Cappadocia: Ihlara Valley, Kaymakli, & Selime Monastery Tour

Exploring Cappadocia through this guided tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of its most iconic sites—think underground cities, lush valleys, and awe-inspiring monasteries—all in just six hours. It’s a great way to get a snapshot of this surreal landscape, especially if your time is limited or you prefer the comfort of a guided experience.

One of the standout features of this tour is the knowledgeable guide, who enriches the journey with insights about the area’s geology, history, and local crafts. However, it’s worth noting that some travelers have expressed disappointment about certain stops, like the Selime Monastery, which was missed on one occasion. Despite that, the variety of stops keeps things interesting and offers plenty of opportunities for photos, learning, and authentic experiences.

This tour will work best for those who enjoy a structured, scenic day with some walking and plenty of impressive views. It’s suitable for travelers who want a balance of history, nature, and local culture without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. Keep in mind, it’s not suited for pregnant women, people with claustrophobia, or those with back problems due to the walking and underground exploration involved.

Key Points

• Expert Guidance: The tour is led by a professional guide who offers valuable insights into Cappadocia’s geological formations and historical sites.
• Diverse Highlights: From underground cities to scenic valleys and monasteries, the itinerary covers many of Cappadocia’s top attractions.
• Value for Money: At $59 per person, it offers a comprehensive experience, including hotel pickup and transport.
• Limited Duration: The 6-hour timeframe makes it ideal for travelers with tight schedules but means some sites may be explored briefly.
• Authentic Experiences: Opportunities to visit local workshops, such as the onyx factory, add a cultural touch.
• Moderate Walking: Expect some walking involved, particularly in the valley and around the sites, so comfortable shoes are a must.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This 6-hour guided tour begins with a hotel pickup around 9:30 AM, making it an easy and convenient start for travelers staying in Uçhisar, Göreme, Ürgüp, or Avanos. The first stop is at the Esentepe viewpoint, which offers sweeping views of Göreme and the surrounding valleys. Here, your guide will explain the fascinating geological history of Cappadocia, setting the scene for the day ahead. For those who love a good photo op, this spot doesn’t disappoint.

Next, the journey takes you to Kaymakli Underground City, the most popular of Cappadocia’s subterranean complexes. Carved from soft volcanic rock, it served as a refuge for locals hiding from invading forces for centuries. Visitors can explore tunnels, rooms, and even a winery—it’s a fascinating glimpse into how people lived underground when surface threats loomed. One reviewer noted that the underground city is the first and most visited, so expect some narrow passages and a fair bit of walking.

After this underground adventure, the tour heads south to the Ihlara Valley, a lush, green canyon that contrasts sharply with the region’s arid landscape. Walking alongside the Melendiz River for about 1-2 hours, you’ll get fresh air and scenic views of the winding river and steep cliffs. The walk is moderate, and the terrain can be uneven, so comfortable shoes are essential. During the walk, there’s a chance to spot some of the area’s rock-carved churches and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. A highlight here is the lunch stop in a riverside restaurant in Belisirma, where you can relax and refuel with local cuisine.

Post-lunch, the tour visits Selime Monastery, which boasts the title of the largest rock-cut monastery in Cappadocia. This site features a vast cave cathedral, tunnels, and terraces with panoramic vistas. One of the reviews mentions that on one occasion, the tour group missed visiting Selime Monastery, which could be a disappointment if you’re eager to see this impressive complex.

On the way back, you’ll stop at a viewpoint overlooking Pigeon Valley, famous for its dovecotes carved into the cliffs. This spot is perfect for panoramic photos and to appreciate the scale and surreal nature of Cappadocia’s landscape. The final stop is at a local onyx factory, where you can watch artisans carve intricate pieces and browse for unique souvenirs. Many travelers value this stop for its authenticity and the chance to buy handcrafted jewelry directly from the craftsmen.

Practical Details and Tips

The transportation is in a comfortable, air-conditioned van, making the day smooth and hassle-free. The guide, Almila Tour, is praised for their friendly and knowledgeable staff, including guides like Güray, who, according to reviews, makes the experience engaging and informative. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, and there is a moderate amount of walking, so be prepared with comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and water.

The cost of $59 per person covers everything except the optional Museum Pass and lunch, giving decent value considering the inclusions and focus on key sites. However, keep in mind that entry fees to sites like Kaymakli and Selime are not included, so you may want to budget a few extra dollars if you’d like to explore these sites more thoroughly.

The tour runs with live English-speaking guides and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which adds flexibility to your plans.

What We Liked and What to Consider

What really shines about this tour is the expert guidance and the carefully curated itinerary that offers a good overview of Cappadocia’s highlights in a manageable timeframe. The stops at viewpoints and the underground city are particularly captivating, providing both natural beauty and historical intrigue in one package.

That said, some travelers noted that not all sites are visited on every tour, with one review mentioning the Selime Monastery was missed. This points to the possibility of variability, so if a particular site is a must-see, double-check with the tour provider beforehand.

The price point is attractive for a full-day experience, especially when considering the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. It’s a solid choice for first-time visitors or those wanting an introductory overview without the hassle of separate bookings.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers seeking a balanced mix of natural beauty, history, and local culture, all within a half-day framework. It’s perfect if you want a guided experience that covers the highlights without the need for extensive planning. Families, couples, and solo travelers looking for an efficient way to see Cappadocia’s top sites will find it appealing.

However, those with specific interests in certain sites should note some stops may vary or be brief. Also, if you’re sensitive to confined spaces or have mobility issues, the underground city and some walking sections might be challenging.

For travelers who love stunning views, historical insights, and engaging guides, this tour offers good value and memorable scenery in a compact package.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from several locations in Cappadocia.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, starting around 9:30 AM.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, and your camera are recommended for this outdoor-focused tour.

Are all sites included in the price?
Entry fees to sites like Kaymakli Underground City and Selime Monastery are not included, so you may need to budget extra.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
It’s suitable for most, but be aware of the walking involved and the underground tunnels, which might be difficult for some.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, this tour is not wheelchair accessible.

Will I get good photos?
Absolutely. The viewpoints and scenic sites offer fantastic photo opportunities.

Will I learn about local culture?
Yes, the guide shares insights into Cappadocia’s geology, history, and craft traditions like onyx carving.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included but is available at a riverside restaurant during the sightseeing day.

Final Thoughts

This Cappadocia tour offers a practical, engaging way to see some of the region’s most iconic sights in just half a day. The combination of underground cities, lush valleys, and panoramic views provides a well-rounded experience, especially enhanced by guides who bring the landscape and history to life.

It’s a great choice for travelers who want an efficient, informative, and scenic outing without the fuss of organizing every detail. While some sites may be visited briefly or vary from day to day, the overall package delivers a taste of Cappadocia’s incredible landscape and cultural richness.

If you’re looking for a straightforward, value-packed way to explore Cappadocia’s highlights—especially with the comfort of a guided group—this tour will likely serve you well. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring your camera, and enjoy the views that make Cappadocia one of Turkey’s most extraordinary destinations.