Cappadocia’s underground cities and salt lake offer a unique glimpse into the region’s captivating history. Adventurous travelers can explore these remarkable sites on a guided tour, uncovering ancient architectural marvels and savoring a delicious local lunch. With personalized service and a small group size, the experience promises an immersive look at Cappadocia’s cultural treasures. What secrets lie hidden beneath the earth’s surface, and how did the inhabitants of these underground cities manage to thrive?
Key Points

- This 1-day tour explores the ancient underground cities of Tatlarin and Saratli, showcasing their intricate architecture and facilities, in addition to visiting the scenic Salt Lake.
- Includes a delicious lunch at the 10th-century Oresin Han Caravanserai, a former Silk Road inn, providing a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
- Comfortable, air-conditioned transportation with a maximum group size of 15 ensures a personalized and hassle-free experience.
- Offers a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility and peace of mind.
- Not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as the underground cities involve navigating narrow passageways and stairs.
Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour, titled "Cappadocia: Salt Lake and Underground Cities with Lunch," is priced from $163.56 per person and lasts for 1 day.
Explore Cappadocia’s natural wonders and underground cities on a day-long tour priced at $163.56 per person.
Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they don’t have to pay anything today to reserve their spot.
The tour includes pickup and drop-off, a guide, lunch, air-conditioned transportation, parking fees, local taxes, and insurances.
However, personal expenses, drinks, and gratuities are excluded.
The small group size is limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.
Itinerary and Highlights

Visitors can explore Tatlarin and Saratli Underground Cities, ancient structures over 3,000 years old.
These subterranean wonders feature:
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Ancient toilet facilities and giant rooms for religious or military purposes.
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Saratli’s 7-story structure with a water well, wine cellar, and secret tunnels.
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Lunch at Oresin Han Caravanserai, an ancient Silk Road inn from the 10th century.
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A visit to Tuz Golu (Salt Lake) to admire sunset colors and enjoy time by the shores.
Transportation and Group Size

Pickup is included from accommodations in Cappadocia, and visitors are asked to wait in the lobby 10 minutes prior to pickup. You’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus to the destinations. The group size is kept small, limited to a maximum of 15 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
| Transportation | Group Size |
| — | — |
| Comfortable, air-conditioned bus | 15 participants maximum |
| Pickup and drop-off included | Small group setting |
| Convenient for all participants | Personalized experience |
| Efficient and hassle-free travel | Intimate and interactive |
The small group size and private transportation provide a more intimate and immersive way to explore the historical wonders of Cappadocia.
Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes a comprehensive range of services and amenities to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.
The tour includes:
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Pickup and drop-off from accommodations in Cappadocia.
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An expert local guide to provide insights and historical context.
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A delicious lunch at the ancient Oresin Han Caravanserai.
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All transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus, as well as parking fees, local taxes, and insurance.
The tour excludes personal expenses, drinks, and gratuities.
It’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
More Great Tours NearbyExploring the Tatlarin and Saratli Underground Cities
Tatlarin and Saratli Underground Cities boast over 3,000 years of history, inviting visitors to explore their ancient structures and uncover the secrets of life underground.
Descending into these subterranean wonders, travelers discover intricate toilet facilities, massive rooms for religious or military purposes, and Saratli’s impressive 7-story structure. This includes a water well, wine cellar, and secret tunnels – all impressive feats of engineering.
Guests can wander through these labyrinthine cities, imagining the bustling communities that once thrived in the cool, shadowy spaces carved into the rock. An unforgettable journey into Cappadocia’s remarkable past.
Discovering Ancient Toilet Facilities and Giant Rooms
As visitors descend into the underground cities, they’re struck by the intricate network of ancient toilet facilities and giant rooms built for religious or military purposes.
These underground spaces showcase the ingenuity of their creators:
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Sophisticated toilet systems with ventilation shafts and drainage channels ensured sanitation and hygiene in the underground communities.
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Massive rooms, some standing over 20 feet high, were likely used for community gatherings, religious ceremonies, or military operations.
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Impressive architectural features, like vaulted ceilings and arched doorways, demonstrate the skill of the ancient builders.
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The sheer scale of these subterranean complexes is a testament to the thriving civilizations that once inhabited Cappadocia’s unique landscape.
Visiting the Saratli 7-Story Structure

One of the highlights of the underground city tour is the impressive Saratli structure, which extends an astounding 7 stories below the surface.
Visitors can explore the ancient wine cellar, water well, and secret tunnels that were part of this expansive complex.
The massive rooms were likely used for religious or military purposes, showcasing the engineering prowess of the people who built this underground city over 3,000 years ago.
Wandering through the narrow passages and descending the multiple levels offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of these early inhabitants of Cappadocia.
Experiencing the Tuz Golu (Salt Lake)
After exploring the ancient underground cities, visitors then journey to the awe-inspiring Tuz Golu, or Salt Lake.
This natural wonder offers a tranquil escape and stunning vistas.
Visitors can:
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Admire the sunset colors reflecting off the vast, crystalline salt flats.
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Enjoy time by the shores, feeling the crunch of salt underfoot.
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Snap photos of the dramatic, alien-like landscape.
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Discover the unique flora and fauna adapted to the harsh, saline environment.
The Tuz Golu experience completes this immersive exploration of Cappadocia’s natural and historical wonders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Photography Allowed Inside the Underground Cities?
Photography is generally allowed inside the underground cities, but visitors should exercise caution and respect the ancient sites. Visitors are advised to check with their tour guide for any specific photography guidelines or restrictions.
How Should I Dress for the Tour to Be Comfortable?
The tour operator recommends wearing comfortable shoes and clothing. Swimwear and a towel are also suggested, as there may be an opportunity to visit the nearby Salt Lake. Bringing only essential items is advised, as large bags are not allowed.
What Are the Safety Precautions Taken During the Tour?
The tour has safety precautions like limiting group size to 15 participants and not allowing access for those with mobility issues. Participants should wear comfortable shoes and avoid bringing large bags. The company also provides insurance coverage for the tour.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Guests can’t bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes lunch at the Oresin Han Caravanserai, and all other beverages and refreshments must be purchased separately during the trip.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions or requirements. However, it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. Children are welcome, but the tour may not be suitable for very young kids.
The Sum Up
This immersive Cappadocia tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the region’s rich history and stunning landscapes. Visitors can discover the remarkable underground cities, marvel at the breathtaking Salt Lake, and savor a delicious lunch at a historic caravanserai. With personalized service and a small group size, this tour ensures a memorable experience for those interested in Cappadocia’s captivating heritage.
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