Exploring the south of Cappadocia through the Green Tour promises a full day of discovering some of the most iconic sights in this surreal landscape. From underground cities carved into the earth to a scenic canyon walk, this tour offers a variety of memorable moments that highlight the region’s ancient past and natural beauty. It’s a popular choice for travelers eager to see a lot without the hassle of organizing separate excursions, but it does come with a few quirks worth considering.
What I love about this tour is how it balances impressive historical sites with opportunities for outdoor activity. First, the Göreme Panorama viewpoint offers an incredible vista that immediately sets the tone—you’re gazing over a landscape that looks like a fantasy. Second, the chance to walk through Ihlara Valley’s lush canyon along a gentle 4 km trail is a peaceful contrast to the more structured visits. The guide’s insights tend to be well-informed, turning what could be just sightseeing into a richer experience.
However, one potential drawback is the tight schedule—with multiple stops in just seven hours, it’s a whirlwind. Some travelers, as one reviewer noted, might feel rushed or disappointed if they hoped for more time at each site. Also, a specific critique was about the tour operator changing the schedule unexpectedly, which underscores the importance of confirming details beforehand. Despite these issues, the value lies in the all-inclusive nature of the tour, covering entrance fees, transportation, and a local lunch, making it a straightforward option for travelers who prefer hassle-free planning.
Key points / Takeaways
- Comprehensive coverage of major sites including underground cities, Ihlara Valley, and Selime Monastery.
- Expert guides like Ferhat Akba are praised for their knowledge and effort to keep the group engaged.
- The scenic views at Göreme Panorama and Uçhisar are breathtaking and worth the early start.
- The organized logistics with hotel pick-up and drop-off in comfortable minivans simplify your day.
- Timing can be tight—expect a busy schedule, especially if you prefer leisurely exploration over quick visits.
- The value for money includes entrance fees, a traditional lunch, and professional guides, making it a convenient package.
- Some reviews mention last-minute schedule changes and store visits, which might affect your experience.
- This tour is best suited for travelers who want to see the highlights efficiently and don’t mind a full day of activity.
Entering the Heart of Cappadocia’s Sights
Starting early, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in a modern minivan, setting the stage for a comfortable day. The first stop at Göreme Panorama offers what might be the best view in the region—an expansive look at the fairy chimney-studded landscape. The guide here explains how these formations came to be, turning a simple photo opportunity into a lesson in geological marvels. I loved how this viewpoint immediately immerses you in the landscape that makes Cappadocia so distinctive.
Next, the tour heads to Pigeon Valley for a quick 15-minute overlook, giving you a chance to snap some photos of the ancient pigeon houses carved into the cliffs. It’s a short stop but a charming one, offering a taste of this area’s long history of human adaptation to the terrain.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Derinkuyu.
Exploring the Underground: Derinkuyu and Kaymakli
The underground cities are undoubtedly the tour’s highlight. Walk down 6 to 8 levels of Derinkuyu or Kaymakli, which are the deepest and most extensive. As you navigate the narrow tunnels and stone stairs, your guide explains how early Christians hid from invaders—imagine escaping into a labyrinth of rooms, kitchens, wineries, and chapels. One reviewer noted the experience of descending into these subterranean worlds as both fascinating and a bit claustrophobic, but most found it to be a memorable peek into ancient ingenuity.
The interconnected tunnels also provide insight into daily life underground—there’s a winery, a church, and many food storage areas. The guide’s commentary helps bring these spaces to life, giving context to how people managed to live underground for extended periods, sometimes for months.
Scenic Walk Through Ihlara Valley
After the underground adventure, you’ll enjoy a leisurely 4 km walk along the Melendiz River in the Ihlara Valley. This lush canyon contrasts sharply with the rocky landscape above, and early Christian monks carved cave churches into the canyon walls, many of which you can admire along the way. It’s a peaceful, natural break from the more intensively toured sites and offers excellent photo opportunities.
