The Private/Shared Green Tour with Derinkuyu and Ihlara Valley offers a captivating glimpse into Cappadocia’s extraordinary natural and historical landscapes. Priced affordably, this full-day excursion takes travelers on a journey through the region’s iconic landmarks, from the panoramic views of Göreme to the enigmatic underground city of Derinkuyu. With an expert guide, a delectable lunch, and flexible arrangements, this tour promises an immersive and unforgettable experience. But what makes it truly remarkable are the stories waiting to be uncovered within these ancient sites.
Key Points
- This tour offers private or shared options to explore the Derinkuyu Underground City and Ihlara Valley in Cappadocia, Turkey.
- The tour lasts 8-9 hours and includes hotel pickup/drop-off, entrance tickets, a tasty lunch, and an English-speaking expert guide.
- Highlights include scenic viewpoints, rock-cut churches, the Selime Monastery, and the Pigeon Valley known for its pigeon houses.
- The tour is suitable for travelers with a moderate level of fitness, as it involves a 3 km walk in the Ihlara Canyon.
- Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are eligible for a full refund, and optional activities like a tea ceremony and coffee tasting are available.
Tour Overview
The private or shared "Green Tour with Derinkuyu and Ihlara Valley" is priced from $27.11 per person and lasts 8-9 hours.
A private or shared "Green Tour with Derinkuyu and Ihlara Valley" is priced from $27.11 per person and lasts 8-9 hours.
Live guides are available in multiple languages, including Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Spanish, Portuguese, English, Russian, and Turkish.
Pickup and drop-off locations span several towns in Cappadocia.
Travelers enjoy a full refund for cancelations up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour covers highlights like the Göreme Panorama, the Derinkuyu Underground City, the scenic Ihlara Valley, the Selime Monastery, and the Pigeon Valley, with included services like hotel transfers, entrance tickets, lunch, and an expert guide.
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Itinerary Highlights
Offering scenic viewpoints with detailed information about the region’s geological and historical past, the Göreme Panorama kick-starts the tour.
Next, explore the captivating Derinkuyu Underground City, descending eight floors and 55.5 meters deep to uncover:
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Rooms for pets, storage, dining, and even a church
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Accommodations for up to 30,000 people during Byzantine times
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A testament to the ingenuity and resilience of Cappadocian inhabitants
The tour then ventures into the 14 km long Ihlara Valley, featuring:
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Rock-cut churches and caves along the 3.5 km Melendiz River walking trail
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The majestic Selime Monastery, the highest rock-cut monastery in Cappadocia
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Pigeon Valley, known for its essential pigeon houses that fertilized the soil.
Included Services
This tour includes a comprehensive suite of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Hotel pickup and drop-off, all entrance tickets, a tasty lunch, and an English-speaking expert guide are included. You’ll also receive a small bottle of water and have access to an air-conditioned vehicle.
Compulsory seat insurance and drinks at lunch are also covered. Optional activities like shopping, tea ceremony, and coffee tasting are available for a small additional fee.
With these included services, you can focus on exploring the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia worry-free.
Optional Activities
Although the core tour includes a comprehensive set of services, the experience can be further enhanced with a couple of optional activities.
For instance, visitors can opt to stop at Beyzade Kuruyemiş for:
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Shopping for local Turkish delights and nuts
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Partaking in a traditional tea ceremony
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Indulging in a coffee tasting session
Plus, guests can choose to embark on a guided Pigeon Valley tour, which offers scenic viewpoints and insights into the region’s rich history of pigeon houses used for agricultural fertilization.
These optional add-ons provide a more immersive and personalized experience on the Green Tour.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Reviews
Travelers have praised the Green Tour with Derinkuyu and Ihlara Valley for its exceptional organization and knowledgeable guides.
A Canadian traveler, Vivian, highlighted the guide’s expertise and the enjoyable experience.
Rachael from the United Kingdom commended the friendly and informative guide.
Julia from Germany commended the well-planned itinerary, breathtaking landscapes, and exceptional organization.
The tour has received an impressive 4.5/5 rating based on traveler feedback.
The tour’s strengths include its comprehensive itinerary, expert guidance, and ability to showcase Cappadocia’s natural and historical wonders.
Physical Requirements
The Green Tour with Derinkuyu and Ihlara Valley includes a 3 km walk through the Ihlara Canyon, which may not be suitable for those with limited mobility or physical abilities.
Some key considerations:
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The canyon trail involves uneven terrain, stairs, and narrow pathways, requiring a moderate level of fitness and agility.
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Visitors with claustrophobia may find the Derinkuyu Underground City, which extends 55.5 meters deep, to be challenging.
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Those with respiratory issues should take precautions due to the dusty environment and enclosed spaces encountered during the tour.
Travel Plan Flexibility
To provide travelers with greater flexibility, the tour offers a "Reserve now & pay later" option. This allows guests to book the tour without paying upfront, giving them more time to finalize their travel plans.
The tour operator understands the importance of accommodating changing schedules and unexpected circumstances. This flexible payment structure ensures customers can secure their spot on the tour while maintaining the freedom to make necessary adjustments to their itinerary.
Ultimately, this option enhances the overall customer experience by offering enhanced convenience and peace of mind during the booking process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The tour does not specify a maximum group size. It’s available as either a private or shared tour, allowing for flexibility in group size to accommodate different traveler needs.
Can Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated for the Included Lunch?
The tour provider can accommodate dietary restrictions for the included lunch. Travelers can notify the guide of any dietary needs, and the provider will make arrangements to ensure a suitable meal is provided.
Is Photography Allowed Inside the Derinkuyu Underground City?
Yes, photography is allowed inside the Derinkuyu Underground City. Visitors can take photos to capture the unique architecture and historical significance of this impressive subterranean site, which could accommodate up to 30,000 people during Byzantine times.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
The tour generally does not allow participants to bring their own food and drinks. Lunch is included in the tour package, and a small bottle of water is provided. Outside food and beverages are typically not permitted during the excursion.
How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Mobility Issues?
The tour may not be fully accessible for individuals with mobility issues. There’s a 3 km walk in Ihlara Canyon and the underground city may be challenging for those with claustrophobia. However, hotel pickup and drop-off are provided.
The Sum Up
The Private/Shared Green Tour with Derinkuyu and Ihlara Valley offers an enriching exploration of Cappadocia’s natural and historic wonders. At a reasonable price, this tour provides a full-day experience with hotel pickup, a knowledgeable guide, and a delicious lunch, allowing participants to enjoy the region’s captivating sights and cultural heritage. With its flexibility and range of included services, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking a memorable adventure in Cappadocia.
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