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BETWEEN FAIRY CHIMNEYS AND ROCK CHURCHES - FAIRY LANDSCAPES CAPPADOCIA

CAPPADOCIA – HIKING AMONG FAIRY CHIMNEYS AND ROCK CHURCHES

The eruptions of Mount Hasan and Mount Erciyes shaped Cappadocia’s dreamlike landscape over thousands of years. In the valleys carved by erosion, early Christians built countless churches – nearly every valley hides rock-hewn chapels and cave dwellings.

You’ll hike through green valleys in a rugged, awe-inspiring terrain. Along the way, silent witnesses of the past line your path. Several rest stops – often perched at scenic viewpoints – invite you to pause and enjoy a refreshing drink.

One highlight of your hike: the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Want to experience Cappadocia from above? Join a hot air balloon ride at sunrise and witness this surreal landscape from a breathtaking new perspective.

And in the evening? Treat yourself to a glass of Cappadocia’s distinctive house wines – the perfect way to end an unforgettable day.

TOUR ITINERARY

Day 1 – Arrival in Göreme

Our driver will meet you at the airport and take you to your charming hotel in Göreme – right in the heart of the fairy chimney landscape. You’ll stay here for five nights.

 

Day 2 – Göreme & Zemi Valley

After a relaxed breakfast, you explore Göreme on foot. The trail leads to Uçhisar Castle and continues into the lush Zemi Valley – a peaceful path with surprising views. Return to Göreme in the afternoon.

 

Day 3 – Open-Air Museum & Rose Valley

Optional: Sunrise balloon flight – a magical experience. Afterwards, you visit the UNESCO-listed Open-Air Museum with its rock-cut churches. The hike takes you through Meskendir Valley, past Üzümlü and Haçlı churches, and into the colorful Rose Valley.

 

Day 4 – White Valley, Uçhisar & Pigeon Valley

Today’s hike takes you through the elegant formations of White Valley. You climb up to Uçhisar Castle and walk back to Göreme through the quiet Pigeon Valley – accompanied by panoramic views and birdsong.

 

Day 5 – Paşabağ & Çavuşin

You visit the surreal rock formations of Paşabağ, then hike to the Church of St. John the Baptist in Çavuşin. A scenic ridge trail leads you back to Göreme with views over Rose Valley.

 

Day 6 – Ortahisar & Mustafapaşa

After breakfast, you head to Ortahisar and its impressive tuff castle. The hike takes you through Gomeda Valley to the charming village of Mustafapaşa, with its Greek heritage and quiet beauty. Two nights in a cave hotel.

 

Day 7 – Golgoli & Sinasos

Short transfer to Cemil. You hike to the abandoned cave settlement of Golgoli – a place frozen in time. Return via field paths to Mustafapaşa.

 

Day 8 – Departure or Extension

Transfer to the airport or your extension hotel. You leave with unforgettable memories – and perhaps the wish to return soon.

SERVICES

  • 7 nights in rooms with private shower/WC, including breakfast

  • 6 picnic lunches (Days 2–7) and 6 dinners

  • All transfers as per itinerary

  • Luggage transport between accommodations

  • Detailed route descriptions for each stage

  • Overview map for orientation

TRAVEL TIME/TOUR DATES

Daily arrivals possible during the following periods:
Early April to mid-June
Early September to late OctoberTours operate with just 1 participantExtra nights can be booked at any stop – please request when booking

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Starting point: Göreme

End point: Sinassos (Mustafapaşa)

Arrival: Flight to Kayseri or Nevşehir

DIFFICULTY LEVEL

Well-marked, mostly well-trodden hiking trails

Terrain: often sandy or soft tuff

Daily walking time: approx. 4–6 hours

Maximum elevation changes:
Ascent: up to 510 m
Descent: up to 460 m

INQUIRY

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