WALKING THE FAIRYTALE STUNNING SCENIC LANDS
OF CAPPADOCIA
With optional hot Air balloon ride
over the stunning landscapes
TRIP DATES: APRIL 25-MAY 2, 2026
Only $2350 per person based on 2
people per room
Including 6 dinners, 6 lunches and
breakfast daily
Stay in one hotel the entire week
with included guided daily walks and drives to experience the stunning scenery
of the region.
Optional Single room supplement only $475 (Very Limited Single room availability)
Cappadocia
is famous for its unique and stunning landscapes, including "fairy
chimneys" (towering pinnacle shaped rock formations) and ancient cave
dwellings, along with its rich history, amazing hot air balloon rides and gorgeous sunsets.
The
region is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts tourists seeking adventure,
history, and cultural experiences.
Late April is the perfect time of year to
visit this amazing outdoor wonderland for ideal temps in the mid 70’s and sunny
days with very little rain. Thus it provides great weather, both for our daily
guided walks, as well as for our optional (and stunningly beautiful), hot air
ballooning over Cappadocia’s surreal landscapes.
What makes Cappadocia so special?
The combination of
its dramatic natural
beauty and extensive human history, visible through cave dwellings and frescoed chapels, sets
Cappadocia apart as a stunning testament to both nature's artistry and human
ingenuity.
While it’s not
officially one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World, Cappadocia is frequently
considered a Natural Wonder of the World, due to its unique and spectacular
landscapes, historical significance, and cultural heritage. The elements of the
facts about Cappadocia Turkey, from its fairy chimneys and rock-hewn churches
to its extensive underground cities create a mystical and almost otherworldly
experience that many stand in awe of as a natural wonder.
Welcome to Cappadocia, a mesmerizing region
located in central Turkey. Known for its unique landscapes, rich history, and
captivating charm, Cappadocia has become a must-visit destination for travelers
from across the globe. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or
adventure seeker, this enchanting region offers something for everyone.
Why Cappadocia
deserves a top spot on your bucket list.
1. Otherworldly Landscapes:
Prepare to be awestruck by the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia.
Famous for its “fairy chimneys,” towering rock formations shaped by centuries
of natural erosion, the region resembles a scene from a fantasy movie. The
sight of hundreds of hot air balloons floating above the unique rock formations
during sunrise is a breathtaking experience you won’t want to miss.
2.
Cave Dwellings and Underground Cities:
Cappadocia’s history goes back thousands of years, and evidence
of its fascinating past can be found in its cave dwellings and underground
cities. Explore the ancient troglodyte villages, carved into the soft volcanic
rock, and gain insight into the lives of the people who once called these caves
home. Descend into the underground cities, such as Derinkuyu and Kaymakli, to
discover an intricate network of tunnels, churches, and storage rooms
3.
Hot Air Balloon Rides:
Embark on a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia’s breathtaking
landscapes for an experience of a lifetime. Drifting above the fairy chimneys
and valleys as the sun rises, you’ll witness a kaleidoscope of colors painting
the sky. The panoramic views from the basket of a hot air balloon will forever
be etched in your memory.
4.
Open-Air Outdoor Museums:
Step into the open-air museums of Cappadocia, where history
comes alive. Göreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, presents a
collection of rock-cut churches adorned with stunning frescoes dating back to
the 10th century. Zelve Open-Air Museum offers a glimpse into the abandoned
cave dwellings and churches, providing a compelling insight into the region’s
past.
5. Hiking and Trekking:
Cappadocia offers an array of hiking and trekking trails that
allow you to immerse yourself in its natural beauty. Explore the Rose Valley,
Pigeon Valley, or Love Valley, each offering unique rock formations, hidden
churches, and breathtaking vistas. Lace up your hiking boots and embark on an
adventure through this captivating landscape.
6.
Whirling Dervishes:
Witness the mesmerizing performance of the Whirling Dervishes, a
mystical religious ceremony originating from the teachings of the 13th-century
poet and philosopher, Rumi. The Sema ceremony, with its swirling white-robed
figures, embodies a spiritual journey and offers a glimpse into Turkey’s cultural heritage.
7.
Local Cuisine and Wine Tasting:
Indulge in the flavors of Cappadocia’s delectable cuisine. From
traditional Turkish dishes to regional specialties such as pottery kebab and
testi kebab cooked in clay pots, your taste buds will be delighted. Pair your
meal with a glass of Cappadocian wine, renowned for its unique taste due to the
volcanic soils of the region. Visit local wineries and vineyards for a wine
tasting experience that will leave you craving for more
8 Outdoor Adventure:
For the adrenaline junkies, Cappadocia offers a range of outdoor
activities to get you excited.
9
Turkish Hospitality:
One of the most cherished aspects of visiting Cappadocia is
experiencing the warm and welcoming nature of the Turkish people. From the
moment you step foot in this enchanting region, you’ll be greeted with genuine
smiles and hospitality. The locals are eager to share their stories,
traditions, and culture, making your visit all the more memorable.
10.
Unforgettable Sunsets:
As the day draws to a close, prepare to be captivated by the
mesmerizing sunsets of Cappadocia. Find a spot atop one of the region’s
picturesque hills or viewpoints and witness the sky transform into a canvas of
vibrant hues—shades of orange, pink, and purple that paint the landscape,
creating a truly magical moment.
Join us for a 7 day
walking tour of some of the most beautiful and unique lands in the world. Cappadocia is that rare place in this world
at which you can just stand and be mesmerized in awe of its stunning natural
and truly amazing scenery.
You will feel like you are in a movie, walking
through a time warp of incredible natural land formations.
Each day we will enjoy walks led by
professional experienced local guides, as well as drives to see some of the
most scenic places in the country.
And since we will be staying the full week in
one hotel, anyone wishing to skip any day’s activities is free to remain at the
hotel that day and either rest or enjoy the day at your own leisure, either at
the hotel, or exploring the local area as you wish.
DAILY ITINERARY
Day 1 - APRIL 25,
2026
Arrive in either Nevsehir airport (NAV airport booking code) or into Keyseri
airport (ASR airport code).
Nevsehir is a bit closer to the hotel, (about 40
minutes vs approx., 60 minutes), but Keyseri has more frequent shuttle services
from the airport.
If you fly into
Keyseri (ASR), Depending on your arrival time, you may be able to take the
group’s free transfer from the airport to the hotel. (You
can inquire as to the time of the free group transport shuttle transport when
booking this trip with us, or at any time after booking)
There are no activities planned today, after
checking into the hotel, so, if you plan
to make your own transport from either airport to the hotel, you are free to arrive in Cappadocia at any
time you wish.
In the evening, our local guide will hold a welcome meeting to discuss the week ahead, give advice on the local area and answering any questions.
Day 2 - April 26, 2026
We
will enjoy a professionally guided trek through Akvadi (White Valley); visit
Uchisar citadel, the highest point in Cappadocia
Today’s guided trek takes us through the Akvadi. Eroded over
time, this fascinating valley presents curious rock formations and fairytale
chimneys that wouldn’t look out of place in a Salvador Dalí painting. If we are
lucky, we may spot wildlife such as the beautiful hoopoe and hear its
distinctive call or we may spot a Eurasian fox along the way.
After approximately three hours of walking, we will arrive at
Uchisar village, where we will enjoy lunch in a local restaurant before
climbing the citadel embedded into the rock above. From here, we are rewarded with a spectacular
view of the surreal landscape. In the afternoon, we will follow a path that
leads us to the Guvercinlik (or Pigeon Valley), where pigeons are encouraged to
roost so the local people can collect their droppings to use as fertilizer. We
then continue to the town of Goreme.
Ascent: 1,312ft (400m); Descent: 1,312ft (400m); Activity hours
(approx.): 5
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 April 27, 2026
Optional balloon
ride; walk to Zemi Valley and through Gomeda Valley; afternoon to explore
Mustafapaşa
This morning is our chance to take part in the most iconic
activity in Cappadocia – an optional early morning hot-air balloon ride –
The views from the hot air balloon are incredible. Not only will you see the fairytale landscapes from a bird eye view, you will also see countless other hot air balloons gliding across the morning sky.
Hot air ballooning in Cappadocia is
one of the most magical experiences in Turkey.
Floating above Cappadocia's surreal
landscapes at sunrise, you'll witness fairy chimneys, ancient valleys, and
majestic peaks from a breathtaking perspective. A hot air balloon flight in
Cappadocia is a truly an incredible experience, blending peaceful serenity with
awe-inspiring views !
The last week of April is
one of the Best Times of the year to enjoy a Hot Air Balloon ride of
Cappadocia, as this time of year is known for having ideal weather conditions
with mild, calm weather, as well as blooming wildflowers, creating great
scenery, combined with the already surreal, stunning landscapes of Cappadocia.
If you choose to skip the optional hot air balloon ride, it is still an amazing experience to simply watch from the ground, as the countless number of colorful hot air balloons glide above you and create a feast for your eyes and for your cameras.
And
since we staying in the same hotel for the full 7 days, if you wish to watch
the hot air balloons ascend on any other morning, you can hop in a taxi and
head to Göreme's Sunrise and Sunset Point (approx.. 7 to 15 minutes’ drive) early
in the morning to watch the balloons rise with the sun.
After our hot air balloon ride, we have a short transfer before we start our trek in Zemi Valley. The path leads us through orchards and mesmerizing tunnels to a panoramic viewpoint, where we meet our bus and drive to Ayvalı. In the afternoon, we have a short walk through the Gomeda Valley from Ayvalı to Mustafapaşa village, where we stop for tea in a cafe. Mustafapaşa used to be one of the richest towns in Anatolia until the 1924 population exchange, which forced the Greeks living in Turkey to move to Greece and vice versa. You can spot the Greek influence in some of the architecture. In the afternoon, there is time to explore this village before returning to our hotel.
Max
altitude of today’s walk: 3,775ft (1,150m)
Distance covered on today’s walk : 7mi (11km)
Ascent on today’s walk: 919ft (280m); Descent: 1,312ft (400m);
Activity hours: 5-6
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 – April 28, 2026
Explore
the beautiful rock formations of the Pancarlik and Kizilcukur (Red) valleys
After breakfast, we will
be transferred to the beautiful Pancarlik Valley. Smooth surfaces on the rock face
undulate like waves, while the pastel colors intertwined with vineyards and
cultivated gardens add color to this extraordinary landscape. It is also
possible to spot Sarica and Kepez churches ingrained into the rock chimneys
that rise from the ground.
After lunch, we head through the Kizilcukur Valley, also known
as the Red Valley.
Among the network of paths that connect the small villages of this valley, we visit some of the churches that pepper the area, ending our walk in the village of Cavusin before returning to our hotel.
Cappadocia's valleys, including Pancarlik and
Kizilcukur (Red) valleys, are famous for their unique and stunning rock
formations, formed over millions of years by volcanic activity and erosion.
Kizilcukur (Red) Valley
·
Distinctive Colors: This valley gets its name from the vibrant red and orange
hues of its rock formations, especially captivating during sunset.
·
Volcanic Turf:: The landscape is shaped from volcanic
ash that settled and solidified into a soft, porous rock called tuff, which has
been eroded by wind and rain.
·
Fairy Chimneys and Swirling Cliffs: The erosion of this soft rock has created unique
formations like fairy chimneys (tall, conical rock spires topped with harder
rock caps) and dramatic, swirling cliffs.
·
Historical Significance: Beyond the geology, Kizilcukur Valley is also
historically significant, home to ancient rock-cut churches and monastic
complexes, showcasing its role as a religious center during the Byzantine
period.
Pancarlik Valley
·
Photogenic Landscape: Pancarlik Valley boasts amazing rock
formations, offering great opportunities for photography.
·
Pink and White Rocks: The scenery is characterized by a striking combination of
pink rock and white rock formations.
·
Pancarlik
Church: This valley features the Pancarlik
Church, a monastic church carved into a group of rocks, dating back
approximately 1,400 years. The church is situated in a high area of the valley
and is surrounded by a scenic landscape.
·
Historical Frescoes: The Pancarlik Church is notable for its well-preserved
frescoes covering the walls and ceiling, which are still in good condition
despite their age.
Max altitude of today’s walk: 3,940ft (1,200m)
Distance covered: 7mi (12km)
Ascent: 656ft (200m); Descent: 656ft (200m); Activity hours: 5-6
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 April 29, 2026
Walk
through Pasabaglari (Monk’s) Valley; trek up Bozdag, the highest point in the
area for stunning views
monolithic rock formations.
Our guided trek today takes
us through Pasabaglari, formerly known as Monk’s Valley. Here it is possible to
see the dwellings of the hermits of Cappadocia, who distanced themselves from
the world by carving abodes high up in the rock chimneys, using foot holes and
ropes to climb in. Inside, these dwellings are surprisingly spacious with some
rooms hollowed out to around 50ft (15m) high. Once through the valley, we head
up to Bozdag, the highest point in Cappadocia, for outstanding views.
Max altitude of today’s walk: 4,265ft (1,300m)
Distance covered: 7mi (11km)
Ascent: 984ft (300m); Descent: 656ft (200m); Activity hours: 5
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 April 30, 2026
Visit
the underground city of Kaymakli; afternoon walk through the Ihlara Valley, the
deepest, longest canyon in Cappadocia
In the morning, we will be transferred to the underground city
of Kaymakli, built by early Christians to avoid religious persecution. This
fascinating construction is an elaborate system of tunnels and caves, featuring
everything from communal living spaces and kitchens to stables, a church and
graveyard, not to mention being fortified to protect the inhabitants. We then will
be driven to the village of Selime, where we begin our walk, following the
Melendiz River until we reach Belisirma, where we stop for lunch. In the
afternoon, we will be taken down the Ihlara Valley, the deepest and longest
valley in the region, passing Byzantine monasteries and churches that date to
the 11th century, before arriving back in Cappadocia.
Max
altitude of today’s walk: 4,265ft (1,300m)
Distance covered: 4mi (7km)
Ascent: 328ft (100m); Descent: 656ft (200m); Activity hours: 4-5
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7 May 1, 2026
Walk
along the Zindanonu Valley passing the Goreme Open-Air Museum with carved caves
and Byzantine frescoes
Our last day takes us through the Zindanonu Valley and up onto a
viewpoint of the town of Goreme and the Goreme Open-Air Museum (an outdoor
museum of more amazing rock formations).
The Goreme Valley itself holds some of the finest collections of
painted cave churches in the region. Around 1000 CE to 1200 CE, orthodox monks
carved places of worship from the soft volcanic stone and decorated them with
elaborate Byzantine frescoes, many of which are still intact today.
The late afternoon is then free to unwind after a truly
memorable week.
Max
altitude of today’s walk: 4,265ft (1,300m)
Distance covered: 4mi (7km)
Ascent: 656ft (200m); Activity hours: 2
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8 May 2, 2026
Our week’s adventure
ends after breakfast. Depending on your
return flight time, you may be able to take our free group transport from the
hotel to the airport ASR airport, or you can arrange your own transfer to
either ASR or NEV airports. (NEV is approx. 40 minutes by taxi or shuttle,
while ASR is approx.. 60 minutes by taxi or shuttle).
Meals included: Breakfast
OUR ACCOMDOTIONS FOR THE WEEK.
We will
enjoy the convenience of staying at the same hotel for the entire week of our
tour.
We will be
staying in one of two great hotels
Sobek Stone House or
Dreams Cave Hotel
Sobek Stone House
This 29-room property is on the edge of Göreme with great views of the hot-air balloons ascending in the distance each morning. There is an outdoor and indoor swimming pool and terrace bar for further relaxation.
Dreams Cave Hotel
The Dreams Cave Hotel is a small, boutique property nestled among the magnificent rock formations of Cappadocia, set at the foot of Ortahisar Castle. The rooms are in a structure that was used as cave houses for hundreds of years, which have been fully restored but are still in keeping with the original architecture.
Key information
Hotel: Sobek Stone House, Avcılar, İsali Gaferli, Bilal
Eroğlu Cd. No:52, 50180 Nevşehir
Phone: +90 384 271 26 63
Hotel: Dreams Cave Hotel, Esentepe Mah, Tahir Bey Sk. No:27, 50650
Ortahisar
Phone: +90 384 343 33 93
Check-in is typically from 1pm. There
will be a welcome briefing on the first evening, but if you miss it the leader
will update you separately
Vaccinations and
Health in Turkey
There are no required vaccinations. However, recommended
vaccinations include tetanus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies and typhoid.
Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
Visa - Turkey
Travellers from the UK, US, Canada and most EU states normally
do not need a visa to enter Turkey. Visa requirements can change and it is each
passenger’s responsibility to obtain any required visa for this trip.
Meals included on this
trip
All breakfasts, six days lunches and six days dinners are
included.
PRICING AND PAYMENTS
Optional
Single room supplement: Only $475 (Very Limited
availability so contact us early if you wish to have a single occupancy room on
this trip.)
Your trip
includes daily breakfast, lunch all but one day and dinner all but one day. and
your trip includes all the professionally guided hikes and drives, as listed in
the itinerary.
THIS TRIP IS LIMITED TO 16 TOTAL PASSENGERS, so book early to
secure your space on this very unique and exciting walking tour.
A deposit of $600 is due within 7
days of booking this trip.
The balance is due
November 25th, 2025
Cancel policy for this trip:
The initial deposit is
non-refundable, but if you cancel by Nov. 1st, you will receive a
$300 credit toward any of our singles trips through the end of 2026.
After the Nov. 25th
balance due date and until Dec. 15th, the balance payment is 50%
refundable if you are booked in single occupancy, or with your own roommate, and
Non-refundable after Dec. 15th, but if you asked us to assign you a
roommate, then your balance payment is non-refundable at time of payment
PHOTOS
FROM THIS TRIP
