red tour capadocia

• Things to Do
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Goreme Open Air Museum

• Zelve Valley Open Air Museum

Pasabag Monks Valley

Uchisar castle.

• Pigeon Valley
• Derinkuyu Underground City
• Ihlara Valley
• Top 15 Best Places To Visit
• Fairy Chimneys
• Panoramic Viewpoints
• Churches & Monasteries
• Cavusin Village
• Underground Cities
• Mustafapasa
• Where to Stay Guide
• Accommodation & Hotel Guide
• Best Cave Hotels
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• Top-Rated Goreme hotels
• Top-Rated Urgup Hotels
• Top-Rated Uchisar Hotels
• Top-Rated Avanos Hotels
• About Cappadocia
• Towns & Villages
• Reasons to Visit
• First Timers
• Cost to Visit
• New Year’s Eve
• Getting from Abroad
• Kayseri Airpot (ASR)
• Nevsehir Airport (NAV)
• What to Bring, Wear?
• Nevsehir Hospitals

Cappadocia Red Tour: Best Tours, Prices + Insider Advice

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Cappadocia Red Tour is a popular sightseeing tour covering the popular attractions and sights of the northern part of Cappadocia, such as valleys, fairy chimneys, viewpoints, villages, castles, Avanos pottery workshops and Goreme Open Air Museum. Majority of the tours are made via professional tour guide and driver.

Table of Contents

• Cappadocia Red Tour is a great way to see some of the most popular attractions on the northern Cappadocia .
• It is a full-day tour , usually starting at 9 am and ending at 5 pm.
• Top sights mostly include ; Uchisar Castle, Goreme Open Air Museum, Avanos town and pottery workshops, Pasabag Monks Valley, Devrent Imagination Valley.
• Perfect for those with limited time or those who want to get an overview of Cappadocia before exploring further.
• A good option for families with kids , as the tour is relatively short and includes some fun and interesting sites.
• You should be prepared for some walking and climbing on this tour.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off included on most tours.

Top Red Tour Tickets

If you are looking for the best Cappadocia Red tours, trust our recommendations, save time and money, we have you covered . Below are some of best experiences you can find! Feel free to  book online in advance, and make an eco-friendly option of online tickets .

• North Cappadocia Ancient Red Route Small-Group Tour with Lunch
• Goreme to North Cappadocia Tour. Guide, Lunch and Transfers incl.
• Best of Cappadocia Small Group Guided Tour
• Cappadocia Red Tour (Pro Guide, Tickets, Lunch, Transfer)
• Cappadocia: Red Tour (included, lunch, guide, entrance fees)
• Full-Day Cappadocia Red Plus Tour
• Cappadocia: Full-Day Private Cappadocia Tour

What to Expect?

Cappadocia Red Tour is a popular sightseeing tour and one of the best way to explore the top attractions of Cappadocia. Typical tours mostly start early in the morning upon you’re being picked-up from your hotel around 09:30 am in the company of a professional tour guide, and goes for about 7-8 hours. At the end of the tour, you’re being dropped-off to your hotel.

The Cappadocia Red Tour is a great option for those who want to see the top sights of Cappadocia in a convenient and informative way, and in a single day.

Attractions & Sights to Explore

The schedule of the sights and attractions of Cappadocia Red Tour may change but you’ll finish your day out by exploring the top Cappadocia sights including;

• Avanos town and pottery workshops

Devrent Imagination Valley

Typical cappadocia red tour itinerary.

Typical Cappadocia Red Tour takes visitors on a journey through some of the region’s most famous attractions, including the Uchisar Castle , Avanos and Pottery , Goreme Open Air Museum , the Pasabag Monks Valley and Fairy Chimneys , and the Devrent Imagination Valley .

The tour typically lasts around 4 hours and is a great way to see the main sights of Cappadocia in a short amount of time.

No Regrets Booking Advice

The first stop on the tour is the Uchisar Castle is the highest point of the region and also the biggest and the most beautiful fairy chimney of the region where you may enjoy a unique panoramic views over Cappadocia. The Castle is one of the most prominent landmarks in the Cappadocia region of Turkey.

People who go to Uchisar Castle can look around and learn about its interesting past. The castle is built on several floors and has many rooms and chambers that people can explore. From the top of the castle, you can see the nearby area, which is made up of villages, natural rock formations, and valleys.

People who come to the Cappadocia area should definitely see Uchisar Castle. People come from all over the world to visit because it has a lot of history, beautiful buildings, and stunning views.

The next stop on the tour is the Goreme Open Air Museum , which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This fascinating museum consists of a complex of cave churches and monasteries, many of which date back to the 10th, 11th, and 12th centuries.

Visitors can explore the incredible frescoes and architectural details of these ancient structures while learning about the history and significance of the area.

You’ll experience and enjoy some  well preserved, rock-cut churches with frescoes  and  paintings  dating from as early as the 10th century and the best examples of  Byzantine art  in Cappadocia. The region forms a valley including churches, chapels, dining halls and sitting rooms at the rock-cut blocks.

Avanos & Potter Workshops

Avanos   is situated by the Red River and attracts big number of visitors with its European town look. In Avanos, you’ll see variety of great traditional pottery workshops and demonstrations  and you may glimpse into the world of pottery while you stroll along the streets of Avanos.

When you get into one of this pottery hops, you’ll have the opportunity to make your own clay pot if you wish, with the local craftsmen to help you polish up your skills.

Next, the tour takes visitors to the Pasabag Monks Valley and Fairy Chimneys, which are unique rock formations that resemble giant mushrooms or even people. This site is also known as Monk’s Valley due to the many hermit cells carved into the rocks. Visitors can climb up to the top of the fairy chimneys for stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

In addition to its historical and cultural significance, Pasabag is also known for its natural beauty and stunning panoramic views. Visitors can explore the valley on foot, climbing up and around the unique rock formations, taking in the views of the surrounding landscape and the picturesque vineyards that line the valley floor.

The final stop on the Red Tour is the Devrent Valley, which is known for its unusual rock formations that look like animals or other familiar shapes.

This valley is often called “Imagination Valley” because visitors can use their creativity to come up with all kinds of interpretations of the formations.

Summary of All

Overall, the Cappadocia Red Tour is a great way to see some of the area’s most famous sights. It’s perfect for people who don’t have much time or who want to get a feel for Cappadocia before going on further adventures.

The tour is also short and includes some fun and interesting places, so it’s a good choice for families with kids. People who go on this tour should be ready to walk and climb, though, because the ground can be rough and rocky.

What is included in the Cappadocia Red Tour?

Cappadocia's most famous landscapes and historical places are all right in the middle of the Cappadocia Red Tour. This exciting trip takes you to the Goreme Open Air Museum, which has cave churches that are hundreds of years old and are decorated with frescoes; the magnificent Uchisar Castle, which has great views; the interesting Pasabag (Monks Valley), which is famous for its fairy chimneys; and the lively Devrent (Imagination Valley), where rocks have been shaped by nature into strange shapes. Get ready for an amazing day full of history, architecture, and natural beauty.

Who should consider taking the Cappadocia Red Tour?

The Red Tour is great for people who are interested in history, nature, photography, or just want to see some of Cappadocia's most famous and beautiful sights. This tour will give you unique experiences and stunning views, whether you're traveling alone and want to enjoy the peaceful beauty of ancient landscapes, with a partner looking for a romantic backdrop, or with your family eager to discover the wonders of this historic region.

Where does the Cappadocia Red Tour start and end?

Usually, our Cappadocia Red Tour starts in Goreme, which is in the beautiful center of Cappadocia and easy for all tourists to get to. The exciting adventure ends in the same beautiful town, making the whole thing easy and handy.

Why choose the Cappadocia Red Tour over other tour options?

The Red Tour stands out because it focuses on Cappadocia's most famous and historic places. It gives you a full picture of the area's rich history and beautiful natural sights. It's the best option for people who want to get to know Cappadocia in just one day by visiting its most important sites and enjoying its timeless beauty. The Red Tour is great for people who are short on time but still want to see the best of Cappadocia.

What should I wear and bring to the Cappadocia Red Tour?

It's important to be comfortable on the Red Tour! Because you'll be going on different surfaces, make sure your shoes are comfortable. Wear clothes so you can adapt to the changing weather in Cappadocia. Don't forget your sunblock and a hat. As you enjoy the beautiful scenery, remember to bring a camera, a water bottle, and a small bag to carry your personal belongings.

Where are the must-see stops on the Cappadocia Red Tour?

The amazing Goreme Open Air Museum, the huge Uchisar Castle, the amazing fairy chimneys in Pasabag, and the interesting rock shapes in Devrent Valley are all must-sees. Each place gives you a different look into Cappadocia's past and present, so your trip will be full of surprises and wonder.

Will there be a professional guide on the Cappadocia Red Tour?

Sure thing! During the Red Tour, you will be with professional, friendly, and knowledgeable guides who speak more than one language. They love Cappadocia's history and natural scenery and can't wait to share stories and insights that will make your trip more enjoyable and help you learn more about this magical area.

How long does the Cappadocia Red Tour typically last?

Cappadocia Red Tour is meant to be a full-day trip that lasts about 7 to 8 hours on average. The tour companies planned the schedule so that you have plenty of time at each place to look around, take pictures, and enjoy the history and beauty without feeling rushed.

Why Take This Guided Red Tour

First, it provides a convenient way to see some of the region’s top attractions in a single day, even if you are short on time. The tour includes transportation, entrance fees, and a guide, so you don’t have to worry about any logistical details or planning your own itinerary.

Second, the tour provides a chance to learn about the history and culture of the area from a knowledgeable guide. The Goreme Open Air Museum, for example, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features unique cave churches and monasteries with stunning frescoes. Having a guide to explain the significance and stories behind each site can greatly enhance the experience.

Finally, the tour offers the opportunity to meet other travelers and share the experience of exploring Cappadocia. This can be especially appealing for solo travelers or those looking to meet new people.

How to Book Cappadocia Red Tour?

You can determine your day tour schedule by specifying the popular places you prefer. If you don’t know much about Cappadocia, you can check the popular places and activities below to get to know these places and choose the places you want to see.

Typical red tour includes; northern part of Cappadocia, such as valleys, fairy chimneys, viewpoints, villages, castles, Avanos pottery workshops and Goreme Open Air Museum .

Top Rated Cappadocia Red Tour Options

We believe that booking your Cappadocia day tour with one of the below companies and online not only guarantees a world-class experience but also provides the convenience of flexible booking, free hotel transfers, and the assurance of thousands of satisfied travelers who have shared their positive experiences through online reviews. It’s the smart choice for a hassle-free and memorable adventure in Cappadocia.

Here we only suggest the proven ways and top rated ones with travelers’ comments. You can feel free to book one of the below top selling Cappadocia Red Tour.

