Cappadocia: Red Valley Trek and Kaymakli Underground City

If you’re considering a day in Cappadocia that mixes stunning scenery with a bit of history, the Red Valley Trek and Kaymakli Underground City tour might be just what you’re after. This experience promises a blend of scenic hiking, exploring ancient settlements, and venturing into one of Turkey’s most famous subterranean places—all for a reasonable $68 per person.

We’ve seen enough traveler reviews and tour descriptions to get a good sense of what it’s like, and while we haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, it ticks several boxes for a well-rounded day out. What we especially like is how it combines natural beauty with historical intrigue—something that makes Cappadocia unique. On the flip side, it’s an 8-hour commitment, so if you’re not into full-day trips, it might feel a bit long.

This tour feels best suited for those who want a manageable mix of light activity, spectacular views, and cultural insights without breaking the bank. If that sounds appealing, keep reading—we’ll break down exactly what to expect and what to consider.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Hike through the vivid Red Valley and enjoy panoramic views from Pigeon Valley.
• Historical sites: Visit ancient settlements and an underground city carved into the earth.
• Guided experience: Small group size ensures a more personal feel, led by an English-speaking guide.
• All-in-one package: Transportation, entrance fees, and lunch included—no hidden costs.
• Timing flexibility: Check availability for starting times; cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
• Price point: At $68, it offers good value for a full day of sightseeing with expert guidance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What the Tour Offers: A Deep Dive

The Hike Through Red Valley

The day kicks off with a 4 km walk through the Red Valley, famous for its dramatic, sharply-angled sandstone formations and captivating sunset hues. We love how this part of the trip allows you to take in some of Cappadocia’s most iconic landscapes without feeling rushed. Expect to stroll among the colorful ridges, with ample opportunities for photos and just soaking in the natural beauty.

One reviewer described it as “bu,” a pretty vague comment, but it hints at a straightforward, no-frills kind of experience. Still, the scenery speaks for itself—if you enjoy outdoor walks that don’t overtax, this section is likely to be a highlight.

Visiting Cavusin and Monastic Settlements

Next, the tour visits Cavusin, one of the earliest monastic settlements in Cappadocia. Here, you can explore ancient dwellings carved into the rocks and imagine what life was like centuries ago. The site provides a tangible link to the past, making history feel a little more real than just reading a book.

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

After working up an appetite, the group stops for lunch at a local eatery. The included meal offers a chance to rest and enjoy regional flavors—an often appreciated part of guided tours. While the specific cuisine isn’t detailed, many travelers find these meals to be satisfying, giving them energy for the afternoon activities.

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Visiting a Famous Onyx Workshop

Post-lunch, the tour makes a stop at an Onyx workshop, where you’ll witness the craftsmanship behind some striking stones like Zultanite. It’s a chance to see local artisans at work and perhaps pick up a souvenir. While this isn’t a major attraction, it’s a nice touch that adds a bit of local flavor and supports small businesses.

Exploring Kaymakli Underground City

The highlight for many is the visit to Kaymakli Underground City, one of the largest and deepest in Cappadocia. Walking through these subterranean tunnels and rooms gives you a sense of how ancient peoples lived, hiding from invaders and creating complex underground settlements. It’s a reminder of how adaptable and resourceful early inhabitants were.

The underground city can get quite atmospheric and even a little claustrophobic—if you’re uncomfortable in confined spaces, be prepared for that. But, as one reviewer noted, the experience is memorable and fascinating.

Panoramic Views from Pigeon Valley

The tour wraps up with a view over Pigeon Valley, famous for its dovecotes carved into the cliffs. Standing here, you’ll see the landscape stretching out in all directions—a satisfying end to a full day. It’s the perfect spot to reflect on your experiences and snap some final photos.

Practical Details: What To Know Before You Book

Transportation and Group Size

The entire day is conducted in air-conditioned vehicles, which makes the long hours more comfortable. The tour is limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience than large bus groups. Expect to be picked up from your hotel lobby about 10 minutes early, with the driver holding a sign with your last name—no stress on logistics.

Duration and Timing

With a total of 8 hours, the timing is flexible—just check current availability for start times. Keep in mind that the driver will wait only 5 minutes after the scheduled pickup, so punctuality helps avoid missing out.

Cost and Inclusions

At $68 per person, this tour includes guide, transportation, entrance fees, and lunch. That makes it quite reasonable considering the scope of activities offered. However, drinks and snacks aren’t included, so if you’re thirsty or want an extra treat, bring some cash or your own supplies.

Cancellation and Booking

The flexible cancellation policy allows you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility is helpful if your plans change unexpectedly.

What Travelers Are Saying

While the reviews are limited, that one comment from Enrico saying “bu” doesn’t tell us much, but the overall high rating of 4.7 out of 5 from six reviews suggests most travelers are satisfied. The focus on stunning views seems to resonate with visitors, which makes sense given Cappadocia’s landscape.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive look at Cappadocia in one day without too much physical strain. If you enjoy light hikes, historic sites, and spectacular vistas, you’ll probably find this tour very rewarding. It’s especially good if you prefer guided groups with a small number of participants, making conversations and questions easy.

However, if you’re not keen on confined spaces or long walks, it’s worth considering how you might feel about the underground city and the full-day timeline. Also, the inclusion of a visit to a workshop might not appeal to everyone, but it adds a local touch without being overly commercial.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, your transport is included in the price, and it’s in an air-conditioned vehicle, which helps keep the long day comfortable.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 15 participants, giving it a more personal feel compared to larger bus groups.

How long is the hike?
The hike through Red Valley covers about 4 km, which is fairly manageable for most people with reasonable fitness.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees are covered as part of the tour package.

Can I cancel the tour easily?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund, providing some flexibility if your plans change.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a meal at a local restaurant is part of the experience, giving you a chance to enjoy regional cuisine.

This tour offers a nicely balanced day of outdoor scenery, historical exploration, and cultural insights—all within a reasonable price point. The scenery of the Red Valley combined with the underground secrets of Kaymakli makes it a compelling choice for anyone wanting to see a broad slice of what Cappadocia has to offer.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy light physical activity, panoramic views, and learning about history through guided storytelling. If you’re okay with spending a full day on your feet and don’t mind small group sizes, this tour can give you a memorable taste of Cappadocia’s magic. Just remember to bring your camera, wear comfortable shoes, and prepare for a day full of visual and cultural delights.

Enjoy exploring this incredible landscape—you’ll likely leave with a new appreciation for Turkey’s intriguing blend of natural beauty and ancient ingenuity.

You can check availability for your dates here: