Cappadocia Green Tour (with Derinkuyu, Ihlara and Selime)

Cappadocia’s surreal landscape, with its fairy chimneys, ancient underground cities, and lush valleys, is a must-see destination in Turkey. The Cappadocia Green Tour, offered by Paphlagonia Tour, promises a full-day exploration of some of the region’s most iconic sights, including Derinkuyu underground city, Ihlara Valley, and Selime Monastery. With a well-structured itinerary, comfortable transportation, and an enthusiastic guide, this tour seems like a reliable way to experience Cappadocia’s highlights in one day.

What really catches our eye is the balance of natural beauty and historical intrigue—from panoramic views to deep underground labyrinths—and how the tour keeps it all manageable with smooth logistics. The small group size and English-speaking guides are additional perks, making it easier to ask questions and enjoy a personalized experience. However, be aware that the long rides between sites might be tiring if you’re not accustomed to extensive travel in a day.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want to see the essential sights without the hassle of planning, appreciate good storytelling, and enjoy a mix of outdoor activities and cultural insights. If you’re after a deep, authentic experience of Cappadocia’s most famous sites and don’t mind spending a full day on the move, this could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering eight major sites, offering a well-rounded view of Cappadocia.
• Expert guides who provide engaging, detailed explanations, often highlighting lesser-known facts.
• Comfortable transport with air-conditioning ensures a pleasant journey between distant sites.
• Inclusion of entrance tickets saves you time and money, making it good value overall.
• Hiking and exploration opportunities at Ihlara Valley and Selime Monastery provide a hands-on experience.
• Long rides might be tiring for some, but are balanced by frequent photo stops and stunning views.

Detailed Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Starting with the Goreme Panorama

The day kicks off with a visit to the Goreme Panorama viewpoint. Here, you’ll get a sweeping view of the town and the surrounding landscape—a perfect way to orient yourself and understand the scale of Cappadocia’s unique terrain. The panoramic shot is a highlight for photographers and those who love seeing the big picture. It’s a quick stop—about 15 minutes—but the views are so worth it.

Pigeon Valley: A Photo Haven

Next, the tour takes you to Pigeon Valley, famous for its thousands of pigeon houses carved into the cliffs. The panoramic view of Uchisar Castle and the valley’s natural formations means plenty of chances for memorable photos. Reviewers mention that this stop offers “the best panoramic view,” and many appreciate the opportunity to relax and soak in the scenery before moving on.

The Beauty of Ihlara Valley

One of the most loved parts of the tour is the Ihlara Valley hike. You walk along the Melendiz River, surrounded by towering canyon walls covered in greenery. The sound of flowing water combined with the lush scenery creates a calming atmosphere. With 1 hour and 30 minutes allocated, we found this stop to be just enough to enjoy a leisurely walk and take plenty of photos.

Reviewers are especially pleased with the natural ambiance here, describing the experience as “amazing” and noting that the walk is a perfect blend of exercise and sightseeing. The entrance fee is included, so you can focus on enjoying the scenery instead of worrying about extra costs.

Selime Monastery: A Clifftop Wonder

Perched high on a hill near Selime Village, Selime Monastery is a striking rock-cut complex with impressive views. The site offers insight into monastic life and its role along the Silk Road. With an hour at the monastery, you’ll have ample time to explore its tunnels, chapels, and courtyards. Several reviews highlight the “best view” from this site, which is worth the climb for the expansive vistas.

Derinkuyu Underground City

The highlight for many is Derinkuyu, the deepest underground city in Anatolia with up to 8 floors and a depth of 55.5 meters. It’s a fascinating maze of tunnels, rooms, and communal spaces carved from volcanic rock. The experience of walking beneath the surface provides a tangible connection to Cappadocia’s ancient inhabitants. Many reviewers mention that their guides provided detailed explanations, enhancing the visit’s value.

Narligol Krater Golu and Lake

After descending into history, you get a breath of fresh air at Narligol Krater Golu, a largely untouched lake with stunning natural surroundings. It’s a short but sweet stop that offers peaceful scenery and photo opportunities. Reviewers appreciate the “virgin lake” aspect, feeling it’s a true hidden gem.

Practical Aspects: Transportation and Inclusions

Throughout the day, you’ll travel comfortably in air-conditioned vehicles, a crucial aspect given the region’s warm climate, especially during summer months. The tour includes lunch, which many reviewers praise for its quality, and entrance tickets to all sites, removing the hassle of additional costs.

The small group size (up to 40 travelers) fosters a friendly atmosphere, and the English-speaking guides keep the commentary lively and informative. Reviewers often highlight guides like Feruk, Ali, Mali, and Shahin for their professionalism, kindness, and enthusiasm, adding a personal touch to the sightseeing.

Timing and Pacing

The tour starts at 9:30 am and wraps up around 6 pm, which gives ample time at each site but still requires a day of being on the go. The long rides between sites are generally appreciated as a chance to relax and recharge, with many travelers noting the comfortable vehicles and thoughtful stops for photos and hydration. Some reviews mention the tour’s extensive schedule, but most find it well-paced, especially with the knowledgeable guides navigating the logistics.

The Value Proposition

At $85.01 per person, including all entrance fees, lunch, and transportation, the Green Tour offers excellent value considering the breadth of sites visited. Travelers consistently mention that it’s a worthwhile investment for those wanting a rundown without the stress of independent planning. The reviews show that guides are a standout, providing a depth of knowledge that elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing.

What You’ll Love

• The diversity of sites covered—from underground cities to lush valleys—gives a complete picture of Cappadocia’s landscape and history.
• The professional, friendly guides help make the day engaging and educational.
• The scenic stops provide plenty of opportunities for photos and peaceful moments away from crowds.
• The smooth logistics, with pickup and drop-off included, mean you can relax and focus on enjoying the day.

Things to Consider

• The long day of travel might be tiring, especially if you prefer a more leisurely pace.
• There are shopping stops at souvenir shops, which some travelers found a bit sales-driven, although these are common in guided tours.
• The itinerary does not include the Uchisar Castle itself, despite its proximity, which some reviewers like Rogério V suggested adding.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour perfectly suits travelers who want a rundown of Cappadocia’s highlights without the hassle of self-organizing logistics. It’s ideal for first-time visitors eager to tick off major sites and learn from expert guides. If you appreciate natural beauty combined with history, enjoy hiking and scenic viewpoints, this tour will satisfy your curiosity.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to explore fewer sites in depth, you might find the schedule a bit packed. Also, those with mobility issues should consider that some sites like Selime Monastery involve uphill walks and climbing.

Final Thoughts

The Cappadocia Green Tour offers a well-rounded, engaging, and value-packed way to see the region’s most iconic sites. From the underground cities to breathtaking valleys, you’ll get a taste of Cappadocia’s layered history and natural wonders—all while riding comfortably in air-conditioned vehicles. The guide’s expertise and friendly attitude significantly enhance the experience, as reflected in the consistently high reviews.

It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want a full day of sightseeing with minimal planning, especially if guided storytelling and a variety of locations appeal to you. While the long rides and busy schedule might not suit everyone, most find the mix of natural beauty and cultural history well worth the investment.

In summary, if you’re after a reliable, informative, and scenic way to experience Cappadocia’s highlights, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially recommended for first-timers, photo enthusiasts, and anyone eager to learn about the region’s ancient past.

FAQ

What is included in the Green Tour?
The tour includes pickup, air-conditioned transportation, entrance tickets to all sites, a lunch, an English-speaking guide, and a small bottle of water.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours and 20 minutes, starting at 9:30 am and ending around 6 pm, providing a full day of sightseeing.

Are there any optional extras?
Drinks at lunch are not included, so you may want to bring your own or purchase beverages during the stops.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but note that some sites involve walking and climbing. The total schedule is quite packed, which might be tiring for some.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, on average, travelers book about 19 days ahead, and the tour is highly popular, with a 99% recommendation rate.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

What are the main highlights?
Expect to visit Goreme Panorama, Pigeon Valley, Ihlara Valley, Selime Monastery, Derinkuyu underground city, and Narligol Krater Golu.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes for walking, sun protection, and water are advisable. The tour provides water, but extra hydration is good during warm days.

Is lunch included?
Yes, the tour includes a meal, and many reviewers mention it’s quite good, allowing you to relax and refuel before the next site.

To sum it up, the Cappadocia Green Tour offers an excellent balance of natural beauty, history, and convenience. It’s a smart choice for travelers who value guided insights and want to maximize their time exploring this captivating region.