1. North Cappadocia Ancient Red Route Small-Group Tour with Lunch

This is one of the best sightseeing tours and has a badge of excellence. This tour follows the ‘Red Route’, taking in the most-photographed sights of North Cappadocia. You’ll explore the fairy chimneys of Love Valley and Monk Valley, visit Uchisar Castle and Imagination Valley, and explore the UNESCO-listed Goreme Open-Air Museum. Finally, visit the pottery-making town of Avanos and maybe even have a go on the potter’s wheel yourself.

• Visit at least six of Cappadocia’s most popular sites in one day
• Tuck into a traditional Turkish lunch included with your tour
• Hassle-free pickup and drop-off at your Cappadocia hotel
• Intimate small-group experience with a maximum of 10 people

You can cancel cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Read more and book this Red Tour online

2. Goreme to North Cappadocia Tour. Guide, Lunch and Transfers incl.

This is a superb Red Tour that you’ll cover more distance in less time on this comprehensive 8-hour tour of north Cappadocia from Goreme. Over the course of only one day, you’ll visit seven Cappadocia highlights, including Zelve Open-Air Museum’s historical caves, and learn about the region’s rich culture.

You’ll explore the lunar landscapes of Devrent Valley, absorb panoramic vistas from Uchisar Castle, Cappadocia’s highest point, and explore the 5th-century settlement of Çavusin. Lunch and round-trip transport from your Goreme hotel is included on this small-group tour, limited to 15 people.

• 8-hour tour of north Cappadocia highlights from Goreme
• Ideal for travelers with limited time in Turkey
• Visit Uchsair Caslte and the histroic settlements of Çavusin and Avanos
• Lunch and round-trip transport from Goreme hotels are included
• Small-group tour limited to 15 people

3. Best of Cappadocia Small Group Guided Tour

This has a badge of excellence and you’ll see the Devrent Valley, Pasabag, the Zelve Open-Air Museum, Uchisar Castle, and the town of Avanos. Observe a live pottery demonstration and take a break midday for a local buffet lunch.

• Learn about Cappadocia from your guide
• Hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off
• Savor a local Turkish lunch
• Enjoy a live pottery demonstration

4. Cappadocia Red Tour (Pro Guide, Tickets, Lunch, Transfer)

This has a badge of excellence and over 285 very good reviews on Viator. You’ll experience Cappadocia’s surrealist landscapes with a guide and with door-to-door tour. You’ll see the rock-cut churches of the Göreme Open-Air Museum, the stunning rock formations of Uchisar Castle, Monks Valley and Devrent Valley, and the village of Çavuşin, with a buffet lunch and pottery workshop visit in Avanos.

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Entrance tickets of Museums
• Profesioanal speaking English tour guide

5. Cappadocia: Red Tour (included, lunch, guide, entrance fees)

You can discover fairy chimneys, ancient caves, and historical churches on this guided sightseeing tour that includes hotel transfers in Cappadocia. Get a tasty lunch and enjoy a pottery workshop.

• Starts at : 09.30 – Ends at :16.30
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• English-speaking guide
• Museum entrance tickets

6. Full-Day Cappadocia Red Plus Tour

You can explore and enjoy the best sights of Cappadocia on this full-day tour with a professional guide. You can witness incredible monuments from the Goreme Open Air Museum to Underground City, Uchisar Castle, Devrent Valley, and Pasabag Monks Valley.

• Transportation by air-conditioned van or bus
• Private tour (if option selected)

7. Cappadocia: Full-Day Private Cappadocia Tour

This is one of the best Cappadocia full day private sightseeing tours. You’ll see the best sights Cappadocia has to offer on this full-day tour with a knowledgeable guide. Marvel at incredible monuments from the Goreme Open Air Museum to Underground City, Uchisar Castle, Devrent Valley, and Pasabag Monks Valley.

• Explore Goreme Open Air Museum’s cave churches with frescoes
• Explore the underground city of Kaymakli
• Visit the most important sites in the area in one day

All Above Recommended Alternative Tours

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before activity starts

by Getyourguide

Book Your Balloon Ride

Below you can find our recommendations. Each company directly operates the hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia with their team of experts. So you will book your flight directly from the company. No men in the middle.

• ATTRACTIONS
• GUIDED TOUR
• POINTS OF INTEREST
• SIGHTSEEING

Take a Look At

14 must-knows when visiting cappadocia for the first time, top 10 things to do in cappadocia + detailed attractions guide, where to stay in cappadocia: cappadocia by regions + local tips, best daily tours & excursions in cappadocia for 2024, best cappadocia tours from istanbul (2024 prices with advice), trending now, hot air balloon ride in cappadocia | cost ▷ top 10+ flights 2024, goreme open air museum (2024 guide with tickets advice), where to watch the best sunrise and sunset in cappadocia, fairy chimneys in cappadocia (where best locations advice), general information about cappadocia – getting to know cappadocia, best panoramic viewpoints in cappadocia (observation terraces), must see underground cities in cappadocia + tips & tickets, shopping in cappadocia (what to buy top areas insider advice), goreme cappadocia: 2024 holidays, top things to do & see, cappadocia green tour: top 10 best tours, prices + insider advice, related reading, atv & quad safari in cappadocia (2024 prices with best tours), eating out in cappadocia (best places to eat & drink + advice), local recommendations from cappadocia4u team.

If youʻre visiting Cappadocia for the first time, we have you covered. Below are some of the top recommendations, tours and experiences!

Some useful info

• Cappadocia is the name of the region situated in the middle of Turkey . It is mostly known by the three popular towns of Goreme, Urgup  and  Uchisar  but actually  it is the name of the very big region  spread through the  cities of Nevsehir, Kirsehir, Nigde, Aksaray and Kayseri .
• If you are first-time visitor , want to get familiar, please read our Cappadocia for first timers guide.
• If you are not sure how to travel , please read our Traveling to Cappadocia guide.
• If you don't know where to stay , please read our Where to Stay in Cappadocia guide for regions, and Accommodation guide for hotels.
• If it is hard to plan your days , please read our Ideal 3-Days Cappadocia itinerary .

Top Attractions & Sights

There are 6 must do and see in Cappadocia that you won't want to miss!

• Hot Air Balloon Rides (the most exciting attractions in the world)
• Goreme Open Air Museum (some best-preserved examples of Byzantine rock-cut architecture and frescoes in the world)
• Pasabag Monks Valley (one of the most popular  fairy chimneys  areas)
• Uchisar Castle ( highest point, the biggest fairy chimney )
• Derinkuyu Underground City (one of the largest underground cities in the world, 8 th  century BC)
• Ihlara Valley (fantastic  canyon with a depth of about 100 mt. and 14 km. length)

Tip-1: One of the best ways to explore Cappadocia is by taking a sightseeing tour, so that you can cover all the top sights. Three main sightseeing tours available:  Red Tour  (covers the highlights of the region), Green Tour (best of natural  and  historical sites ), and Blue Tour  (lesser-known sights, off-the-beaten-path experience )

Tip-2: Private Tours are also good choice within a well-planned and custom itinerary along with a private vehicle, driver and professional guide. Great for those who don't have a car or don't know the region well.

For leisure activities we'd recommend 2 must-take attractions ! Don't miss! Wine Tasting and Photo Shooting

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Cappadocia Red Tour: All you need to know!

When I first saw  Cappadocia, my mind was blown away! Surrounded by Fairy Chimneys and fairyland itself, the village is surely a crown possession of Turkey . Bearing the best Turkish culture, Cappadocia offers excellent geographical landscapes and cultural history. You will find many organized tours there. The Cappadocia Red Tour is the best. We will share with you all that you need to know about your Cappadocia itinerary in this post.

People also know the region for “Ballooning,” which should be a must on everybody’s bucket list, if you can afford it. Unfortunately, we couldn’t, but I don’t know a single traveler who tried it and regretted it!.

Anyways, there’s more to Cappadocia than just the things it is known for. Keep reading 🙂

Cappadocia is a fairly big region and cannot be toured in a single day. Hence, the whole area is divided into color-coded parts. The most famous of them is the Red Tour (North Cappadocia) and Green Tour (South Cappadocia).

Fun fact! Cappadocia is not a city or a town. It is just a tourist-appealing region in Turkey.

How To Get From Istanbul To Cappadocia

Cappadocia lies in the heart of Turkey. The distance between the largest city of Turkey, Istanbul, and Cappadocia, is about 450 miles or 730 kilometers.

The connection between Cappadocia and Istanbul is great. You could even find direct flights many times per day. Moreover, buses and train facilities are available too.

Istanbul to Cappadocia by Flight

Both Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gocken Airport (also in Istanbul) offer flights to Kayseri Erkilet Airport in Cappadocia. You will spend a little more than one hour on the plane.

It is not only the fastest means to commute but also an inexpensive means if booked in advance. Turkish Airlines and Air Pegasus are the ones providing their services in this region. Both 2 tickets cost us around 50€.

The best way to get from Kayseri Airport to Cappadocia

Once landed at the Kayseri airport, you will find many shuttle van services waiting outside to take you to Cappadocia. These are operated by Rock Valley Travel and Argeus Tourism .

You could also rent a car. The price will be the same as the shuttle service. However, you will win a lot of flexibility when having a car in this region.

Turkey worked well maintaining the roads in the neighborhood. Google Maps also works great. So I don’t think you will have any problems driving.

The journey, either with the shuttle or with a car, will take around one hour and fifteen minutes.

Is Istanbul to Cappadocia Worth It by Train?

Honestly, trains aren’t a preferable mode to travel between the two regions, primarily because there is no direct connectivity through rails.

One can take a train to Ankara and continue by bus from the capital city to Cappadocia. However, it gets quite hectic to travel by train. Hence, it isn’t a preferred means of transportation.

Istanbul to Cappadocia by Bus

To get on the bus to Cappadocia, you can choose either of the two bus terminals. Those are Harem Bus Terminal and Buyuk Otogar Bus Terminal. The second is the main bus terminal in Istanbul which connects to Cappadocia. Metro Turizm and Nevsehir Seyahat are some of the companies running buses between the two regions.

Taking the bus is really worth it for two reasons. First, it will spare you a hotel night as you can sleep on the bus. Second, you will enjoy the scenic landscapes you will see during the journey and then you will get to know Turkey much better.

Although most buses are available at night, the journey takes around 13 hours to Cappadocia. So you will see most of the landscapes in the morning (including sunrise)

You can find the bus tickets here .

Is Istanbul to Cappadocia Worth it by Car?

The car journey makes sense if you are a group of four or five people and encounters a few mesmerizing scenic views. So if you have time and want to be more flexible on the road, you should consider this option.

However, it is a long drive to Cappadocia. It takes somewhere between 8-10 hours by road. But if you want a car to discover the region in a better way, consider renting it when you leave Istanbul to Cappadocia.

The Best Itinerary to Enjoy The Red Tour in Cappadocia

The red tour covers the central northern region of Cappadocia and covers all the major sites of this region. In addition, it comprises several appealing UNESCO World Heritage sites. These are valleys, castles, caves, and museums.

