Derinkuyu Underground City, Narli Gol Ihlara Canyon, Belisirma Village Selime Tour From Cappadocia

Cappadocia’s Derinkuyu Underground City, Ihlara Canyon, and Belisirma Village offer a captivating exploration of the region’s historic wonders and natural beauty. Descending into the labyrinthine Derinkuyu, one discovers a remarkable subterranean metropolis carved from volcanic rock. Trekking through the Ihlara Valley, hikers encounter towering cliffs and ancient rock-carved churches. The tour culminates in the charming Belisirma Village, where visitors indulge in a delightful local cuisine. This immersive experience not only unveils the area’s rich history but also invites travelers to ponder the ingenuity and resilience of the Cappadocian people who once called this remarkable landscape home.

Key Points

• Comprehensive tour exploring Cappadocia’s renowned landmarks, including Derinkuyu Underground City, Ihlara Valley, and Belisirma Village.
• Derinkuyu Underground City, dating back to 1800 BC, offers a unique glimpse into the past with its intricate tunnels and chambers.
• Ihlara Valley hike provides a refreshing outdoor experience, showcasing dramatic landscapes, ancient cave dwellings, and rock-carved churches.
• Belisirma Village offers an authentic culture, with a delightful local lunch and scenic location amidst stunning rock formations.
• Convenient hotel pickups, air-conditioned transportation, and all entry fees included for a seamless and hassle-free experience.

Tour Overview

This Cappadocia tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s renowned landmarks.

The tour takes travelers to the Derinkuyu Underground City, the Ihlara Valley, and the Belisirma Village. Derinkuyu, the largest underground city, dates back to 1800 BC and visitors can explore it for around 45 minutes.

The Ihlara Valley hike covers 4 km and lasts approximately one hour, showcasing the area’s stunning natural beauty. Lunch is provided in the Ihlara Valley at the Belisirma Village.

With hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and all entry fees included, this tour provides a seamless and well-organized experience for travelers.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a visit to the Derinkuyu Underground City, the largest of its kind, dating back to 1800 BC.

Visitors can explore this remarkable subterranean complex for around 45 minutes, marveling at its intricate layout and the ingenious engineering that allowed it to accommodate thousands of people.

Next, the tour ventures into the Ihlara Valley, where travelers can embark on a 4-kilometer hike through the stunning natural landscape, taking in the serene beauty of the region.

The final stop is the charming Belisirma Village, where a delightful lunch is provided in the Ihlara Valley, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the local culture.

Derinkuyu Underground City

Derinkuyu Underground City stands as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of its ancient inhabitants.

Carved into the rock, this vast subterranean complex dates back to around 1800 BC and is the largest of its kind in Cappadocia.

Visitors can explore the intricate network of tunnels, chambers, and living spaces that once sheltered thousands of people from invaders.

During the tour, travelers will have the opportunity to witness the impressive scale and complexity of this remarkable underground city, which includes churches, schools, and even a market.

With a duration of 45 minutes, the visit to Derinkuyu offers a unique glimpse into the past and the remarkable adaptability of the region’s inhabitants.

Ihlara Valley

Stretching for 4 km through the dramatic landscapes of Cappadocia, Ihlara Valley offers a picturesque hiking trail that immerses visitors in the region’s natural beauty.

Along the way, hikers can expect to encounter:

• Towering volcanic cliffs and rock formations carved by the Melendiz River
• Ancient cave dwellings and rock-carved churches dating back to the Byzantine era
• Lush greenery and diverse wildlife, including numerous bird species

The moderate hike typically takes around an hour to complete and is included in the tour package, providing a refreshing outdoor experience amidst Cappadocia’s unique geological wonders.

Belisirma Village

What makes Belisirma Village a highlight of this Cappadocia tour? Set along the Ihlara Valley, this charming village offers a glimpse into the traditional rural life of the region.

Travelers enjoy a delightful lunch here, sampling local cuisine and experiencing the warm hospitality of the villagers. The scenic location, nestled amidst stunning rock formations, provides a serene and picturesque setting to savor the region’s culinary delights.

This stop on the tour allows visitors to enjoy the authentic culture of Cappadocia, complementing the exploration of the ancient Derinkuyu Underground City and the breathtaking Ihlara Valley hike.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour includes convenient hotel pickups and drop-offs, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day’s adventure.

Travelers are transported in an air-conditioned minivan, providing a comfortable journey between the tour’s various destinations.

The meeting point is located in Ürgüp, Nevşehir, Turkey, with the tour starting promptly at 10:00 am.

• Hassle-free transportation from your hotel
• Air-conditioned minivan for a comfortable ride
• Timely start at 10:00 am from the designated meeting point in Ürgüp

Additional Information

Along With the seamless transportation, the tour includes several other inclusions to enhance the overall experience.

The tour price covers local guide services, all entry fees, and complimentary drinks. While the Dark Church entrance fee of approximately $5 per person is an optional extra, the majority of the key sites and activities are included.

The tour isn’t suitable for those with limited mobility or claustrophobia due to the underground city exploration. However, infant seats are available, accommodating families with young children.

Traveler Feedback

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the tour, with an overall rating of 4.5 stars based on 10 reviews.

Of these, 8 reviews awarded the full 5 stars, while 1 gave 4 stars and 1 gave 3 stars.

Common praise centered around:

• The knowledgeable and engaging guides
• The comfortable, air-conditioned transportation
• The well-organized and efficient itinerary

However, some reviewers noted the tour may not be suitable for those with claustrophobia or limited mobility, due to the extensive underground city exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Interests?

Yes, the tour operator may offer some flexibility to customize the itinerary based on your interests. Discuss your preferences with the guide to see if certain activities or sites can be adjusted to fit your needs.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code, but comfortable, modest attire is recommended. Wear sturdy shoes suitable for light hiking, and bring layers as temperatures can vary between the underground city and outdoor sites.

What Should I Bring to Ensure a Comfortable Experience?

To ensure a comfortable experience, it’s recommended to bring comfortable walking shoes, light layers of clothing, a small backpack or purse, snacks, and any necessary medications. Staying hydrated and packing light can enhance the overall enjoyment of the tour.

Are There Any Physical Requirements for the Hiking Portion?

The hiking portion requires a moderate level of fitness, as the trail is approximately 4 km long. Travelers with limited mobility may find the hike challenging, but the tour operator can accommodate infant seats for those unable to hike.

Can the Tour Be Booked for a Private Group?

The tour can be booked for a private group, offering a more personalized experience. Travelers can inquire about this option when booking, allowing them to customize the itinerary to their preferences.

Recap

The Derinkuyu Underground City, Narli Gol Ihlara Canyon, and Belisirma Village Selime Tour from Cappadocia offers an unforgettable exploration of the region’s stunning landscapes and rich history. Visitors explore the fascinating depths of the largest underground city, hike the picturesque trails of Ihlara Canyon, and experience the charming culture of Belisirma Village. This tour provides a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and culture in the captivating Cappadocia region.