If you’re heading to Central Anatolia and want to see some of the most captivating sights in Cappadocia, the Green Tour—also known as the South of Cappadocia Tour—is a practical choice. For around $80 per person, you’ll spend a full day exploring iconic locations like Göreme Panorama, Kaymakli Underground City, Selime Cathedral, and the Ihlara Valley, topped off with a traditional Turkish lunch. The tour runs approximately from 9.30 or 9.50 am, with pickup from your hotel in Göreme, and includes all museum entrance fees, making it a convenient and cost-effective way to see some highlights.
What we love about this tour is how it combines spectacular natural landscapes with rich history, all coupled with the comfort of air-conditioned transport and guided insights. The views from the Göreme Panorama are breathtaking, offering a glimpse into the unique volcanic formations that make Cappadocia so famous. Plus, the visit to Kaymakli Underground City is a real highlight, giving you a sense of the ingenious ways early inhabitants lived and protected themselves.
A possible consideration is the quite packed, one-day schedule—if you prefer more relaxed pacing or more time at each site, this might feel a little rushed. Still, if you’re eager to see a variety of sights in a single day, this tour offers great value.
This experience is ideal for travelers who want a rundown of southern Cappadocia’s treasures without the hassle of organizing separate visits. It’s especially suited for those interested in history, geology, and scenic hikes, and who appreciate guided commentary to deepen their understanding.
Key Points
- Comprehensive itinerary: Visits to major sites like Kaymakli Underground City, Selime Cathedral, and Ihlara Valley.
- Value for money: All entrance fees and a traditional lunch included.
- Stunning views: Panoramic vistas from Göreme and Uçhisar.
- Comfortable transport: Air-conditioned vehicles with hotel pickup and drop-off.
- Knowledgeable guides: Guides provide insightful explanations that add context to each site.
- Moderate activity: Includes a scenic 4 km walk through Ihlara Valley, suitable for most fitness levels.
The Details of the Green Tour Experience
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A Well-Organized Start with a View
The day begins with a pickup from your hotel in Göreme between 9.30 and 9.50 am. From there, the first stop is the Göreme Panorama, which is more than just a photo op. Here, you’ll be treated to some of the best views of Cappadocia’s distinctive rock formations. The guide, whose explanations help you understand the landscape’s origins, makes this stop both picturesque and educational. Many reviews mention how photographers and casual travelers alike are captivated by the sweeping vistas—expect to spend around 20 minutes here.
Exploring Underground: Kaymakli City
Next, you’re off to Kaymakli Underground City, the largest of the underground complexes in the region. Built by early inhabitants to escape invasions, these tunnels and caves extend several levels below the surface. You’ll walk through narrow passages and see how families lived, stored food, and even kept animals underground. Guides typically spend about an hour here, offering insights into the ingenuity and resilience of the people who carved out these subterranean homes. Reviewers frequently praise guides like “Sevgi” for making the history vivid and accessible.
The Magnificent Selime Cathedral
Your journey continues to Selime Cathedral, the largest rock-cut monastery in Cappadocia. This site, which has served multiple civilizations—including Hittites, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans—offers a glimpse into monastic life and religious architecture carved directly into stone. The vast size of the monastery and its intricate cave systems are impressive; you’ll want to take your time exploring. The site’s history, combined with its stunning location, makes it a favorite among visitors who love a sense of adventure and discovery.
More Great Tours NearbyLunch with a View in Belisirma
No tour is complete without good food, and the included lunch in a riverside restaurant in Belisirma hits the spot. Expect a kebab-style meal served in a relaxed setting beside the river, giving you a break from sightseeing and a chance to savor authentic Turkish cuisine. Many travelers appreciate the convenience of having this included, especially after the morning’s physical activity. Just remember, drinks are not included, so bring cash if you want water, tea, or additional beverages.
Scenic Walk Through Ihlara Valley
After lunch, it’s time for a gentle 1-hour walk along the Ihlara Valley, a lush canyon with cave churches carved by early Christian monks. The walk is about 4 km, mostly flat, and offers scenic views, along with opportunities to peek into cave chapels that date back centuries. Reviewers emphasize how this peaceful hike provides a different perspective on Cappadocia’s layered history—relaxed, scenic, and educational at the same time.
Uçhisar and Pigeon Valley Views
The final stop is the viewpoint in Uçhisar, overlooking Pigeon Valley. Here, you’ll see the famous pigeon houses carved into the cliffs—an ancient practice for collecting bird droppings for fertilizer. The panoramic view is perfect for one last photo and reflection on the day’s sights. Many travelers say this spot offers a fitting end to the trip, with stunning vistas that capture the essence of Cappadocia’s rugged beauty.
Practical Tips for Making the Most of the Tour
- Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking quite a bit, especially in uneven terrains like the underground city and Ihlara Valley.
- Bring water and snacks: While meals are included, staying hydrated is important—especially on warmer days.
- Be prepared for some narrow spaces: The underground city and Selime Cathedral involve tight passages, so if you’re claustrophobic, proceed with caution.
- Respect the sites: Many are ancient and delicate—avoid touching or climbing on the structures.
- Check your hotel: Make sure to inform the tour provider of your hotel details when booking for a smooth pickup.
Who Will Love the Green Tour?
If you’re eager to see a good mix of natural wonders and historical sites without spending extra time organizing each visit, this tour fits the bill. It’s perfect for travelers who want a guided overview, with insightful commentary and a comfortable, all-inclusive experience. Those with a keen interest in geology, ancient civilizations, or early Christian history will find this tour especially rewarding. It’s also well-suited for first-timers, as it packs in many of the region’s highlights in just one day.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
At around $80, including transportation, all entrance fees, and a traditional lunch, this tour offers solid value. It covers key highlights that would take multiple trips or a lot of planning to see on your own. The guided element ensures you gain context and details that might be missed if exploring independently, particularly at sites like Kaymakli Underground City or Selime Cathedral.
While you should be prepared for a busy day and some walking, the experience is well-paced for most. The views, the history, and the stories shared by guides like Sevgi or others make this tour memorable. It’s a wonderful way to deepen your understanding of Cappadocia’s layered landscape and history, especially if you’re limited on time or prefer an organized, hassle-free day.
FAQ
Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
Yes, the tour offers pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in Göreme, making it convenient and seamless to start your day.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately one full day, starting around 9.30-9.50 am and ending back at your hotel later in the afternoon.
Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all museum entrance fees are included in the price, so there are no surprises at the sites.
What’s the pace of the day?
It’s a well-organized schedule with stops every 45 minutes to an hour, including walking, sightseeing, and breaks. Expect some moderate walking, especially at the underground city and Ihlara Valley.
Is lunch included?
Yes, the tour includes a traditional Turkish kebab-style lunch served in a riverside restaurant in Belisirma.
Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
While generally suitable for most physically able travelers, the underground city and some uneven terrains may be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. Not suitable for wheelchair users or electric scooters.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel planning.
In the end, the Green Tour offers a balanced look at Cappadocia’s natural and historical richness. It’s a solid, practical choice for travelers wanting to see the region’s highlights with expert guides, without breaking the bank or fussing over logistics. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, you’re likely to come away with great stories and memorable views.
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