Cappadocia: Horseback Riding Sunrise, Sunset & Daytime Tour

Summary

Ride through Cappadocia’s valleys at sunrise or sunset with gentle horses and a local guide

You’ll ride gentle horses through Cappadocia’s surreal valleys with a local guide, watching sunrise balloons or sunset colors overhead. Feel ancient landscapes up close as you pass fairy chimneys and rock-carved homes—no experience needed. Includes hotel pickup, helmets, and plenty of small moments you’ll want to remember long after.

What’s the experience like?

We pulled up near Göreme just as the sky was starting to shift—kind of that in-between light where you can’t tell if it’s morning or evening. The ranch smelled like hay and dust, and I could hear a rooster somewhere (not sure if he was confused about the time). Our guide, Mehmet, handed me a helmet and gave my horse—a sleepy-looking gray named Sultan—a quick pat. I’ve only been on a horse twice before, so I was nervous, but Mehmet just grinned and said something like “He knows the way better than we do.” That helped.

The first few minutes were all about finding my balance. Sultan’s back felt warm under my hands, and honestly, I was more focused on not embarrassing myself than looking around at first. But then we turned into one of those valleys you always see in photos—the ones with those weird rock towers (fairy chimneys, Mehmet called them). The sun started to peek over the edge and suddenly there were hot air balloons everywhere above us. It was quieter than I expected—just hooves crunching on dry earth and this little breeze that smelled faintly sweet, almost like wild herbs.

At some point we passed a carved house set right into the stone. Mehmet told us people still use some of them for storage or even as summer kitchens. He pointed out shapes in the rocks—one looked exactly like a camel if you squinted—and Li from our group tried to say its Turkish name. We all laughed because none of us got it right. There’s something kind of grounding about moving so slowly through a place that feels ancient. Two hours went by weirdly fast. My legs were sore but in that good way—I think I’ll remember how the saddle creaked every time Sultan shifted his weight.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Cappadocia Horse Riding Experience

• Hotel pickup by vehicle
• Drive to horse ranch near Goreme
• Meet horse-riding instructors
• Learn horse riding basics and safety
• Enjoy 2-hour horse ride in valleys
• Explore rock formations and fairy chimneys
• Return to hotel after ride

Top questions

Is this Cappadocia horse riding tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, you can join even if you've never ridden before; guides will show you what to do.

How long does the horseback ride last?

The tour includes about 2 hours of riding through Cappadocia's valleys.

Are sunrise or sunset options available?

You can choose between sunrise (to see hot air balloons), daytime, or sunset rides.

Is hotel pickup included in this horse safari?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in your booking.

Where is the horse ranch located?

The ranch is close to Göreme Open Air Museum in Cappadocia.

Is safety equipment provided for riders?

Yes, helmets are provided for all participants.

Are there any health restrictions for this tour?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or heart conditions.

What will we see during the ride?

You’ll pass fairy chimneys, rock formations, carved houses, and famous valleys of Cappadocia.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from your accommodation near Göreme, use of a helmet for safety during your two-hour horseback ride through Cappadocia’s valleys, plus guidance from friendly locals who’ll help even total beginners feel comfortable along the way.