Cappadocia: Derinkuyu Underground, Crater Lake & Ihlara Tour

Cappadocia’s rich history and stunning natural beauty come alive in this captivating 9-hour tour. Visitors will explore the ancient Derinkuyu Underground City, a marvel of engineering that once sheltered thousands. The awe-inspiring Narligöl Crater Lake, with its serene blue waters, offers a tranquil respite before the group explores the rock-carved churches of Ihlara Valley. Complementing the guided excursions, a leisurely lunch in the valley promises to rejuvenate and prepare participants for the final stop: the imposing Selime Monastery. This comprehensive tour promises an unforgettable experience, leaving travelers with a newfound appreciation for Cappadocia’s enduring allure.

Key Points

• This 9-hour tour explores the UNESCO-listed Derinkuyu Underground City, Narligöl Crater Lake, and Ihlara Valley in Cappadocia, Turkey.
• The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, an English-speaking guide, lunch, bottled water, and museum tickets.
• Visitors can take scenic photos at Göreme Panorama and visit the ancient Selime Monastery.
• The tour is not suitable for those with claustrophobia or respiratory issues, and appropriate attire is recommended.
• The tour offers free cancellation with a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour, titled "Cappadocia: Derinkuyu Underground, Crater Lake & Ihlara Tour," offers a comprehensive exploration of the captivating region of Cappadocia.

Priced from €42.60 per person, the 9-hour tour provides free cancellation with a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance. Customers can reserve their spot without immediate payment, allowing for flexible planning.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, van transportation, lunch, bottled water, and museum tickets.

It’s not suitable for those with claustrophobia or respiratory issues, and participants are advised to bring appropriate attire like umbrellas, hiking shoes, and rain gear as the tour operates rain or shine.

Pickup and Transfer Details

As part of the comprehensive tour, participants are picked up from 7 different locations across the Cappadocia region, including Göreme, Ürgüp, Çavuşin, Nevşehir, Avanos, Ortahisar, and Uçhisar.

Guests are then transported in a comfortable van throughout the day’s itinerary. At the end of the tour, they’re dropped off at the same locations from which they were picked up.

The tour also offers optional hotel pickup, allowing guests to conveniently meet the guide in the lobby of their accommodation.

This seamless pickup and drop-off service ensures a stress-free experience for travelers exploring the wonders of Cappadocia.

Key Locations Explored

After the seamless pickup and transfer process, the tour explores several key locations that showcase the rich history and natural beauty of Cappadocia.

The first stop is the Göreme Panorama, where visitors can capture breathtaking photos of the region’s famous volcanic rock formations.

Next, the tour delves into the UNESCO-listed Derinkuyu Underground City, providing a guided exploration of this ancient subterranean marvel.

The Narligöl Crater Lake, with its serene waters and scenic views, offers a picturesque respite.

In Ihlara Valley, guests enjoy a leisurely lunch and free time to hike and enjoy the picturesque landscapes.

The tour concludes with a photo stop at the iconic Uçhisar and a visit to the local Pigeon Valley, where a traditional tea ceremony awaits.

Derinkuyu Underground City Visit

Beneath the surface of Cappadocia’s dramatic landscape lies a remarkable feat of ancient engineering – the Derinkuyu Underground City. Dating back over 4,000 years, this subterranean marvel once housed an entire community capable of sustaining itself for extended periods.

As part of the Cappadocia tour, visitors have the chance to explore this UNESCO-listed site with a guided tour. Descending through a series of narrow tunnels and stairwells, they’ll discover ancient living quarters, communal kitchens, and even churches carved into the rock.

Spanning multiple floors, the underground city offers a unique glimpse into the resourcefulness and ingenuity of Cappadocia’s early inhabitants, who carved out this hidden refuge to protect themselves from invaders.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Narlığöl Crater Lake Stopover

Following the Derinkuyu Underground City visit, the tour continues to the stunning Narlığöl Crater Lake.

