Cappadocia

The valleys of Cappadocia, a land of eerie beauty, formed by the eruption of two volcanoes, Mt. Argeus and Mt. Hasan, some 60 million years ago. This fantasy land of fairy chimneys and churches cut out of soft rock formations rising up in cone-like protuberances used to be a Roman province and a refuge to persecuted Christians during the early days of the Roman Empire. This makes Cappadocia well-known for its rock churches that date to the period of the persecutions and for its underground cities; amazingly intricate systems of tunnels and settlements cut into mountains of rock.

Today you will meet with your guide at your hotel at 09:00 am for a full day trip in Cappadocia.

Our first stop will be Pasabaglar area for an introduction to the geology of the area. Continue to Zelve Open Air Museum, a valley settlement and known to be the first place to hold monastic seminars. In Zelve, you will see many red-cone-capped dwellings and chapels from various periods. Then on to the Goreme Open Air Museum, which was one of the earliest settlements in the area. The monastic complex with its many churches and living quarters bear good examples of 11-13^th century Byzantine mural paintings.

After our visits, we will drive to Underground City of Kaymakli, which was cut out of volcanic tufa as deep as 300 feet during the period covering from the sixth to the 10^th centuries. It is possible to descend through seven floor levels of the city by means of a labyrinth of tunnels. If you suffer from claustrophobia, we recommend that you do not participate in this activity. The galleries and chambers are well lit, and except for some galleries with low ceilings it is in general not difficult to move through them.

We will drive to the view point to watch the sunset where Cappadocia landscape is at its most enchanting form.  Your guide and van will take you back to your hotel.

Please note that during our drive, we will stop at different viewpoints to take pictures.  

Please note that depending on the groups, your guide will make necessary changes in the order of the visits to avoid the crowd and heat.

Price Include:

• Professional English speaking lecturer guide.
• 2014 model and over tour van or sedan car with a/c.
• Parking fees and toll roads.
• Entrance fees per itinerary.

Not Included:

• Drinks and personal expenses.

• Lunch
• Gratitude for guide and driver.

Additional Services:

Hot Air Balloon: €150.- per person.