South of Cappadocia Tour-Green Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Cappadocia, chances are you’ll want to make the most of your time exploring its otherworldly landscapes and ancient sites. The South of Cappadocia Tour, often called the Green Tour, promises a full day of fascinating stops, from underground cities to lush valleys, all packed into about 7 hours. Priced at $92 per person, it’s a popular option for those eager to see the region’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

One thing we really appreciate about this tour is its balance between sightseeing and relaxed walking. The 4 km walk through Ihlara Valley offers a gentle pace with stunning scenery, while the guided visits to underground cities add a layer of intrigue and history. However, it’s worth noting that some travelers have experienced last-minute changes or felt that certain parts of the tour were less engaging, so it’s not perfect for everyone.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor activity, history, and scenic views — especially those who prefer guided experiences that cover a lot of ground in a single day. If you’re after a rundown of Cappadocia’s southern sights with professional guidance, it’s a solid choice.

Key Points

• Inclusion of major sites such as underground cities, Ihlara Valley, and Selime Monastery provides a well-rounded experience.
• Comfortable transportation in a modern minivan ensures easy movement between sites.
• Knowledgeable English-speaking guides enhance the experience with insights into each location.
• Price point offers good value, including entrance tickets and lunch, though drinks are extra.
• Some reviews mention last-minute schedule changes and time spent in shops, so flexibility might be limited.
• Stunning viewpoints like Göreme Panorama and Uçhisar offer memorable photo opportunities.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Pickup and Morning Drive

Most tours start with a pickup from centrally located spots in Nevehir, Uçhisar, Avanos, Göreme, or Ürgüp—whichever is convenient for you. This flexibility helps reduce travel stress, especially if you’re staying in one of the key towns. The comfy minivan sets the tone for a relaxed day, with your guide, typically fluent in English, ready to share the stories behind each site.

Göreme Panorama Viewpoint

Your first stop is the Göreme Panorama, which offers one of the best sweeping views of the region. From here, your guide will explain how this surreal landscape was formed—an instant reminder of Cappadocia’s volcanic and erosional history. We loved the way this spot frames the entire tour, setting the scene for what’s to come.

Pigeon Valley

Next, a quick stop at Pigeon Valley provides a brief but picturesque 15-minute look at the carved pigeon houses and the lush valley below. While this is a short stop, the views are worth it. Several reviews highlight how these viewpoints add to the overall charm and photographability of the day.

Glass Factory Visit

A somewhat unexpected part of the itinerary is a glass factory, where you can observe artisans at work and browse souvenirs. For some, this adds a cultural touch, though others may find the shopping emphasis a little long—so be prepared for an optional visit if you’re not into store browsing.

Kaymakli Underground City

The highlight for many is the underground city—either Derinkuyu or Kaymakli. These massive subterranean complexes, dating back to the 7th-8th centuries, are fascinating. Expect to walk down 6-8 levels through narrow tunnels, with your guide pointing out living quarters, kitchens, churches, and storage rooms.

One reviewer noted that walking through the underground tunnels felt like stepping into a hidden world, and another appreciated the insights into daily life for ancient inhabitants. Be aware that some tunnels are narrow and require a bit of stooping, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with claustrophobic spaces.

Ihlara Valley Hike

After the underground adventure, the tour transitions to a 4 km walk along the Ihlara Valley. This scenic canyon, lined with cave churches and lush greenery, offers a peaceful contrast to the underground complex. The walk takes about an hour and is relatively easy, making it suitable for most fitness levels.

Many travelers, including one who called it a “great experience,” enjoy the opportunity to stretch their legs and soak in nature. The guide typically shares stories about the early Christian monks who carved churches into the canyon walls, adding historical context to the gorgeous surroundings.

Lunch Break

A highlight here is the riverside lunch in Ihlara Valley, where you can enjoy a traditional Turkish kebab-style meal. While drinks are not included, the setting makes it worthwhile—imagine dining with the sound of flowing water and views of the canyon.

Selime Monastery

The next stop is Selime Cathedral, the largest rock-cut monastery in the region. Walk through the complex and imagine what life was like for monks and pilgrims who once inhabited this site. It’s a striking piece of architecture, and many appreciate the chance to explore a historical site that combines religious and defensive features.

Uçhisar Viewpoint

The final stop is a spectacular viewpoint in Uçhisar, overlooking Pigeon Valley and the unique pigeon houses carved into the rocks. This offers a fitting conclusion to the day—a chance to reflect on the diverse landscapes you’ve seen and snap some memorable photos.

Drop-offs

The tour wraps up with drop-offs in your original pickup locations, providing a convenient end to a full day of exploration.

Practical Details and Value

The price of $92 covers most of what’s included: transportation, entrance fees, guided commentary, and lunch. This makes it fairly good value, especially considering the sites visited and the convenience of a guided tour. However, drinks are extra, so budget accordingly if you want water or soft drinks during or after lunch.

The 7-hour duration means you’ll have a packed schedule, with a mix of walking, sightseeing, and some downtime. The guide’s knowledge often adds a lot of value—many reviews mention that guides like Ferhat provide engaging explanations and ensure the group moves smoothly from one site to another.

Some travelers, however, have mentioned that schedules can shift unexpectedly, or that visits to shops might feel a bit busy. If you’re seeking flexibility or more in-depth exploration at each site, this might not be the best fit. Nonetheless, for those who want a rundown in a single day, this tour hits the sweet spot.

What Reviewers Say

Constructive feedback from travelers gives useful insights. One traveler lamented a schedule change that cut into their day, highlighting the importance of confirming arrangements ahead of time. Conversely, others praise the friendly and attentive guides, like Ferhat, who go above and beyond to make the experience enjoyable.

A visitor described their day as “very good,” emphasizing the “great experiences throughout,” largely thanks to the guide’s efforts. Another pointed out that the views, the underground city, and the Ihlara Valley all contributed to a memorable trip.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This tour is ideal for first-timers to Cappadocia who want to see its top highlights without the hassle of organizing transportation or tickets. It’s also suitable for history buffs and outdoor lovers who enjoy moderate walking and exploring ancient sites in scenic settings.

If you prefer more personalized or flexible experiences, or dislike scheduled visits to shops, you might find this tour somewhat rigid. But for those seeking good value, guided insights, and a full day of diverse sights, it’s a compelling choice.

The Sum Up

The South of Cappadocia Green Tour offers a well-rounded, immersive experience of the region’s most intriguing sites. With highlights like underground cities, the Ihlara Valley walk, and stunning viewpoints, you gain a genuine sense of Cappadocia’s history, geology, and natural beauty.

While some reviews point to minor schedule changes or shop stops, most travelers find the value and guided insight worth it. The tour’s price includes entrance fees, transportation, and lunch, making it an efficient way to see a lot in one day.

This experience suits adventurous, curious travelers who appreciate a mix of outdoor exploration, history, and scenic vistas. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, the Green Tour offers a hearty taste of Cappadocia’s south that’s both accessible and memorable.

FAQs

How long is the Green Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including transportation, site visits, and lunch, with starting times that vary based on availability.

What sites are included in the tour?
It includes Göreme Panorama, Pigeon Valley, a glass factory, Kaymakli Underground City (or Derinkuyu), Ihlara Valley, Selime Monastery, and a Uçhisar viewpoint.

Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, all entrance fees are covered in the price, so you won’t need to pay extra on the day for access to sites.

Is lunch included?
A traditional Turkish kebab-style lunch is included, but drinks are not.

What is the tour’s main focus?
It combines scenic viewpoints, underground exploration, and outdoor hiking to give an authentic feel of the region’s diverse attractions.

Can the tour be customized?
It’s a scheduled group tour; customization options may be limited. Confirm with the provider if you have specific needs.

Who leads the tour?
An experienced, English-speaking guide, often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, such as Ferhat Akba.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
The walking is moderate, but some tunnels are narrow and require bending or crawling—best suited for those comfortable with such spaces.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera. Remember that drinks are extra, so carry some cash if you want beverages during the day.

How can I book this tour?
It’s available on platforms like GetYourGuide, where you can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

Embarking on the Green Tour offers a fantastic snapshot of Cappadocia’s diverse landscape, history, and culture—all in one well-organized day. It’s a great way to tick off many must-see sites without the hassle of logistics, making it perfect for first-time visitors or those with limited time.