Cappadocia Information & Activities

History of Cappadocia

Cappadocia is one of the most fascinating geological and historical areas in the world. Its fertile land and its strange rock formations have provided ample food and shelter for its inhabitants for thousands of years. Here people found land perfect for growing fruits and vegetables, cave dwellings to protect them from the elements, and a bewildering landscape that opened their souls to religious enlightenment.

Millions of years ago a series of volcanic eruptions spewed ash throughout the region, later turning into a soft rock called tuft. Thousands of years of wind and rain formed the strange, cone-shaped rock formations now called fairy chimneys. As people began inhabiting the region they found the soft rock easy to carve, shaping dwellings for themselves inside the fairy chimneys. They found these homes provided perfect insulation; the caves were cool during the hot summer temperatures and preserved warmth during the cold, snowy winters. Placing the entrances to their cave homes high above ground and out of site they also provided perfect camouflage to protect them from their enemies.

In the heart of it all is the village of Goreme, the prime location from which to explore all the mysteries of Cappadocia. Goreme is a place where living history blends with the modern world. You will notice that every modern convenience is provided to visitors, yet you still have a sense of having stepped into another place and time. Goreme’s inhabitants are still living in harmony with their surroundings, much as their ancestors have for centuries. Here you will find Turkish hospitality in abundance. People are curious about their visitors and are always ready to sit and chat over a cup of tea, often extending invitations to their cave homes for a first hand look. This blending of hospitality, history, and spectacular scenery allows a perspective unique in the world.

Whether you are an artist, historian, or outdoor enthusiast, Goreme holds something special for everyone!

Activites in Cappadocia

Hot Air Ballooning

To see Cappadocia at its best you must see it from the air. It’s an amazing opportunity to see one of the most spectacular ballooning landscapes in the world. During your flight you can be assured a safe and smooth ride with professionally certified pilots who have come from all around the world to work in Goreme. There are many balloon companies operating in Cappadocia, we work only with the most experienced companies, with the highest reputation for safety and reliability.

The flight takes place at dawn, allowing you to see the colors of the sunrise reflected in golden and rosy hues from the valleys, hills, and rock formations of Cappadocia.

You will be picked up from the hotel to watch the balloons inflate while enjoying a light morning snack. You have the choice between a standard (45 minutes in the air, maximum 20 people in the basket) or deluxe (1.5 hrs in the air, maximum 12 people per basket) flight, followed by the traditional champagne toast and a certificate to commemorate your flight. The entire experience lasts between 2 and 3 hours.

If you are interested please let us know in advance so we can make the necessary arrangements. Ballooning gets more and more popular every year and it is harder to find space on flights. It’s a once in a lifetime experience!

Daily Tours

Most visitors to Cappadocia decide to explore the area via a daily tour. There is so much to do here, and the region is quite difficult to cover on one’s own. A tour provides the opportunity to visit all of the must see places comfortably and at a very reasonable price. On your tour you can be assured expert information from an excellent English-speaking guide, all entrance fees are included, as well as lunch and pickup service to and from the hotel.

All of the companies offer the same tours going to the same places and they have set prices. We have chosen the company we book through because of their professionalism and the high quality of their guides.

There are 3 main daily tours.

The Regional Tour takes you through Goreme Open Air Museum, one of the oldest monasteries of its kind in the world. You also visit the ancient rock castle of Uchisar, and explore of the rock formations in Pasabag and Devrent Valley. The tour then takes you to Avanos, where you visit with it’s famous pottery artisans, and on to Urgup to taste wines at one of our well-known wineries.

The Ihlara Tour takes you to the southern edges of Cappadocia, first visiting an underground city, where early civilizations dug out entire cities underground to house themselves in times of siege. There is a stop in the village of Guzelyurt, with it’s beautiful Greek architecture. The tour then moves on to Ihlara Valley, a beautiful canyon 14 kilometers long and in places up to 100 meters deep. There is a very gentle walk through the canyon floor, along the river, for 4 kilometers, exploring ancient cave churches along the way. Lunch is at a restaurant by the river in the canyon. Late afternoon you will visit the village of Selime, with a beautiful old monastery and great views.

The Soganli Tour takes you first to the town of Mustafa Pasha, well renowned for it’s Ottoman and Greek style houses. You continue on to a Caravanserai, a small village with a traditional medresse (theological school) and later the small village of Guzeloz. Here you will take a leisurely hike to explore the Byzantine rock tombs and Armenian style churches. Finally you reach Soganli Valley, also called “Valley of the Dolls” for a late lunch and aaa visit to the churches dating back to the 12th and 14th centuries.

Some people choose to hire a private guide, they may have specific interests in the area or just want to take things at their own pace. We have carefully selected several private guides who can assure you of exactly the type of tour you are looking for.

Walking Tours

Many people want to explore the valleys by foot. This can be done on one’s own or with a guide. There are several advantages to having a walking guide lead you through the area. The maps available are a bit difficult to follow at times, and many people find themselves back-tracking to find a trail. Many see this as an adventure rather than a disadvantage as it gives you a second chance to enjoy the views! One of the main reasons to hire a walking guide, however, is their knowledge of all of the treasures hidden in the valleys. On one’s own you may walk right below a beautiful little church, an ancient dwelling with sacred paintings, or miss out on an opportunity to learn first hand about the religious and cultural history of the people who dwelled there. Laetitia’s passion has been exploring the valleys of Cappadocia; you are guaranteed a unique and fascinating walk in her care.

Whirling Dervishes

Many people have heard of Rumi, or in Turkey he is generally known as Mevlana, but not many have the opportunity to experience the Sema ceremony he inspired. You may have seen an example of Whirling Dervishes turning in a restaurant in Istanbul or at a Turkish night, but nothing compares to the authentic Sufi ceremony as it is performed at the Sarihan Caravanserai.

Sarihan is a beautifully restored building with fabulous acoustics, allowing you to become immersed in the sound of the ney and the songs of prayer while watching the dancers turn. The turning is a form of prayer whose purpose is to embrace all of humankind with affection and love.

An evening at Sarihan starts with an opportunity to explore the rooms of the Caravanserai while enjoying a cup of Turkish coffee, followed by the ceremony. You are asked not to drink, smoke, or take photographs during the performance.

Turkish Night

Turkish night is great fun and very popular. Every region of Turkey boasts a different style of traditional dance and costume. The night’s program includes examples of dress and dance from all over the country, with fabulous music and of course belly dancing! With the entertainment you can enjoy the open buffet of Turkish foods and an open bar – food and drinks (both soft and alcoholic) are unlimited. After watching the show you can continue the fun by dancing the night away…

Horse Riding

Another way to discover the valleys is on horseback. Cappadocia means “land of the beautiful horses”, a place long known for its majestic horses. This tradition seemed to wane over time but has recently been revived. There are morning and afternoon rides that last about 2 hours. You don’t have to be an expert; learners are welcome as the guides are experienced riders that can show you everything you need to know. The horses are fit and well behaved. Once again you will need to book for this, the day before is best so they know what kind of numbers to expect. You might be a little saddle sore but are guaranteed to see the area from a new perspective!

Turkish Bath

A truly Turkish experience is time spent at the Turkish baths, something everyone should try at least once while they are in Turkey. There are traditional hamams near by, professional and co-ed. You can enjoy a sauna and a good scrub while easing those sore travelers muscles.

Massage

There is no better way to treat yourself and get a good nights sleep than a massage. It’s great for combating jet-lag, travelers fatigue, and easing those aching muscles after walking through the valleys.

Hire a Bike, Scooter, Motor Cross or take an ATV Tour

If you have lots of energy and would like to explore on your own you can hire a mountain bike and hit the hills. Most choose a scooter instead as the heat can be a bit overwhelming for mountain biking. If you want to explore off road you can hire a motor cross or take a tour through the valleys with an ATV guide. It’s great fun for the whole family, and a safe alternative to motor crossing. Please remember in all cases you should wear a helmet. Let us know if you would like help choosing a company as there are many to choose from and some tend to have newer, better maintained equipment than others.

Rental Cars

We work with several local car rental agencies to provide you with the best possible rates for short and long term rentals. There are many popular destinations in Turkey where you can leave your vehicle without the normal drop off surcharge if you would like to move on from Cappadocia with your vehicle.