Follow the Melendiz River through Cappadocia’s most scenic canyon, lined with cave churches, towering cliffs, and lush greenery. Your guide shares the valley’s history as you walk shaded paths ideal for nature lovers.
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Ihlara Valley tours
Ihlara Valley is one of Cappadocia’s most scenic canyons, carved by the Melendiz River and lined with hidden cave churches, frescoes, and lush greenery. Ihlara Valley tours from Cappadocia pair nature with history—ideal for travelers who want both trekking and cultural immersion.
Both tour options include hotel transfers, entry fees, and expert guides. The Green Tour combines Ihlara with major attractions like Derinkuyu and Selime Monastery, while the South Cappadocia Tour focuses more deeply on trekking and the valley itself.
Your Ihlara Valley tour begins with hotel pickup across Cappadocia. Enjoy views of volcanic formations, fairy chimneys, and small villages as you head toward the lush Ihlara gorge.
Descend into the canyon and walk along the Melendiz River. Your guide highlights rock-cut churches, hidden chapels, and frescoed interiors as you trek through one of Cappadocia’s most peaceful landscapes.
Stop at Belisirma Village, nestled inside the canyon, for a traditional Turkish lunch beside the river. This is included on both tour options.
Continue to Selime Monastery, Cappadocia’s largest cliffside monastic complex with cathedral-sized halls and sweeping canyon views.
If you choose the Green Tour, the day also includes a guided visit to Derinkuyu Underground City before your Ihlara Valley trek.
| Tour type | Duration | Inclusions | Best suited for | Price | Book now |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
South Cappadocia full-day tour | 8 hours | Ihlara trekking, lunch, guide, museums/sites entry | Nature lovers, trekking fans | €55 | Click here |
Green Tour | 8.5 hours | Derinkuyu entry, Ihlara walk, Selime Monastery, guide, lunch | First-time visitors, culture & history lovers | €43.5 | Click here |
Guided Ihlara Valley tours include hotel transfers, entry fees, expert commentary, and a carefully designed route so you can enjoy the best cave churches, viewpoints, and river walks without planning logistics.
Most guided tours include a 1.5 to 2-hour walk through the valley, and extended treks can go up to 3 hours depending on pace and trail conditions.
Both tours generally include lunch, a licensed guide, hotel transfers, entry fees, and all taxes, making them convenient and good value.
Yes, it's perfect for first-timers because it covers Cappadocia’s big highlights like Ihlara Valley, Derinkuyu Underground City, and Selime Monastery in one day.
Yes, lunch at Belisirma Village is included in both tours, with riverside restaurants offering simple but satisfying Turkish meals.
Yes, independent visits are possible, but guided tours handle transport, entry points, and route navigation, making the day much smoother.
It’s recommended to book at least 2 weeks in advance, especially in spring and autumn when Cappadocia experiences peak demand and popular tours often sell out.
Inclusions
Entry fees to the museums and sites
Lunch
Licensed professional guide
Hotel transfers
Transportation by air-conditioned van/coach
Parking fees
Exclusions
Gratuities
Personal expenses
You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
