Ihlara Valley and Derinkuyu Underground Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Cappadocia, you’ll quickly realize that this region is packed with sights that span from mystical underground cities to lush river valleys. This particular tour, offered by Excursionbazaar.com, promises a full day of exploration—covering some of the area’s most iconic spots. Based on glowing reviews and a well-rounded itinerary, it’s a popular choice for those wanting to see a lot without the hassle of organizing everything themselves.

What we really like about this tour? First, the expert guides who bring the history to life with friendly, detailed explanations. Second, the variety of stops—from the green tranquility of Ihlara Valley to the eerie depths of Derinkuyu underground city—that make the day both engaging and diverse. One possible consideration? The tour involves quite a bit of walking and hiking, so it’s best suited for those with good mobility or who enjoy a bit of physical activity.

This tour is well-suited for curious travelers who want a rundown of Cappadocia’s highlights without the stress of planning. If you’re keen on learning about the region’s history, enjoying scenic views, and are comfortable with some walking, you’ll find this experience rewarding.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering major Cappadocia sights in one day.
• Guides are praised for their friendliness and detailed explanations.
• Valuable for the price with included entrance fees and lunch.
• Includes transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Good for active travelers who don’t mind walking and hiking.
• Limited meals: drinks are not included, and vegetarians might want to check options.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Starting the Day — Comfort and Convenience

The tour begins with a hotel pickup around 9:30 am, which is a huge plus. No need to worry about navigating public transport or figuring out where to meet—just relax and enjoy the ride. The small group size (max 15 travelers) helps keep things cozy, so you get plenty of attention from your guide. The reviews mention smooth, timely pickups, which set a positive tone right from the start.

First Stop: Goreme

Your day kicks off with a quick 1-hour stop in Goreme, where you can get your first glimpse of the region’s iconic fairy chimneys and landscape. Since this part is free of charge, it’s mainly a chance to stretch your legs and get a quick look at the view. Many travelers appreciate the convenient start, making it easy to transition into the day’s adventures.

Ihlara Valley: A Lush Trek

Next, you’ll head to the Ihlara Valley, the highlight for many. It’s a 14 km long canyon, but you’ll be dropped off at around a 3 km point, which makes it manageable for most walkers. Once you descend a few hundred stairs to the canyon floor, you’ll be immersed in a green, peaceful environment along the Melendiz River.

Your guide will point out Ağaçaltı Cave Church, dating back to the 4th century, with frescoes from the 10th century. The combination of natural beauty and historical sites makes this part special. Expect around 2 hours here; many reviews praise the guide’s explanations that help you appreciate what you’re seeing. The walk through the canyon isn’t just about scenery—it’s about understanding how early communities thrived in such a unique setting.

Selime Monastery: A Majestic Religious Site

From the canyon, you’ll visit Selime Monastery, dating from the 8th-10th centuries. This enormous religious complex was more than just a monastery; it had a missionary school, living quarters, and at least one church. Its impressive size makes it clear why it’s the biggest religious building in the area.

Many travelers find this site fascinating, especially with the guide’s insights. You’ll have about an hour here to explore, take pictures, and soak in the history. Across the valley, you’ll see a twin female monastery, offering a glimpse into the religious diversity of the time.

Pigeon Valley & Goreme Panorama

Next, you’ll stop at Pigeon Valley—a peaceful spot where you can feed pigeons and look at the “evil eye tree,” a local curiosity. It’s a relaxing break, and many visitors enjoy browsing the souvenirs along the way.

Following this, the Goreme Panorama offers a breathtaking view of the fairy chimney landscape—perfect for photos and to understand why Cappadocia is so distinctive globally. This spot is often highlighted as a favorite by travelers, thanks to the stunning vistas.

Lunch in Belisirma

Midday, you’ll head to Belisirma Restaurant for lunch, included in the tour. Many reviews praise the quality of the meal and the scenic setting. Keep in mind, drinks aren’t included, so plan accordingly if you want something other than water. It’s a good chance to relax and chat about the morning’s adventures while enjoying local cuisine.

Final Stop: The Green Valley

After lunch, you’ll make a short drive back to Ihlara Valley for a quick look around, which many find to be a personal highlight. This lush, green canyon is often described as the favorite spot in Cappadocia by families and nature lovers alike.

Derinkuyu Underground City

The day wraps up with a visit to Derinkuyu Underground City, the deepest in Cappadocia. It’s an eerie, fascinating network of tunnels and chambers that once served as refuge during invasions. Visitors often describe it as a “must-see” because of its scale and historical significance. Expect about an hour exploring underground, which many reviews say is well worth the effort.

Why Travelers Love This Tour

Guides Make a Difference
Several reviews emphasize how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are. One reviewer said, “Ufuk was very friendly and explained all the places in detail,” highlighting that a good guide can truly elevate the experience.

Great Value for Money
Including entrance fees, lunch, transportation, and a small-group setting, many feel they get good value at $85. The reviews also mention the smooth organization, which helps you enjoy the day without logistical worries.

Beautiful and Diverse Sites
From the green serenity of Ihlara to the mysterious underground city, this tour offers variety—perfect if you want to see different facets of Cappadocia in one go. Travelers frequently remark on how breathtaking and peaceful the scenery is, especially in the canyon and panoramic views.

Well-Organized and Pacing
People appreciate that everything runs smoothly and at a comfortable pace. The tour’s structure allows enough time at each stop without feeling rushed, as several reviews praise the well-planned itinerary.

Points to Consider

While most reviews are glowing, a few mention that the tour involves a fair amount of walking and hiking. If you have mobility issues or dislike physical activity, it’s worth considering. Also, vegetarians should note that lunch options might be limited, and drinks aren’t included.

The tour lasts about 8 hours, so be prepared for a full day on your feet. But if you’re in good shape and love outdoor exploration, this is a fantastic way to learn about Cappadocia’s highlights.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for curious travelers who want a comprehensive, guided overview of Cappadocia’s main attractions. It’s perfect if you value expert explanations and enjoy scenic walking. Families with active kids often find the itinerary engaging, but younger children should be prepared for some walking and stairs.

Travelers aiming for a budget-friendly, all-in-one day trip will appreciate the included entrance fees and lunch. However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want to skip certain sites, you might consider customizing your own plans.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:30 am with hotel pickup and drop-off included.

What’s included in the price?
You get hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, entrance fees for sites like Ihlara Valley and Derinkuyu, and lunch at a local restaurant.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, so bring water or purchase beverages during lunch.

Is the tour suitable for elderly travelers?
While most travelers enjoy it, some reviews note it involves a lot of walking and hiking. Elderly travelers or those with mobility issues should consider this.

Can I participate if I have limited time?
This tour is designed for a full day, so if you have only a short stay, it may be better to select specific sites or look for shorter options.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 15, which helps ensure a more personalized experience.

Do I need to prepare anything?
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and hiking. Bring sun protection, and check if you want to bring extra snacks or drinks.

What about vegetarian options?
Lunch is included, but some reviews mention vegetarian options might be limited. It’s worth mentioning dietary preferences when booking.

How do I cancel if needed?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Wrapping It Up

If you’re looking for a well-organized, engaging way to see Cappadocia’s top sights in one day, this tour offers great value. You’ll enjoy expert guides, a carefully curated itinerary, and the chance to explore some of the most photogenic and historically fascinating spots in the region.

It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate guided storytelling, scenic outdoor walks, and a diverse range of sites. Just be ready for a bit of physical activity, and you’ll come away with a richer understanding of this mesmerizing landscape.

Whether it’s your first trip to Cappadocia or you’ve been before and want a structured day to revisit its highlights, this tour can be a solid choice. Just plan for a full, active day filled with memorable moments.