Cappadocia: Ihlara Valley, Kaymakli, & Selime Monastery Tour

Cappadocia: Ihlara Valley, Kaymakli, & Selime Monastery Tour Review

If you’re eyeing a guided trip through Cappadocia’s famed landscapes and ancient sites, this 6-hour tour offers a practical way to see some of the region’s most iconic spots. While it doesn’t cover everything, it hits key highlights with enough depth to make it worth considering.

What really works here? The knowledgeable guides, the stunning views from viewpoints like Esentepe and Uchisar Castle, and the chance to explore underground and rock-cut sites. The price point of $59 makes it accessible, though some might find the tour a bit rushed, especially if you’re keen to explore in more detail.

One consideration is the limited time spent at each site, which means you’ll want to prioritize what interests you most. If you’re comfortable with moderate walking and want a well-rounded overview without the hassle of planning, this tour could be a good fit—especially for first-time visitors with a day in Cappadocia.

Good To Know

• Affordable Price: At $59, this guided excursion offers good value for a broad overview of Cappadocia’s highlights.
• Expert Guides: Expect knowledgeable guides, with reviewers mentioning the pleasant guidance of Mr. Güray.
• Varied Experiences: From underground cities to scenic viewpoints, the tour includes a mix of history, scenery, and local craftsmanship.
• Suitability: Best for travelers who enjoy moderate walking and want a structured, informative day.
• Not for Everyone: Tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with claustrophobia, or those with back issues.
• Time-efficient: Designed to maximize sightseeing in just six hours, so some sites are visited briefly.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Hotel Pickup and Starting Point

The tour begins at 9:30 AM from your hotel in Cappadocia—Uçhisar, Göreme, Ürgüp, or Avanos. This flexibility in starting locations is a big plus, saving you time and hassle. The transportation is by air-conditioned van, ensuring comfortable travel between sites even on warmer days.

Esentepe Viewpoint: The First Impressions

Your first stop is Esentepe, one of the most popular viewpoints in the area. Here, you’ll get a panoramic view of Göreme and surrounding valleys, which is perfect for snapping photos and getting your bearings. The guide will explain how Cappadocia’s famous formations came to be—an interesting mix of volcanic activity and erosion. We loved the way this spot sets the scene for the day, giving you a sense of the vast, otherworldly landscape.

Kaymakli Underground City: A Peek Beneath the Surface

Next, the tour heads to Kaymakli Underground City, the most accessible and well-known subterranean complex. This site was historically used as a hideout from invaders and is carved from soft volcanic rock. Walking through its tunnels and rooms, you’ll get a tangible sense of how ancient locals lived and hid underground for centuries.

A helpful tip: the underground city involves some narrow, low-ceilinged passages, so it’s not ideal for claustrophobes. One reviewer shared, “We didn’t see the Selime Monastery, which was a disappointment, but Kaymakli was fascinating.” Expect to spend around an hour exploring here, with guide commentary enhancing your understanding of its purpose and history.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Ihlara Valley Walk: Nature and Serenity

From underground depths, the tour switches to the lush greenery of Ihlara Valley. We walk along the Melendiz River for about 1-2 hours, which is a surprisingly peaceful contrast to the underground site. The path is relatively gentle, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended as there’s some uneven terrain.

You’ll stop for lunch at a riverside restaurant in the village of Belisirma, where local dishes and a serene setting provide a nice break. The reviews note that the landscape here is more verdant than most expect from Cappadocia’s typical scenery, and the walk offers a refreshing perspective on the region’s diverse environment.

Selime Monastery: A Massive Rock-Cut Complex

Post-lunch, the tour visits Selime Monastery, the largest rock-cut monastery in Cappadocia. Its caves, cathedral, and breathtaking views over the area reveal how monks once lived, worshiped, and worked here. The site’s scale and intricate carvings impress visitors, offering a real sense of the historical importance of monastic life in the region.

Some travelers mention that the monastery’s vast size and detailed architecture make it a highlight. It’s a bit of a climb to reach the top, so be prepared for some steps but enjoy the rewarding vistas.

