If you’re heading to Kaymakli, you’re in for a treat. The region is famous for its underground cities, stunning rock formations, and ancient monasteries. While many travelers focus on the Kaymakli Underground City itself, there’s a variety of tours that offer unique ways to explore this fascinating area. Our favorites include guided day trips with expert insights, scenic hikes, and even multi-day adventures from Istanbul. One thing’s clear: Kaymakli’s rich history and striking landscapes make it a perfect place for immersive experiences, especially with guided tours that deepen your understanding. Check out the Cappadocia Highlights Tour Underground City+Open Air Museum for a good example of an all-in-one day trip that combines history, scenery, and local crafts.
Some tours stand out for their detailed itineraries, like the full-day Green Tour exploring Ihlara Valley, Selime Monastery, and the Narlığöl crater lake. Others offer the thrill of a hot air balloon ride or a more relaxed pace with visits to local workshops. Whatever your interest or timeframe, Kaymakli has an experience that will enrich your trip.
1. Cappadocia Highlights Tour Underground City+Open Air Museum
At number 1 on our list, the Cappadocia Highlights Tour Underground City+Open Air Museum offers a comprehensive introduction to the region. For just $47 per person, this guided day trip covers the Uchisar Castle, the Kaymakli Underground City, and the Goreme Open Air Museum. It’s perfect if you want a well-rounded overview without sacrificing depth. Your guide will share insights about how early Christians used the underground tunnels to escape invasions, making the experience both educational and intriguing.
The tour includes a visit to the Goreme Panorama, where panoramic views of fairy chimneys and other rock formations make for memorable photos. You’ll also stop at the Love Valley and Devrent Valley, famous for their whimsical rock shapes. A highlight is the Avanos Pottery Workshop, where you can see local artisans at work, and enjoy a sit-down lunch that showcases Turkish cuisine.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance: sightseeing, cultural stops, and a local lunch—all in one day. Plus, with glowing reviews (4.8/5 from 13 reviews), travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guide and smooth logistics. This option is excellent for first-timers or travelers with limited time.
Bottom line: a great value tour packed with key highlights, perfect for those who want a solid overview of Cappadocia’s highlights.
2. Cappadocia: Green Tour with Lunch and Hotel Pickup
Next, the Cappadocia: Green Tour with Lunch and Hotel Pickup focuses on exploring the southern part of Cappadocia. For around 7 to 7.5 hours, it includes a visit to the Kaymakli Underground City, the Ihlara Valley, and the Selime Monastery. You’ll experience hiking through the lush Ihlara Valley, which offers a refreshing contrast to the region’s usual rocky scenery. The tour is ideal if you enjoy nature combined with history.
This tour is distinct because it provides a panoramic view of Goreme, and the hike through Ihlara Valley is a highlight—walking along the river and exploring cave churches along the trail. It also visits the rock-cut Selime Monastery, a striking complex carved into the cliffside, with plenty of opportunities for photos and learning about monastic life. The included lunch is traditional Turkish fare, served at a local spot, making the day both delicious and informative.
Reviewers rate this tour 4.5/5, noting the small group sizes and knowledgeable guide. It’s particularly suited to travelers who want a mix of hiking and sightseeing but prefer a less rushed pace. The only minor downside is limited departure times, so booking ahead is recommended.
Bottom line: a well-rounded, nature-focused tour that blends adventure with history, ideal for active travelers.
3. Cappadocia: Green Tour with Underground City & Ihlara Valley
At number 3, this Cappadocia Green Tour with Underground City & Ihlara Valley offers a full-day deep dive into the region’s natural and cultural treasures. Starting with pickup from multiple locations, including Goreme, Avanos, Urgup, Cavusin, and Uchisar, it’s flexible for different stays. The tour’s highlights include exploring the Kaymakli Underground City, walking through the Ihlara Valley, and visiting the Selime Monastery.
This tour’s strength lies in its diverse itinerary—visiting five different points, including the Narlığöl crater lake and Pigeon Valley, which adds variety to the experience. The guided walks in Ihlara offer a chance to see ancient cave chapels, while the lunch by the river provides a relaxing break amid natural beauty. The visit to Narlığöl crater adds geological interest, making this a comprehensive exploration of both natural and man-made wonders.
Rated 4.7/5, this tour appeals to travelers who want a full-day experience that combines cultural insights, scenic walks, and photo opportunities. Its multiple pickup and drop-off points make it flexible, but the full itinerary might be a long day for some.
Bottom line: perfect for those wanting an all-encompassing day, especially if you love hiking and exploring varied sites.
4. 2-Day Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul w/ Balloon Ride Option
Finally, for those who prefer an immersive experience, the 2-Day Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul offers the chance to see the region’s highlights at a leisurely pace. For $1,409 per person, it includes guided visits to major sites like the Goreme Open-Air Museum and Kaymakli Underground City, plus the thrill of a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia’s surreal landscape. This tour is ideal if you want to combine sightseeing with a once-in-a-lifetime activity.
Travelers staying longer appreciate the comfortable pace, as the itinerary covers key sights without rushing. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Istanbul and Cappadocia, simplifying logistics. The balloon ride adds a magical perspective to the scenery, but note that it is an optional extra and depends on weather conditions.
Reviews are generally very positive, citing the well-organized itinerary and the added thrill of the balloon experience. The price reflects its comprehensive nature and inclusions, making it best suited for travelers with a flexible budget and extra time.
Bottom line: a top pick for those wanting an unforgettable experience with both cultural sights and a balloon adventure.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Kaymakli
When selecting the best tour, consider your budget, time available, and interests. If you’re short on time but want a good overview, the Cappadocia Highlights Tour provides a quick, rich experience. For those who love hiking and nature, the Green Tour with Ihlara Valley is ideal. Travelers looking for a more comprehensive, multi-day experience might prefer the 2-day Istanbul to Cappadocia tour, especially with the balloon ride included.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, as tours fill quickly. Most tours include hotel pickup, which simplifies logistics, but check if they are available from your accommodation location. Remember to consider whether you want a relaxed sightseeing day or a full-immersion adventure—both are available in Kaymakli.
To sum it up, Kaymakli offers a variety of tours and experiences that cater to different tastes and schedules. Whether you want a quick overview or a deep dive into the region’s caves and landscapes, there’s an option for you. For first-timers, the Cappadocia Highlights Tour is a reliable choice. If you prefer a more active or luxurious experience, the Green Tour with hiking or the two-day package with ballooning will satisfy. Whichever you choose, booking early will ensure you make the most of your time in this unforgettable part of Turkey.