A tip: bring comfortable walking shoes, as some uneven terrain awaits. The walk takes about an hour, so pace yourself and enjoy the shade and greenery. Following the hike, a Turkish kebab-style lunch is served at a riverside restaurant—simple, hearty, and satisfying.
The Magnificent Selime Monastery
Post-lunch, the tour visits Selime Monastery, the largest rock-cut monastery in the region. Your guide will highlight its long history, from Hittite roots to Byzantine and Ottoman uses. The monastery’s size and complexity mean you’ll want to spend some time wandering through its corridors, chapels, and courtyards. It’s impressive how these ancient structures are still largely intact, offering a tangible connection to centuries of human effort.
Final Stop with a View
The last major stop is at a viewpoint in Uçhisar overlooking Pigeon Valley. From here, you’ll see the famous pigeon houses carved into the cliffs—once used for communication and yet another example of how inhabitants made creative use of their environment. The panoramic view provides a fitting end to the day, leaving you with a broad perspective on Cappadocia’s unique terrain.
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Practical Details and Considerations
The Green Tour is priced at $92 per person, which includes all entrance fees, transportation, lunch, and guiding. It’s a good deal considering the number of sites visited and the convenience of door-to-door service. The tour lasts approximately seven hours, starting in the morning—be prepared for a full day.
The pickup options cover key towns like Nevehir, Uçhisar, Avanos, Göreme, and Ürgüp, making it accessible regardless of where you’re staying. The tour is led by an English-speaking guide, ensuring clear explanations and engaging commentary.
However, some reviews mention that schedule adjustments or visits to stores might slightly affect your experience. For example, one traveler noted their tour was rescheduled unexpectedly, which might cause inconvenience. Still, the guide’s effort to keep the group engaged and the overall value seem to outweigh these issues.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded introduction to Cappadocia’s highlights without the hassle of planning each site individually. It suits those with a moderate level of mobility comfortable with walking and navigating stairs. It’s especially good for first-timers, history enthusiasts, or families seeking a mix of outdoor activity and cultural insight.
If you’re on a tight schedule or prefer slow-paced exploration, this might feel a bit rushed. But for most, the combination of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and expert guidance makes it worth the time.
Final Thoughts
The South of Cappadocia Green Tour offers a solid, value-packed way to see some of the region’s most iconic sights. The combination of underground cities, scenic valley walks, and impressive monasteries provides a comprehensive glimpse into Cappadocia’s layered past and striking landscapes. The guiding, especially if led by knowledgeable folks like Ferhat Akba, can turn a sightseeing trip into an engaging story.
While the schedule is tight and some may find it a tad hurried, the convenience and inclusiveness—covering entrance fees, transportation, and lunch—make this a practical choice for many travelers. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, this tour gives you a taste of what makes Cappadocia so special—its history, its scenery, and its resilient spirit.
FAQ
How long does the Green Tour last?
The tour lasts about 7 hours, with starting times varying. It begins in the morning and ends in the late afternoon.
What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel pick-up and drop-off, transportation in a modern minivan, a professional English-speaking guide, all entrance fees, and a traditional lunch (drinks not included).
Are there any physical demands?
Yes, you should be comfortable with walking and some uneven terrain, especially during the Ihlara Valley hike and underground city exploration.
Can I join this tour if I’m staying outside the pickup locations?
The tour provides pickup options in Nevehir, Uçhisar, Avanos, Göreme, and Ürgüp. If you’re staying nearby, check with the provider if they can accommodate you.
Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, but keep in mind the underground city and monastery visits involve stairs and narrow tunnels, which may not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues.
What should I bring for the day?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and water. The weather can vary, so layering is a good idea.
What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.
This Green Tour captures many of the highlights travelers seek in Cappadocia, balancing history, scenery, and outdoor activity. It’s a practical, well-organized way to experience the region’s essentials—just remember, it’s a busy schedule, so come prepared to enjoy a full, immersive day.