How to Plan Your Cappadocia Tour: Green Tour in the Ihlara Valley

Cappadocia is a charming city, located in the Nevsehir Province of Turkey. The city is known for its unusual rock formations, interesting history, and beautiful scenic locations. If you enjoy hiking, nature, and exploring historical locations, then the Cappadocia Green Tour in the Ihlara Valley is perfect for you. In this guide, we will take you through all the essential details you need to know to plan a fantastic Cappadocia tour experience.

What to Expect

The Cappadocia Green Tour in the Ihlara Valley is a full-day tour lasting approximately eight hours. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an expert tour guide, lunch, entry fees to Derinkuyu Underground City and Selime Monastery, and refreshments. During the tour, you will hike through the beautiful Ihlara Valley, visit the Derinkuyu Underground City, learn about monastic life at Selime Monastery, and watch a master craftsperson shape onyx.

Highlights

The tour offers a range of highlights that will make your experience unforgettable. Some of the highlights of the tour include:

Learn about the natural history of Cappadocia and its unusual rock formations

Cappadocia is known for its unique geological formations. During the tour, you will learn about their formation and the history behind them.

Visit the amazing Derinkuyu Underground City

Derinkuyu Underground City was used by the Romans as a shelter against Arab invasions. You will explore different chambers and learn about the history and some interesting facts from your expert tour guide.

Hike through the Ihlara Valley

The Ihlara Valley is one of the most beautiful places to hike in Turkey. You will witness various beautiful sceneries, a rushing river, and stunning landscapes throughout the hike.

Learn about monastic life at the Selime Monastery

Selime Monastery is one of the largest religious buildings in Cappadocia. You will learn about its history and the lifestyle led by the monks in the past.

Watch how onyx is shaped by a master craftsman

A master craftsperson will demonstrate how onyx is shaped by hand. You will learn about onyx and the different ways it can be used.

Itinerary

Here is the day-by-day itinerary of the tour:

• 07:30 – 08:30: Hotel pickup
• 09:30 – 09:45: Panoramic view of Goreme
• 10:30 – 12:00: Visit Derinkuyu Underground City
• 12:30 – 13:30: Lunch in Belisirma
• 14:30 – 15:00: Explore Ihlara Valley
• 15:45 – 16:00: Visit Selime Monastery
• 16:30 – 17:00: Watch onyx shaping demonstration
• 17:30 – 18:30: Return to hotel

Things to Consider

Before you book the Green Tour in the Ihlara Valley, you should consider certain things:

Not Suitable for Wheelchair Users

The tour involves hiking, which may not be suitable for wheelchair users. If you need any special assistance, please make sure to inform the tour provider in advance.

Tips for the Guide and Driver

Tips for the guide and driver are not included in the tour price. If you enjoyed the tour, it is a good gesture to tip them at the end.

What to Wear and Bring

You should wear comfortable shoes and clothing for hiking. Make sure to bring sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses, especially during summers. A small backpack for your essentials is also recommended.

Booking Your Tour

You can book your Green Tour in the Ihlara Valley through the following link: book the tour here. Make sure to provide the necessary information and follow the instructions carefully.

Book Your Tour Now

A tour of Cappadocia Green Tour in the Ihlara Valley is an excellent way to experience the natural beauty and history of Turkey. We hope this guide has helped you to plan your trip effectively. So pack your bags and enjoy the beautiful Ihlara Valley tour with Derinkuyu Underground City and Selime Monastery.

All about Nevsehir Province

Nevsehir Province is one of the most important tourist destinations in Turkey. It is located in the central part of Turkey and has a variety of attractions, including historical sites, natural wonders, and remarkable landscapes. In this article, we will provide detailed information to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Nevsehir Province.

1. What is the best time to visit Nevsehir Province?

The best time to visit Nevsehir Province is between April and November when the weather is mild and dry. The landscape is at its best between April and May when the flowers are in full bloom. Also, the hot air balloon season begins in April and runs until November, making it the best time to experience the unique views of the region.

2. What are the best places to visit in Nevsehir Province?

There are numerous places to visit in Nevsehir Province, but the following are the top-rated:

a. Cappadocia

Cappadocia is the most famous attraction of the Nevsehir Province. It is renowned for its unusual rock formations and cave dwellings. The area is a great option for hiking, hot air balloon rides, and exploring the cave churches or the underground cities.

b. Goreme National Park and the Rock Sites of Cappadocia

Goreme National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Cappadocia. The park is famous for its unique fairy chimneys, rock formations, and cave dwellings. It is an excellent location for hiking and a must-visit location in Turkey.

c. Uchisar Castle

Uchisar Castle is a man-made fortress located in Cappadocia. The fortress is built into the hillside and is the largest structure of its kind in the region. Visitors can climb to the top of the castle to catch breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

d. Derinkuyu Underground City

Derinkuyu Underground City is an ancient city built by the Hittites around the 8th century BC. It is an impressive city that features a maze of tunnels, rooms, and wells that go 8 stories deep into the earth.

3. What are the best outdoor activities in Nevsehir Province?

Nevsehir province has a variety of exciting outdoor activities that include:

a. Hot air balloon rides

Hot air balloon rides over the Cappadocia region are famous worldwide. It is a magical experience to see the unique landscape and fairy chimneys from the sky.

b. Hiking

Nevsehir Province has excellent hiking trails that offer fantastic views of the surrounding landscape. Hiking trails are available in places like the Ihlara Valley, Red Valley, and Love Valley.

c. Horseback riding

Horseback riding tours are available for visitors, providing them with an opportunity to experience the unique Cappadocia landscape in a unique way.

d. Jeep Tours

Jeep tours are another exciting way to discover the region of Cappadocia. Visitors can choose from a variety of tours that offer different experiences, like sunset tours or off-road experiences.

4. What are the best foods to try in Nevsehir Province?

Nevsehir Province has several mouth-watering dishes to try, including:

a. Manti

Manti is a dish of tiny dumplings filled with ground beef or lamb, served with a generous serving of garlic yogurt sauce.

b. Testi Kebab

Testi kebab is a classic Cappadocian dish that features tender meat served in an earthenware jug that is then baked to create a unique flavor.

c. Borek

Borek is a classic Turkish pastry that features thin layers of pastry, filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables.

5. How long does it take to explore Nevsehir Province?

The time it takes to explore Nevsehir Province depends on the number of places you want to visit and the activities you would like to participate in. For a detailed exploration of the region, it takes approximately 4-5 days to experience the top attractions and outdoor activities.

6. Are there any safety precautions visitors should take while visiting the region?

Nevsehir Province is a safe destination to visit. However, it is important to keep in mind the following safety precautions:

a. Weather conditions

It is essential to check the weather conditions before outdoor activities. In the case of bad weather, visitors should follow the safety guidelines recommended by local authorities.

b. Safety during hot air balloon rides

Hot air balloon rides require specific safety measures, so it is essential to choose a reputable and licensed company.

c. Protect yourself from the sun

The Nevsehir Province is a sunny destination, so it is crucial to apply sunscreen, wear a hat and cover yourself with protective clothing.

Book Your Tour Now

Nevsehir Province offers a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience, as visitors can explore the unusual cave churches, underground cities, and rock formations of Cappadocia. The area offers a wide range of activities and attractions, making it an excellent location for an extended stay. We hope this guide has been useful to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about this unique destination.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Nevsehir Province

Nevsehir Province is located in central Turkey, known for its stunning natural landscape, unique cultural attractions, and historical landmarks. As a tourist, you can have an unforgettable experience exploring the province’s hidden gems, cultural heritage, and stunning natural scenery. Here is a definitive guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Nevsehir Province.

1. Visit Like a Local – Explore the City of Nevsehir

The city of Nevsehir is an ideal starting point for exploring the province’s hidden gems. As the provincial capital, it is home to many cultural sites, museums, restaurants, and cafes. Start with the iconic Tuzkonak Underground City, one of the largest cave cities in Nevsehir. Then, head to the historical Kale fortress, followed by the unique Haci Bektas-i Veli Museum, a testament to Turkish Sufi culture. Finally, don’t miss the chance to explore the beautiful Pasabag Valley and the nearby Avanos town, known for its beautiful pottery.

2. Discover the Natural Beauties – The Goreme National Park and Valley

Goreme National Park and Valley is the largest national park in Nevsehir Province, home to unique geological formations, stunning rock formations, and beautiful natural scenery. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is a must-visit attraction for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and adventurers. Start with the Goreme Open-Air Museum, an outdoor museum that houses cave churches, chapels, and monasteries, then head to the stunning Pigeon Valley, a popular spot for hot air balloon rides. Finally, end your tour with a trip to the stunning Uchisar Castle, a rock-carved fortress that overlooks the valley.

3. Explore the Ancient History – Kaymakli Underground City and Other Ancient Sites

Nevsehir Province is home to many ancient sites, including the famous Kaymakli Underground City, a network of subterranean tunnels and rooms that were once used as homes, churches, storerooms, and hideouts. Other notable ancient sites include the Zelve Open-Air Museum, an abandoned valley that was once a thriving Byzantine settlement, and the Derinkuyu Underground City, another subterranean city that dates back to the Hittite era. Don’t forget to visit the ancient city of Aksaray, the Selime Monastery, and the Ihlara Valley, one of the most beautiful hiking trails in the region.

4. Experience the Food and Wine – Nevsehir’s Culinary Scene

Turkish cuisine is known for its delicious flavors and unique regional specialties, and Nevsehir Province is no exception. As a tourist, make sure to try the local dishes, including the Testi Kebab, a unique oven-cooked meat dish, Pottery Kebab, a kebab cooked in individual clay pots, and Tandir, a slow-cooked lamb dish. Don’t forget to visit the local wineries, especially Kocabağ Winery, one of the oldest in the region, and Turasan Winery, known for its high-quality wines made from local grapes.

5. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride – A Unique Experience

Finally, don’t miss the chance to take a hot air balloon ride over the stunning landscape of Nevsehir Province. It is a unique experience that allows you to appreciate the region’s natural beauty from a bird’s eye view. Many tour operators offer hot air balloon rides at different times of the day, including sunrise and sunset options.

Book Your Tour Now

Nevsehir Province offers an unforgettable experience for tourists, with its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and ancient history. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, history buff, or foodie, there is something for everyone in this beautiful region of Turkey. Follow this guide to spend your time as a tourist in Nevsehir Province like a local, and make unforgettable memories.