Pigeon Valley Viewpoint

On the way back, you’ll stop at a vista point overlooking Pigeon Valley. It’s a classic photo stop, with cliffs dotted with dovecotes carved into the rock. The view captures the essence of Cappadocia’s unique landscape—an iconic scene that leaves a lasting impression.

Onyx Factory Visit: A Handmade Keepsake

Finally, the tour rounds off at a local onyx factory. Here, you’ll watch demonstrations of onyx carving and have the chance to shop for souvenirs. It’s a typical part of many guided tours, but it does offer the opportunity to pick up authentic, handcrafted items—if you’re interested in jewelry or decorative pieces.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, so you won’t need to worry about transportation logistics. The guide, typically fluent in English, provides insightful commentary, enriching your understanding of each site. Group sizes are not specified, but tours like this often run with small to medium groups, making the experience more engaging.

The 6-hour duration is a compact window, meaning some sites are visited briefly—especially if you’re eager to explore more deeply, you might find yourself wanting more time at certain spots like Selime Monastery or Kaymakli.

What To Bring

Make sure to pack comfortable shoes for walking, a hat and sunscreen for sun protection, and a camera to capture the spectacular views. Carrying water is recommended since some parts involve outdoor walking and exposure to the sun.

What’s Not Included

Entry fees for Kaymakli Underground City and Selime Monastery are not included, so budget around $10-$15 if you wish to visit these sites independently. Lunch is also not included, but the riverside restaurant is a nice, scenic spot for a meal.

Accessibility and Restrictions

The tour is wheelchair accessible, but the underground tunnels and some rocky paths may pose challenges for those with mobility issues. It’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with claustrophobia, or those with significant back problems.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

One traveler from Italy summed up the experience with a 3-star rating, noting, “We didn’t see the monastery of Selime,” which suggests some tours might skip or rush certain sites. Conversely, a delighted Turkish traveler, Nurah, shared, “It was a great tour. We thank Mr. Güray for his pleasant guidance. With love,” highlighting the value of a friendly, knowledgeable guide.

Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, especially during the scenic viewpoints and underground tours. The views from the viewpoints are repeatedly described as breathtaking, making these moments stand out for visitors.

Final Thoughts

This Cappadocia tour offers a solid, budget-friendly way to explore some of the region’s most iconic sights in a single day. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate a mix of history, nature, and local craftsmanship, and who prefer a structured, guided experience to navigate the often confusing logistics of independent sightseeing.

While the tour’s duration limits time at each site, the carefully curated stops provide a well-rounded snapshot of Cappadocia’s diverse landscape and cultural history. The knowledgeable guides and scenic viewpoints make it especially suitable for first-timers or those with limited time.

If you’re after a practical, informative, and reasonably priced introduction to Cappadocia, this tour delivers on many fronts. Just be prepared for some walking and a fast-paced schedule, and you’ll walk away with plenty of memorable moments—and probably some good photos too!

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour? Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Cappadocia, including Uçhisar, Göreme, Ürgüp, and Avanos.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts approximately 6 hours, starting around 9:30 AM.

What sites will I visit? You’ll see Esentepe viewpoint, Kaymakli Underground City, Ihlara Valley, Belisirma for lunch, Selime Monastery, Pigeon Valley, and a local onyx factory.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible? Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, but some sites like underground tunnels may pose challenges.

Are meals included? No, lunch is not included but there’s a recommended riverside restaurant during the Ihlara Valley stop.

Do I need to purchase tickets for sites? Entry fees for Kaymakli Underground City and Selime Monastery are not included in the tour price, so budget extra if you plan to visit independently.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, hat, sunscreen, camera, and water are recommended for the day.

In summary, this tour is a good choice for travelers seeking a balanced overview of Cappadocia’s highlights without the complexity of independent planning. It combines scenic viewpoints, underground adventures, and cultural sites, all led by friendly guides who enrich your experience. While some may wish for more time at each stop, the value and convenience make it a worthwhile option for many visitors.

You can check if your dates are available here: