Green (South) Tour Cappadocia (small group) with lunch and ticket

Experience the Best of Cappadocia’s South with the Green Tour

If you’re looking to explore a different side of Cappadocia beyond its famous fairy chimneys and hot air balloons, the Green (South) Tour offers a fantastic day of discovery. Priced at around $80.69 per person, this small-group adventure takes you from Goreme to some of the most intriguing and less-crowded sites in the region, including the Kaymakli Underground City, Selime Monastery, and the lush Ihlara Valley. The tour is designed for travelers who appreciate a mix of outdoor activity, history, and local culture, all in a comfortable, intimate setting.

One of the things we love about this tour is the chance to hike through Ihlara Valley and enjoy a scenic walk along the river, savoring fresh air and fascinating cave churches with frescoes. We also appreciate the personalized attention that comes from traveling in a small group, often just 14 travelers, which makes the experience more relaxed and engaging. The lunch by the river is another highlight — a delicious meal included in the price, with drinks extra, served in a peaceful setting away from the tourist crowds.

A possible consideration is the timing and pace. Some reviews mention that a slower pace with more time at certain sites, like the underground city or the river, would improve the experience. The itinerary is packed, which is great for seeing a lot but can feel rushed if you’re keen on lingering. Also, weather can impact the experience, especially in winter conditions like snow, which might limit access to some outdoor areas.

This tour suits outdoor lovers, history buffs, and culture enthusiasts who want a well-rounded day exploring Cappadocia’s southern highlights without the hassle of organizing transport or guides. If you’re eager to see underground cities, stroll green valleys, and enjoy local cuisine, this tour checks many boxes.

Key Points

• Small-group experience offers personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Includes lunch and all entrance fees, providing good value for a full day of sightseeing.
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle makes the long day easier.
• Focus on less-crowded sites like Kaymakli Underground City and Ihlara Valley.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding with detailed explanations and stories.
• Ideal for outdoor and culture lovers wanting an authentic, immersive experience.

In-Depth Look at the Green (South) Tour Experience

Overview and What Sets It Apart

The Green Tour is a thoughtfully curated journey into parts of Cappadocia that often don’t make it into the standard tourist itinerary. For around $80, you gain access to a day packed with historical sites, natural beauty, and local craftsmanship. It’s a great option for travelers seeking more than just the surface, wanting to understand the region’s layered history and experience its stunning landscapes firsthand.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the small-group format (maximum 14 travelers), which allows the guides to offer more personalized insights and answer questions more thoroughly. Plus, the air-conditioned vehicle means you’ll be comfortable on the roughly 7-9 hour journey, even if the weather isn’t perfect.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Göreme Panorama
Our first stop offers an awe-inspiring view over the Göreme Valley, perfect for snapping photos or simply taking in the expansive landscape. It’s a quick 15-minute stop, but it sets the tone for the day, reminding us of Cappadocia’s vast, otherworldly scenery.

Kaymakli Underground City
Next, we descend into the ancient underground city, which has been inhabited for over 4000 years. Here, you’d learn about how various civilizations created and used these subterranean spaces — a feat of engineering and social ingenuity. One reviewer described it as “interesting all the way,” appreciating how the guide’s explanations brought the tunnels to life. The included ticket is a bonus, saving time and ensuring you don’t have to worry about additional costs.

Selime Monastery
Then, we visit Selime Monastery, the largest rock-cut monastery in Cappadocia. This site was once a hub of religious, social, and commercial activity. Walking through its cavernous halls, you get a real sense of the scale and purpose of early Christian communities. One reviewer noted that their guide, Gan, provided good knowledge, making the visit both educational and engaging.

Ihlara Valley Hike and Lunch
The highlight for many is the 3 km hike in Ihlara Valley, a lush canyon where you’ll see cave churches adorned with frescoes. It’s a serene setting, with towering cliffs and a gentle river below. After the walk, the included lunch by the river is a peaceful and tasty break, although drinks are extra. Reviewers often mention the delicious food, with one even praising the hot iron grilled fish, claiming it was the best meal of their trip. The walk offers a perfect balance of outdoor activity and cultural exploration.

