crowds will enhance your experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want an organized, insight-rich day in Cappadocia without the hassle of navigating transport or entrance logistics themselves. It’s perfect for those interested in history, archaeology, and scenic landscapes. If you enjoy guided storytelling and a mix of walking and sightseeing, this package will suit you well.

FAQ

Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
Yes, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off from select locations, making it convenient to start and end your day.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes for walking, a sun hat, camera, water, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Sunscreen is also advised.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended for wheelchair users or pregnant women, as there’s a fair amount of walking and climbing.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for sites like Kaymakli Underground City and Selime Monastery are covered in the tour price.

How long is the walking in Ihlara Valley?
The walk along the river in Ihlara Valley lasts approximately 2.5 hours and covers about 4 km, with some uneven terrain.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To sum it up, the Cappadocia Green Tour offers a well-rounded exploration of the region’s most iconic sites, with knowledgeable guides and comfortable logistics. It’s especially suited for those eager to learn about Cappadocia’s fascinating past while enjoying breathtaking scenery—all in a single, manageable day. If you’re after an authentic, engaging, and practical way to see the south of Cappadocia, this tour is a smart choice.

You can check if your dates are available here: