Exploring the enchanting landscapes of Cappadocia, the Green Tour with Derinkuyu, Ihlara, and Nar Lake promises a day filled with adventure and culture. Travelers can explore the region’s captivating history, wandering through the intricate Derinkuyu Underground City and the picturesque Ihlara Valley. Beyond the natural wonders, the tour also offers a glimpse into the area’s spiritual heritage, with a visit to the Selime Monastery. With a traditional Turkish lunch and the serene beauty of Nar Lake, this comprehensive itinerary caters to those seeking an enriching experience in this remarkable destination.
Key Points
- The Green Tour includes a guided exploration of the Goreme Panorama, Derinkuyu Underground City, Ihlara Valley, and Selime Monastery.
- The tour duration is 8-9 hours with hotel pickup and a 1-hour lunch break with traditional Turkish cuisine.
- Highlights of the tour include breathtaking views, historical insights, and opportunities for photography and cultural exploration.
- The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
- Additional experiences include a visit to Narligöl Crater Lake and a stop at Beyzade Kuruyemiş for shopping and tasting.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Green Tour with Derinkuyu, Ihlara, and Nar Lake is priced from £48.77 per person and lasts 8-9 hours.
This tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
Hotel pickup is included, with guests being collected 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
Along the way, visitors will enjoy a 30-minute guided tour of the Goreme Panorama, a 1.5-hour exploration of the Derinkuyu Underground City, a 3.5 km walking tour through the Ihlara Valley, and a 1-hour guided visit to the Selime Monastery.
Lunch is also included during the tour, which features expert guides providing historical and cultural insights in multiple languages.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Selime.
Itinerary Highlights
Visitors on the Green Tour can expect to explore several captivating highlights along the way, starting with a 30-minute guided tour of the Goreme Panorama, which offers stunning views of the Goreme village and Uchisar castle.
The next stop is the 1.5-hour guided tour of the Derinkuyu Underground City, one of 36 underground cities reaching 55.5 meters deep with eight floors.
The tour also includes a 3.5 km walking tour through the 14 km long Ihlara Valley, featuring rock-cut churches and scenic views.
Plus, there is a 1-hour guided tour of the Selime Monastery, the highest rock-cut monastery in Cappadocia.
Goreme Panorama
The Green Tour kicks off with a guided exploration of the Goreme Panorama, where visitors can admire the stunning vistas overlooking the Goreme village and the iconic Uchisar castle.
For around 30 minutes, the expert guide will lead the group through this picturesque viewpoint, providing insights into the unique landscape and the historical significance of the region.
Guests will have ample opportunities to capture breathtaking photographs of the iconic rock formations and the charming town below.
This introductory stop sets the stage for the rest of the day’s adventures, whetting the travelers’ appetites for the captivating experiences that await them in the heart of Cappadocia.
Derinkuyu Underground City
Next, the tour ventures deep underground to explore the captivating Derinkuyu Underground City, one of the 36 such subterranean settlements in the region.
Reaching 55.5 meters in depth, this impressive complex features eight floors and includes a variety of spaces, from living quarters to churches and even stables for pets.
During the 1.5-hour guided tour, visitors will marvel at the incredible engineering feats that allowed this city to thrive underground, including ventilation shafts, communal rooms, and storage areas.
The Derinkuyu Underground City offers a unique glimpse into the innovative solutions devised by ancient Cappadocians to survive and prosper in this stunning, yet harsh, landscape.
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Eight floors of interconnected living spaces
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Ventilation shafts and communal rooms
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Churches, stables, and storage areas
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Impressive engineering and design
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55.5 meters in depth
Ihlara Valley
After exploring the depths of Derinkuyu Underground City, the tour continues its journey through the stunning Ihlara Valley, a 14-kilometer-long canyon carved by the Melendiz River. Visitors embark on a 3.5-km walking tour, taking in the breathtaking views of the towering rock formations and the lush greenery that lines the canyon walls. Along the way, they’ll discover numerous rock-cut churches, showcasing the region’s rich religious history. The valley offers optional hiking opportunities, allowing adventurous travelers to delve deeper into this natural wonder. Throughout the experience, the knowledgeable guide provides insightful commentary, enhancing the visitors’ understanding and appreciation of this remarkable geological and cultural gem.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Length | 14 km long |
| Terrain | Carved by the Melendiz River |
| Highlights | Rock-cut churches, scenic views |
Selime Monastery
Situated at the highest point of Cappadocia, the Selime Monastery stands as a testament to the region’s rich religious history. This 1-hour guided tour allows visitors to explore the intricate rock-cut architecture and gain insights into the spiritual significance of this remarkable structure.
The monastery complex features a church, living quarters, and storage areas, all carved into the surrounding rock formations. Highlights include the impressive cathedral-like main church, elaborately decorated with frescoes and religious symbols.
Visitors can wander through the maze-like corridors, discovering hidden rooms and contemplating the monastics’ way of life centuries ago. The tour provides an opportunity to appreciate the architectural ingenuity and spiritual devotion that shaped this remarkable Cappadocian landmark.
With its stunning natural setting and historical significance, the Selime Monastery offers a captivating glimpse into Cappadocia’s storied past.
Pigeon Valley
Amidst the captivating landscapes of Cappadocia, the Pigeon Valley stands as a testament to the region’s vibrant agricultural heritage. Here, visitors embark on a 20-minute guided tour to uncover the significance of these distinctive pigeon houses.
The tour explores the historical importance of these structures, which were essential for soil fertilization in the arid region. Visitors will learn how the pigeons’ droppings were collected and used as a valuable natural fertilizer, supporting the growth of the region’s thriving agricultural communities.
Throughout the tour, guests can admire the unique architectural design of the pigeon houses and capture breathtaking photographs of the picturesque valley, offering a glimpse into Cappadocia’s rich cultural and environmental tapestry.
Additional Experiences
Alongside the guided tours through Cappadocia’s renowned landmarks, the Green Tour also offers optional stops that allow visitors to further enjoy the region’s natural and cultural wonders.
These include:
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A visit to the Narligöl Crater Lake, where participants can marvel at the serene, turquoise waters and surrounding volcanic landscape for about 15 minutes.
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A stop at Beyzade Kuruyemiş, a local shop offering a variety of dried fruits, nuts, and regional delicacies, allowing for 30 minutes of shopping and tasting.
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A 1-hour lunch break, where travelers can savor traditional Turkish cuisine and recharge for the remainder of the day’s activities.
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Ample opportunities for scenic photography and breathtaking views throughout the tour.
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The chance to explore the region’s rich history and culture through the expertise of the knowledgeable tour guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?
The tour does not provide specific details on the average group size. However, it is common for small-group tours in Cappadocia to have a maximum of 20-25 participants to ensure a personalized experience.
Are Drinks and Snacks Included During the Tour?
Drinks and snacks are not included during the tour. The tour price only covers the guided visits and transportation. Participants can purchase food and drinks at the optional stops or bring their own refreshments.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Individual Preferences?
The tour can be customized to individual preferences, based on discussions with the tour operator. They’ll work to accommodate special requests and adjust the itinerary where possible to meet the traveler’s interests and needs.
Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?
The tour allows photography during most activities, though it may be restricted in certain areas like the underground city for safety reasons. Participants should follow the guide’s instructions regarding photography to ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone.
What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?
The tour has a free cancellation policy – customers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. A reserve now, pay later option is also available for booking the tour.
Recap
The Green Tour with Derinkuyu, Ihlara, and Nar Lake offers a captivating blend of natural wonders and historical exploration in Cappadocia.
Travelers can enjoy the region’s rich heritage, from the awe-inspiring Derinkuyu Underground City to the serene Ihlara Valley and Nar Lake.
This comprehensive tour provides an enriching experience that seamlessly combines adventure, education, and the opportunity to discover Cappadocia’s unique charm.
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