Cappadocia: Green Tour – Ihlara Valley & Underground City

Cappadocia’s Green Tour promises an immersive journey through the region’s stunning natural landscapes and historical wonders. From the panoramic vistas of Göreme to the labyrinthine Derinkuyu Underground City, this guided excursion offers a tantalizing glimpse into the area’s rich heritage. As travelers trek through the picturesque Ihlara Valley and explore the Selime Monastery, they’ll uncover the intricate story behind Cappadocia’s captivating blend of natural and cultural treasures.

Key Points

• The 8-hour guided tour takes visitors to the Göreme Panorama, Derinkuyu Underground City, Ihlara Valley, and Selime Monastery in Cappadocia.
• The tour offers scenic photography opportunities, exploration of ancient underground living spaces, and a guided hike through the Ihlara Valley.
• Participants can experience the historical and cultural significance of the region, including the geological formations known as "fairy chimneys."
• The tour includes a 1-hour lunch break by the river in the Ihlara Valley and a visit to an onyx factory for a shaping demonstration.
• The tour is conducted in English and Turkish and is rated 4.6/5 based on 341 reviews, with pickup and drop-off available from various locations in Cappadocia.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Cappadocia: Green Tour – Ihlara Valley & Underground City offers an 8-hour guided excursion, with pickup and drop-off available from several locations in the Cappadocia region.

Priced from $65.42 per person, the tour is conducted in English and Turkish.

Highlights include a panoramic view of Göreme, a guided tour of the Derinkuyu Underground City, a hike through the Ihlara Valley, and a visit to the Selime Monastery.

With a 4.6/5 rating based on 341 reviews, the tour offers a well-organized experience, knowledgeable guides, and comfortable transportation.

Cancelation is free up to 24 hours in advance.

Highlights of the Itinerary

One highlight of the Cappadocia Green Tour is the guided visit to the Göreme Panorama, where travelers can enjoy a 30-minute tour and take photos of Cappadocia’s captivating natural landscape and rock formations.

Another highlight is the guided tour of the Derinkuyu Underground City, which provides insight into its historical significance as a shelter against invasions.

The tour also includes a guided hike through the scenic Ihlara Valley, formed by volcanic activity and known for its carved churches and paintings.

After the hike, travelers enjoy a 1-hour lunch break by the river.

Exploring Göreme Panorama

Where does the Göreme Panorama tour take visitors? The tour guide leads visitors to a scenic overlook with breathtaking views of Cappadocia’s unique rock formations.

For 30 minutes, they can admire the natural wonders and take photos. The guide explains the region’s geological history, how volcanic eruptions shaped the extraordinary landscape.

Visitors learn about the tufa rock pinnacles, known as "fairy chimneys", and how they were formed over millions of years. This panoramic overview sets the stage for the rest of the day’s exploration of Cappadocia’s underground cities and valleys.

Descending Into Derinkuyu Underground City

After taking in the sweeping vistas of Cappadocia from the Göreme Panorama, the tour group now heads underground to explore the remarkable Derinkuyu Underground City.

Descending into the depths, visitors are struck by the scale and complexity of this ancient subterranean refuge. The guided tour covers 45 minutes, offering insights into how this multi-level city served as a shelter against invasions.

Visitors navigate the maze of tunnels, chambers, and storerooms, marveling at the engineering feats that allowed hundreds to live self-sufficiently underground.

This unique experience provides a glimpse into Cappadocia’s history and the resilience of its inhabitants.

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Trekking Through Ihlara Valley

With the underground exploration complete, the tour group now departs for the breathtaking Ihlara Valley.

This guided hike along the 3.5 km canyon offers a unique perspective of Cappadocia’s natural wonders:

1. Carved churches and ancient paintings adorn the valley walls, remnants of the region’s rich history.

2. Lush greenery and a meandering river provide a serene contrast to the surrounding volcanic landscape.

3. The guided trek takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, allowing ample time to absorb the stunning scenery.

4. Midway through the hike, a lunch break by the river offers a chance to refuel and take in the tranquil surroundings.

Discovering Selime Monastery

Following the exploration of the Ihlara Valley, the tour group now heads to the impressive Selime Monastery. A 30-minute guided tour allows visitors to examine the monastic architecture and learn about the historical significance of this unique religious complex.

The massive cave dwellings, churches, and living quarters showcase the ingenuity of the early Christian settlers who carved their homes and places of worship directly into the rock formations.

Visitors can marvel at the intricate carvings, frescoes, and underground passages that highlight the region’s rich cultural heritage and the determination of those who sought refuge in this remote location.

Witnessing the Onyx Shaping Demonstration

As the tour continues, the group makes its way to an onyx factory in Uçhisar.

At the factory, they witness a captivating onyx shaping demonstration. The artisan skillfully carves and shapes the vibrant stone, revealing its unique patterns and colors.

The group observes the process with awe, learning:

1. Onyx is a semi-precious gemstone prized for its beauty and durability.

2. The factory uses traditional techniques to transform raw onyx into intricate, polished pieces.

3. Onyx shaping requires precise hand movements and years of experience.

4. The finished products range from decorative items to jewelry and sculptures.

After the demonstration, the tour continues to the next destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

The tour offers a private option. Guests can book a private tour for a personalized experience, with a dedicated guide and flexible schedule. Private tours are available at an additional cost.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Activities?

The tour can be customized to include additional activities. Travelers can work with the tour provider to tailor the itinerary to their interests and preferences, such as visiting extra sights or participating in supplementary experiences.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?

The tour is not highly accessible for individuals with disabilities. It involves hiking and exploring an underground city, which may pose challenges for those with mobility issues or claustrophobia. Accessibility should be confirmed with the tour operator prior to booking.

Is the Tour Suitable for Travelers With a Fear of Heights?

The tour may not be suitable for travelers with a fear of heights, as it includes hiking in the Ihlara Valley and exploring an underground city. Visitors should consider their comfort level with exploring high and enclosed spaces before booking.

Can the Lunch Menu Be Adjusted for Dietary Restrictions?

The tour provider can likely accommodate dietary restrictions if requested in advance. They’ll need to know the specific needs to make appropriate menu adjustments. It’s best to inquire about options when booking the tour.

The Sum Up

The Cappadocia Green Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s natural and historical wonders. Visitors can admire the striking Göreme Panorama, explore the captivating Derinkuyu Underground City, hike through the picturesque Ihlara Valley, and discover the impressive Selime Monastery. Plus, they’ll witness a traditional onyx shaping demonstration, providing a unique cultural experience. This guided excursion is an excellent way to take in Cappadocia’s rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: