Discover the geological wonderland of Cappadocia in this immersive three-day tour package. Explore the spectacular Goreme open-air museum, the lunar landscape of the different rock formations in Devrent Valley and the highest point of Cappadocia, known as Uchisar rock castle, where you have the chance to enjoy a panoramic view of the valleys below. Step into the Underground Cities and visit Pigeon Valley where thousands of pigeon houses have been carved into the soft tufa rock since ancient times.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:
Cappadocia: The Ancient region in central Anatolia, situated on the rugged plateau north of the Taurus Mountains, in the centre of present-day Turkey, boasts a lunar landscape and early Christian churches carved out of volcanic rock.
Day 1: ISTANBUL – CAPPADOCIA (90 min by flight, included)
Meet with your driver at the lobby of your hotel in Istanbul and drive to the Airport for your domestic flight to Kayseri. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by your driver and taken to Cappadocia. The tour starts with a visit to the Goreme Museum which consists of many rock-cut churches from the second half of 9C with beautiful colorful frescoes decorating the walls. Next, we will visit Devrent Valley; famous for its quirky animal-shaped rocks. It looks like a sculpture zoo made by nature. There is even a rock pillar that looks like the Virgin Mary, holding Jesus Christ. Take in the unique lunar landscape of the valley and feel like you're in another World. Next, we will drive to the Pacha's vineyard known as Pasabagi. This site is also called Monks Valley as the hermitage of Simeon monks was here. Next, we will drive to Avanos, where you will enjoy a typical Turkish lunch and a pottery-making experience with local experts. Next, we continue to Goreme Panaroma, which has one of the best panoramic views of the Fairy Chimneys. At the end we will drive to Uchisar, the Natural highest Rock Castle provides a magnificent panorama of the surrounding area before taking you to your hotel for check in.
Overnight in Cappadocia.
Day 2: CAPPADOCIA
After breakfast at the hotel meet with your guide and start your full-day tour. Visit Rose Valley, an incredibly unique area of Cappadocia with sharp tinted in pink ridges. Next drive to Cavusin, surrounded by Red Valley. The houses of the village were cut into massive rock formations. The village is famous for its rock churches. Next, Pigeon Valley which earned its name from the countless man-made dovecotes (Pigeon Houses) that have been carved into the soft volcanic tuff. Pigeon Valley is one of the best spots for walking in the marvelous Cappadocia region. Next, we drive to Underground Cities, once a place of refuge for 15 thousand Christians. These settlements were of enormous value to the development of Christianity as they provided shelter and worship and were in use until the end of 7C AD. Witness the ancient bedrooms, church, meeting hall and food storage rooms in this eight-story city connected by 30km of corridors and passageways. The tour continues to Ortahisar, famous for its friendly inhabitants, picturesque stone houses, narrow streets with lovely churches and the castle-like rock formation after which the town is named.
Overnight in Cappadocia.
Day 3: CAPPADOCIA – ISTANBUL DEPARTURE (90 min by flight, included)
After your last breakfast at the hotel check out and explore the city on your own. According to your flight time meet with your driver and drive to Kayseri Airport for your return flight to Istanbul. Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport meet with our driver and drive to your hotel in Istanbul (hotel not included).
Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting religious or official buildings in Turkey. Shoes should be removed before entering a mosque or private house. Sun protection, sun glasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.
