Cappadocia: Mount Erciyes Skiing Tour with Transfer

If you’re visiting Cappadocia and looking for a way to mix up the usual landscape of fairy chimneys and rock formations, a day on Mount Erciyes might just surprise you. This skiing and snowboarding tour offers a chance to hit the slopes with professional guidance, all while enjoying the scenic backdrop of Central Anatolia. It’s a popular choice for those who want a little adventure outside the typical Cappadocia sights, especially if you’re curious about winter sports or just eager for a unique day trip.

What really makes this experience stand out are two things we love: the inclusive nature of the guided instruction, which caters to beginners and seasoned skiers alike, and the breathtaking views of surrounding mountains and valleys that you’ll get while gliding down the slopes. Plus, the round-trip transportation from your hotel takes away the hassle of logistics, making it easier to just focus on the fun.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour lasts for about 9 hours, which is quite a long day if you’re not accustomed to outdoor winter activities or if you prefer a more relaxed pace. It’s best suited for travelers who want a structured, all-inclusive experience and are comfortable spending a full day outdoors. This tour would be ideal for adventure lovers, those curious about winter sports, or anyone wanting a memorable, active outing in Turkey.

Key Points

• All skill levels welcome: The slopes are categorized from green (easy) to black (expert), making it accessible for beginners to advanced skiers.
• Professional instruction included: A free 30-minute lesson helps newbies get started or improve their skills.
• Convenient round-trip transfer: Hotel pickups from Göreme and Kayseri save you time and effort.
• Stunning mountain views: You’ll enjoy scenic vistas while skiing, adding to the overall experience.
• Flexible options: You can skip the beginner line, access different slopes, and choose all-inclusive equipment or just the basics.
• Full day of activity: Expect about 5 hours on the mountain with breaks, guided tours, and free time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tour in Detail

The Booking and Price Point

At $56 per person, this tour offers a surprisingly good value, especially considering the inclusion of transportation, gear, and a professional instructor. It’s a straightforward way to combine outdoor excitement with the convenience of guided logistics. When you compare it to the cost of renting gear and lift passes independently, plus transportation, this package often makes more sense for travelers who want less fuss.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day kicks off with pickup from six different locations—Göreme, Ortahisar, Avanos, Uçhisar, Ürgüp, and Kayseri—covering most of the popular towns in Cappadocia. This flexibility means you can join the tour no matter where you’re staying, which is a huge plus.

The drive to Mount Erciyes takes about 1.5 hours from Cappadocia, giving you some time to relax or chat with fellow travelers. Once at the mountain, you’ll get your equipment and ski pass, and then it’s time to hit the slopes. The slopes are divided into four categories:

• Green (easy): Perfect for beginners or those just getting comfortable.
• Blue (medium): For those with some experience, offering moderate challenges.
• Red (hard): For confident skiers who want a bit more adrenaline.
• Black (expert): For seasoned skiers, with big walls and sweeping views.

What to Expect on the Slopes

The experience on Mount Erciyes is quite comprehensive. You’ll start with a 30-minute professional ski or snowboard lesson, which is especially helpful if you’re new to the sport. According to reviews, guides and instructors are helpful, attentive, and know how to cater to different skill levels, which helps reduce any anxiety about trying something new.

Once equipped, you’ll have around five hours of free time on the mountain to explore the different slopes, enjoy the views, or just take it slow. The “skip the line” feature for experienced skiers is a bonus, allowing those who are comfortable to jump right onto the Black Slope and enjoy more challenging runs.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Views and Atmosphere

One of the tour’s highlights is the stunning scenery. As you descend different slopes, you’ll see panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and possibly even distant towns. The snow-capped peaks and crisp mountain air make it a memorable setting for outdoor sports.

The Return Journey

After a full day of skiing, you’ll return to your hotel in Cappadocia. The transport is included, with pickups and drop-offs at the same locations. The tour lasts about 9 hours, which makes for a long but rewarding day—especially if you’re eager to combine adventure with scenic beauty.

What’s Not Included

It’s worth noting that while the tour provides gear and lift passes, you’ll need to arrange your own meals, drinks, and additional insurance if desired. Also, the 30-minute lesson is included, but any further training or coaching isn’t part of the package.

The Reviewers’ Perspective

Multiple reviews highlight how helpful and friendly the guides and drivers are, making the day smoother and more enjoyable. One traveler specifically mentioned, “The guide and driver very helpful and kind. The guide knew that I’m a newbie for this amazing experience, he helps us a lot.” This personalized attention can make a big difference, especially if you’re new to skiing or snowboarding.

Who is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is perfect if you’re looking to add some winter sports to your Cappadocia trip without the hassle of organizing everything independently. It suits adventurous travelers, couples, or groups who want a full day of outdoor activity with the support of professionals. However, it’s not ideal for very young children, pregnant women, or people with back, heart, or health issues, given the physical nature of skiing.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a day outside the usual Cappadocia scenery, Mount Erciyes offers a surprisingly fun and scenic skiing experience. The inclusion of professional instruction, flexible slopes, and round-trip transport makes this tour a practical choice for many travelers. The views alone are worth the trip, and with guides who genuinely seem to care about making your experience enjoyable, it’s a solid option for those wanting to try winter sports in Turkey.

While it’s a full-day commitment and might be tiring if you’re not used to outdoor winter activities, the overall value and scenery make it a worthwhile addition to your trip. Plus, if you’ve never skied or snowboarded before, the support and instruction help turn a potentially intimidating experience into an enjoyable adventure.

FAQs About the Mount Erciyes Skiing Tour

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour includes a 30-minute lesson and slopes categorized from green (easy) to black (expert). Beginners can start on green slopes and take advantage of the instruction.

How long is the drive from Cappadocia to Mount Erciyes?
The transfer takes about 1.5 hours from the designated pickup points, making it a manageable day trip.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, sunscreen, gloves, and snow clothing if you want to stay warm and protected.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy something on the mountain.

Can I skip the beginner instruction if I’m experienced?
Yes, experienced skiers can skip the lesson and enjoy priority access to the slopes, including the Black Slope.

Is there an age limit for participation?
The tour is not suitable for children under 5 years old.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Russian, and German.

How long does the whole tour last?
Approximately 9 hours, including transportation, skiing, and breaks.

Is ski equipment provided?
Yes, helmets, gloves, sunglasses, and poles are included if you opt for the all-inclusive package.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

If you’re craving a unique, active experience during your trip to Cappadocia, this Mount Erciyes skiing tour offers a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and professional support—all within a manageable day trip. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or trying it for the first time, it’s worth considering for an unforgettable slice of Turkey’s winter playground.

You can check availability for your dates here: