Cappadocia: Green Tour with Ihlara Valley & Kaymakli Underground City

Summary

Walk ancient valleys, taste village life, and see Cappadocia’s hidden worlds

You’ll hike through Pigeon Valley’s quiet trails, descend into Kaymakli Underground City’s cool tunnels with a local guide, share lunch in a riverside village, and end up tying your own wish at Göreme Panorama. It’s less about ticking off sights—and more about small moments you’ll remember long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I signed up for the Green Tour in Cappadocia mostly because I was curious about those weird rock formations and the idea of an “underground city” sounded almost made up. But standing at the edge of Pigeon Valley that morning, with Uçhisar Castle poking out in the distance and a breeze carrying this dry-earth smell mixed with wildflowers, I felt something shift—like maybe there’s more to these places than guidebooks let on. Our guide Cem (he told us to call him “Gem,” which made everyone smile) pointed out the old pigeon houses carved into the cliffs. Apparently locals used to collect droppings for fertilizer—who knew?

Kaymakli Underground City was next. It’s hard to describe what it feels like ducking through tunnels carved eight stories deep into volcanic rock. The air is cool down there, almost damp, and you can hear your own footsteps echoing off stone walls. Cem showed us where families used to sleep and store food—he even joked about getting lost if we strayed too far from him (I believed him). There was this moment when we all paused in a low-ceilinged room—nobody said anything for a second. Just silence and stone. I still think about that.

Lunch in Belisırma village was simple but good—grilled chicken, bread that tasted smoky from the oven, fresh tomatoes. The owner’s daughter giggled when she caught me trying to pronounce “Narlıgöl.” Afterward we walked along the river in Ihlara Valley; sunlight flickered through poplars while someone played music from their phone somewhere nearby. The trail felt endless but not in a bad way—just slow and green and peaceful.

By the time we reached Yaprakhisar Village and stopped at an onyx workshop (watching hands shape stone is oddly hypnotic), my shoes were dusty and my brain full. The last thing Cem did was point out a wish tree at Göreme Panorama—a mess of ribbons and hopes fluttering against the sky. We all tied one on, because why not? I didn’t expect to feel so calm by the end of it all.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Cappadocia's natural and historic sites

• Hike Pigeon Valley
• Visit Kaymakli Underground City
• Walk in Ihlara Valley
• Explore Belisırma village
• See Narlıgöl crater lake
• Visit Yaprakhisar Village
• View Göreme Panorama
• Tour Onyx Workshop

Top questions

How long does the Cappadocia Green Tour take?

The tour is a full-day experience covering several sites including Ihlara Valley and Kaymakli Underground City.

Is lunch included on this day trip?

Yes, lunch at a local restaurant in Belisırma village is included.

Are tickets to attractions included?

Museum tickets are included if you select that option during booking.

How deep is Kaymakli Underground City?

The underground city goes down about 8 stories; usually tourists visit the first two floors.

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?

The tour includes pickup by air-conditioned vehicle.

Can infants join this Cappadocia day trip?

Infants are welcome but must sit on an adult's lap during transport.

What should I wear for hiking in Ihlara Valley?

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to uneven terrain along the valley trail.

Are public transportation options nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near meeting points for this tour.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup by air-conditioned vehicle, museum entry fees if selected when booking, guidance from a local expert throughout Pigeon Valley, Kaymakli Underground City, Ihlara Valley walks and villages, plus lunch at a riverside restaurant before heading back with new memories (and maybe some dust on your shoes).