1. Ihlara Valley
2. Selime Monastery
3. Yaprakhisar Panorama
4. Underground City
5. Lunch
The Green Tour in Cappadocia is another popular guided excursion that offers visitors the opportunity to explore the region's natural beauty, outdoor activities, and off-the-beaten-path attractions. Here's an overview of what you can typically expect on a Cappadocia Green Tour:
1. Ihlara Valley: The Green Tour often begins with a visit to the picturesque Ihlara Valley, located southwest of Cappadocia. This deep canyon is carved by the Melendiz River and is famous for its lush greenery, towering cliffs, and ancient rock-cut churches. Visitors can hike along the valley floor, passing by numerous Byzantine frescoes adorning the cave walls.
2. Selime Monastery: Situated at the end of the Ihlara Valley, Selime Monastery is an impressive complex carved into the rock formations. This ancient monastery offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and provides insight into the region's rich religious history.
3. Yaprakhisar Panorama: Yaprakhisar is known for its unique rock formations and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the surrounding valleys and fairy chimneys. It's a fantastic spot for photography enthusiasts to capture the breathtaking landscapes of Cappadocia.
4. Underground City: The Green Tour often includes a visit to one of Cappadocia's underground cities, such as Derinkuyu or Kaymaklı. These ancient subterranean complexes served as shelters and defensive fortresses during times of invasion and feature intricate networks of tunnels, rooms, and ventilation shafts.
5. Pigeon Valley: Pigeon Valley, named for the countless pigeon houses carved into the cliffs, offers stunning vistas of Cappadocia's rock formations and fairy chimneys. Visitors can take leisurely walks or enjoy a scenic hike through the valley while observing the unique geological formations and birdlife.
6. Lunch at a Local Restaurant: The Green Tour typically includes a stop for lunch at a local restaurant, where visitors can savor authentic Turkish cuisine and regional specialties. This provides an opportunity to rest and refuel before continuing the tour.
7. Off-the-Beaten-Path Stops: In addition to the main attractions, the Green Tour may also include stops at lesser-known sites, viewpoints, or villages, allowing visitors to experience the authentic charm and rural beauty of Cappadocia away from the crowds.
Overall, the Cappadocia Green Tour offers a diverse and immersive experience, combining scenic hikes, cultural exploration, and historical discovery to showcase the natural and cultural treasures of this enchanting region.