The Green Tour is a full-day guided excursion exploring the southwestern wonders of Cappadocia, Turkey. This approximately 8-9 hour journey takes you through a captivating mix of natural landscapes, ancient underground cities, and historic rock-cut sites, offering a deep dive into the region’s rich history and unique geology.

Starting with a morning pickup from your hotel (typically between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM), you’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus with an expert English-speaking guide. The day kicks off at the Göreme Panorama, a scenic viewpoint showcasing fairy chimneys and distant rock formations. Next, descend into the Derinkuyu Underground City, a fascinating multi-level refuge carved by early Christians, where you’ll explore tunnels, rooms, and churches.

The tour continues with a tranquil 3-4 km hike through the Ihlara Valley, a lush canyon dotted with rock-cut churches adorned with ancient frescoes, followed by a traditional Turkish lunch by the riverside in Belisırma Village. Afterward, visit the Selime Monastery, an expansive rock-carved complex with a cathedral and stunning views. The day winds down with a stop at Pigeon Valley, known for its cliffside pigeon houses and sweeping vistas, and often concludes with an optional visit to an onyx workshop to see local craftsmanship.

Expect to return to your hotel around 5:00-6:00 PM. The tour includes transportation, entrance fees, and lunch (drinks excluded), making it an ideal way to discover Cappadocia’s less accessible southern highlights in one memorable day.

• Hotel Pickup and Drop-off Transportation from and back to your hotel or a central point in Cappadocia (e.g., Göreme, Ürgüp, or Uçhisar) in an air-conditioned minibus.
• Professional Guide An English-speaking guide (other languages may be available upon request) to provide historical and cultural insights throughout the tour.
• Transportation Travel between all sites in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
• Entrance Fees Admission to key attractions, including:
• Derinkuyu Underground City
• Selime Monastery
• Ihlara Valley (entry fee for the canyon and churches)
• Lunch A traditional Turkish meal at a riverside restaurant in Belisırma Village, typically including options like grilled fish (e.g., trout), chicken, or vegetarian dishes, served with sides like bread, salad, and rice.

• Drinks Beverages during lunch (e.g., water, soda, tea, coffee, or alcohol) are usually not included and must be paid for separately.
• Personal Expenses Costs for souvenirs, snacks, or items purchased during the tour (e.g., at the onyx workshop or other stops).
• Tips Gratuities for the guide and driver are optional and not included in the tour price. Tipping is customary but at your discretion (e.g., 10-20 TRY per person for each is common if you're satisfied).
• Additional Activities Any optional or unlisted activities not part of the standard itinerary (e.g., special photo sessions or extended stops) are not covered.
• Travel Insurance Personal travel or health insurance is not provided as part of the tour package.

Tour Duration and Timing

• Length: Approximately 8-9 hours, typically from 9:30 AM to 5:00-6:00 PM.
• Pickup: Expect pickup from your hotel between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM, depending on your location (e.g., Göreme, Ürgüp, Uçhisar).
• Punctuality: Be ready on time, as delays can affect the group schedule.

Physical Requirements

• Walking: Includes a 3-4 km (1-hour) hike in Ihlara Valley on uneven terrain and navigating stairs or narrow passages in Derinkuyu Underground City and Selime Monastery.
• Fitness Level: Suitable for most with moderate fitness; not ideal for those with significant mobility issues, severe claustrophobia, or very young children.
• Comfort: Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes (no flip-flops) and bring a hat or sunscreen for outdoor portions.