Green Tour with Trekking in Ihlara Valley Cappadocia
Highlights
- Explore ancient underground city like Derinkuyu or Kaymakli
- Scenic 4-kilometer hike in Ihlara Valley
- Visit hidden rock-cut churches with Byzantine frescoes
- Enjoy lunch by the river in Belisirma village
- Discover majestic Selime Cathedral, largest rock-carved monastery
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Duration: 8 to 9 hours
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Round-trip hotel transfers
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Lunch included
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Admission to attractions
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Guided in English and Korean
Embark on the Green Tour with trekking in Ihlara Valley, a captivating journey through the wonders of Cappadocia. Explore ancient underground cities like Derinkuyu, marvel at the lush greenery of Ihlara Valley on a scenic hike, and visit the majestic Selime Cathedral. Enjoy a relaxing lunch in Belisirma village and immerse yourself in the rich history and natural beauty of this unique region. With round-trip transfers, lunch, and admission included, this tour offers the perfect blend of adventure and exploration for travelers looking to experience the best of Cappadocia in a single day. Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience!
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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8 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in Korean, English,
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Mobile voucher
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Small Group tour
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Self-guided
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Family friendly
Experience the breathtaking Ihlara Valley with trekking, explore ancient underground cities, and enjoy a scenic lunch along the Melendiz River.
Included
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Admission to attractions
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Lunch
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Round-trip transfers to and from your hotel
Pickup
Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)
What to expect
Derinkuyu
Derinkuyu is an extraordinary underground city located in the Cappadocia region of Turkey, renowned for its vast network of tunnels and rooms carved deep into the soft volcanic rock. Extending to a depth of approximately 60 meters, Derinkuyu could accommodate up to 20,000 people, along with their livestock and food supplies. Believed to have been used as a refuge during times of invasion and religious persecution, the city features living quarters, kitchens, storage areas, stables, a church, and even a school. Its sophisticated ventilation system and large stone doors highlight the advanced engineering skills of its builders. Walking through its narrow, dimly lit passageways offers a glimpse into the resilience and ingenuity of ancient civilizations, making Derinkuyu a must-visit destination for travelers exploring the historical wonders of Cappadocia.
Belisirma
Belisırma is a picturesque village located in the Ihlara Valley in Cappadocia, Turkey. Nestled along the banks of the Melendiz River, Belisırma offers a peaceful setting surrounded by lush greenery and dramatic canyon walls. The village is best known for its charming riverside restaurants and access to some of the valley’s most beautiful hiking routes and ancient rock-cut churches. Many of these churches, adorned with Byzantine-era frescoes, can be found along the trail that stretches through the valley. Belisırma serves as a serene stop for travelers looking to enjoy nature, explore historical sites, and experience traditional village life in the heart of Cappadocia.
Ihlara Valley
Ihlara Valley is a stunning canyon located in Cappadocia, central Turkey. Carved by the Melendiz River, it stretches about 14 kilometers and is known for its lush greenery, dramatic cliffs, and rock-cut churches adorned with ancient frescoes. The valley offers a peaceful hiking experience, blending natural beauty with rich history and Byzantine-era architecture.
Uluırmak
Uluırmak is a small river located in the Aksaray province of central Turkey. It flows through the region and contributes to local agriculture by providing irrigation. While not as well-known as larger rivers, Uluırmak holds local significance and connects to the region’s broader water system, including proximity to areas like the Ihlara Valley.
Selime Cathedral
Selime Cathedral is the largest rock-cut religious structure in Cappadocia, located at the end of the Ihlara Valley in Selime village, Turkey. Carved directly into volcanic rock in the 8th or 9th century, the cathedral served both religious and defensive purposes. Its basilica-style interior features columns, multiple apses, and remnants of Byzantine frescoes, including scenes of the Ascension and the Virgin Mary. Beyond its spiritual significance, Selime Cathedral also played a role in trade, offering shelter to merchants and their caravans traveling along ancient routes. Today, it stands as a remarkable testament to early Christian architecture and Cappadocia’s rich cultural heritage.
Pigeon Valley, or Güvercinlik Vadisi, is a scenic and historically significant valley in Cappadocia, Turkey, stretching about 4 kilometers between Göreme and Uçhisar. It is named after the countless pigeon houses carved into the soft volcanic rock, which were once used by locals to collect pigeon droppings for use as fertilizer. The valley features a moderate hiking trail that winds through lush vegetation, fairy chimneys, and ancient cave dwellings, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Along the way, hikers often stop at the famous “Evil Eye Tree,” decorated with blue Nazar amulets for good luck, with Uçhisar Castle visible in the distance. Pigeon Valley beautifully combines natural beauty with cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination in Cappadocia.
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Participants must be aged 4+ to participate in this activity
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Public transportation options are available nearby
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Service animals allowed
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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This is a shared transfer and early or late pick-up is possible
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Total tour duration includes transportation time.
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Weight limit to ride a horse is 210 pounds (95 kg)
What our experts say
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Try local dishes at Belisirma's cafes.
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Visit Selime Cathedral for stunning frescoes.
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Wear comfortable shoes for the hike.
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Bring a camera for Ihlara's views.
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Check weather, it can be unpredictable.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Cappadocia with the Green Tour featuring trekking in Ihlara Valley. This tour is designed for adventurous souls who crave a mix of history, nature, and exploration in one of Turkey's most enchanting regions.What to expect?
Experience the thrill of exploring ancient underground cities like Derinkuyu, followed by a scenic 4-kilometer trek through the picturesque Ihlara Valley. Marvel at towering cliffs, lush greenery, and hidden rock-cut churches adorned with Byzantine frescoes. Enjoy a delicious lunch in Belisirma village and visit the majestic Selime Cathedral, the largest rock-carved monastery in Cappadocia.Who is this for?
This tour is perfect for travelers who love adventure, history, and natural beauty. Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique and immersive experience in Cappadocia, the Green Tour with trekking in Ihlara Valley is sure to captivate your senses.Why book this?
Immerse yourself in the rich history and stunning landscapes of Cappadocia with this all-encompassing tour. From exploring ancient underground cities to hiking through breathtaking valleys and visiting rock-cut churches, this tour offers a perfect blend of adventure and cultural exploration that will leave you in awe of Turkey's beauty.Good to know
Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes and clothing for the hike in Ihlara Valley. The tour includes round-trip transfers, lunch, and admission to attractions, making it a hassle-free and enjoyable experience for all travelers. Be prepared to be amazed by the natural wonders and historical sites that Cappadocia has to offer.Reviews
Travelers who have experienced the Green Tour with trekking in Ihlara Valley rave about the unique blend of adventure and history that this tour offers. From the underground cities to the scenic hike in Ihlara Valley, visitors are impressed by the beauty and cultural significance of the sites visited. Overall, this tour receives high praise for its immersive experience and knowledgeable guides.Journals from our explorers at this location
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