Cappadocia: Sunset Horseback Ride in Fairy Chimneys Valleys

Summary

Horse riding at sunset through Cappadocia’s wild valleys and fairy chimneys

You’ll ride gentle horses through Cappadocia’s surreal valleys as sunset colors sweep across fairy chimneys. Local guides help even total beginners feel at ease. Expect hotel pickup, two hours on horseback with breaks for stories or photos, and that rare feeling of calm you only get outdoors at dusk.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was nervous about getting on a horse in Cappadocia. Something about the idea felt wild and old-fashioned—maybe because the landscape looks like it belongs to another world. But our guide, Hasan, grinned and handed me a helmet, saying not to worry. The horses seemed calm, almost sleepy in the late afternoon sun. There was this faint smell of hay and dust, and I remember my hands shaking just a bit as we set off from the ranch.

We followed Hasan through these winding trails between fairy chimneys—those tall, strange rocks you see in every photo. It’s hard to describe how quiet it gets out there, except for the soft clop of hooves and sometimes a bird calling from somewhere high up. At one point we stopped so Hasan could show us where ancient cave homes were carved into the cliffs. He told us stories about his grandfather riding here as a boy. The air tasted dry and cool; I kept brushing grit from my lips but didn’t mind.

The best part was when the sun started dipping low over the valleys. Everything turned gold and pink at once—I swear even the horses slowed down to watch. We took a break near some apricot trees (I tried one that had fallen; probably shouldn’t have, but it was sweet). My legs felt wobbly when I got off, but in that good way that means you did something new. After two hours we rode back toward the ranch, dust on our jeans and hair full of wind. I still think about that light sometimes—you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sunset horse riding through valleys

• Hotel pick-up
• Arrive at horse ranch
• Receive riding briefing
• Ride through three valleys
• Return to hotel

Top questions

How long does the Cappadocia sunset horse riding tour last?

The ride takes about two hours from start to finish.

Is hotel pickup included for this horseback tour?

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

Do I need previous horseback riding experience?

No experience is needed; patient local guides will teach you before setting off.

What is the weight limit for riders?

The maximum rider weight allowed is 90 kilos.

Are helmets provided during the ride?

Yes, helmets are provided for all riders at no extra cost.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries.

Are public transportation options available nearby?

Yes, there are public transportation options close to the ranch location.

Does the tour include insurance?

Insurance is included as part of your booking for this activity.

What’s included

Your evening includes hotel pickup and drop-off by air-conditioned vehicle, use of a horse helmet for safety, insurance coverage throughout your ride, and two hours exploring Cappadocia’s valleys on horseback with friendly local guides—plus plenty of time for breaks along the way before returning to your hotel.