Situated within a volcanic crater, the lake offers breathtaking scenery and panoramic views. Visitors have 20 minutes to explore the area and take photographs from the designated viewpoints.

While the entrance to the crater lake is an additional fee, it provides a unique opportunity to witness the serene, turquoise waters set against a backdrop of rugged cliffs.

This natural wonder is a highlight of the overall Cappadocia tour, allowing participants to appreciate the region’s diverse geological formations and striking landscapes.

Selime Monastery Tour

Departing the serene Narlığöl Crater Lake, the tour continues to the magnificent Selime Monastery. This ancient complex dates back to the 8th century and offers a glimpse into the region’s early Christian history. Visitors explore the grand cathedral, chapels, and monk cells during a guided tour, learning about the site’s architectural and spiritual significance.

Feature	Description
Architecture	Carved directly into the rock, the monastery’s structures showcase impressive masonry and engineering.
Frescos	Well-preserved religious frescoes adorn the walls, providing insight into Byzantine art.
Spiritual Legacy	The monastery served as an important religious center, housing a community of monks for centuries.

The Selime Monastery tour provides a captivating cultural experience, allowing travelers to explore Cappadocia’s rich ecclesiastical heritage.

Ihlara Valley Experience

After exploring the enchanting Selime Monastery, the tour continues its journey to the captivating Ihlara Valley.

Nestled within a striking volcanic landscape, Ihlara Valley offers a peaceful respite. Visitors will enjoy a break time, indulging in a delicious local lunch amidst the picturesque scenery.

The highlight is a guided hike through the valley, lasting approximately 1.5 hours. As they traverse the verdant trails, guests will discover ancient rock-carved churches and stunning natural formations.

The tour also includes a stop at the Pigeon Valley, where travelers can enjoy a traditional tea ceremony and sample local snacks.

This multifaceted experience provides a well-rounded understanding of Cappadocia’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders.

Tour Logistics and Considerations

What does the tour include?

The 9-hour Cappadocia: Derinkuyu Underground, Crater Lake & Ihlara Tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, van transportation, lunch, bottled water, and museum tickets.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for people with claustrophobia or respiratory issues due to the nature of the Derinkuyu Underground City visit.

Visitors should bring appropriate gear like an umbrella, hiking shoes, and rain gear, as the tour operates rain or shine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Underground City?

Photography is generally allowed inside the Derinkuyu Underground City, though visitors should check with the tour guide as some restrictions may apply to certain areas for preservation purposes. Bringing a camera is recommended to capture the unique subterranean architecture.

Can I Purchase Additional Items From the Local Bazaar?

Absolutely, the tour includes a stop at a local bazaar where visitors can purchase additional items. This is an opportunity to engage with local culture and find unique souvenirs or gifts during the tour.

What Is the Dietary Preference for the Included Lunch?

The tour includes a local lunch, but the dietary preferences are not specified. Customers should inquire about any dietary requirements or restrictions when booking the tour to ensure the provided meal meets their needs.

Is an Audio Guide Available for the Tour?

The tour does not provide an audio guide. The tour relies on an English-speaking guide to provide live commentary and narration during the various stops, including the Derinkuyu Underground City and Selime Monastery.

How Is the Physical Difficulty Level of the Ihlara Valley Hike?

The Ihlara Valley hike is moderately challenging, requiring some physical fitness. It’s a 1.5-hour guided walk through scenic landscapes, with some steep and rocky sections. But the tour includes break time and a chance to rest and enjoy the views.

Recap

The "Cappadocia: Derinkuyu Underground, Crater Lake & Ihlara Tour" offers a comprehensive exploration of Cappadocia’s rich history and natural wonders. Visitors will marvel at the ancient Derinkuyu Underground City, the stunning Narligöl Crater Lake, and the scenic Ihlara Valley, all while enjoying a guided experience with an English-speaking guide, hotel pickup/drop-off, and included museum tickets. This tour provides an unforgettable opportunity to take in the captivating landscapes and cultural heritage of this remarkable region.

You can check if your dates are available here: