Green (South) Tour Cappadocia with lunch and ticket

A Full Day Exploring Cappadocia’s Hidden Gems with the Green (South) Tour

If you’re looking to experience some of the most intriguing sights of Central Anatolia, the Green (South) Tour is a fantastic way to do it. Spanning about 7 hours, this guided excursion takes you beyond the crowded hotspots to explore underground cities, ancient monasteries, lush valleys, and panoramic viewpoints. Led by knowledgeable guides like Ali or Ece, you’ll hop in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and enjoy insightful commentary along the way.

What we love most about this tour is its well-paced itinerary and authentic focus on sites that reveal Cappadocia’s true character. The opportunity to walk through Selime Monastery, hike along the Ihlara Valley, and explore underground cities offers a balanced mix of history, nature, and stunning scenery. Plus, the included lunch by the river adds a relaxing touch to the day.

One consideration worth noting is the 300-step descent into Ihlara Valley—which might be a challenge for those with mobility issues. However, the effort is rewarded with some of the most beautiful natural landscapes and cave churches decorated with frescoes, making it worthwhile for most travelers.

This tour suits history buffs, nature lovers, and those eager to see less touristy spots without sacrificing comfort. If you want a comprehensive, well-organized day out that offers genuine insight and stunning views, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Focuses on lesser-known sites like underground cities and Selime Monastery.
• Comfort and Convenience: Includes hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, and skip-the-line tickets.
• Balance of Activities: Combines sightseeing, hiking, and free time along the river and at viewpoints.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Ali and Ece provide engaging commentary and answer questions.
• Value for Money: All entrance fees, lunch, and taxes are included, making this a cost-effective choice.
• Physical Requirement: Expect to descend over 300 steps into Ihlara Valley; good shoes and preparation are advised.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the Green (South) Tour in Cappadocia

The Starting Point: Panoramic Views at Göreme

Your day begins with a pickup from your hotel—many options are available in Göreme, Uçhisar, or nearby towns. The first stop is the Göreme Panoramic Point, a perfect spot to get your bearings and snap photos of the stunning valley filled with fairy chimneys and rock formations. Here, we loved how this set the tone for the day, offering breathtaking views that highlight Cappadocia’s unique landscape.

Exploring the Underground City

Next, you’ll visit one of Cappadocia’s famous Underground Cities, like Kaymakli. These subterranean complexes have been used for centuries as refuges, hiding places, and even places of worship. The guided tour (lasting about 50 minutes) will give you a sense of how ancient civilizations carved out spaces for daily life beneath the surface.

Many reviews praise the guide’s storytelling ability here, with one mentioning Ali’s good English and humorous commentary that made the complex stories accessible. Walking through narrow tunnels and rooms, you’ll get a feel for how people could live underground for extended periods, often to escape threats or harsh weather.

The Magnificent Selime Monastery

From underground cities, you’ll proceed to Selime Monastery, the largest hand-hewn rock monastery in Cappadocia. This site impresses visitors with its massive structure, carved directly into the soft volcanic rock. Expect about 50 minutes for sightseeing and exploring the caves, chapels, and tunnels. Reviewing visitors mention that the site exceeds expectations, with some describing it as “amazing” and “beyond expectations”.

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The Green Oasis: Ihlara Valley

The highlight for many is the hike through Ihlara Valley, a lush, green gorge about 100 meters deep. The walk is approximately 3 km along a stream—an ideal respite from the rocky landscapes. Visitors rave about the beauty of the natural scenery and the cave churches decorated with frescoes, some of which have unusual artwork.

Expect to descend more than 300 steps into the valley, so comfortable shoes are essential. As one reviewer mentions, the hike was beautiful in nature, even if some felt the walk was just “ok”—but most agree the view and tranquility make it worthwhile.

Pigeon Valley and Uçhisar

The tour winds down with a photo stop at Pigeon Valley, famous for its pigeon houses carved into cliffs. This spot offers a beautiful view of Uçhisar Castle, a natural fortress dominating the landscape. Travelers often remark on how peaceful and scenic this area is, and there’s an option to hike down to Göreme if you’re feeling energetic.

The End of the Day

The tour wraps up with a drop-off at your hotel or chosen location, leaving you with a satisfying overview of southern Cappadocia’s most compelling sights. Many reviews highlight the professionalism of the driver, often Hakan or Hüseyin, who keep the day running smoothly and safely.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Authentic and Well-Paced: Unlike some tours that rush through sites or focus on shopping, this experience emphasizes historical context, natural beauty, and manageable walking. The guides’ commentary is praised for being informative yet engaging, making the sites come alive.

Value and Convenience: The inclusive price covers entry tickets, lunch, and transportation, which many reviewers find to be excellent value. The skip-the-line tickets save precious time, allowing more sightseeing and less waiting.

Combination of Sightseeing and Relaxation: The lunch by the river in Ihlara Valley offers a quiet break, and the free time at certain stops allows you to soak in the atmosphere or shop for souvenirs. The scenic stops are chosen to balance activity and leisure.

Potential Challenges: The steep descent into Ihlara Valley can be physically demanding, especially for travelers with mobility issues. Also, depending on the season, weather conditions may vary—so bringing an umbrella or sun protection is wise.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This is a great choice for travelers who want a deep dive into Cappadocia’s less touristy sites without the hassle of planning transport or tickets. History buffs will enjoy the underground city and Selime Monastery, while nature lovers will appreciate the hike and panoramic views. If you prefer guided insights and a relaxed pace, this tour delivers.

It’s perfect for those who appreciate authentic experiences over overcrowded spots, and for travelers who want value for money with all major sites covered in one day.

The Sum Up

The Green (South) Tour offers a comprehensive, authentic, and comfortable way to explore some of Cappadocia’s most fascinating sights. With knowledgeable guides, stunning natural beauty, and well-chosen stops, it’s ideal for those wanting to see underground cities, monasteries, and lush valleys in a single day. The tour strikes a good balance between activity and leisure, making it suitable for most fit travelers.

If you’re looking for a well-organized day that reveals the hidden corners of Cappadocia and provides informative narration, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially recommended for travelers who value value for money and authentic experiences over commercialized attractions.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, all entry tickets to underground city, Selime monastery, and Ihlara Valley, plus a lunch and all taxes.

Are there any additional costs?
Drinks are not included, so if you want beverages with your lunch or souvenirs during stops, you’ll need to purchase them separately.

How long is the hike at Ihlara Valley?
The walk is about 3 km along the stream, and you should be prepared for a descent of more than 300 steps into the valley.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
The descent into Ihlara Valley involves many steps, so it may not be ideal for those with mobility challenges. Always check with your guide if unsure.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour follows a set itinerary, but some free time is included for personal exploration or shopping.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are a must, especially for walking and hiking. Weather-appropriate gear like an umbrella or sun protection is also recommended.

How many people are typically in the group?
While the exact size varies, reviews suggest it’s a manageable group, led by a knowledgeable guide who can give personalized attention.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
Spring and fall generally offer the most comfortable weather, but the tour runs year-round—just be prepared for seasonal changes.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, but keep in mind the physical activity involved. It’s best for active travelers who enjoy outdoor exploration.

This Green (South) Tour in Cappadocia combines history, nature, and local flavor into one memorable day. With detailed sites, expert guides, and good value, it’s a smart way to see the best of southern Cappadocia without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

You can check availability for your dates here: