The Green Tour in Cappadocia is a popular and enchanting excursion that takes visitors through some of the region's most scenic and naturally stunning locations. The green tour mostly takes place in the Southwest Cappadocia on the Ihlara Canyon side. This tour explores one of Turkey's enigmatic underground cities, the scenic Ihlara Valley, the historic Selime Monastery, a vantage point offering panoramic views, and several other smaller yet captivating stops.
Places Included in Cappadocia Green Tour
1. Goreme Panorama
Goreme Panorama offers a breathtaking view of Goreme and Cappadocia's fairy chimneys, with Uchisar Castle in the distance. You'll find benches to relax and take in the scenery. For a quieter experience, explore away from the crowds. Small shops sell Turkish ice cream, golems, and trinkets if you want a souvenir. Feel free to wander and capture some of your best Cappadocia photographs here. The tour guide will give you 20 - 30 minutes to explore the area.
2. Onyx factory or Pigeon Valley
Pigeon Valley is another highlight of the Green Tour. The valley is named after the countless pigeon houses carved into the cliffs, historically used for collecting pigeon droppings as fertilizer. The valley offers panoramic views of Cappadocia's surreal landscape.
3. Kaymakli Underground City
A highlight of the Green Tour is visiting an underground city in Cappadocia, likely Derinkuyu or Kaymakli, both situated in southern Cappadocia just 10 minutes apart. While Cappadocia is renowned for its unique Martian-like landscape and extraordinary fairy chimneys, the numerous hidden subterranean settlements beneath this fascinating region's surface are lesser-known.
4. Ihlara Valley Hike
Following the underground city, the Green Tour typically takes visitors to the Ihlara Valley. This picturesque valley is famous for its lush greenery, towering canyon walls, and the Melendiz River. The tour may include a hike along the valley, allowing participants to explore rock-cut churches and enjoy the serene natural beauty.
5. Selime Monastery
Next on the itinerary is Selime Monastery, a rock-cut monastery that stands as an impressive example of Cappadocia's unique architecture. The monastery complex includes churches, chapels, and living quarters carved into the rock formations.
6. Yaprakhisar
Yaprakhisar is a large rocky area with carved churches and monastic homes. It offers a beautiful view under the clear blue sky and is said to have inspired scenes in Star Wars! Although we only drove by, you can ask your guide to stop for a few minutes if you want to take some pictures.
Price of Cappadocia Green Tour
The cost of a Green Tour in Cappadocia can range from $40 to $50, depending on the travel agency. This price typically covers entrance fees to historical sites and includes lunch. Anything extra you choose to buy is at your own expense.
The tour is for a small group of 14-16 people traveling in a comfortable air-conditioned van. Your group will have a tour guide, an aide to assist everyone, and a driver.
An important tip: If you have a Turkey Museum Pass, it covers the entrance to Kaymakli, Ihlara, and Selime. Inform your Green Tour provider about this and ask for a discount equivalent to the value of these tickets. We received a $5 discount on our tour tickets because of our museum passes.
Cappadocia Green Tour Tips
- Green Tours will pick you up between 8:30 and 10:00 am, depending on your Cappadocia location. Be ready on time to make the day smooth for everyone.
- Wear good walking shoes for the extensive walk-in Ihlara Valley and some climbing at Selime Monastery.
- Note that underground cities have narrow tunnels; you should skip this part if you're claustrophobic. Check the section on Kaymakli if you're considering it.
- This tour is great for those who love hiking and not suitable for everyone.
