Green (South) Tour Cappadocia with lunch and ticket

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Exploring the Green (South) Tour of Cappadocia: An Honest Breakdown

If you’re considering a full-day adventure through Cappadocia’s lesser-known gems, the Green (South) Tour offers an impressively balanced glimpse into the region’s underground civilizations, stunning landscapes, and peaceful villages. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who’ve experienced this tour firsthand, and it’s clear that this is a standout option for those craving a deeper, more authentic look at this extraordinary area.

What makes this experience especially appealing? For starters, you’ll love the expert guidance that makes history and sites come alive, the scenic hike through Ihlara Valley that offers a refreshing break from busy tourist spots, and the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle that keeps you cool between sites. Plus, the included lunch along the river means a genuine taste of local cuisine.

One consideration? The itinerary involves a fair amount of walking and descending (more than 300 steps to reach Ihlara Valley), so it’s best suited for those with a decent level of mobility. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day without the hassle of planning, especially if you’re keen to see a mix of underground, historical, and natural sights.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, and curious travelers eager to explore beyond the crowds. It combines comfort, value, and a good dose of adventure, making it a well-rounded choice for your Cappadocia experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Authentic Experience: Visit underground cities, monasteries, and lush valleys away from the busy crowds.
Comfort & Convenience: Includes hotel pickup, drop-off, and all entry tickets, with a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle.
Expert Guides: Guides like Ali, Ece, and Ouz are praised for their knowledge, humor, and genuine care.
Active Day: Expect some walking, stair climbing, and a scenic 3 km hike, suitable for moderate activity levels.
Value for Money: Includes lunch, tickets, and transportation, making it a cost-effective way to see many highlights.
Picture-Perfect Views: From panoramic viewpoints to lush valleys, you’ll leave with stunning photos and beautiful memories.

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A Close Look at the Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

Starting Point & Early Pickup

The tour begins with hotel pickup from seven different locations, including Göreme, Uçhisar, Avanos, and Ürgüp. This flexibility means less stress upon waking up and a smooth start to your day. The vehicle is air-conditioned, a real plus considering the summer heat or early mornings.

Göreme Panoramic Point

Our journey kicks off with the Göreme Panoramic Point, where you’ll get your first sweeping views of the Göreme Valley. It’s a perfect photo stop and sets the scene for what’s to come—amazing landscapes layered with history. One reviewer appreciated how this spot gives a glimpse of the area’s natural beauty before diving into its hidden layers.

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Underground City Exploration

Next up is the Kaymakli Underground City, a marvel of ancient engineering. Excavated by civilizations over centuries, it’s a labyrinth of tunnels, rooms, and secret passages that once provided refuge. Guides like Ali are commended for their insightful commentary, explaining how thousands of people lived underground for extended periods. Expect about 50 minutes of guided walking through these subterranean tunnels, with some narrow passages and stairs.

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Selime Monastery

Then, it’s off to Selime Monastery, the largest hand-cut rock monastery in Cappadocia. Here, you’ll explore impressive halls and tunnels carved directly into the rock, marveling at the scale and craftsmanship. Reviewers mention how the 50-minute guided tour provides plenty of context, and the views from the monastery are truly spectacular.

Ihlara Valley: The Hike & Riverside Lunch

The highlight for many is the Ihlara Valley, where you’ll enjoy a 1-hour guided walk along the stream. This lush, 100-meter deep gorge features cave churches with frescoes and pigeon houses—unique features that make the hike more than just a walk, but a chance to connect with the region’s natural beauty.

While it involves descending over 300 steps (and some reviewers note that this can be physically demanding), the scenery is worth every step. The hike ends at a riverside restaurant, where a simple but delicious local lunch awaits. Enjoying a modest, filling meal by the river enhances the experience and offers a taste of authentic Turkish cuisine.

Pigeon Valley & Uçhisar Viewpoint

The day concludes with a visit to Pigeon Valley, where you’ll have a photo stop and enjoy panoramic views of Uçhisar Castle. If you’re feeling energetic, there’s an option to hike down the valley to Göreme—though that’s a longer trek, so plan accordingly.

Practical Details & What’s Included

This tour lasts about 7 hours, with flexible start times depending on your hotel location and the season. The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, all entry tickets (including underground city, monastery, and Ihlara Valley), and a wholesome lunch. Drinks aren’t included, so bringing a water bottle is advisable.

The group sizes tend to be moderate, and guides like Ece and Ali are lauded for their friendliness, humor, and knowledge—making the day both informative and fun.

What You Need to Know

Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended due to walking and stairs.
Be prepared for descents over 300 steps—good footwear and some physical fitness help.
Consider bringing an umbrella for sun or rain protection.
The tour isn’t suited for those with heart problems or mobility limitations.
Cancelation is flexible—full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Authentic Experiences & Highlights from Travelers

Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and humor. Ali, in particular, gets rave reviews for his English skills, honesty about lunch expectations, and low-pressure attitude. One visitor mentioned Ali had a “good sense of humor and was honest,” making the day more relaxed and enjoyable.

Many travelers expressed how the sites exceeded expectations—from the underground city’s impressive tunnels to the peaceful hike in Ihlara Valley. Comments highlight that this tour strikes a nice balance of history, nature, and local flavor.

The included lunch by the river is described as modest but satisfying, with some saying it was better than they expected. Travelers appreciated the well-paced itinerary, avoiding the crowds and getting the most out of each stop.

The Bottom Line: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Green (South) Tour is perfect for travelers who want an immersive, day-long experience in Cappadocia without the hassle of planning. It’s especially suited for those interested in history and natural beauty, and who don’t mind some physical activity involving walking and stairs.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who appreciate guided insight, scenic views, and local cuisine, this tour hits the sweet spot. It offers a great mix of underground exploration, hiking, and panoramic vistas, all in a relaxed, comfortable setting.

For budget-conscious travelers, the price includes a lot—tickets, transportation, and a hearty lunch—making it an excellent value for the quality of sites visited. Just be prepared for some walking and a few steps, and you’ll come away with a day full of memorable sights and stories.

FAQs About the Green (South) Tour of Cappadocia

What time does the tour usually start?
Start times vary depending on the season and your pickup location, but check availability for specific times when booking.

Is lunch included, and what’s typically served?
Yes, a modest, filling lunch is included, usually served by the river in Ihlara Valley. It’s a simple, tasty meal that adds to the authentic feel of the day.

How much walking is involved?
Expect guided walks at each site, including about 50 minutes in underground cities and a 1-hour hike in Ihlara Valley. There’s some stair climbing involved, especially at the valley entrance.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
It’s best for those with good mobility, as descending over 300 steps is part of the hike. Elderly travelers or those with mobility issues should consider this before booking.

Are drinks included in the tour?
No, drinks are not included, so it’s advisable to bring water or purchase beverages at one of the stops.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

In the end, the Green Tour offers a genuinely fulfilling day in Cappadocia. It combines history, scenery, and local flavor into a smooth, well-organized experience that will leave you with lasting memories—and plenty of stunning photos.