Cappadocia Green Tour (with Derinkuyu, Ihlara and Selime)

Embarking on the Cappadocia Green Tour is like opening a window into the region’s most captivating sights. For around $85 per person, you’ll spend about 8 hours and 20 minutes exploring eight key locations that showcase the natural beauty and historical depth of this unique landscape. Led by friendly, knowledgeable guides, this small-group experience starts in Goreme and takes you from panoramic viewpoints to underground cities and lush valleys.

We love how this tour offers a comprehensive glimpse of both natural wonders and ancient marvels—perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time and see a wide variety of sites in one day. Plus, with air-conditioned transportation, entrance fees included, and a lunch, it feels like a well-organized way to experience Cappadocia without the hassle of planning each stop yourself.

On the flip side, a potential consideration is the long rides between distant sites — which, although necessary given the spread-out locations, might challenge those with limited stamina or who prefer more leisurely pacing. Still, if you’re eager to see the farthest corners of Cappadocia, this tour makes it doable.

This experience is ideal for those who value expert guides, want a mix of natural beauty and history, and appreciate the convenience of all-included logistics. If you’re traveling with family or friends and want a structured, informative day with plenty of photo opportunities, this tour is a strong choice.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary covering eight significant sites in Cappadocia.
• Expert, friendly guides who provide detailed insights and keep the group engaged.
• Comfortable transportation with air conditioning and included entrance fees.
• Highlights include the underground city of Derinkuyu, Ihlara Valley hike, and Selime Monastery.
• Long rides might be tiring for some; packing water and good shoes is recommended.
• Great value considering the number of sites visited and included meals and tickets.

Detailed Review of the Cappadocia Green Tour

An Overview of the Experience

This Green Tour is designed for travelers who want a full day of exploration without the stress of organizing individual visits. Starting at Goreme Panorama, you get an impressive view of the town’s fairy chimney formations and volcanic landscape—an instant reminder of why Cappadocia’s scenery is so iconic. From there, the itinerary unfolds to include Pigeon Valley, Ihlara Valley, the Selime Monastery, Derinkuyu underground city, Narligol Krater Golu, Uchisar Castle, and the Yaprakhisar village.

The price of $85.01 includes all entrance fees and a hearty lunch, making it easier to budget your day. The tour is typically booked 19 days in advance, reflecting its popularity, and it’s designed for groups of up to 40 people, although reviews indicate most participants are quite satisfied with the intimacy of a smaller group.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

First, the variety of locations ensures you see a broad spectrum of what Cappadocia has to offer — from panoramic views to underground tunnels. It’s a comprehensive snapshot, perfect if your time in the region is limited but you want depth.

Second, the inclusion of a knowledgeable, friendly guide—many reviews praise guides like Feruk, Ali, and Mali for their historical insights and attentiveness. Travelers consistently mention how guides keep the group informed and engaged, making the experience more meaningful.

Third, the well-organized logistics shine through. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the long rides between sites, and the timing at each stop seems carefully planned to avoid the crowds and maximize photo opportunities. Travelers have appreciated that guides often arrive at sites before larger tour groups, providing better chances for spontaneous photos.

The Itinerary in Depth

Stop 1: Goreme Panorama
Your day begins with a 15-minute stop at the viewpoint overlooking Goreme. The view is breathtaking, especially with the early morning light, and it offers a perfect introduction to Cappadocia’s surreal landscape. It’s a quick, free stop but one that sets the tone for the day.

Stop 2: Pigeon Valley
Another 15-minute stop provides a panoramic view of Uchisar Castle and Pigeon Valley. The valley’s name comes from the centuries-old dovecotes carved into the rocks, which once supported the region’s agriculture. Travelers love this spot for photo ops and the view of the castle perched atop the hill.

Stop 3: Ihlara Valley
This is a highlight for many, with 1 hour and 30 minutes dedicated to hiking along the Melendiz River. The lush greenery and gentle river are a stark contrast to Cappadocia’s volcanic landscape. The music of flowing water and birds makes for a peaceful retreat. Reviewers mention that the hike is moderate and well worth the effort, especially with the included admission.

Stop 4: Selime Monastery
Perched atop a hill, the rock-cut monastery offers stunning views and a chance to learn about Silk Road caravansaries. The 1-hour visit is a deep dive into the region’s religious and trading past. Many visitors find the architecture impressive and the storytelling about the Silk Road adds a fascinating layer to the visit.

Stop 5: Derinkuyu Underground City
This 8-floor subterranean marvel plunges 55.5 meters underground and is the deepest underground city in Anatolia. Expect to explore narrow tunnels, ancient rooms, and hidden passages. Reviewers often say it’s the most memorable part of the tour, with guides explaining how early inhabitants used these tunnels for protection.

Stop 6: Narligol Krater Golu
A virgin lake and tranquil spot, this 20-minute stop offers a peaceful break to enjoy nature and take photos of the lake’s reflections. It’s appreciated as an “off-the-beaten-path” gem.

Uchisar Castle & Yaprakhisar Village
Additional stops give you views from the highest point in Cappadocia and a chance to glimpse the film-set-like Yaprakhisar, known for its “Star Wars” resemblance. Although some suggest Uçhisar Castle should be a dedicated stop, it’s included in the broader scenic stops.

Comfort and Convenience

Most travelers report that transportation is smooth and comfortable, with air conditioning and ample space. The lunch included is usually a local meal, providing a taste of regional flavors, and is generally well-received. A small bottle of water is also provided, which many appreciate given the heat that can be intense especially in summer.

Critical Considerations

Long rides between sites mean you should be prepared for some down time in the vehicle. The group size of up to 40 might feel a bit crowded for those who prefer more intimate experiences, but reviews suggest the guides are attentive to individual needs. Also, some travelers noted visits to jewelry and souvenir shops, which are part of the typical group tour experience—if you’re not interested, it’s worth being aware.

Authentic Voices from Travelers

Many reviewers praise the knowledge of the guides. One said, “Our guide was very professional, chatty, and informative,” while another mentioned, “Bekir was very helpful and attentive, providing relevant information about the places.” The underground city consistently emerges as the tour’s highlight, with visitors describing it as fascinating and impressive.

The scenic views and hiking opportunities in Ihlara Valley receive special mention, with travelers remarking on the peaceful sounds of nature and beautiful landscapes. The well-paced schedule and timely visits also contribute to high satisfaction ratings, with many declaring it an “amazing” experience.

Pricing and Value

While $85 might seem modest for an entire day of guided touring, it encompasses entrance tickets, lunch, transportation, and the guiding service—a good deal considering the spread-out locations and the depth of experience. The reviews consistently mention that guides add value with their knowledge and attentiveness, making the cost worthwhile.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers eager to see a broad spectrum of Cappadocia’s attractions within a single day. It’s ideal if you enjoy guided insights, beautiful scenery, and history without the hassle of organizing your own transportation or tickets. It’s particularly good for first-time visitors or those with limited time in the region.

If you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo and want a well-structured, engaging day, this tour delivers. Those who appreciate authentic stories, photo opportunities, and scenic hikes will find plenty to enjoy.

However, if you prefer more leisurely pacing or dislike long bus rides, you might want to consider other options or customize your own itinerary.

The Sum Up

The Cappadocia Green Tour offers a comprehensive, well-organized way to see the region’s most iconic sites. Its expert guides and value-packed pricing make it a standout choice for travelers seeking an enriching day of natural beauty and historical exploration. The variety of stops—ranging from underground cities to lush valleys—ensure you’ll leave with a deep appreciation for Cappadocia’s unique landscape.

For those who thrive on guided storytelling, stunning vistas, and efficient itineraries, this tour is hard to beat. It’s a great investment for anyone wanting to experience the heart of Cappadocia without the stress of navigating alone.

If your priority is seeing a lot in a short time and you value good guides and comfortable transport, this Green Tour will meet your expectations. Just be ready for some long rides and the occasional shop visit—an accepted part of group tours here.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides air-conditioned transportation between all sites, making the long rides more comfortable.

What’s the starting time?
The tour begins at 9:30 am, giving you a full day of sightseeing.

Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, all entrance fees for sites like Derinkuyu, Ihlara Valley, and Selime Monastery are included in the price.

How long is the hike at Ihlara Valley?
You’ll spend about 1 hour and 30 minutes hiking along the Melendiz River, which is moderate and scenic.

Can I expect to visit Uçhisar Castle?
While the tour includes Uchisar viewpoints, some reviews suggest that visiting the castle itself could be considered for future inclusion.

Is lunch included, and what kind of food?
Yes, a lunch is included, typically regional fare. Reviewers mention it’s a good way to re-energize after the morning activities.

Will I get time for photos?
Absolutely. The guides often arrive before larger groups, allowing for prime photo opportunities at scenic spots.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, water, and sun protection are advisable. Long rides mean some downtime—bring snacks or reading material if you wish.

In sum, the Cappadocia Green Tour presents a solid, engaging way to explore this extraordinary landscape—particularly suited for those eager to see a mix of natural and historical sites with expert guidance, all at a reasonable price.