Cappadocia: Ihlara Valley, Kaymakli, & Selime Monastery Tour

Planning a trip to Cappadocia? This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s most iconic sights: underground cities, spectacular valleys, and ancient monasteries. While it’s a solid choice for those on a budget, some travelers have noted that it doesn’t cover everything, like the Selime Monastery in detail. Still, if you’re eager to explore the essential highlights with knowledgeable guides and enjoy stunning views, this might be right up your alley.

We love the way this tour balances diverse experiences—from walking along lush riverbanks to exploring underground marvels—and how it offers insights into the area’s geological and cultural richness. The price point makes it accessible for many travelers, making it a good value for those wanting a comprehensive day out. However, a few reviewers mention that certain stops, like the Selime Monastery, might feel rushed or less detailed, so managing expectations is key.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate history, scenic landscapes, and local craftsmanship, especially if you’re comfortable with moderate walking and sunny weather. It’s ideal for those wanting a guided experience without the hassle of organizing transport or multiple tickets.

Key Points

• Affordable price point offers good value for a full day of sightseeing.
• Knowledgeable guides help bring the region’s history and geology to life.
• Variety of stops including underground cities, valleys, and monasteries.
• Stunning viewpoints like Esentepe and Pigeon Valley enhance the visual experience.
• Walking involved is moderate; wear comfortable shoes.
• Some reviews mention that certain sites, like Selime Monastery, may be less thoroughly explored.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Starting the Day: Hotel Pickup and First Impressions

The tour kicks off at 9:30 am with hotel pickup, which is a great convenience. The small group size (though not explicitly stated, typical for these tours) means you’ll likely get personalized attention from your guide, Mr. Güray, who many travelers praise for his pleasant guidance. The air-conditioned van ensures comfort during the drive, which is important given the region’s warm summer days.

The Esentepe Viewpoint: A Perfect Introduction

Your first stop is Esentepe, arguably one of the most impressive viewpoints in Cappadocia. Here, you’ll get sweeping views of Göreme and its surrounding valleys, perfect for snapping photos and getting your first taste of the region’s geological wonder. The guide will explain how the fairy chimneys and valleys formed—an intriguing story that adds context to all your future discoveries.

Kaymakli Underground City: Mysteries Beneath the Surface

Next, it’s off to Kaymakli, the most popular underground city in Cappadocia. This complex was carved out over centuries by locals seeking refuge from invaders — Romans, Persians, Arabs. It’s fascinating to walk through narrow tunnels and see the underground chambers, kitchens, and stables.

One reviewer notes, “We didn’t see the monastery of Selime,” indicating that time constraints or tour structure might limit access to some sites. The entrance fee for the underground city is not included, so budget accordingly. The experience of being underground, exploring labyrinthine tunnels, can be both exciting and slightly claustrophobic, so keep that in mind if you’re sensitive to tight spaces.

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Walking Along Ihlara Valley: Nature and History

From the underground city, the tour heads south to Ihlara Valley, a lush, green gorge perfect for a scenic walk. You’ll walk alongside the Melendiz River for about 1-2 hours, which many find peaceful and revitalizing. The cool shade of the trees and the gentle sound of flowing water make this a highlight.

Lunch is usually included in the valley, at a riverside restaurant—an opportunity to enjoy local flavors and relax before the afternoon’s exploration. Reviewers mention that this part of the tour offers a refreshing break from the more archaeological sites, allowing you to connect with nature.

Selime Monastery: The Largest Rock-Cut Monastery

After lunch, the tour continues to Selime Monastery, an impressive rock-cut complex with a large cave cathedral. The site offers breathtaking views over the surrounding landscape, perfect for photography. However, one traveler pointed out, “We didn’t see the monastery of Selime,” which could suggest that the site is large and may require more time to fully appreciate. The tour may only offer a brief overview, so if exploring in detail is your priority, you might need to visit independently or on a longer tour.

Pigeon Valley Viewpoint: A Scenic Stop

On the way back to Göreme, you’ll stop at a viewpoint overlooking Pigeon Valley. Here, the vistas are stunning, and it’s a great spot to reflect on your day and capture more photos. The guide will share insights about the significance of pigeon houses carved into the cliffs, which historically served as communication points.

Onyx Factory: Local Craftsmanship

The final stop is at a local onyx factory, where you’ll see demonstrations of carving onyx stones. This is a chance to purchase authentic souvenirs directly from artisans, often at better prices than in the town shops. Many find these shops to be worthwhile stops, especially if you’re interested in jewelry or decorative pieces.

What’s Included & What to Expect

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transport by comfortable air-conditioned van, and a professional guide — making logistics smooth and hassle-free. The cost is $59 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the number of sites visited and the guided nature of the experience.

However, note that the Museum Pass for Kaymakli Underground City and Selime Monastery isn’t included, so you’ll need to budget extra if you wish to enter these sites. Lunch is also not included, but the provided stop at a riverside restaurant in Belisirma offers a typical Turkish meal.

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain.
• Bring a hat and sunscreen as parts of the tour are outdoors and exposure can be intense.
• Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated.
• Don’t forget your camera to capture panoramic views and intricate rock carvings.
• Smoking is not allowed during the tour, so plan accordingly.
• The tour may not be suitable for pregnant women, those with claustrophobia, or back problems due to some underground and walking activities.

Authentic Traveler Insights

One reviewer mentioned, “We didn’t see the monastery of Selime,” which highlights that time constraints or the tour’s structure might limit access to all sites. Others appreciated the guidance, with one saying, “It was a great tour. We thank Mr. Güray for his pleasant guidance,” emphasizing the importance of a knowledgeable guide for enriching the experience.

Several travelers noted the stunning views from viewpoints like Esentepe and Pigeon Valley, making those moments memorable highlights. The moderate walking, combined with ample scenic stops, makes the tour accessible for most, though those with mobility issues should consider the terrain.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This tour of Cappadocia offers a good introduction to the region’s highlights at an accessible price. You’ll visit famous underground cities, walk through lush valleys, and see the best viewpoints—all guided by knowledgeable locals who bring the landscape to life.

It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of history, nature, and local craftsmanship without the hassle of planning individual entries or transportation. The inclusion of a professional guide ensures you won’t just see the sights but also understand their stories. For those who value authentic experiences without overspending, this tour provides notable value.

However, if your priority is a detailed exploration of Selime Monastery or more time underground, you might need to look for options with longer durations or smaller groups. As with any guided tour, managing expectations—especially regarding timing and site coverage—is key to enjoying your day.

FAQs

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes transport by air-conditioned van from your hotel and back, making it easy to focus on the sights instead of logistics.

How long is the tour?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, expect a full day of activities starting at 9:30 am, typically wrapping up in the late afternoon.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a water bottle, and a camera are recommended to stay comfortable and capture the experience.

Are all sites included in the tour?
You will visit Kaymakli Underground City, Ihlara Valley, Selime Monastery, and Pigeon Valley viewpoints, plus a visit to an onyx factory. Entrance fees for the underground city and monastery are not included.

Will I have enough time at each stop?
Most travelers find the pace reasonable, but some mention that Selime Monastery may be less thoroughly explored due to timing. Be prepared for a moderate walking day.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
While it’s generally manageable for most, the tour involves some walking on uneven terrain and underground tunnels, which might be challenging for those with mobility issues or claustrophobia.

To sum it up, this Cappadocia tour offers a well-rounded, affordable way to see some of the region’s most famous sights. With a knowledgeable guide and scenic stops, it’s a great choice for travelers seeking an authentic, guided experience. Just keep in mind the site visit limitations and be prepared for a full day under the sun. It’s particularly ideal for those who want a balance of adventure, culture, and stunning landscapes without breaking the bank.

You can check availability for your dates here: