Journey to Cappadocia for a comprehensive one day small group tour of Rose Valley, Ortahisar, Kaymakli Underground City and Pigeon Valley. With plenty of attention from your local guide discover this otherworldly UNESCO World Heritage region famous for its mushroom topped pinnacles, subsurface cities and cave carved ‘fairy chimneys.’ During this tour, stroll the verdant Rose Valley, visit the deserted village of Çavuşin, marvel at Ortahisar Castle, explore Kaymakli Underground City and admire stunning volcanic monoliths at Pigeon Valley.
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Transport by air-conditioned minivan
Round-trip flights from Istanbul to Kayseri International Airport
Local Guide
Lunch
Food and drink, unless specified
Gratuities (suggested)
Departure Point
Traveler pickup is offered
Departure Time
5:30 AM
Return Details
Returns to original departure point
In the morning, meet your chauffeur at your Istanbul hotel for a transfer to Istanbul Airport and begin your day adventure to Cappadocia. After short flight, land at Kayseri International Airport and meet your air-conditioned minivan for a 1.5-hour ride to beautiful Rose Valley.
Arrive and begin a relaxing walking tour with your local guide. Learn about the rose-colored rocks whose tone changes during the day is the reason for Rose Valley’s etymology. Then, marvel at the valley’s weathered volcanic monoliths, craggy pinnacles, fairy chimneys and dense orchards and vineyards. Continue to Rose Valley’s cave churches and hear how their were used by monks before the end of the first millennium.
Onward to a historical deserted rock village filled with ancient houses and churches, known as Old Çavuşin. Here, capture stunning shots of creepy houses and admire the imposing Basilica of St John the Baptist which rests on a clifftop overlooking Çavuşin.
Take a break for lunch at a traditional restaurant (see the sample menu below in the Itinerary) and then head to the old town of Ortahisar to gaze up at the commanding presence of Ortahisar Castle, a Byzantine-era fortification. Stand in awe as you view this 295-foot monolith chiseled into the image of a giant honeycomb. Climb up its narrow passage and pass carved rooms and etched out chambers. At the top, glimpse over the city for remarkable views.
Next, voyage to Kaymakli Underground City and delve into the winding network of subsurface tunnels, living quarters, stables, kitchens and cellars. Hear how this well preserved city was once home to Christians who sought refuge from persecution.
Finally, spend time looking at astounding cave homes at Pigeon Valley. Learn about locals who bred pigeons in their homes to collect poop for fertilizer! As the day comes to a close, journey back to Kayseri Airport to catch your flight to Istanbul. Then, enjoy a transfer back to your hotel where your tour ends.
Please note: Ortahisar Castle may be undertaking renovation, if it is entrance will not be permitted.
Stop at: Hotel for pickup
Duration: 45 minutes
Stop at: Pigeon Valley
Duration: 45 minutes
Admission ticket free
Stop at Gulludere Vadisi
Duration: 45 minutes
Admission ticket free
Stop at: Kaymakli Underground City
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Admission Ticket Included
If you cancel at least 8 day(s) in advance of the scheduled departure, there is no cancellation fee. If you cancel within 7 days of the scheduled departure, there is a 100 percent cancellation fee.