Explore Cappadocia’s hidden gems with a thrilling trek through Ihlara Valley, uncovering ancient cities, stunning landscapes, and Byzantine frescoes. Adventure awaits!
Explore Cappadocia’s hidden gems with a thrilling trek through Ihlara Valley, uncovering ancient cities, stunning landscapes, and Byzantine frescoes. Adventure awaits!
- Derinkuyu - Derinkuyu is an extraordinary subterranean city situated in Turkey’s Cappadocia region, celebrated for its extensive network of tunnels and chambers carved into the soft volcanic rock. Reaching a depth of around 60 meters, Derinkuyu could house up to 20,000 individuals, along with their livestock and provisions. It is believed to have…
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Derinkuyu - Derinkuyu is an extraordinary subterranean city situated in Turkey’s Cappadocia region, celebrated for its extensive network of tunnels and chambers carved into the soft volcanic rock. Reaching a depth of around 60 meters, Derinkuyu could house up to 20,000 individuals, along with their livestock and provisions. It is believed to have served as a sanctuary during periods of invasion and religious persecution, featuring living spaces, kitchens, storage rooms, stables, a church, and even a school. Its advanced ventilation system and massive stone doors showcase the remarkable engineering prowess of its creators. Exploring its narrow, dimly lit corridors offers insight into the resilience and creativity of ancient societies, making Derinkuyu a must-see for those visiting the historical marvels of Cappadocia.
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Belisirma - Belisırma is a charming village located in the Ihlara Valley of Cappadocia, Turkey. Situated along the Melendiz River, Belisırma provides a tranquil environment surrounded by lush greenery and dramatic canyon walls. The village is renowned for its delightful riverside eateries and access to some of the valley’s most scenic hiking trails and ancient rock-cut churches. Many of these churches, adorned with Byzantine-era frescoes, are found along the path that winds through the valley. Belisırma offers a peaceful retreat for travelers eager to enjoy nature, explore historical landmarks, and experience traditional village life in the heart of Cappadocia.
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Ihlara Valley - Ihlara Valley is a breathtaking canyon in Cappadocia, central Turkey. Formed by the Melendiz River, it extends approximately 14 kilometers and is famed for its lush vegetation, dramatic cliffs, and rock-cut churches decorated with ancient frescoes. The valley provides a serene hiking experience, blending natural beauty with rich history and Byzantine-era architecture.
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Uluırmak - Uluırmak is a modest river located in the Aksaray province of central Turkey. It flows through the region, supporting local agriculture by supplying irrigation. Although not as renowned as larger rivers, Uluırmak holds local importance and connects to the region’s broader water system, including proximity to areas like the Ihlara Valley.
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Selime Cathedral - Selime Cathedral is the largest rock-cut religious edifice in Cappadocia, situated at the end of the Ihlara Valley in Selime village, Turkey. Carved directly into volcanic rock in the 8th or 9th century, the cathedral served both religious and defensive functions. Its basilica-style interior features columns, multiple apses, and remnants of Byzantine frescoes, including depictions of the Ascension and the Virgin Mary. Beyond its spiritual importance, Selime Cathedral also played a role in trade, providing shelter to merchants and their caravans traveling along ancient routes. Today, it stands as a remarkable testament to early Christian architecture and Cappadocia’s rich cultural heritage.
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Pigeon Valley - Pigeon Valley, or Güvercinlik Vadisi, is a picturesque and historically significant valley in Cappadocia, Turkey, stretching about 4 kilometers between Göreme and Uçhisar. It is named after the numerous pigeon houses carved into the soft volcanic rock, which were once used by locals to collect pigeon droppings for fertilizer. The valley features a moderate hiking trail that meanders through lush vegetation, fairy chimneys, and ancient cave dwellings, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Along the route, hikers often pause at the famous “Evil Eye Tree,” adorned with blue Nazar amulets for good luck, with Uçhisar Castle visible in the distance. Pigeon Valley beautifully merges natural beauty with cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination in Cappadocia.

- Round-trip hotel transfers
- Lunch included
- Attraction admission
- Round-trip hotel transfers
- Lunch included
- Attraction admission
Embark on one of Cappadocia’s most enchanting day excursions, ideal for thrill-seekers, history buffs, and nature enthusiasts. Start with a tour of an ancient underground city, like Derinkuyu or Kaymakli, where early Christians found sanctuary in a remarkable subterranean realm.
Proceed to the breathtaking Ihlara Valley for a picturesque 4-kilometer hike…
Embark on one of Cappadocia’s most enchanting day excursions, ideal for thrill-seekers, history buffs, and nature enthusiasts. Start with a tour of an ancient underground city, like Derinkuyu or Kaymakli, where early Christians found sanctuary in a remarkable subterranean realm.
Proceed to the breathtaking Ihlara Valley for a picturesque 4-kilometer hike along the Melendiz River, flanked by towering cliffs, verdant landscapes, and concealed rock-cut churches adorned with Byzantine frescoes. Enjoy a leisurely riverside lunch in Belisirma Village, followed by a visit to the Selime Cathedral, the largest rock-hewn monastery in the area.
With expert guidance and engaging storytelling, this tour seamlessly combines history, culture, trekking, and stunning scenery—making it an essential experience in Cappadocia.
- Total tour duration includes transportation time.
- Participants must be aged 4+ to participate in this activity
- Weight limit to ride a horse is 210 pounds (95 kg)
- This is a shared transfer and early or late pick-up is possible
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.