The Green Tour is a full-day guided excursion exploring the southwestern marvels of Cappadocia, Turkey. This approximately 8-9 hour adventure blends stunning natural landscapes, ancient underground settlements, and charming rural stops, offering an immersive journey through the region’s geological wonders and cultural heritage.
Your day begins with a morning pickup from your hotel (typically between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM) in a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus, accompanied by an expert English-speaking guide. The tour kicks off at the Göreme Panorama, a breathtaking viewpoint where you’ll marvel at fairy chimneys, rugged rock formations, and the picturesque town of Göreme nestled below—perfect for photography and soaking in Cappadocia’s surreal beauty.
Next, delve into history at the Kaymaklı Underground City, one of the region’s largest subterranean settlements. Here, you’ll wander through multi-level tunnels, living quarters, and storage rooms carved by early Christians, uncovering the ingenuity of this ancient refuge. The journey continues with a scenic stop at Pigeon Valley Panorama, where the sweeping vistas of Güvercinlik Vadisi reveal cliffside pigeon houses, fairy chimneys, and the valley stretching toward Uçhisar—an ideal spot for photos or a moment of reflection.
Midday brings a peaceful 1 km walk through the Ihlara Valley, tracing the Melendiz River amidst lush greenery and rock-cut churches adorned with ancient frescoes. This short, scenic stroll leads to Belisırma village, where you’ll savor a traditional Turkish meal featuring local flavors in a tranquil riverside setting. After lunch, visit Yaprakhisar, a charming Cappadocian village with stone houses and sweeping valley views, offering a glimpse into rural life and the region’s timeless appeal.
The tour concludes with a stop at Nar Lake (Narlıgöl), a striking volcanic crater lake known for its mineral-rich, reddish waters caused by algae. Its serene beauty and reputed therapeutic properties make it a unique natural highlight. Expect to return to your hotel around 5:00-6:00 PM, with transportation, entrance fees, and lunch (drinks excluded) included, making this an ideal way to experience Cappadocia’s southern treasures in one unforgettable day.
- Transportation: Hotel pick-up and drop-off in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, typically starting between 09:00 AM and 10:00 AM and ending around 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
- Professional Guiding: Services of an English-speaking (and sometimes other languages) licensed tour guide who provides insights into the region's history, culture, and geology.
- Entrance Fees: Admission to major sites such as Derinkuyu or Kaymaklı Underground City, Ihlara Valley, and Selime Monastery.
- Lunch: A meal, often including soup, salad, and a choice of main dishes (e.g., trout, chicken, vegetarian options, or meatballs), served at a riverside restaurant in Belisırma or a similar location.
- Drinks: Beverages during lunch or throughout the day are typically not included and must be purchased separately.
- Souvenirs and Personal Expenses: Purchases at stops like onyx or pottery workshops, tourist stalls, or additional snacks are not covered.
- Tips: Gratuities for the guide or driver are not included and are at the discretion of the traveler.
- Optional Activities: Extra activities like horseback riding or extended hikes beyond the standard itinerary may incur additional costs.
- Pick-up from Certain Areas: Some remote locations (e.g., Mustafapaşa and Nar Village) may not be included in pick-up services, requiring independent travel to a central point like Göreme.