Tour overview
The Cappadocia Green Tour (also known as the South Cappadocia Tour) is the definitive full-day expedition for travellers seeking ancient underground engineering and dramatic canyon hiking. Covering the southern half of the Cappadocia UNESCO landscape, this guided small-group tour takes you deep into the multi-level Kaymaklı Underground City, through the lush oasis of the Ihlara Valley gorge, and into the monolithic Selime Cathedral Monastery.
Designed for adventurous and curious travellers, the tour balances subterranean exploration with a gentle 3.5-kilometer scenic hike alongside the Melendiz River, followed by an authentic Anatolian riverside lunch in the village of Belisırma. All museum entrance tickets, professional English-speaking guidance, and round-trip hotel transfers in modern air-conditioned Mercedes Sprinter or Vito minivans are fully included.
Detailed itinerary & stops
Hotel Pickup Across Cappadocia
Direct morning pickup from your cave hotel or resort in Göreme, Ürgüp, Uçhisar, Ortahisar, Çavuşin, or Avanos in a modern air-conditioned Mercedes Sprinter or Vito minivan.
Göreme Panorama Viewpoint
A magnificent panoramic stop overlooking the fairy chimney valleys of Göreme. Your licensed guide introduces the volcanic history of Mount Erciyes and Mount Hasan that sculpted Cappadocia's tufa stone millions of years ago.
Kaymaklı Underground City
Descend four subterranean levels into one of Cappadocia's largest and most ingenious troglodyte refuges. Explore ancient rock-cut stables, communal kitchens, ventilation shafts, wineries, and church sanctuaries used by early Christians fleeing persecution.
Ihlara Valley Canyon Hike (3.5 km)
Descend the stairs into the dramatic 100-meter-deep Ihlara canyon. Enjoy a peaceful and picturesque 3.5-kilometer walk alongside the flowing Melendiz River, shaded by lush poplars and weeping willows, admiring ancient Byzantine cave frescoes carved directly into sheer cliff faces.
Riverside Village Lunch in Belisırma
Relax at a charming open-air waterside restaurant built over the Melendiz River in the historic village of Belisırma. Savor freshly prepared Turkish dishes including clay pot trout, kebab, or vegetarian stews.
Selime Cathedral Monastery
Climb the monolithic rock fortress of Selime Monastery, the largest and most complex rock-cut religious structure in Cappadocia, featuring towering columns, ancient stables, living quarters, and a stunning cathedral basilica.
Pigeon Valley & Onyx Demonstration
A scenic photo stop at Pigeon Valley (Güvercinlik) to view thousands of ancient pigeon lofts carved into volcanic cliffs, followed by a brief demonstration of traditional Cappadocian volcanic onyx and gemstone craftsmanship.
Hotel Drop-off
Comfortable drop-off back at your hotel doorstep in Cappadocia.
Published itinerary highlights
- Ihlara Valley walk (approximately 3.5 km)
- Selime Monastery
- Pigeon Valley
- Kaymaklı Underground City
- Volcanic onyx workshop
Included
- English-speaking guide
- Museum entrance fees
- Lunch
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
Not included
- Drinks with lunch
- Personal expenses
Practical tips & what to bring
- •Comfortable, sturdy walking or running shoes are strongly recommended due to uneven stone paths and steps inside the canyon and caves.
- •Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a light jacket, as subterranean temperatures in the underground city remain naturally cool (around 12-14°C / 55°F) year-round.
- •Travelers with severe claustrophobia or limited mobility can enjoy the surface panorama and museum garden areas while companions navigate the narrower lower tunnels.
Frequently asked questions
Are museum tickets and entry fees included in the tour price?
Yes, all official entrance fees to Kaymaklı Underground City and Selime Monastery are 100% included in the €70 published price. There are no hidden fees or extra ticket costs upon arrival.
How difficult is the Ihlara Valley hike?
The 3.5 km hike is gentle and mostly flat along the riverbank path. It is accessible for anyone with normal walking fitness, though guests should wear supportive shoes.
What is the group size?
The regular Green Tour is operated in small groups with a maximum of 15 guests per vehicle to ensure personal attention from your guide and comfortable travel.
Can I combine the Green Tour with a sunrise balloon flight on the same day?
Yes! Sunrise balloon flights return to your hotel by 07:30 - 08:30 AM, while the Green Tour pickups begin around 09:15 - 09:45 AM. You have ample time to eat breakfast at your hotel before departing.
Important information
Small group tour with a maximum of 15 travellers.
Hotel pickup is available from all hotels in Göreme, Ürgüp, Uçhisar, Ortahisar, Çavuşin, and Avanos.
Tour operates daily year-round in all weather conditions.
Availability, final itinerary, pickup or meeting details, price and booking terms are confirmed by Agra Travel after your request. No payment is taken on this website.
