Suppose you're staying in the heart of Cappadocia and have already visited the most attractive places but are looking for something different, like hiking alongside a river, surrounded by the beautiful sounds of birds and vibrant shades of green. In that case, this tour is perfect for you. The valley spans 16 km and was formed by the fractured Melendez River. It is a place with numerous churches embellished with wall paintings dating from the 10th to the 12th centuries, once used as dwellings by Christian monks. At the end of the valley, you'll come across the magnificent Selime Monastery, a large complex perched on a high cliff. It's truly an awe-inspiring place that offers a peaceful environment for exploration and self-reflection.
Moreover, this tour provides an exceptional opportunity to explore one of the deepest underground cities in the region. Cappadocia is known for its remarkable underground cities, and there are a total of 180 scattered throughout the area. However, only 37 have been discovered, making this tour even more special. As you descend as deep as 80 meters below the ground, you can witness the intricate tunnels, chambers, and unique architectural features ingeniously carved out by ancient civilizations.
Overall, this tour is not just a sightseeing adventure but a comprehensive journey that allows you to delve into Cappadocia's fascinating history, awe-inspiring landscapes, and vibrant culture. It's an experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories and a profound sense of appreciation for this unique destination.
ITINERARY OVERVIEW
⦁ Visit Derinkuyu underground City.
⦁ Hike in Ihlara Valley (4km) (1 hour)
⦁ Lunch by the Melendiz River in Belisirma
⦁ Climb to Selime Monastery
The Tour Itinerary
After breakfast, around 9.30 a.m., meet your professional tour guide and driver in the hotel lobby to start the day. The first stop is the underground City, Derinkuyu. Cappadocia is famous for its remarkable underground cities, with 180 scattered throughout the area. So far, only 37 have been discovered, making this tour even more special. Descend as deep as 80 meters below the ground to witness the intricate tunnels, chambers, and unique architectural features ingeniously carved out by ancient civilizations.
After visiting the underground City, drive for about an hour to reach Ihlara Valley. This valley was formed by volcanic activities and carved by a river, allowing habitation for centuries. Christian monks used to live here and even hid in the valley. They later formed churches, which were adorned with beautiful wall paintings. After hiking for about an hour, you will reach Belisirma Village, where you will have lunch by the river.
Following lunch, the last destination is Selime Monastery. This enormous monastery complex served different purposes at different times, with the earliest known use as a Christian monastery. Climb up to the monastery to explore it. After visiting this site, drive back to the region.
Inclusions:
⦁ Entrance ticket to Derinkuyu Underground City
⦁ Entrance ticket for Hiking in Ihlara Valley (4km).
⦁ Lunch by the Melendiz River in Belisirma
⦁ Entrance ticket to Selime Monastery
⦁ Professional Guide and Driver: Benefit from the expertise of a dedicated guide and a reliable driver throughout the tour.
⦁ Hotel Pick-Up and Drop-Off: Conveniently start and end your journey with pick-up and drop-off services at your hotel.
Exclusions:
⦁ Personal Expenses: Any personal expenses or purchases during the tour are not included.
⦁ Gratuities: Gratuities for the guide, driver, and other service providers are not included and are at your discretion.
⦁ All drinks during the tour and lunch
Note: All necessary entrance fees, transportation, and meals mentioned in the itinerary are included in the tour package.