Green Tour with Underground City, Crater Lake and Ihlara

Exploring Cappadocia in a single day sounds ambitious, but this Green Tour promises a balanced mix of outdoor adventures, historical sites, and local flavors. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of what you can expect.

What we love about this tour is its comprehensive itinerary, including all entrance fees, a delicious lunch, and an expert guide—which makes it excellent value for money. The stunning views from Goreme’s panoramic point, the fascinating underground city of Derinkuyu, and the peaceful walk through Ihlara Valley stand out as highlights.

However, a few considerations are worth noting: you’ll need to walk approximately 3 km in the canyon, so comfortable shoes are essential. Also, if you’re sensitive to enclosed spaces, exploring the underground city might not be for you. This tour is ideal for those seeking a full, authentic experience of Western Cappadocia in just one day, and it suits visitors who enjoy a mix of outdoor, cultural, and historical sights.

Key Points

• All-inclusive value: Entrance fees, lunch, and a knowledgeable guide included for an affordable price.
• Diverse highlights: From underground cities and hiking to monasteries and viewpoints.
• Authentic experiences: Walking through Ihlara Valley and exploring the most significant sites.
• Comfort and convenience: Air-conditioned transport and hotel pickup/drop-off.
• Limited walking: About 3 km in the canyon—good for most but worth considering if mobility is an issue.
• Highly rated guides: Guides like Shahin and Selim are praised for their knowledge and friendliness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour Experience

This Green Tour is a thoughtfully curated blend of Cappadocia’s most iconic sites, designed to give you a well-rounded view of this magical region in a day. Starting with a gorgeous panoramic view of Goreme from its highest point, you’re positioned to soak in the landscape—rock formations, fairy chimneys, and the distant Uçhisar Castle. Your guide provides fascinating insights into the area’s geology and history, heightening the visual feast.

Exploring Derinkuyu Underground City

One of the tour’s main draws is the visit to Derinkuyu, the deepest of Cappadocia’s discovered underground cities, reaching 55.5 meters down across eight subterranean levels. This site provides a real sense of the ingenuity of early inhabitants who carved homes, churches, kitchens, and even wineries beneath the surface to seek refuge from invaders.

According to reviews, guides like Shahin are especially good at bringing this history to life, sharing stories about how these underground complexes evolved into full-fledged underground cities capable of sheltering up to thirty thousand people during Byzantine times. The tunnels are well-lit, ventilated, and surprisingly accessible, but if you have claustrophobia, you might prefer to admire from a respectful distance.

Ihlara Valley: Nature and History Collide

Next, you’ll head to the Ihlara Valley, a 14-kilometer-long canyon with walls soaring up to 150 meters in some spots. This lush, peaceful corridor along the Melendiz River was a sanctuary for Christian monks, resulting in over 100 rock-cut churches and numerous cave dwellings scattered along the route.

Expect a scenic 3.5 km walk through the canyon—an excellent opportunity to enjoy the sound of the river, bird calls, and the smell of fresh pine. Reviewers mention the delicious local cuisine served at the valley’s cliffside restaurant, a highlight after your hike. The valley’s natural beauty and historical significance make it a favorite for those craving a calm break from sightseeing.

Selime Monastery and Pigeon Valley

Perched at the northern edge of Ihlara, the Selime Monastery is a striking rock-cut complex, notable as the largest in Cappadocia. From here, you’ll enjoy panoramic views and the unique sight of the Pigeon Valley, where hundreds of pigeon houses are carved into the rocks—pigeons being vital for fertilizing fields in the region.

Visitors praise how guides like Selim share fun facts about the pigeons’ role in agriculture, adding a layer of understanding to the landscape’s unique features. The monastery itself offers a glimpse into monastic life, with chapels, kitchens, and even a stunning view from its terraces.

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Local Flavors and Practical Tips

Throughout the day, you’ll get a chance to try local sweets and nuts, a sweet stop that’s appreciated by many reviewers. The included lunch, often served at a scenic spot, is usually well-received, offering a taste of the region’s cuisine.

Transportation is via air-conditioned vehicles, and the entire tour lasts around 8 hours, making it a full but comfortable day. Guides are multilingual, with options including English, French, Chinese, German, and more, so you’ll find someone who speaks your language comfortably.

Why This Tour Works Well

What makes this tour stand out is its balance of history, nature, and local culture. It’s particularly suited for travelers who:

• Want a rundown of Western Cappadocia without multiple day trips.
• Appreciate guided insights from knowledgeable, friendly guides like Shahin and Selim.
• Prefer organized transport and all-inclusive pricing for ease and value.
• Enjoy a mix of outdoor walking, sightseeing, and storytelling.

Many reviews emphasize the value for money, with travelers appreciating the prompt pickup and the well-planned itinerary. For instance, one reviewer mentioned, “everything was very well planned,” highlighting how the tour aligns with expectations for a hassle-free experience.

Practical Considerations

While the tour offers a lot, it does require about 3 km of walking in Ihlara Valley, which is manageable for most but worth considering if mobility is limited. Also, since the underground cities involve narrow tunnels, those with claustrophobia should weigh this before booking.

The tour’s price of $48 per person is quite competitive given the inclusion of entrance fees, lunch, and a guide. It provides a great way to see a broad swath of Cappadocia’s highlights without the expense or effort of planning each site independently.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a full-day experience without the stress of logistics, especially those new to Cappadocia. It’s perfect if you’re interested in history, outdoor activities, and local culture, and don’t mind some walking. Families, first-timers, and solo travelers alike will find this a well-rounded way to encounter the region’s most enchanting sights.

Final Thoughts

The Green Tour of Cappadocia offers a richly layered experience, blending natural beauty, historical intrigue, and local flavor in one affordable package. The inclusion of all entry fees and a good lunch makes it a convenient choice for travelers wanting to maximize their time in this fascinating region.

You’ll love the expert guides’ stories, the panoramic views, and the chance to walk through ancient underground tunnels and lush canyon paths. The price point makes it accessible, and the positive reviews suggest it consistently delivers on expectations.

For those wanting a balanced, engaging, and authentic taste of Cappadocia’s wonders, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer guided experiences that combine storytelling with exploration.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics smooth and simple.

Are entrance fees included?
Entrance tickets are included if you select the ticket-only option, covering sites like Derinkuyu and Selime Monastery.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you a full day of exploration without feeling rushed.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are essential, especially for walking in Ihlara Canyon and underground tunnels. Dress appropriately for the weather, and bring a hat and sunscreen for outdoor parts.

Is lunch included?
Lunch is included if you choose the option, typically featuring local cuisine, and is highly praised by travelers.

Can I do this tour if I have mobility issues?
While most sites are accessible, the 3 km walk in Ihlara Canyon and narrow tunnels in the underground city might present challenges.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak multiple languages, including English, French, Chinese, German, Japanese, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Turkish, among others.

Can I cancel or change my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

Is drinks at lunch included?
No, drinks are not included at lunch, so you might want to bring some cash for beverages.

This Green Tour truly captures the essence of Cappadocia, offering both adventure and insight in a well-organized package. Whether you’re fascinated by underground cities or simply want to enjoy stunning canyon views, it’s a solid choice for a memorable day in Central Anatolia.

You can check availability for your dates here: