Kaymakli, located in the heart of Cappadocia, is famous for its sprawling underground city and otherworldly landscapes. It’s an ideal spot for travelers eager to explore history beneath the surface while enjoying breathtaking vistas. The tours in Kaymakli range from comprehensive full-day trips that cover multiple highlights to specialized private tours that customize your experience. Whether you’re interested in ancient underground tunnels, scenic valleys, or regional culture, you’ll find an option tailored for your style. Some tours include visits to nearby attractions like Goreme Open Air Museum or Ihlara Valley, making them perfect for combining natural beauty with historical intrigue.
A few standout options include the Cappadocia Highlights Tour Underground City+Open Air Museum that covers the region’s best spots in one day, and the Istanbul to Cappadocia All Inclusive Private Day Tour for travelers with limited time. If you value personalized experiences, the Private Cappadocia Region Tour with a private guide and vehicle might be just what you need. For those on a budget, the Green Tour to Ihlara Valley with Underground City offers a full day of exploration at an affordable price. Whatever your preference, the options below will help you choose the right Kaymakli adventure.
1. Cappadocia Highlights Tour Underground City+Open Air Museum
At number 1 on our list, this Cappadocia Highlights Tour Underground City+Open Air Museum offers a balanced introduction to the region’s main sights in just one day, rated 4.8/5 from 13 reviews. For $47 per person, the tour includes visits to Uchisar Castle, the awe-inspiring Kaymakli Underground City, and the Goreme Open Air Museum. You’ll also enjoy panoramic views from Goreme and see the famous fairy chimneys in Love Valley and Devrent Valley.
This guided tour stands out because it combines historical exploration with scenic stops, plus a local pottery workshop in Avanos, which adds a touch of regional craftsmanship. The included lunch and the chance to see local artisans at work make it a well-rounded experience. The guide’s storytelling enriches your understanding of Cappadocia’s landscape and history. With a strong rating and a competitive price, it appeals to first-time visitors wanting a thorough overview without breaking the bank.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you want a comprehensive, all-in-one day trip with a mix of history, scenery, and cultural experiences—great for travelers new to Cappadocia.
2. Green Tour to Ihlara Valley with Underground City
Coming in at number 2, the Green Tour to Ihlara Valley with Underground City is a budget-friendly option rated 4.5/5 from 20 reviews. This 8-hour tour costs just $16 per person and offers a full-day itinerary designed for those who want to see multiple highlights without a hefty price tag.
The tour includes a visit to the Kaymakli Underground City, a scenic drive, panoramic viewpoints, and a walk through the lush Ihlara Valley, where you can hike and explore cave churches. Lunch is provided, and the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off at various locations, making it convenient for travelers staying in different parts of Cappadocia. The guide’s insights often get mentioned positively, especially with comments like, “The guide was very friendly and knowledgeable.”
This tour is best suited for travelers on a budget who want to experience both underground cities and natural beauty, all in a single day. Its focus on scenic hiking combined with cultural stops makes it ideal for active travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: If affordability and a well-rounded experience are your priorities, this tour delivers excellent value with a mix of natural and historical sites.
3. Istanbul to Cappadocia All Inclusive Private Day Tour
At number 3, the Istanbul to Cappadocia All Inclusive Private Day Tour is a premium, 17-hour experience rated perfect with 4 reviews. For $750 per person, it’s a significant investment but offers enormous convenience and an intimate, tailored itinerary.
This tour includes a flight from Istanbul to Cappadocia, with private transportation to explore key sites such as the Goreme Open Air Museum, Rose Valley, Uchisar, and underground cities like Kaymakli. It also covers visits to Pigeon Valley and the pottery town of Avanos. The highlight is the flexibility of a private guide, who customizes your tour based on your interests. The reviews emphasize seamless organization and personalized service—“My guide adjusted the itinerary for snowy weather, making sure I didn’t miss anything.”
This option is best for travelers with limited time who want the convenience of a private, all-in-one day trip that maximizes what they see with minimal hassle. It’s especially suitable for those who value comfort and exclusivity.
Bottom Line: Perfect if budget isn’t your concern and you prioritize a hassle-free, customized experience with a private guide.
4. Highlights of Cappadocia (Mix of Red and Green Private Tour)
Number 4, the Highlights of Cappadocia (Mix of Red and Green Private Tour), rated 5/5 from 3 reviews, offers a private 7.5-hour exploration into the region’s key sights. At $280 per person, it balances exclusivity with focused sightseeing.
This private tour covers the Goreme Open Air Museum, Pigeon Valley, Derinkuyu Underground City, and Uchisar Castle. Its highlight is the personalized approach, with a guide tailoring the experience to your interests. Guests note that guides like Al provide both informative commentary and humor, making the experience memorable. It’s ideal for those wanting a more relaxed pace and the flexibility to explore areas at their leisure.
The value lies in the private setting, allowing for deeper engagement and fewer crowds. It’s best suited for travelers who want a curated experience with a knowledgeable guide but prefer a shorter, more intimate tour.
Bottom Line: A great choice for travelers seeking a private, customized day with fewer stops but more personal attention.
5. Cappadocia: Green Tour with Lunch and Hotel Pickup
The Cappadocia Green Tour with Lunch and Hotel Pickup ranks fifth with a 4.5/5 rating. It’s a 7 to 7.5-hour group tour designed for travelers who want a comprehensive day exploring Kaymakli Underground City, Ihlara Valley, and Selime Monastery.
The tour provides hotel pickup and includes a traditional Turkish lunch, offering a full immersion into the region’s culture and history. The itinerary emphasizes walking and hiking, perfect for active visitors. The stops include scenic viewpoints and archaeological sites, giving a well-rounded picture of Cappadocia’s natural and human-made marvels.
This tour is best if you want a structured day with convenient logistics and a balanced itinerary that covers both underground and surface sights. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and regional history.
Bottom Line: If your goal is to see a wide array of sites with good organization, this tour hits most of the highlights in a single day.
6. 2-Day Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul w/ Balloon Ride Option
At number 6, the 2-Day Cappadocia Tour from Istanbul with Balloon Ride is for travelers who want an immersive experience, rated without specific reviews but offering flexibility in exploration. It includes hot air ballooning, a highlight for many visitors, plus guided tours of major sites over two days.
This package includes hotels, flights, and guided visits like the Goreme Open Air Museum, Kaymakli Underground City, and Pasabag. It’s suitable for those with limited time but eager to experience the region in depth. The itinerary balances sightseeing with the thrill of a balloon ride, making it a comprehensive option.
Bottom Line: Best for adventure seekers and those who want a little more than just a day trip, with added comfort and excitement.
$1,409 per person
7. Cappadocia Green tour Underground city and Selime monastery
Number 7, the Cappadocia Green Tour Underground City and Selime Monastery, rated 5/5, offers an 8-hour private journey. At $56 per person, it’s notable for its detailed itinerary focusing on underground cities, Ihlara Valley, and Selime Monastery.
This tour emphasizes hiking and exploring, with stops at Goreme Panorama, Kaymakli or Derinkuyu Underground City, and Selime Monastery. Guests mention that guides are very knowledgeable, providing rich insights into each site. It’s well-suited for those who enjoy active outings combined with history and architecture.
The private nature means you can customize the pacing, making it ideal for travelers who prefer a personal touch. The inclusion of the Ihlara Valley walk adds a scenic, outdoor component.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want a tailored experience with a focus on underground and monastic sites.
$56 per person
8. Cappadocia Green Tour with Underground City & Ihlara Valley
Number 8, the Cappadocia Green Tour with Underground City & Ihlara Valley, scores 4.7/5 and features a 9-hour full-day guided adventure. It’s ideal for travelers who want a detailed exploration of Kaymakli Underground City, Ihlara Valley, and Selime Monastery.
The tour emphasizes learning about the history while hiking through the lush valley, visiting cave churches, and enjoying a riverside lunch. The itinerary is rich with cultural and natural highlights, including Narligöl crater lake, making it suitable for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Guests praise the knowledgeable guides and scenic stops, making this a well-rounded choice for those who want to see the region’s natural beauty and archaeological sites in one day.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers seeking a detailed, educational tour with outdoor activities and scenic stops.
9. Cappadocia Highlights Underground City & Open-Air Museum
Number 9 offers a 7-hour day tour rated 4.6/5, focused on the must-see highlights for first-timers. The Cappadocia Highlights Underground City & Open-Air Museum includes Pigeon Valley, Kaymakli Underground City, and the Goreme Panorama.
This tour is practical for those with limited time, hitting key sites like the fairy chimneys and rock-cut churches. The detailed itinerary ensures you see the region’s essentials, with stops designed for quick appreciation and photo opportunities. The reviews are positive, emphasizing the knowledgeable guides and efficient schedule.
Ideal for visitors on a tight schedule who want to maximize their sightseeing without missing the region’s iconic attractions.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for first-time visitors who want a snapshot of Cappadocia’s best features in a manageable day.
$83 per person
10. Discover Kaymakli Underground City and Hike in Pigeon Valley
Number 10, rated 4.2/5, offers a one-day experience combining exploration of Kaymakli Underground City with hiking in Pigeon Valley. This tour is priced at $52 per person and suits active travelers.
The highlight is the combination of underground exploration and outdoor activity, with guided visits and scenic walks from Uçhisar to Göreme. The reviews note the enjoyable panoramic views of Göreme and the value in seeing two popular sites in one day. It’s especially good if you want the physical activity alongside sightseeing.
This tour is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor adventures and want to experience both the subterranean and surface landscapes of Cappadocia.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want a mix of underground history and a scenic hike.
$52 per person
11. Private Cappadocia Region Tour
Last but not least, the Private Cappadocia Region Tour, rated 4.4/5, offers a flexible, full-day private experience for up to 20 people at $45 per group. It’s great for travelers who want a personalized itinerary and the comfort of a private guide.
The tour emphasizes customization, allowing you to visit the sites that interest you most. It’s suitable for groups or families who prefer a tailored approach—perhaps focusing on valleys, museums, or historical sites. The private vehicle and guide mean less waiting and more personalized attention, making it ideal for those who want control over their schedule.
While it’s less structured, the benefit is the ability to focus on what interests you most, whether that’s the fairy chimneys or archaeological sites.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers wanting control over their day and a more intimate experience.
$45 per group up to 20
How to Choose the Best Tour in Kaymakli
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, interest level, and schedule. If you’re after an all-in-one experience that covers many highlights, the Cappadocia Highlights Tour (link) offers great value. For a personalized, private experience, the Private Cappadocia Region Tour (link) makes sense.
Active travelers should look for tours that include hiking and outdoor exploration, like the Discover Kaymakli Underground City and Hike in Pigeon Valley (link). Budget-conscious visitors can opt for the Green Tour to Ihlara Valley (link), which packs a lot into a low price.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, as popular tours fill quickly. Think about your physical readiness—some tours involve walking or hiking, so choose accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Kaymakli is a treasure trove of underground tunnels, scenic valleys, and historic sites that suit many interests and budgets. For a rundown, the Cappadocia Highlights Tour is hard to beat. If you prefer a personalized touch, the Private Cappadocia Region Tour offers tailored experiences. And for active explorers, the combination of hiking and underground cities like in the Discover Kaymakli Underground City and Hike in Pigeon Valley makes for memorable adventures.
No matter your choice, booking in advance will help ensure you get the most out of your trip. These tours are the best ways to unlock the secrets beneath Cappadocia’s surreal landscape.
This guide should help you find the perfect Kaymakli tour to match your interests, schedule, and budget — happy exploring!