Cappadocia Blue Tour (Red Valley)

The Cappadocia Blue Tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the region’s renowned Red Valley. Travelers can expect to explore ancient cave dwellings, discover hidden rock-cut churches, and marvel at the area’s iconic fairy chimneys. With a focus on immersing visitors in the unique geological and cultural heritage of the region, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. From the underground city of Derinkuyu to the picturesque Ihlara Valley, each stop along the way offers a glimpse into the extraordinary wonders that make Cappadocia one of Turkey’s most enchanting destinations.

Key Points

• The Cappadocia Blue Tour (Red Valley) showcases the Ihlara Valley’s rock-cut churches, featuring intricate frescoes and unique architectural designs within dramatic canyon landscapes.

• Visitors can explore the Derinkuyu Underground City, an 85-meter-deep complex of tunnels, chambers, and structures that reflect the resourcefulness of Cappadocia’s early inhabitants.

• The tour includes a visit to the Selime Monastery, a large monastic complex nestled within the Ihlara Valley, providing insight into the region’s historical and cultural significance.

• Scenic viewpoints offer breathtaking panoramic vistas of Cappadocia’s iconic fairy chimneys and rock formations, highlighting the region’s status as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

• The tour includes roundtrip transportation, entrance fees, and a riverside lunch in Belisirma, providing a well-rounded experience of Cappadocia’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Discovering Derinkuyu Underground City

The tour’s first stop is the Derinkuyu Underground City, a sprawling subterranean network carved deep into the earth.

Plunging 85 meters underground, this ancient marvel showcases the ingenuity of its creators. Visitors can explore the complex maze of tunnels, chambers, and storerooms that once housed an entire civilization.

From wine presses to churches, the site offers a glimpse into the lives of the people who called Derinkuyu home centuries ago.

With its impressive scale and well-preserved features, the underground city is a testament to the resourcefulness of Cappadocia’s early inhabitants, who carved this extraordinary refuge into the region’s unique geological landscape.

Exploring Ihlara Valley’s Rock-Cut Churches

Next, the tour takes visitors to the impressive Ihlara Valley. Stretching over 10 miles, this lush canyon features over 100 rock-carved churches and monasteries along its winding paths.

Guests will explore these ancient structures, marveling at the intricate frescoes and unique architectural designs carved directly into the valley’s soft rock formations. The sheer scale and number of these religious sites, hidden within the dramatic landscapes, showcase the historical and cultural significance of this region.

After a riverside lunch, the tour continues to the Selime Monastery, one of the largest monastic complexes in Cappadocia, further immersing guests in the area’s rich religious heritage.

Marveling at the Fairy Chimneys

Towering above the rolling hills of Cappadocia, the otherworldly fairy chimneys captivate visitors with their unique geological formations.

These natural wonders, sculpted by erosion over millennia, come in a variety of shapes and sizes, ranging from tall, thin spires to stocky, mushroom-like structures.

Some key features of the fairy chimneys include:

1. Vibrant colors: The chimneys display a range of hues, from warm ochres to cool grays, reflecting the diverse mineral compositions.

2. Intricate textures: The surfaces of the chimneys often feature intricate patterns and ridges, adding to their visual appeal.

3. Varying heights: While some chimneys soar dozens of meters into the air, others remain more modest in stature.

4. Geological history: These formations serve as windows into Cappadocia’s ancient geologic past, shaped by volcanic activity and millennia of erosion.

Riverside Lunch in Belisirma

After exploring the underground city and the Ihlara Valley, the tour group enjoys a riverside lunch in the charming village of Belisirma.

The serene setting along the river provides a welcomed break from the morning’s activities. Guests dine on regional cuisine at a local restaurant, savoring the fresh flavors and taking in the picturesque views.

Following the leisurely lunch, the group continues their journey, visiting the impressive Selime Monastery.

This stop on the Cappadocia Blue Tour offers a chance to recharge and experience the area’s natural beauty before moving on to the next remarkable destination.

Visiting Selime Monastery

After the group enjoys a riverside lunch in Belisirma, they continue their journey to the impressive Selime Monastery.

This ancient monastery, nestled within the Ihlara Valley, offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history and religious heritage.

Visitors can:

1. Explore the grand cathedral with its magnificent carved facades.
2. Discover the intricate underground living quarters and storage areas.
3. Marvel at the stunning natural surroundings, with towering rock formations and hidden cave churches.
4. Learn about the monastery’s role as a hub of Christian monastic life in Cappadocia.

The Selime Monastery stands as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the region’s inhabitants, who carved this remarkable site into the very landscape itself.

Scenic Viewpoints of Cappadocia

As the group leaves the historic Selime Monastery, they’re treated to breathtaking views across the Cappadocian landscape.

The minivan winds through the region’s iconic fairy chimneys and rock formations, offering panoramic vistas of the Göreme Valley below.

Visitors pause at strategic viewpoints to admire the striking contrast between the verdant vegetation, azure skies, and golden earth tones.

These scenic overlooks provide an ideal opportunity to capture postcard-worthy photographs and appreciate the rugged natural beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

The tour continues onward, leaving these breathtaking vantage points behind as the group prepares to explore the next highlight of the Cappadocia Blue Tour.

Transportation and Inclusions

The Cappadocia Blue Tour includes roundtrip transportation from hotels in the specified pickup locations.

The tour package includes:

1. Climate-controlled minivan for comfortable travel.
2. Entrance fees to the Derinkuyu Underground City and Selime Monastery.
3. Lunch at a riverside restaurant in Belisirma.
4. Hotel pickup and drop-off services.

An additional fee applies for hotels located outside the specified pickup areas.

Travelers can direct any further inquiries to the Viator Help Centre, referencing the product code 13659P5 for assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to Visit Specific Sites?

Yes, you can customize the tour to visit specific sites. The tour operator offers flexibility to accommodate traveler preferences and adjust the itinerary accordingly, for an additional fee.

Is the Tour Suitable for Individuals With Mobility Issues?

The tour may not be fully accessible for individuals with mobility issues. While the underground city and some sites have stairs, the tour operator can make reasonable accommodations if notified in advance. It’s best to discuss specific needs when booking.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks on the Tour?

Passengers can bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour. The tour company encourages travelers to pack light refreshments and water to enjoy throughout the day’s activities. Bringing personal provisions is allowed and recommended for comfort and convenience.

Are There Any Additional Fees for Optional Activities?

The tour package generally includes lunch, transportation, entrance fees, and hotel pickup/drop-off. However, there may be additional fees for optional activities or for hotels outside the specified pickup areas. Customers should check with the tour operator for any extra costs.

Can I Extend the Tour to Visit More Destinations?

Yes, you can extend the tour to visit more destinations. However, there may be an additional fee to cover the cost of extra transportation and entrance fees. It’s best to check with the tour provider about customization options.

The Sum Up

The Cappadocia Blue Tour offers an immersive journey through the region’s captivating landscapes and rich heritage. Visitors can explore ancient rock-cut churches, marvel at the iconic fairy chimneys, and enjoy a riverside lunch, all while discovering the unique geological and cultural wonders of this enchanting destination. With its diverse activities and stunning vistas, the tour provides an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.