Discover Kaymaklı Underground City and Hike in Pigeon Valley

Cappadocia’s Kaymaklı Underground City is a marvel of ancient engineering, with its intricate tunnels and chambers waiting to be explored. After discovering this subterranean wonder, visitors can venture into the breathtaking Pigeon Valley, where stunning panoramic views and unique rock formations create a tranquil outdoor adventure. This fascinating combination of historical and natural wonders promises an unforgettable experience in one of Turkey’s most captivating regions.

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Key Points

Explore the underground city of Kaymaklı, a popular attraction in Cappadocia, during a 1-hour visit.
Set out on a 1.5-hour scenic hike through Pigeon Valley, offering panoramic views and a glimpse of a rock-cut cave Basilica.
Enjoy a small-group tour experience with a maximum of 10 participants, allowing for a personalized and immersive exploration.
Benefit from the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Ensure a smooth experience by meeting the requirements, such as bringing valid ID and being prepared for the moderate hiking distance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour offers visitors the opportunity to discover Kaymaklı Underground City and hike through the scenic Pigeon Valley.

Priced at €48.90 per person, the tour lasts 1 day and is limited to small groups of 10 participants.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour also offers a reserve now, pay later option.

Pickup locations include Uçhisar and Göreme, with participants advised to wait in their hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup.

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Itinerary and Highlights

The itinerary includes a visit to the renowned Kaymaklı Underground City, where you will spend approximately 1 hour exploring this captivating historical site.

After the underground city, the group will embark on a 1.5-hour hike through the picturesque Pigeon Valley, starting from Uçhisar and ending in Göreme.

The group will embark on a 1.5-hour hike through the picturesque Pigeon Valley, starting from Uçhisar and ending in Göreme.

Along the way, they’ll marvel at the panoramic views and visit a rock-cut cave Basilica.

The highlights of the tour include discovering Kaymaklı, one of Cappadocia’s most popular underground cities, and seeing the breathtaking natural beauty of Pigeon Valley.

Transportation and Logistics

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included for participants’ convenience.

The tour travels by car, taking 35 minutes to reach Kaymaklı Underground City and 25 minutes to reach Uçhisar. Participants are advised to wait in their hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time. This ensures the tour departs on schedule and avoids delays.

The transportation arrangements are designed to provide a seamless experience, allowing participants to focus on the highlights of the tour – exploring Kaymaklı and hiking through the picturesque Pigeon Valley.

Important Information and Requirements

Participants should bring their passport or ID card for this tour, as it may be required for entry.

This experience isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments, as the hike in Pigeon Valley covers approximately 3km.

The tour operates rain or shine, so participants should dress appropriately for the weather.

Key requirements include:

Bring passport or ID card
Not suitable for mobility impaired guests
Tour operates rain or shine
Hiking distance of around 3km in Pigeon Valley

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What to Expect at Kaymaklı Underground City

Kaymaklı Underground City is one of the most fascinating and well-preserved subterranean settlements in Cappadocia.

Visitors descend into a vast network of caves, tunnels, and chambers carved deep into the volcanic rock. The city’s multi-level design, with kitchens, chapels, and stables, provides a glimpse into the daily lives of its former inhabitants.

Highlights include the maze-like corridors, ventilation shafts, and storage areas. The tour allows ample time to explore and appreciate the architectural ingenuity and historical significance of this remarkable underground haven.

The maze-like corridors, ventilation shafts, and storage areas captivate visitors, showcasing the architectural ingenuity of this remarkable underground haven.

Guests should be prepared for narrow passageways and low ceilings, yet the experience is undoubtedly one of the highlights of any Cappadocia adventure.

There's plenty more to explore in Kaymakli

Exploring Pigeon Valley

After exploring the fascinating underground city of Kaymaklı, visitors embark on a scenic hike through Pigeon Valley, one of Cappadocia’s most picturesque natural wonders.

The hike offers:

Panoramic views of the unique rock formations and valleys that define Cappadocia’s landscape.
Opportunities to spot the region’s famous rock-dove inhabitants, which nest in the valley’s caves.
A glimpse of the rock-cut cave Basilica, a historical religious site.
An immersion in the serene natural beauty of the region, far from the crowds.

The 1.5-hour hike from Uçhisar to Göreme provides an active and rewarding excursion.

Inclusions, Exclusions, and Cancellation Policy

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, guiding, transportation, tips, and the museum ticket. However, it excludes personal expenses.

Pets aren’t allowed on the tour. This one-day small-group tour is limited to 10 participants. Customers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour operates rain or shine, and it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to the hiking distance of approximately 3km in Pigeon Valley.

Participants are advised to wait in their hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

There is no minimum age requirement for this tour. The tour is suitable for participants of all ages, though it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments as the hiking portion may be challenging.

Can the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?

The tour doesn’t specifically mention accommodating dietary restrictions. Participants should contact the tour provider in advance to inquire about any special needs. The tour focuses on the sightseeing activities rather than meal provisions.

Are There Any Physical Requirements for the Hiking Portion?

The tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments, as the hiking portion in Pigeon Valley covers about 3km. Participants should be able to walk for 1.5 hours on uneven terrain.

Are Photography and Videography Allowed at the Underground City?

Photography and videography are allowed in the Kaymaklı Underground City, though visitors are advised to be respectful and avoid disrupting the experience of others. Tripods may be prohibited, so hand-held cameras are recommended.

How Experienced Are the Tour Guides?

The tour guides are experienced professionals who are knowledgeable about the history and culture of the region. They’ll provide insightful commentary and ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience throughout the tour.

The Sum Up

Explore the captivating Kaymaklı Underground City and learn about the tranquility of Pigeon Valley on this enchanting tour. Marvel at the intricate tunnels and chambers of the ancient city, then embark on a scenic hike through the breathtaking landscape, surrounded by stunning views and the unique rock formations. This outdoor adventure offers a truly memorable experience in Cappadocia’s captivating natural wonders.