Pigeon Valley and Uçhisar View
The final stop boasts a beautiful view of Uçhisar Castle across Pigeon Valley, ideal for photos and soaking in the scenery. It’s a brief stop but memorable, especially for photography enthusiasts. Plus, a visit to an onyx workshop gives insight into the region’s craftsmanship.

The Quality of Guides and Transportation

The reviews consistently praise the guides for their knowledge and enthusiasm. Guides like Angel, Hakan, and Malik are mentioned as being professional, friendly, and well-informed, which significantly enhances the experience. Comments like “Her presentation is effective and informative” or “She gave detailed information at every stop” highlight how a good guide can turn a sightseeing tour into a memorable learning experience.

Comfortable transportation is another plus. The van is equipped with heating and USB chargers, making the long day more pleasant. Travelers often mention that the driver was excellent, even in snowy or challenging weather conditions, which helped keep the day smooth.

Authentic Experiences and Travel Pace

Many travelers value the authenticity of the sites visited, especially places like the underground city and Selime Monastery, which feel less commercialized and more in tune with local history. As one reviewer noted, “learning how they originated” was an intriguing part of the day. The pace is generally balanced, but some felt it could be slower at certain stops or wanted more time at the underground city or river for photos and reflection.

Value for Money

Considering the full-day itinerary, entrance fees, and included lunch, the cost of about $80 appears reasonable. Several reviews mention that the tour is well-organized and worth the price, especially given the quality of guides and the variety of sites seen. The fact that drinks are extra during lunch is a small caveat, but overall, the tour offers good value, especially for those who enjoy a mix of outdoor activities and cultural insights.

Weather Considerations

While most reviews praise the experience, some mention weather as a factor. Snow or rain can restrict access or make paths slippery, especially in outdoor or uneven terrain like the monastery or valley. It’s wise to check the forecast and dress accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, history lovers, and those eager to see Cappadocia beyond the crowds. It suits travelers who appreciate small-group intimacy and guided insights. If you’re looking for a robust, full-day experience that combines adventure, culture, and stunning scenery, this tour delivers.

In contrast, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or more free time at each site, you might find it a bit rushed. Also, those with mobility issues should be mindful of the walking involved, especially in uneven terrain and narrow tunnels.

The Sum Up

The Green (South) Tour in Cappadocia offers a rich, authentic day exploring some of the region’s most compelling sites. You’ll visit underground cities, hike lush valleys, and learn about ancient monasteries, all in the company of knowledgeable guides who bring history alive. The inclusion of lunch and entrance fees makes it a practical choice, and the small-group format ensures a friendly, personalized atmosphere.

This tour is best suited for adventurous, curious travelers who want to see a different side of Cappadocia — away from the busy hot air balloon mornings and crowded viewpoints. If you value good value for money, natural beauty, and culture, this experience is a solid choice.

FAQ

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 9 hours, starting at 9:30 am and covering several sites throughout the day.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and a baby seat is available upon request, making it suitable for families with young children. However, some walking and uneven terrain are involved.

Are meals included?
Yes, a lunch is included, served on the riverbank, but drinks during lunch are extra.

What sites are visited during the tour?
You’ll see the Goreme Panorama, Kaymakli Underground City, Selime Monastery, Ihlara Valley with a hike and lunch, and a scenic stop at Pigeon Valley with views of Uçhisar Castle.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 14 travelers, providing a more intimate experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera. Be prepared for potential weather changes, especially in winter.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, you’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle with a driver who is praised for their skill, even in snowy conditions.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

In essence, the Green Tour delivers a well-rounded, authentic slice of Cappadocia’s southern landscapes and history. It’s a perfect choice for travelers eager to explore beyond the usual sights, with knowledgeable guides and a comfortable setup that makes the day both enjoyable and educational.