Cappadocia Camel Ride Tour: A Unique Journey Through Valleys and History
Imagine gently riding a camel across soft, sunlit valleys with fairy chimneys towering around you. For about 1 hour 30 minutes, in Goreme, Turkey, this tour offers a chance to see Cappadocia’s surreal landscapes from a different perspective. With a price of $56.92 per person, guided by friendly and professional handlers, this experience combines authenticity, scenic beauty, and a touch of historical atmosphere.
Two aspects we particularly love are how the guides are attentive and knowledgeable, making sure you’re comfortable and capturing the best photos, and how the tour covers multiple iconic valleys like Red Valley and Rose Valley, giving a well-rounded taste of Cappadocia’s natural wonders.
A minor consideration is that the experience is quite short—some might wish for a longer ride or more in-depth exploration. It’s perfect, though, for those seeking a relaxed, photo-friendly adventure rather than a strenuous trek.
This tour suits travelers who enjoy unique photo ops, scenic landscapes, and a gentle activity suitable for all ages. If you’re curious about the landscape’s story and love capturing memorable moments, this camel safari will resonate well.
Key Points
- Authentic experience riding a calm, resistant camel through Cappadocia’s valleys.
- Stunning vistas of fairy chimneys, sunset, and balloon-filled skies.
- Guides are friendly, attentive, and skilled at photography, enhancing your experience.
- Short duration (about 1.5 hours) makes it accessible and manageable for most travelers.
- Included transportation ensures hassle-free pickup and drop-off.
- Ideal for photo enthusiasts and those seeking a relaxed, scenic activity.
Planning more time in Goreme? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
A Deep Dive into the Cappadocia Camel Ride Tour
What’s Included and What’s Not
Starting with the basics, this tour is priced at just under $57, a good value considering it includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, and necessary gear. The small group size—max 8 travelers—ensures a personal touch, making the experience feel more intimate and less hurried.
However, gratuities aren’t included, so if you appreciate your guide’s effort, consider tipping. Also, while the tour is quite straightforward, bring comfortable shoes and clothing—you’ll be riding on a camel, and the terrain can be uneven.
The Itinerary: From Valleys to Valleys
The tour begins in Goreme with pickup from your hotel, easing the logistics so you can enjoy the scenery without fuss. You’ll head first to Red Valley, known for its crimson-colored rocks and fairy chimneys. Here, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the paths and formations, with about 20 minutes to take in the landscape—perfect for photos, as many reviews highlight.
Next, you’ll visit Gulludere Vadisi (Rose Valley), famed for its pink-hued rocks and romantic scenery. The guide can point out the rock formations and help you capture the best shots—something many travelers appreciated. Again, about 20 minutes here gives enough time for photos and a gentle walk.
The third stop is Ortahisar, a lesser-known gem with hidden valleys and authentic charm. Since it’s a bit harder to discover without a guide, this part of the tour provides a rare glimpse into local life and landscape. Again, 20 minutes allows for exploration and photos.
Finally, the tour returns to Rose Valley for a second look, reinforcing the stunning scenery and giving you additional opportunities for snapshots and soaking in the landscape’s quiet beauty.
What Does the Ride Feel Like?
The camel ride itself is designed to be calm and sedate—not a thrill ride but rather a gentle journey. Many reviews mention the “perfect length,” with some describing it more as a photo op that’s great for capturing the scenery rather than a long, strenuous activity. With a mounting block available, getting on the camel is easier, especially for those less accustomed to riding animals.
Your guides walk along beside you, ensuring safety and often helping with photos—some even use their own phones or drones to record your moments, as several reviews rave about their “photo service.” The animals are well-behaved and friendly, and the handlers seem genuinely attentive, making the experience comfortable even for first-timers.
Sunset and Sunrise Options
Our feedback shows this tour can be enjoyed at different times, including sunrise and sunset. Many reviewers say the sunset camel ride is especially breathtaking, with the sky turning shades of orange and pink, and balloons floating above adding to the magical atmosphere.
Group Size and Atmosphere
With a maximum of 8 travelers, the tour remains intimate, allowing for personalized interaction with guides and a relaxed pace. Travelers consistently mention how friendly and attentive the staff are, which makes a simple activity like a camel ride feel special.
Accessibility and Suitability
This tour is accessible for most travelers—the calm animals and short duration mean it’s suitable for children, families, and older travelers. However, some reviews note that wearing comfortable shoes and long pants helps, especially if you plan to take lots of photos while on the camel.
Authenticity and Overall Value
This isn’t a high-adrenaline adventure but rather a chance to slow down and appreciate Cappadocia’s landscape from a different vantage point. Many reviews emphasize how safe and secure they felt during the ride, thanks to guides who explain and assist throughout.
The price point of around $57 is quite reasonable considering the included hotel transfers, guide, and photo opportunities. Travelers often mention that the photos and videos captured during the ride are some of their best memories. Plus, the small group size enhances the experience, avoiding the impersonality of larger tours.
Why Choose This Tour?
If you are looking for an authentic, scenic, and relaxed activity that offers beautiful photo opportunities and a taste of history, this camel ride hits the mark. It’s especially perfect for those who want a flexible schedule—offering options at sunrise or sunset—and for travelers who value personalized service and local expertise.
Who Might Not Love It?
Those craving a longer or more adventurous ride, or wanting to explore the caves and extensive valleys on foot, may find this experience too brief or gentle. Also, animal welfare concerns are mentioned in some reviews, so if that’s a priority for you, it’s worth considering.
The Sum Up
The Cappadocia Camel Ride Tour offers a gentle, scenic way to see some of the most iconic landscapes in this region. The small group format, friendly guides, and beautiful vistas combine to create a memorable, shareable experience. It’s a perfect activity for photographers, first-time visitors, and those seeking a peaceful moment in a landscape dotted with fairy chimneys and balloon-filled skies.
While it’s on the shorter side, the value for money is clear—especially with the included transfers and the opportunity to capture stunning images. If you enjoy authentic, relaxed experiences that highlight natural beauty, this tour should be on your list.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the camel ride suitable for children?
Most likely yes. The ride is sedate and designed to be gentle, making it suitable for families with children, especially with guides assisting.
How long does the entire tour last?
The ride itself is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, including stops at different valleys. Total time, including pickup and drop-off, might be a bit longer.
What should I wear?
Comfortable long pants and shoes help during the ride. Dress for the weather—layer if it’s cool or hot.
Are the camels well-treated?
According to reviews, the camels seem well-behaved and cared for by friendly handlers, though some travelers may have personal reservations about animal tourism.
Can I take photos during the ride?
Absolutely. Guides are attentive and often help with photos, sometimes even using their own phones or drones for perfect shots.
Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, similar to most outdoor activities, it requires good weather to proceed. If canceled due to weather, you’ll get a full refund or a chance to reschedule.
How many people are in each group?
A maximum of 8 travelers, which keeps the experience intimate and less crowded.
Does the tour include lunch or other meals?
No, it focuses on the camel ride and scenic stops; meals are not included.
What’s the best time of day to take this tour?
Many reviewers recommend sunset for the spectacular sky, but sunrise offers a peaceful start to your day with fewer crowds.
This camel ride tour in Cappadocia balances scenic beauty, authentic animal interaction, and personal service. With friendly guides and stunning vistas, it’s a memorable way to experience this extraordinary landscape—especially if you love capturing beautiful moments and peaceful surroundings.
More Tours in Goreme
More Tour Reviews in Goreme
- 2-Hours Cappadocia Jeep Safari Tour from Goreme with Pick Up
- Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Flight / Over Goreme & FairyChimneys
- Tour of Highlights of Cappadocia with Lunch
- Airport Shuttle From/to Nevsehir Airports to Cappadocia Hotels
- Cappadocia Sunrise Horse Riding
- Private Photo & Drone Session in Carpet Gallery
More Goreme experiences we've covered
- 2-Hours Cappadocia Jeep Safari Tour from Goreme with Pick Up
- Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Flight / Over Goreme & FairyChimneys
- Tour of Highlights of Cappadocia with Lunch
- Airport Shuttle From/to Nevsehir Airports to Cappadocia Hotels
- Cappadocia Sunrise Horse Riding
- Private Photo & Drone Session in Carpet Gallery
- Cappadocia-Ephesus-Pamukkale 4 Days Private Tour
- Sunset Horsebackriding-Tour through the Valleys of Cappadocia
- Private Pottery Making Course
- Highlights of Cappadocia (Mix of Red and Green Private Tour)
- Small Group Cappadocia Tour
- 3-Day Highlights of Cappadocia Tour