The best way to enjoy the red tour is to do it on yourself to avoid the crowds. Also, you will be more flexible with your own time. However, you need to rent a car for it.

Start your journey with a Hot Air Balloon

Start your day early because there’s a lot to discover. The best start to the tour would be nothing but a ride in the Hot Air Balloon. The balloons go up early in the morning at sunrise. The price of hot air ballooning in Cappadocia ranges from $140 to $250.

Don’t miss the Uchisar Castle

If you want to enjoy Cappadocia without a hot air balloon , you haven’t missed much. There is just so much to see in this beautiful region. The most unrealistic and unique castle around the globe, Uchisar Castle, should be your next destination. It is a volcanic projection and is surrounded by similar cave-like rock formations. Villagers used it as a shelter in the ancient era because the caves maintain a temperature of 15°C throughout the year, making it efficient even today.

Open Air Museum

Next, drive to the Goreme Open Air Museum. It is the most famous tourist attraction in Cappadocia. The museum includes caves, Churches, and Monasteries. In addition, there are preserved mural paintings and carvings. These date back to the 11th, 12th, and 13th centuries. The entry fee for the museum is about 12€.

Love Valley: Best Spot of Cappadocia Red Tour

The Love Valley is another attraction, especially for couples. Instagram lovers will be happy to click and capture Instagram-friendly photos with probably the best backdrop and cliché photo props to pose with. 

There are props like love-swing, benches, and a vintage car. Note that the valley is wholly formed by the process of natural wind erosion over centuries.

Devrent Valley

Next, you should go to the Devrent Valley, also known as the Imagination Valley. The valley is skirted by red-colored rocks in various shapes. It is up to your creativity to imagine various animals and figures formed by the rocks.

End your red tour at Pasabag, which is known for mushroom-shaped rocks. This is why it is also known as Mushroom Valley. It is best known for fairy chimneys which build up mushroom shapes.

Tours Comparison in Cappadocia

There are a lot of tour types in Cappadocia. Depending on which region you would like to discover, you should choose a corresponding tour. I tried to compare the best tours in Cappadocia so that you can make your mind.

I also included the prices that I saw if you do not rent a car or don’t feel like doing the tour yourself.

The Red Tour includes the Northern part of Cappadocia . It includes many attractions, including the Uchisar Castle, Open Air Museum, Love Valley, Imagination Valley, and the Mushroom Valley. 

This tour is mostly around the Goreme region and costs somewhere between $40-$45.

The Green Tour includes the southern part of Cappadocia and is a fairly long tour compared to the other tours. 

The major attractions of the Green Tour are the Derinkuyu Underground City, which, as the name suggests, is a spectacular ancient underground town. And the Ihlara Valley, which allows hiking and breath-taking views.

The Green Tour would cost anywhere between $45-$50.

The Blue Tour includes the typical Turkish Village tour. Though not a popular choice, the main attractions of this tour are villages, churches, and landscapes around Mustafapasa and Soganli Valley. The Blue Tour is the most expensive, costing anywhere between $50-$55.

I personally would go for the red or green tours. Here is why:

Cappadocia’s Red Tour Advantages

• With the key sites, the red tour carries the essence of the whole Cappadocia as a region.
• The Red Tour is best for people with kids as there are less walking and hiking involved and is also good for couples as it has the ultimate romantic point, the Love Valley.
• You might stumble upon the typical Turkish dishes and shops offering local artwork and clothing items.
• Sites are near each other, so it cuts down the travel expense.

The Green Tour Advantages

• This is THE tour for hikers and wanderers! You will love to get lost in those unfamiliar and amazing landscapes of Cappadocia.
• This is the quietest tour for those who want to enjoy the region’s beauty in the calm and stay away from the crowds.
• The Green Tour includes a lake (Nar Crater Lake)
• You will have the chance to witness a mind-blowing sunset in the Goreme Panorama Viewpoint.

What to Bring with You for your Cappadocia Itinerary

• It is hard to climb up the rocks, so make sure to wear comfortable slippers and sports clothes.
• Transport facilities in Cappadocia are poor. That is also why I recommended renting a car.
• If you’ve decided to experience the Hot Air Balloon, bring warm clothes, as it might get cold up above in the sky in the early morning.
• Do not forget to carry your official Identity proofs.
• Start the day with a full camera battery. You will see beauty everywhere, waiting to be captured.

Where To Stay in Cappadocia

We stayed at Milat Cave Hotel. However, we didn’t have a cave-style room, which you can experience in Sultan Cave Suites as it was a little expensive for us. 

Nevertheless, we enjoyed staying at this hotel because it offered a great service and an amazing terrace to see the sunrise and balloons.

Actually, Milat Cave Hotel is so close to the city center that you can find all restaurants and tour agencies and other attractions.

In general, Cappadocia has quite a few quirky hotels to stay in. Goreme and Uchisar are two villages where you can plan your stay.

However, if you opt for the Red Tour, Goreme is the best choice because it is easily accessible from the Northern Cappadocia region. Hence, it will cut down the travel expense.

Most Cappadocia hotels offer stay-in caves. I think this facility is only available in this region. Also, those hotels usually have nice terraces that have gorgeous views of ballooning, sunrise, and sunset.

Several hotels provide Cave Rooms. The best among the lot is said to be Cappadocia Cave Suites. These are cheap, have the yummiest food, gorgeous rooms, and the best terrace view. However, the place surely looks unrealistic, especially during the nights.

Few other similar hotels are:

• Sultan Cave Suite
• Charming Cave Hotel
• Grand Elite Cave Suites

Best Time To Visit Cappadocia

Cappadocia experiences extreme weather conditions. The summers are dry and bare, with high temperatures converting the whole area into a hot ball.

The temperature can go as high as 40°C. So, it is not the best time to visit. Ironically, the summer months are the months that experience the maximum footfall.

Winters, on the other hand, are extremely cold. The temperature drops to negative. The temperature can even get to -10°C. Then, however, the place turns heaven-like because of the winter snowfall.

One more point, trekking, during the spring months, gets difficult because of slippery rocks. So, the chances of accidents increase. So bring trekking shoes if you plan to visit Cappadocia during this period.

The best time, however, is the spring or the autumn season. This is when the weather conditions are quite moderate and bearable. Hence, the periods between April and May and between August and October are the most suitable, with less crowd and enjoyable weather.

We visited the region in early March. Unfortunately, we had only one cloudy day, but we also had the right to a sunny one where we enjoyed the balloons flying!

What Else to Do in Cappadocia

Although it is a relatively small region, there are lots of things to do in Cappadocia . Here are some:

• If you’ve plenty of time to spend in Cappadocia , do explore the underground cities. Cappadocia has a total of 36 underground cities, explore anyone, and you’re good to go!
• Handmade local crafts are a steal! Take your time (and don’t be like u!) and choose a good piece of souvenirs. Don’t forget to bargain!
• Many restaurants play Turkish music after dinner. Some of them sometimes invite bands. This is a good chance for you to explore Turkish folk culture.
• You might find a couple of sunset points while hiking uphill. Watch the sunset and only then set back to the hotel.
• If you are planning to stay more in the city, then make sure you read enough about the Cappadocia guide to not miss any hidden gems!
• Cappadocia with no hot-air balloon is also an enriching experience. If you cant afford it or you find it unavailable, iz’s not the end of the world.

That’s it, guys! Cappadocia was the first stop before planning our Istanbul itinerary . Although the city is quite rich, you can see pretty much of Cappadocia in one day .

Unfortunately, we didn’t have enough time to enjoy the best of Turkey. But we mentioned a couple of destinations, where we would have loved to go, like Izmir, which is a must-do if you are staying in Turkey for one month or so.

You can find it also in our Istanbul itinerary post. Actually, there is so much to do in this country, including hiking. Actually, doing the Lycian way is so famous for trekkers and offers breathtaking views. So you need to check it out if you are traveling further south.

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Achraf is the cofounder of Walk Beside Me Blog. He is an expert traveler who spent 10+ years exploring 70+ countries around the world. Thanks to his passion for writing and photography, he could document his journey on 100+ blog posts on Walk Beside Me where he shared all his knowledge, expertise, and advice for like-minded travelers.

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Red Tour in Cappadocia! Where To Visit? Is It Good?

Categories Europe , Türkiye , Türkiye

‘So this is where all of the iconic photos of Cappadocia are taken!’ I thought as I was in the middle of the Red Tour in Cappadocia.

Cappadocia day tours are very popular because unless you  hire a car or hire a private driver there’s no other way to see the area and most of the popular places to visit in Cappadocia are not in the main tour of Goreme, therefore a day tour is needed and the 2 most popular Cappadocia day tours are the Red Tour Cappadocia and the Green Tour Cappadocia and this is my review on the Cappadocia Red Tour, the highlights of the Red Tour and what to wear and pack for the Red Tour in Cappadocia!

Red Tour Cappadocia

Find What You're Looking For Easily Here!

Green Tour Vs Red Tour

I first visited Cappadocia in 2015 and on that trip I did the Green Tour which took me out into the Countryside to do a Hike, visit a Monastery and see an Underground City. It was great but I felt like I was on the bus for a long time, I didn’t get to see the iconic Valley’s that I had seen so many photos of online and it’s more expensive. 

So on my return trip and with more and more photos of Cappadocia online and Instagram especially, I decided to do the Red Tour which took me to those Instagram spots .

I booked this tour right here through Get Your Guide using the tour operator Tourmania:

Highlights of the Cappadocia Red Tour

These are the highlights of the Cappadocia Red tour:

Uchisar Rock Castle

I got picked up just before 10:00 am and it wasn’t long before our first stop at  Uchisar Rock Castle . The top of the Castle is the highest point in the area but we didn’t have time to climb up there, not that I was too bothered. Instead, our guide Tugba who was a complete gem and such a good guide to have explained to us what the Caves that surround the Castle had been used for.

People used to live in them but now they don’t. Some of them are unused but some of them are still used for storage as the weather here is extreme, it ranges from -20°c in the Winter with highs of 40° in the Summer, however, the Caves keep the same temperature of about 15°c all year round and are therefore really handy to store the food produced in the local area which is a lot of food considering that aside from tourism, agriculture is the biggest industry in the region of Cappadocia.

GOING TO ISTANBUL TOO?

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Goreme Open Air Museum

It was pretty busy at the Castle as it seemed to be a popular start to everyone’s day. After Tugba told us about the Castle and Caves we were given 15 minutes to walk around and take photos before getting back into the minibus and taking the short drive to the Open Air Museum just up the road from Goreme.

I visited the Open Air Museum on my first visit to Cappadocia, I wasn’t on a tour and I think I got the audio guide, but I remember not really understanding the museum’s original use. A positive to the Red Tour in Cappadocia is that you visit the museum and have a pretty in-depth guided tour.

A lot of people think the museum used to be a Village, but the people of the area lived in the Village that is Goreme and other surrounding Villages. The museum is full of centuries-old rock-cut Churches and Monasteries instead.

We spent about 1 hour 15 minutes at the museum and after the guided tour we were able to explore on our own and take photos. The museum is 30TL to enter but the ticket price is included in the tour package.

Related post: How to Spend 2-3 Days in Cappadocia and Cappadocia Travel Tips!

Love Valley

Our next stop on the Red Tour in Cappadocia was Love Valley which was about 10 minutes away, on the way Tugba gave us some information on the area including telling us that the word Cappadocia is a Persian Word and means the land of beautiful horses. I didn’t know that but I really liked finding that out.

Love Valley is very much a photo opportunity stop, and a bit of a cheesy one at that, however this is where some of those iconic photos are taken as it’s decked out with swings, benches, and even an old car with the beautiful backdrop of Love Valley.

Lunchtime was approaching and luckily our next stop was lunch at Han Restaurant. Again the drive was pretty quick, the Red Tour is centred around Goreme and therefore the longest bus journey was about 20 minutes and the shortest 5 minutes.

The restaurant for lunch appeared to be purpose-built for buffets and tour groups but what it lacked in the atmosphere it made up for in the food options and quality.

There was an array of Salads, Hot Main Options and plenty of Middle Eastern Desserts meaning we could try lots of local food. There were plenty of Vegetarian & Vegan options which I was pleased about and the only thing we had to pay for were drinks if we had one.

To SEE the Red Tour, have a look at my YouTube video here !

Pottery Class

Next to the restaurant are a few Pottery Houses as Pottery is a big and very important industry to the local area, and our next stop was to one of them.

Most tours like this and especially in places like Turkey have a ‘sales’ section, usually they can be pretty boring and a bit awkward if no-one is interested or wants to buy anything but to my delight this was not like this.

We started off being shown a demonstration on how a Pot is made , the guy made it look incredibly easy but I knew it was a skill and we were told he had been making Pottery for 19 years! Next up a member of the group is given a chance to have a go, this was a bit awkward as no-one wanted to but luckily a brave member put her hand up to have a go and proved how difficult it was. As with most of these demonstrations it made me realise and appreciate just how much effort goes into products that are locally made and made by hand.

We were taken into their store which held an impressive about of clay goods and had I had a home to deck out I might have purchased something, but I don’t so I didn’t.

Devrent Valley

The next stop was my favourite Devrent Valley or Imagination Valley because we actually got to have a walk around and in that time we only saw our group and no other tour groups, hooray!

The Valley has been nicknamed Imagination Valley thanks to some people using their imagination as to what the rocks look like, we saw the Virgin Mary, Kissing Donkeys, a Thumbs Up, a Ghost and a Baby Frog. These kind of things are a bit silly and cheesy but they lighten the mood and I enjoyed walking around the rocks.

Pasabag Valley

Our final stop of the day was Pasabag Valley or   Mushroom Valley  as it’s also known because the rocks kind-of look like Mushrooms. This was my least favourite stop actually because it was super busy and although the Castle we visited first had camels near the car park with the ‘opportunity’ for people to sit on them too, here they were walking them up and down which I really don’t like!

We were told a bit about the Valley and it was interesting to hear what Tugba had to say about the formations and how they change over time and how the lids which make the ‘mushrooms’ will eventually fall. Afterwards, we had 30 minutes to walk around and take photos which was plenty of time.

Goreme is just a 5-10 minute drive away from here and that was the end of the tour. I was picked up last and dropped off first from my hotel Cappadocia View Hotel and I got back at about 4:30 pm. Because the tour does stay close to Goreme the finish time of the Red Tour is a lot earlier than the Green Tour as that goes further away.

Red Tour Cappadocia Review

I had a good time, it was well organised with a comfy minibus, good driver and a brilliant tour guide and therefore I really recommend it to you.

The only thing to note is that as you will see from the description of my trip compared to the itinerary online is that we did switch some of the locations about, we visited some extra places and didn’t visit some of the featured places but I can imagine this happens on all tours as they depend on the weather and the busy-ness of the area.

Booking the Red Tour in Cappadocia Online

The link below will take you to the exact tour that I booked and paid for myself, and you can view it here !

What To Wear and Pack for the Red Tour Cappadocia

As you can tell there is not much walking involved in the Red Tour Cappadocia and most people were wearing fashionable clothes including dresses which is fine but the MUST DO is to wear appropriate footwear with a grip .

The sand on the rocks can make them really slippy and even walking on just a small incline or decline of rock can cause people to slip and hurt themselves, I slipped over and I saw someone hurt themselves quite badly.

Do not wear fashion sandals or anything with no grip on this tour.

The weather in Cappadocia is very changeable, some days it’s very hot, other days is chilly and clouded over and some day’s it pours down with rain out of nowhere to be sure to take layers and prepare for rain , just in case. I found it was safe to leave things on the bus so it’s better to take too much than not enough.

There are market stalls at most of the stops if you want to buy snacks or drinks or souvenirs so take extra money for that if you think you might want to.

I hope this has helped you make a decision as to whether to do the Red Tour in Cappadocia.

• More of my Turkey Posts:
• How to Travel From Istanbul to Cappadocia.
• How to Spend 2-3 Days in Cappadocia!
• How I spent 3 Days Discovering Istanbul!
• 36 BEST Things To Do In Istanbul With Insider Tips!
• What To Wear In Istanbul As a Woman To Feel Comfortable Exploring!
• Istanbul 4 Day Itinerary! What To See in Istanbul in 4 Days!
• 10 Istanbul Hidden Gems To Visit For Unique Things To Do in Istanbul!
• GUIDE For Where to Stay in Istanbul! 10 BEST Neighbourhoods in Istanbul to Stay in!
• Where To Stay in Istanbul Taksim Or Sultanahmet? Which is BEST?
• Balat Istanbul Guide. The Colourful Houses in Balat & More!
• How To Get To The Asian Side of Istanbul From European Side! Kadikoy!
• A 3 Day Istanbul Itinerary! Things To Do in Istanbul in 3 Days!

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Group Tours

The Red Tour Cappadocia offers an immersive experience into the wonders of this enchanting region. The tour starts with a visit to Pasabag, also known as Paşabağları, where travelers can witness the extraordinary rock formations that resemble giant mushrooms. This geological wonder has captivated visitors for centuries and provides a fascinating insight into the forces of nature that have shaped Cappadocia over time. Continuing on, the tour takes participants to Avanos, a charming town renowned for its pottery craftsmanship. Here, visitors have the opportunity to observe skilled artisans at work in traditional workshops and learn about the age-old techniques used to create exquisite ceramic pieces. This hands-on encounter with local culture allows travelers to gain a deeper appreciation for the artistic traditions that have been passed down through generations in Cappadocia.

As we embark on this captivating journey through Cappadocia’s red-hued landscapes, we invite you to join us and explore these extraordinary sights that are sure to awaken your sense of adventure and curiosity. Whether you long for an escape from everyday life or seek inspiration from ancient wonders, let yourself be immersed in the magic of Cappadocia’s Red Tour – an experience that promises to leave you awe-inspired and yearning for more freedom in your own life.

Low deposit from 100 €

Deposit protection, free booking changes, 7/24 whatsapp support, tour highlights.

The tour highlights of the red tour in Cappadocia encompass a range of breathtaking natural wonders and historical landmarks. One of the most spectacular sites on this tour is Göreme Open Air Museum . This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to numerous rock-cut churches and monasteries, adorned with exquisite frescoes dating back to the 10th century. As you explore this ancient complex, you will be transported back in time, marveling at the skill and artistry of the Byzantine era. Another highlight of the red tour is Devrent Valley , also known as “Imagination Valley.”This surreal landscape resembles an otherworldly playground with its whimsical rock formations that resemble animals and objects. Walking through this valley feels like stepping into a dream where imagination knows no bounds. The unique shapes and contours of these rocks are a testament to millions of years of natural erosion, creating a truly awe-inspiring sight. Transitioning into the subsequent section about ‘ pasabag (paşabağları) ‘, visitors will continue their journey through Cappadocia’s wonders as they uncover another enchanting destination.

Pasabag, also known as Paşabağları, is a mesmerizing destination with rock formations that resemble towering chimneys emerging from the ground like ancient sentinels. This unique geological site is located in the region of Cappadocia in central Turkey and offers visitors a truly otherworldly experience. The name “Pasabag”translates to “Pasha’s Vineyard”in Turkish, which alludes to its historical importance as a vineyard during Byzantine times. The rock formations at Pasabag were created by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago, followed by centuries of erosion. What remains today are these fascinating fairy chimney-like structures that have captivated the imaginations of many. These distinct shapes are formed when softer layers of volcanic ash and tuff erode faster than the harder layers on top, resulting in tall spires with mushroom-shaped caps. Some formations even feature multiple caps, adding to their enchanting appeal. As you explore Pasabag, you can’t help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the surreal landscape surrounding you. The towering chimneys stand like guardians from another world, beckoning visitors to step into an ancient realm filled with mystery and magic. It’s a place where one can let their imagination run wild and embrace the freedom that comes with escaping into nature’s own masterpiece.

Avanos, a town situated in the mesmerizing region of Cappadocia, offers visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in its rich cultural heritage and witness the traditional art of pottery making. The town is located on the banks of the Kızılırmak River, which provides an ideal environment for clay extraction used in pottery. Avanos has been renowned for its pottery since ancient times, with evidence of this craft dating back thousands of years. Today, it continues to be a hub for pottery enthusiasts who can explore numerous workshops and galleries showcasing intricate ceramic designs. The art of pottery making in Avanos is deeply rooted in tradition and craftsmanship. Skilled artisans use age-old techniques passed down through generations to create unique pieces that reflect the town’s heritage. Visitors can witness these artists at work as they mold clay into beautiful shapes using potter’s wheels or hand-building methods. The process involves precision and patience, with each piece taking days or even weeks to complete depending on its complexity. Transitioning into the subsequent section about “pottery workshop; hand-crafts of Cappadocia,”visitors can delve deeper into Avanos’ artistic traditions by participating in hands-on experiences or exploring workshops that offer insight into other traditional crafts found throughout Cappadocia.

Situated in the heart of Cappadocia, visitors can immerse themselves in the artistic traditions of the region by participating in a pottery workshop that unveils the intricate hand-crafts found throughout this mesmerizing land. The pottery workshop offers a unique opportunity to witness and learn about the centuries-old techniques used by local artisans to create beautiful ceramics. From shaping clay on a potter’s wheel to intricately painting patterns, participants get a firsthand experience of the artistry involved in making these exquisite pieces. During the workshop, skilled craftsmen guide visitors through each step of the pottery-making process, sharing their knowledge and passion for this ancient craft. Participants can try their hand at creating their own masterpiece under expert supervision, allowing them to appreciate the skill and precision required to mold clay into delicate forms. As they shape and decorate their creation, visitors gain insight into the cultural significance behind different motifs and symbols used in Cappadocian pottery. With newfound appreciation for Cappadocia’s traditional hand-crafts, visitors can then venture into Dervent Valley to explore its unique rock formations shaped by natural erosion over thousands of years.

The pottery workshop in Cappadocia offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the traditional hand-crafts of the region. As we delve deeper into the cultural heritage of Cappadocia, we now turn our attention to Dervent Valley, another fascinating destination along the Red Tour route. Located just outside Goreme, Dervent Valley showcases an array of intriguing rock formations that have been carved by thousands of years of wind and water erosion.

• Eerie Fairy Chimneys: One cannot help but be enchanted by the whimsical shapes formed by these natural wonders. The fairy chimneys stand tall and proud, resembling something out of a fantasy world. With their cone-like structures and mushroom-shaped caps, they create a surreal landscape that sparks the imagination.
• Mushroom Rocks: Amongst the peculiar formations, one can easily spot rocks that resemble giant mushrooms scattered throughout the valley. These mushroom rocks are characterized by their slender stems and broad tops, creating an otherworldly sight that is both mesmerizing and captivating.
• Animal-Shaped Formations : Nature’s artistry is truly showcased in Dervent Valley through its animal-shaped rock formations. From camels to snakes to dolphins, these intricate sculptures give life to the rocky landscape, as if Mother Nature herself had carefully crafted each creature with her own hands.
• Lunar-Like Terrain: Walking through Dervent Valley feels like stepping foot on another planet altogether. The barren terrain resembles a lunar landscape with its pale colors and lack of vegetation. It is this desolate beauty that captures the essence of freedom – a vast expanse where one can escape from the confines of everyday life and embrace a sense of liberation.

As we leave behind the enchanting Dervent Valley, our next stop will take us to Uchisar Castle – yet another architectural marvel steeped in history and offering breathtaking views over Cappadocia’s unique landscapes.

Uchisar Castle, a magnificent fortress perched atop a rocky hill, offers visitors an extraordinary vantage point to admire the breathtaking landscapes of this fascinating region. The castle, carved out of natural rock formations and standing at a height of 60 meters, provides panoramic views that stretch across the entirety of Cappadocia. From its highest point, one can witness the stunning beauty of the unique fairy chimneys scattered throughout the valley, as well as the vast expanse of undulating hills and valleys that make up this otherworldly landscape. As visitors explore Uchisar Castle’s labyrinthine corridors and chambers, they are transported back in time to when it served as a strategic lookout post for various civilizations throughout history. The castle’s strategic location allowed its inhabitants to control trade routes and defend against potential invaders. Today, it stands as a testament to both human ingenuity and nature’s marvels. Its imposing presence evokes a sense of awe and wonder in all who visit. Moving on from Uchisar Castle’s grandeur is Love Valley Panorama, where towering rock formations shaped by centuries of erosion create an enchanting landscape reminiscent of ancient sculptures.

Shaped by centuries of erosion, the towering rock formations in Love Valley Panorama create an enchanting landscape reminiscent of ancient sculptures, evoking a sense of awe and wonder in all who visit. These natural wonders stand tall against the sky, their unique shapes and textures captivating the imagination. The reddish hue of these rock formations adds to their mystique, as if they were painted by nature’s own brush. Standing amidst this picturesque valley, one can’t help but feel a connection to the past, as if being transported to a time when giants roamed the earth.

Visitors to Love Valley Panorama are greeted with a mesmerizing sight that is both serene and powerful. Here are three notable features that contribute to its allure:

• Phallic Rock Formations: These towering structures resemble phallic symbols and have become synonymous with Love Valley’s identity. They stand proudly amidst the landscape, creating a surreal atmosphere that sparks curiosity and intrigue.
• Tranquil Atmosphere: As visitors explore Love Valley Panorama, they are enveloped in a sense of tranquility that is hard to find elsewhere. The peacefulness of this place allows for introspection and contemplation while admiring nature’s magnificent creations.
• Photographic Opportunities: With its breathtaking vistas and unique rock formations, Love Valley Panorama offers an abundance of opportunities for photography enthusiasts. From capturing the play between light and shadow on these towering rocks to framing panoramic views against the backdrop of clear blue skies, each shot promises to be a masterpiece.

Transitioning seamlessly into our next destination, Göreme Open Air Museum unveils an entirely different facet of Cappadocia’s rich heritage…

Göreme Open Air Museum showcases a vast collection of cave churches and monasteries, offering visitors a glimpse into the religious and cultural history of Cappadocia. Located in the town of Göreme, this open-air museum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts tourists from all over the world. The museum is an important site for understanding the early Christian communities that thrived in Cappadocia during the Byzantine era. The caves at Göreme Open Air Museum were carved by hand into the soft volcanic rock known as tuff. These caves served as places of worship, housing intricate frescoes depicting scenes from the Bible. The museum features numerous churches, each with its own unique architectural style and artistic elements. Visitors can explore these ancient structures and marvel at the impressive craftsmanship that went into creating them.

As visitors wander through the museum, they are transported back in time to a period when these caves were bustling centers of religious activity. The peaceful atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings create a sense of serenity and tranquility. This makes Göreme Open Air Museum not only an educational experience but also a place where visitors can find solace and connect with their inner selves. Whether one is interested in history or simply seeking a moment of respite, this remarkable site offers something for everyone who yearns for freedom from their everyday lives.

• Guidance Service
• Museum Tickets
• Tips to Guide Driver
• Personal Expences

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North Tour - Classic Cappadocia Tour

Price: € 55 ( $ 60 / € 55 / ₺ 1,961 / £ 47)

Embark on a memorable journey starting at 09:30 am with a hotel pick-up, immersing yourself in the extraordinary beauty of Cappadocia. Begin your day with a visit to the otherworldly landscapes of Devrent Valley's rock formations that defy belief, followed by exploring Pasabag's mystical "fairy chimneys" near Zelve. Indulge in a delectable lunch in Avanos, famed for its terra cotta art dating back to 3000 BC, and witness a captivating pottery demonstration. In the afternoon, delve into the ancient wonders at Zelve Open Air Museum, showcasing exquisite Byzantine art in rock-cut churches adorned with frescoes from the 10th to the 13th century. Marvel at the breathtaking panoramic views from Esentepe overlooking Goreme valley, capturing the essence of fairy chimneys, cave houses, and rock formations. Conclude your day at the majestic Uchisar Castle, perched as the highest point in the Goreme region, before returning to your hotel by approximately 17:30 pm. Experience a day filled with wonder and enchantment in Cappadocia's unique and spellbinding landscapes.

Select Tour Date & Participants

Prices may vary periodically, about this activity.

• Departure Location: Cappadocia
• Event days: Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
• Tour duration (Approx - including transfers): 8 Hours
• Guiding & Support: English , Turkish
• Booking confirmation: Instant confirmation
• Printed or mobile voucher: Both is accepted.
• Cancellation policy: Flexible
• Easy Online Booking: Fast, Easy & SSL Secure Booking
• Vegetarian & Vegan meal: Available
• Skip the ticket line: Available
• Tour ID: 373

Highlights | Overview

• Hotel pick-up at 9:30 am
• Visit Devrent Valley and see the unique rock formations
• Explore Pasabag and witness the "fairy chimneys"
• Enjoy lunch in Avanos and watch a pottery demonstration
• Discover Zelve Open Air Museum with Byzantine art
• Admire panoramic views from Esentepe
• End the day at Uchisar Castle
• Return to hotel around 17:30 pm

Full Description

North tour-classic cappadocia tour (09:30-17:00) – with zelve open air museum, red tour cappadocia - classic north cappadocia tour.

Devrent Valley (Imagination valley), Pasabagi (Monk’s Valley), Avanos  (Pottery center), Zelve Open Air Museum, Esentepe,  Uchisar Castle.

NORTH TOUR-CLASSIC CAPPADOCIA TOUR (09:30-17:00) – WITH GOREME OPEN AIR MUSEUM: can be chosen extra at the next step of booking.

RED PLUS  TOUR  (09:30-18:00) - WITH ZELVE OPEN AIR MUSEUM & UNDERGROUND CITY : can be chosen extra at the next step of booking.

So, are you ready to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure through the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia? With the North Tour-Classic Cappadocia Tour, you'll have the opportunity to explore the otherworldly beauty of Devrent Valley, witness the enchanting "fairy chimneys" of Pasabag, and discover the fascinating history of Zelve Open Air Museum. Don't miss the chance to experience the magic of Cappadocia – book your tour today!

Are you ready to embark on a magical journey through the stunning landscapes of Cappadocia? Join us on the North Tour-Classic Cappadocia Tour and experience a day filled with wonder, history, and beauty. From rock formations that seem to defy gravity to ancient churches adorned with breathtaking frescoes, this tour will take you on a mesmerizing adventure through one of Turkey's most captivating regions.

Pick-up from Hotel: Your day begins with a pick-up from your hotel at 09:30am. As you make your way through the picturesque countryside, you'll feel the excitement building for the adventures that lie ahead.

Devrent Valley – The Lunar Landscape: The first stop on our tour is Devrent Valley, where you'll encounter rock formations that are truly out of this world. The lunar landscape of Devrent Valley is a sight to behold, with its twisted and contorted rock formations creating a surreal atmosphere. As you explore this unique terrain, you'll feel like you've stepped onto another planet.

Pasabag – Fairy Chimneys: Next, we'll visit Pasabag, home to the famous "fairy chimneys." These whimsical rock formations are a testament to the power of nature's sculpting abilities. As you wander through this enchanted landscape, listen closely as the wind whispers through the chimneys, creating a symphony of nature's sounds.

Lunch in Avanos: After a morning of exploration, it's time to refuel with a delicious lunch in Avanos. This charming town has been the center of terra cotta art for thousands of years, and you'll have the chance to witness a pottery demonstration in a traditional workshop. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the region as you enjoy a meal surrounded by ancient artistry.

Zelve Open Air Museum: In the afternoon, we'll make our way to the famous Zelve Open Air Museum, where you'll discover some of the finest examples of Byzantine art in Cappadocia. Explore the rock-cut churches adorned with stunning frescoes and paintings dating back to the 10th to 13th century. Step back in time as you admire the intricate details and vibrant colors that adorn these ancient walls.

Esentepe Panoramic Viewpoint: Our journey continues to the Esentepe panoramic viewpoint, where you'll be treated to a breathtaking vista overlooking Goreme. Take in the panoramic view of the valley below, dotted with fairy chimneys, rock formations, and cave houses. This is the perfect spot to capture those postcard-worthy moments and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Uchisar Castle: Our final stop of the day is Uchisar Castle, the tallest rock formation in the Goreme region. Climb to the top and marvel at the panoramic views that stretch out before you. From this vantage point, you'll have a bird's eye view of the valley below, allowing you to appreciate the beauty and history of this ancient land.

Return to Hotel: As the sun begins to set, we'll make our way back to your hotel, arriving around 17:30pm. Reflect on the day's adventures as you journey back, knowing that you've experienced the magic of Cappadocia in all its glory.

Red tour Cappadocia or Classic North Cappadocia Tour is a journey unlike any other, filled with wonder, history, and natural beauty. From the surreal rock formations of Devrent Valley to the ancient churches of Zelve Open Air Museum, this tour offers a truly unforgettable experience. Book your adventure today and discover the enchanting allure of Cappadocia.

Price included

• Pick-up & Drop Off from/to your Cappadocia Hotel
• Open buffet lunch in Avanos town (Vanessa)
• Entrance fees to the scheduled museum
• All local tax and insurances
• No hidden or extra cost
• Professional English-speaking Tour Guide
• Personal expenses
• Beverages during the tour

Pick Up Place

Pick up point, details to know, north cappadocia tour - red tour cappadocia.

Embarking on the North Tour - Classic Cappadocia Tour is a captivating journey that unveils renowned gems like Devrent Valley, Pasabagi, Avanos, Zelve Open Air Museum, Esentepe, and Uchisar Castle. As the day unfolds from 09:30 to 17:00, visitors are immersed in the rich history and artistic heritage of the region. Devrent Valley beckons with its fantastical rock formations, while Pasabagi enchants with its unique fairy chimneys in Monk's Valley. Avanos stands out as a hub of pottery craftsmanship, and the Zelve Open Air Museum offers a firsthand glimpse into ancient cave dwellings. Esentepe treats travelers to panoramic vistas, while Uchisar Castle's imposing structure crowns the tour with a majestic finale. This comprehensive itinerary ensures a profound exploration of Cappadocia's cultural and natural wonders, making it an enriching adventure for all.

Additional information

Attractions program of red tour cappadocia.

• Pick-up from hotel at 09:30am
• Visit Devrent Valley for lunar landscape rock formations
• Explore Pasabag fairy chimneys and Zelve
• Lunch in Avanos and pottery workshop demonstration
• Visit Zelve Open Air Museum for Byzantine art
• Stop at panoramic viewpoint Esentepe
• See Goreme Valley and village from Uchisar Castle
• Return to hotel at around 17:30pm
• The tour program may vary depending on the availability of the time.

Period & Price

01 january 2024 / 31 december 2024 - price, have a question.

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Red Tour in Cappadocia - The Ultimate Guide for Places, Prices and Tips

The Red Tour in Cappadocia is a popular and enchanting excursion that takes visitors through some of the region's most scenic and naturally stunning locations. The Red Tour in Cappadocia explores the northern part of the region, showcasing the natural wonders like unique cone-shaped houses carved into volcanic rocks, famous mushroom-shaped mountains, and early Christian churches and monasteries. Here are the places that are included in the red tour Cappadocia.

Places Included in Cappadocia Red Tour

1. goreme open-air museum.

The tour often starts with a visit to the Goreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This museum is home to a vast collection of rock-cut churches and monasteries with well-preserved frescoes dating back to the 10th-12th centuries. The unique architectural and artistic features make it a must-visit site in Cappadocia.

2. Pasabag (Monks Valley)

Pasabag, known as Monks Valley, is famous for its unique fairy chimneys with multiple stems and caps. These distinct rock formations, shaped by volcanic activity and erosion, create a surreal landscape. You can explore the valley and witness the remarkable geological formations.

3. Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley)

Devrent Valley, also called Imagination Valley, is known for its rock formations resembling various animals and shapes. The landscape here sparks creativity and imagination, and visitors often enjoy identifying different figures in the rock formations.

4. Uchisar Castle

Uchisar Castle is a prominent landmark in Cappadocia, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Carved into the natural rock, the castle provides a glimpse into the historical significance of such structures in the region.

5. Love Valley

Love Valley is characterized by its tall, cone-shaped rock formations, creating a romantic and picturesque setting. The valley gets its name from the unique shapes of the rocks, and visitors can take in the breathtaking scenery during a leisurely walk.

6. Cavusin Village

Cavusin Village is an ancient settlement with rock-cut dwellings and churches. The tour may include a visit to the village, allowing participants to explore the historical architecture and gain insights into the daily life of the inhabitants.

7. Pottery Workshops In Avanos Town

During the Red Tour, you can explore the renowned craft of Avanos pottery. Avanos, located 8 km from Goreme, sits by the Red River. The red clay used in pottery comes from this river. In the region, you'll find art districts and pottery shops where you can try your hand at pottery-making. Many shops have demonstration areas where you can learn the art from experts and get hands-on experience.

Price of Cappadocia Red Tour

The price of a Red tour in Cappadocia can range from $55 to $65, depending on the travel agency. This price typically covers entrance fees to historical sites and includes lunch. Anything extra you choose to buy is at your own expense. It is a tour with a small group of 18 people.

Red Tour Vs Green Tour

When considering the Red Tour versus the Green Tour in Cappadocia, it's crucial to weigh the unique experiences each offers. The Red Tour typically encompasses iconic attractions known for surreal rock formations and are the region's natural wonders. On the other hand, the Green Tour often includes off-the-beaten-path destinations like the Ihlara Valley, home to scenic hikes along a lush canyon with ancient cave churches, the Selime Monastery with its stunning cliff-side architecture, and the charming village of Derinkuyu with its underground city.

The Red Tour may be the preferred choice due to its focus on the most renowned landmarks of Cappadocia. It offers a comprehensive glimpse into the region's rich history and natural beauty within a shorter timeframe. However, if you have more time to spare and seek a deeper exploration of lesser-known gems, the Green Tour provides a unique opportunity to venture off the beaten path and discover hidden treasures that showcase the diverse landscape and cultural heritage of Cappadocia.

Cappadocia Red Tour Tips

• The Red Tour is ideal for those facing mobility challenges or having young children.
• The attractions are conveniently close to Goreme, minimizing the need for extensive walking or hiking.
• The tour provides transportation to each location, allowing you to decide the movement level you're comfortable with at each stop. This makes it suitable for those who prefer a more relaxed pace during their exploration of Cappadocia.

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North Cappadocia Tour (Red Tour)

Pick up: 09:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. depending on your hotel’s location. Tour end: Approximately 17:00 pm. Tour Include - All entrance fees for sites on the itinerary - Professional English-speaking tour guide - Lunch - Transfers to/from any cave accommodations

Winding through the spectacular valleys, historic sites and rock formations of northern Cappadocia, the Red Tour is not to be missed. An expert local guide will accompany you as you explore the magnificent landscapes and ancient frescoes of this stunning UNESCO World Heritage destination. The best of Cappadocia can be covered with this tour in combination with the South/Green Cappadocia tour.

Sights Visited

Goreme esentepe for panoramic view.

We stop at the Esentepe vista viewpoint, located between Uchisar and Goreme. This stunning panorama provides breathtaking views of the town of Esentepe and the surrounding landscape of fairy chimneys.

Goreme Open Air Museum

We will begin at the Goreme Open Air Museum, an impressive collection of monasteries, churches and chapels that date back to the Middle Ages. The site served as an important Christian center of learning. Visitors can marvel at its religious buildings, which still exhibit elaborate and beautifully preserved frescoes.

Pasabag – Monks Valley

We will then have time to explore the Monks Valley, famed for its three-headed fairy chimneys. This region of is also known as Pasabag, or “Pasha’s Vineyard,” for its stunning earth pillars located within a vineyard.

Devrent Valley

A short drive will take us to the surreal Devrent Valley, famed for its almost lunar landscape of small, pointed fairy chimneys. VIsitors will get a chance to explore the valley and take in its astounding formations.

Avanos Pottery workshop

Our final destination is the small town of Avanos, home to a terracotta industry dating back to 3000 BC. Potters source clay from the Red River that winds through town. Tour visitors we will have the opportunity to visit a traditional pottery workshop and witness the excellent craftsmanship firsthand.

Three Beauties

The Three Beauties, or Three Graces, are three brilliant fairy chimneys located near Urgup. It is the most famous symbol of Urgüp. This amazing natural formation is well-known for its enchanting landscape as well as its fascinating story.

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Cappadocia Red Tour

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Red Tour Cappadocia (North Tour)

• Göreme Panoramaic View Point
• Uchisar Castle Hillside
• Göreme Open Air Museum or  Paşabağı (Monks Valley)
• Çavuşin Village
• Avanos Potery Work Shop
• Devrent Valley (Imagination Valley)

Red Tour Experience

The destinations above consist of north part of the Cappadocia . Tour starts at 09:30 AM with picking you up from your hotel (only for Goreme, Ürgüp, Çavuşin, Uçhisar, Avanos Hotels) with professional tour guide and driver(If your hotel is outside of Cappadocia, your transportation to Cappadocia is not included.) The tour starts at Uçhisar Castle , it is almost 60 meter natural volcanic hill and fortress, which was not built, yet people carved out and builded dwellins for their needed. This is the highest point of central Cappadocia. So you could take unbelievable photos of unusual landscape of Cappadocia.

After that we will proceed to Göreme Town . Göreme is the rising star of the Cappadocia Region in the center of Cappadocia, here we will visit Göreme Open Air Museum. Göreme Museum consists of steep cliffs and many hidden churches dating from Byzantine time. The world’s most important Byzantine cave churches are found in these once remote valleys where monks pursued monastic life from the 3 rd century on. Here you can see the best preserved Byzantine cave wall paintings and frescos from the Iconoclastic period until the beginning of the Seljuk rule, which show scenes from the Old and New Testament.

After visiting the museum, we will go to Avanos Town where we will have our lunch. Avanos is a small town, known for its ceramics and it overlooks the longest river of Turkey, the Red River. Red River; old name Halys; in ancient times was the border between Asia Minor and the rest of Asia. River is the witness of two major events in history that had occurred there. 585 BC.

Halys River was the place of famous Battle of Halys; the first battle in history that is known the correct date (May 28 585 BC – Battle of the Eclipse). Two and half centuries after that, during the time of Alexander The Great; Alexander knew and said if he will want to come to the end of the world, he will have to be able to cross the Halys River; and in 333 BC Alexander has succeed in his venture. The most famous historical feature of Avanos, which is still relevant and very visible today, is its production of earthenware pottery. People are producing handmade pottery since 4000 years with same technic. The ceramic trade in this district and its countless pottery factories date back to the Hittites, and the ceramic clay from the red silt of the Red River has always been used. Today, Avanos is the pottery center of Cappadocia and we will visit a pottery atelier and shop. There you will have a chance to watch the potters at work using kick wheels, the technique which has remained unchanged for generations. You will have a possibility to buy yourself a unique handmade souvenir from Cappadocia.

After that we will continue to Çavuşin Village, one of the oldest villages in this area. It is an old Greek village and the most important building there is a Byzantine church of St. John the Baptist. Then we will proceed to Paşabağı, also called the Monks Valley because Christian hermits chose to locate hermite cells and churches in three-headed pinnacles symbolic of the Holy Trinity.

Red Tour Route

There you will see some of the most striking cones in Cappadocia with twin and even triple rock caps and they are known as the mushroom-shaped fairy chimneys.

Our next stop will be Devrent Valley , also known as „Imagination“ or „ Dream Valley “, and it is the most surreal-looking scenery. This valley is famous because of its lunar landscape. Continuing our tour, the route will take us to Ürgüp where we will make a photo break at Three Beauties , the symbol of Cappadocia. There you will enjoy the sun which slowly sets over Cappadocia .

Anticipated return to your hotel is approximately betwen 17:30 and 18:00 o’clock.

The red tour includes:

• Transportation with air-conditioned luxury vehicle
• Pick up and drop-off service from/to hotel
• Professional English speaking guide
• Entrance fees to museums
• Lunch in a local restaurant (excluding drinks)
• All taxes and service fees

Frequently asked questions about Red tour;

What is the Red Tour?

Red Tour is the main point of the routes that includes the well known excursion, highlights of the Cappadocia. You could visit well preserved rock carved churches and unique landscapes of the region.

Is Lunch Included in the Red Tour?

Yes, lunch is included in the red Tour. We have aggrement with good quality local restaurants, you have a chance to taste traditional local foods during the day.

Which vehicles we are using on the Red Tour?

We are using new model, luxury minibuses on the Red Tour like Mercedes Vito and Mercedes Sprinter. Besides that according to number of guest we could provide Volkswagen Crafter minibus as well. All of our vehicles has daily cleaning process.

Is it possible to do Red Tour with Classical Cars?

Yes, we provide classical cars fort he Red Tour. We have 1964 roadster Chevrolet Impala and Dodge Classical cars. You could take amazing photos with this cars inside thew fairy chimneys. Please contact us fort he further information and price.

Does I need Tourist Guide during the Red Tour?

Yes, not only in Red Tour, for all kind of daily tours you need Professional Tourist Guide in Cappadocia.

What is the Advantage of Travelling with Tourist Guide?

Cappadocia region has very rich historical, naturally and cultural back ground. Due to this reason travelling with guide will provide for you academic and traditional information. With our Professional Tourist Guides you will learn hidden story of the Cappadocia.

Why should I join the Red Tour?

We highly recommend to you Red Tour. You could visit the most famous historical, natural and cultural destinations with Red Tour.

May I have Private Red Tour?

Yes, you could have private Red Tour. You have chance to visit destination more intensively. We could organise the red Tour according to your demand. Please contact us further information and prices.

What time Red Tour starts and finish?

Red Tour starts at 09:30 am and it finish about 05:00 pm.

Should I join the Red Tour to see Cappadocia?

You should spend 1 day for he Red Tour. In order to understand central Cappadocia Red Tour is the best option.

After Red Tour, which flight I can get?

Red Tour finish approximately 05:00 pm. From Göreme to any Airport you could reach in a one hour. So you can get the earliest plane at 07:00 pm.

Do you give information about churches?

Yes, we give detailed information about the history of churches, their purpose of construction and their later use.

May I have Red Tour after Hot Air Balloons Flight?

The Hot air Balloon flight organisation is finish at 08:00 am. You will be hotel around 08:00 am. Red Tour is start at 09:00 – 09:30 am so you can have a chance to get breakfast in the hotel and after you can join the Red Tour.

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RED TOUR + UNDERGROUND CITY

• What’s Included

The Red Tour + Underground City is a popular excursion in Cappadocia that allows visitors to explore the region's natural and historical wonders. The tour is a full-day adventure that covers a lot of ground, making it an ideal way to experience the highlights of Cappadocia in a short period. The tour begins with a hotel pickup and takes visitors to the Göreme Panorama viewpoint, where they can take in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. From there, the tour heads to the Zelve Open Air Museum, an ancient village that was once home to Christians and Muslims. After exploring Zelve, the tour stops for a traditional Turkish lunch in Avanos, where visitors can sample local cuisine and watch a pottery demonstration. The tour then continues to the Underground City of Kaymakli, where visitors can discover the hidden chambers, tunnels, and rooms that were once used as shelters by early Christians. The tour also includes stops at some of Cappadocia's most stunning natural sites, including Pasabag, where visitors can see the famous "fairy chimneys," and Devrent Valley, known for its unique rock formations that resemble various animals. Overall, the Red Tour + Underground City offers a comprehensive and enjoyable way to experience Cappadocia's unique culture, history, and natural beauty in one unforgettable tour.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Proceed to checkout, enter your reservation details:, per person 80 €.

AROUND THE WORLD    IN VEGAN EATS

Which is the best cappadocia tour: red, blue, or green.

There was one place that was absolutely top of my list when it came to visiting Türkiye: we 100% had to include Cappadocia in our itinerary! This incredible region of Türkiye includes the stunning town of Göreme, where rock formations lovingly known as fairy chimneys create an otherworldly landscape. Here you can stay in cave hotels, explore ancient churches carved out of rock, and witness the spectacle of hundreds of hot air balloons skimming the landscape at dawn every day. Honestly, this was one of the most beautiful places I have ever visited, full of sights that I will never forget. But one lesser known thing about Cappadocia is how spread out the sights are: some of the terrain is a little treacherous too, so it can be a little difficult to get around - especially if, like us, you only have a small amount of time to spend in the region. So that's where the tours come in!

What is the difference between the Cappadocia Green, Blue, and Red tours?

When it comes to getting a tour of Cappadocia, things can get a little bit confusing and overwhelming - especially if you only have the time and money to go on one of the tours. While we usually recommend booking and paying for tours from local vendors when you arrive in a place, rather than booking online in advance since it usually ends up way more expensive, we actually found the opposite was true in Göreme. Because almost everyone who visits the town is looking for a hot air balloon ride and/or a Göreme tour, the prices are pretty high here and we definitely found better deals online. It was even cheaper than the specially discounted deals our hotel offered!

But without the help of booking agents, we spent a very long time deliberating over which tour to choose. Why? Because all of the tours offer completely different routes around the region, and different sights to see. There were exciting things on each tour, but also things that we didn't want to miss out on!

Now, probably the most comprehensive tour, with some of the main highlights of the Cappadocia area, is the blue tour. Not only is this a full day tour including lunch, it also visits the Red and Rose Valley, the Fairy Chimneys, Pigeon Balley, Uchisar Castle, Cavusin Cave Village, and the Underground Cities. However, this is a very small group tour - usually with a maximum of four people and a tour guide - meaning it tends to be a lot more expensive. It usually costs around twice the price of the red or green tours: not only does this tour offer a more personal service, the distances between the locations are longer, and there are more entry fees included. So if cost isn't an issue, this may be the tour for you.

For us though, the cost of the Blue Tour was prohibitive: we needed to make the most of Cappadocia on the larger group Green or Red tours. And this is where we ran into a bit of a problem: there was no way we could see everything we wanted to! The Red Tour encompasses North Cappadocia, while the Green Tour explores the South...

The Red Tour is extremely popular, especially if your group includes children or if you struggle to walk long distances. This is because the stops are closer to Göreme, and there is less walking involved. It also includes lunch and all entry fees, including a visit to the famous Göreme Open Air Museum, which is a must visit for many travellers in Cappadocia. Other highlights include Uchisar Castle, Monks Valley, Devrent Imagination Valley, and a trip to the Pottery Workshops too.

The Green Tour, on the other hand, takes you a little further away from Göreme. After a quick stop at Pigeon Valley Viewpoint, where you can get some photos and incredible views over the valleys and Fairy Chimneys, you will head onto Ihlara Valley, Belisirma Village, Derinkuyu Underground City, and Selime Monastery. Encompassing some of Cappadocia's most unique sights, this tour takes more time, but like the other tours, also includes lunch and your entry fees.

Which tour did we choose, and why?

After a lot of deliberation, we opted for the Green Tour.

Although we were sad not to visit Red and Rose Valley and Göreme Open Air Museum on our tour, we decided that these areas were a lot easier for us to access on our own.

Without transport, there was no way that we were accessing South Cappadocia - and we really didn't want to miss the Underground City and those incredible views over Pigeon Valley! If money had been no object, though, we definitely would have picked the Blue Tour, since it would have offered almost everything that we wanted to see while we were staying in Göreme!

What were our lasting impressions of the Green Tour? Would recommend it?

Honestly, we loved the Green Tour! Without a doubt, a highlight was the views over Pigeon Valley in the fresh light of the early morning! From the moment we were picked up from our hotel by our lovely, bubbly tour guide, we had a day packed full of interesting and informative facts about the region, and plenty of time to explore on our own too. This is exactly what we like in a group tour! The group that we were with were really friendly, and the bus was modern and comfortable, and more than equipped for the sometimes challenging terrain. This was probably the most comfortable tour bus that we have travelled in - you forget how much of a difference a comfy ride makes to your overall tour experience!

Aside from the incredible viewpoint at the beginning of the tour, not long after we'd left Göreme, the most memorable parts of the tour were definitely our trip to Selime Monestary and Derinkuyu Underground City. The Monestary was extremely impressive, and really fun to explore. Though you can't really see any of the frescoes any more, it's still incredible to climb inside the ornate structure, carved out of rock all that time ago. Though many of the rooms are rougher, the church itself is so impressive and definitely has to be seen to be believed! But even more impressive, in my eyes, was the underground city. Learning about its history, squeezing myself through the tunnels, and witnessing how people lived underground, all those years ago? This was the kind of unique experience that we relished, and were so pleased that we had chosen the green tour, which enabled us to experience this!

Was the Green Tour suitable for vegetarians and vegans?

In short, yes - it was vegetarian and vegan friendly, but there were some elements that could really be improved here. When it comes to the lunch, you will be more than happy. Like most group tours, the Green Tour takes you to a buffet restaurants that caters mostly for tour groups. This one is pretty cool though because, after a short valley trek, you reach its tranquil riverside location. The food is much better than the food I have experienced on most tours. In your booking, you should have had the opportunity to specify your dietary requirements - in our experience, this will be reconfirmed on the bus, where your guide will ask if you want the chicken, fish, or vegetarian option. Note that if you are vegan, you will need to specify no dairy products, as the main course is topped with cheese as standard. This is all easy to navigate though, and the restaurant are very used to dealing with these requirements.

When you reach the restaurant you will be served your starter, which in our case was lentil soup. Everyone, regardless of their main course choice, was served the same soup. Lentil soup is actually very popular in Türkiye (keep an eye on our blogs from Antalya where we will be trying the most famous lentil soup in the country!) This soup was really delicious and filling, with plenty of bread to share on the table. This was followed by a really tasty main course, a ratatouille style dish of mixed vegetables in a rich tomato sauce, served with some of the most delicious and warming rice! Now, if you are vegan like me, make sure that you are served the dish without melted cheese on top. Mike, who is vegetarian, had the variant with cheese, but it seemed like it didn't add much - this dish was really flavoursome in itself anyway! Dessert and drinks are not included in the tours, so make sure that you bring plenty of water if you don't want to pay! We didn't add dessert on, since it was baklava and ice cream (and very expensive too!) so we had a nice stroll while other members of our group enjoyed dessert and coffee. After that tasty meal though, we really didn't feel like we were missing out!

The worst bit of the tour, for us, was the only part that I would say really isn't vegetarian and vegan friendly. If you are familiar with tours in countries across the world, you'll be aware of the habit of tour companies taking their groups to expensive tourist trap workshops and shopping visits along the way. From pottery and jewellery to paintings and clothing, we've seen it all! It's usually a slightly annoying but sometimes mildly interesting part of going on organised group tours.

But in this case, they took us to a leather and fur fashion house, which I found quite upsetting. We were able to make the choice to stay outside, and instead be entertained by the adorable cats outside (if you want to learn more about the cats you'll encounter all over Türkiye, never fear, we have a blog in the works on this too!) , But obviously it would be much better if cruelty free sites were chosen for these token visits. However, don't let this put you off booking one of these tours: if the tour companies see more and more people refusing to join their group on these visits, they may be more likely to make the change to different workshops and stores. And if nothing else, these cats are very cute, and you will have an excellent time on the rest of your Cappadocia tour!

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Where should I stay?

Out of all of the places I've been, Cappadocia definitely takes the crown for some of the coolest and most unique places to stay! Most people stay in the town of Göreme, and although the prices are slightly higher, I would really recommend this! Most of the accommodation boasts cave rooms, as well as more modern extensions, its definitely worth paying slightly more if you want the incredible experience of a cave room! For a luxurious experience, try Cappadocia Cave Lodge , which has incredible views from its roof terrace for you to enjoy your breakfast surrounded by balloons! Or for a more social time, Kamelya Cave Hostel has both mixed sex and female only dorms - and includes breakfast too!

Tours & Experiences

You can see and book the Green Tour that we went on by clicking here !

While you're in Cappadocia, many people also want to head out in a hot air balloon to see this incredible landscape from the sky. There's so many hot air balloons out there, and depending on the time of year you visit you might be able to get a good deal the day before by booking in Göreme. However, if you go in peak season, the prices will rise due to demand, and it might be better to book in advance online to make sure that your place is secured! Check the links on the left for some of the most popular tours and hot air balloons in Cappadocia right now!

Please note that the tours displayed on the left are automatically selected for their popularity by Viator, not chosen or recommended by us. Please check whether any food or drink based tours are suitable for your dietary requirements, and any animal-based experiences are ethical, before booking!

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Cappadocia Red And Green Tours – 2-3 Day Cappadocia Itinerary

If Istanbul enchanted me with it’s infectious energy and diverse culture, then Pamukkale had me gasping at the beautiful white travertines & archaeological cities. My Turkey trip was going like a dream. With one final destination left, I was hoping to finish my journey in Turkey on a high note. And boy was it a high note or what! I had no clue that I was about to explore a destination so blessed with exquisite natural beauty that it would be etched in my memory forever. The place I’m talking about is  Cappadocia . Cappadocia is so weirdly picturesque that words fall short to describe it’s beauty. The terrain is rocky with a large expanse of volcanic rocks shaped like towers, cones, mushrooms, and even male genitals. Since Cappadocia is a huge territory, exploring all of it can seem like a bit of a task. Therefore, the tour companies there have designed three Cappadocia tours to help you cover different regions of Cappadocia. They are  Cappadocia Red, Blue and Green tours.  In this blog post, I’ll be sharing with you the best 2-3 Day Cappadocia itinerary  ie. exploring Cappadocia through the Cappadocia Red and Green tours.

How To Get To Cappadocia

Before discussing the details of Cappadocia Red and Green tours, let’s find out how to get to Cappadocia both, from Istanbul and Pamukkale.

From Istanbul To Cappadocia

1. BY PLANE –  The fastest and most convenient way to get to Cappadocia from Istanbul is by flight. If you book your domestic travel within Turkey in advance, then you can get your flight tickets at a cheap rate. Turkish Airlines & Pegasus Air  operate daily non-stop flights from both the Istanbul airports –   Istanbul Airport (IST) and  Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) to Nevşehir-Kapadokya Airport (NEV) and  Kayseri’s Erkilet Airport  (ASR).

So pick and choose your airport based on the location of your accommodation and enjoy your 1-hour 15-minute journey!

But the journey doesn’t end there. Once in Cappadocia, don’t you want to get to your accommodation? You can get to your hotel through an airport shuttle service. I’d recommend you to use Peerless Travel Services as their shuttle rates are economical and the customer service is good too.

You can also use the shuttle service operated by Argeus travel company   (official Turkish Airlines shuttle service),  Turkish Heritage travel , and Rock Valley travel . However, if you’re rich and travelling in a public shuttle isn’t your thing, then you can hire a private car as well.

2. BY BUS –  If sleeping on a bus during a 10-12 hour overnight journey excites you, then, by all means, go ahead & travel from Istanbul to Cappadocia by bus. It’s the cheapest means of transportation with a ticket costing just 90 TL-100 TL. But let me warn you, it’s a long ride that covers a distance of around 750 km so you might be exhausted at the end of it.

The advantage with this is a) you save accommodation money by spending the night sleeping on a bus instead of a hotel in Istanbul and b) you can use that very money you saved to do tours and activities in Cappadocia instead.

3. BY TRAIN – If you choose to travel from Istanbul to Cappadocia by train, then you have two options. You can take a high-speed YHT train from Istanbul to Ankara. Check the train timetable by clicking here . 

Then take a metro from the Ankara station to the bus terminal. This can take about 45 minutes to an hour. Buses from Ankara to Gorëme in Cappadocia run every couple of hours throughout the day.

Journey to Gorëme takes about 4-5 hours and a ticket can cost you anywhere between 70 TL-110 TL depending upon the bus company you’re opting for. You can book your bus tickets by clicking here .

The second option is that you can take a high-speed train from Istanbul to Konya. Check the train timetable by clicking here . Then book a bus ticket from Konya to Gorëme in Cappadocia by clicking here . The journey to Gorëme takes 4 hours and a ticket can cost you anywhere between 65 TL-100 TL.

4. BY CAR/TAXI – For the adventurous braveheart who wants to drive a car from Istanbul to Cappadocia, a journey of 8-9 hours awaits. If you take meal and pee breaks into consideration, then the journey duration becomes 10 hours. It’s a long 800 km drive so avail this option at your own risk.

You can also hire a private taxi from Istanbul to Gorëme by clicking here .

From Pamukkale To Cappadocia

1. BY PLANE –  There’s no direct flight from Pamukkale to Cappadocia. So what you can do is take a shuttle from Pamukkale to the nearest airport ie. Denizli airport (which is approximately a 1-hour journey). Your hotel in Pamukkale can help you book this shuttle at a reasonable price.

Then take a flight from Denizli airport (DNZ) to  Kayseri’s Erkilet Airport (ASR). You will have a stop at Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) in Istanbul because there is no direct flight that’s operational. So the flight duration can be anything between 4-5 hours depending on your stoppage time in Istanbul.

The second option is that you can take a shuttle from Pamukkale to Izmir (3 hours) and then hop on a flight fro Izmir to Cappadocia ( 1 hour 20 minutes). Once you’re at  Kayseri’s Erkilet Airport (ASR), you can get to your accommodation by using the shuttle services of companies I’ve mentioned above in the “ getting to Cappadocia from Istanbul by plane section “.

2. BY BUS – There are direct buses available from  Denizli otogar (otogar means bus terminal in Turkish) to  Nevşehir otogar.  It’s a 9.5-10 hour journey with a ticket costing you around 80 TL. You can book your bus tickets by clicking here.

In case direct buses are booked during peak season, then you’ll have to change buses in Konya. It’s a 6-6.5 hour journey from Denizli to Konya with a ticket costing you around 70 TL. From Konya otogar take a bus to  Nevşehir otogar (Cappadocia). It’s a 3-hour journey with a ticket costing you around 45 TL-55 TL. Book both your bus tickets by clicking here.

The distance from  Nevşehir otogar  to Gorëme is just 19km (25 minutes approx.) so you can take a cab/taxi from the bus stop to your hotel in Gorëme.

3. BY CAR/TAXI –  If you’re in the mood for a road trip, then you can hire a private car and drive a distance of 650 km from Pamukkale to Cappadocia. It’s an 8-9 hour journey and your fuel charges can range anywhere between 450 TL-700 TL. You can also book a private taxi by clicking here .

Where To Stay In Cappadocia – Cappadocia Accommodations

There are mainly two popular places in Cappadocia where you could book your stay –  Göreme and Uçhisar.  I stayed in  Göreme  and I’d recommend you to book your stay here as well. Why?

1. Firstly, because it has a centralized location with easy access to all parts of Cappadocia. As a result, you cut down on travel time to get to a particular place. Additionally, most of the good tour agencies have their offices in Göreme. So if you’re staying in Göreme, then you won’t have to worry about the pickup when choosing the Cappadocia Red and Green tours.

2. Secondly, it provides you with more options as far as eating, shopping and nightlife are concerned.

3. Thirdly, since Göreme is situated among the many fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, it offers you unique cave-style accommodations from where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the hot air balloons during sunrise and sunset.

Best Hotels In Goreme Where You Can Stay

1. Cappadocia Cave Suites – This is the place I stayed at and I unabashedly recommend you stay here. Why? Because firstly, it has the best cave rooms at a minimal price (if you book in advance) and in the evenings it looks like THIS!

Photo @ Cappadocia Cave Suites Management

Secondly, it’s restaurant serves you the most delicious and sumptuous food  you can find in Cappadocia.

Thirdly, the staff is polite, friendly and assists you  in booking your Cappadocia Red, Blue and Green tours through a premium tour company that doesn’t overcharge you.

Finally, you get to see lovely  sunset views  from the terrace of the hotel. Check out the Cappadocia Cave Suites property and book your stay by clicking here.

2. Sultan Cave Suites – Check out the property and book your stay by clicking here.

3. Grand Elite Cave Suites – Check out the property and book your stay by clicking here.

4. Charming Cave Hotel – Check out the property and book your stay by clicking here.

5. Aydinli Cave Hotel – Check out the property and book your stay by clicking here.

Why Choose Cappadocia Red And Green Tours?

I had two and a half days to explore Cappadocia and wanted to make the most of it. Since I kept aside half a day to do bucket list items like Hot Air Ballooning  and ATV bike riding, I effectively had two days to do the tours.

I chose to do the Red tour Cappadocia and Green tour Cappadocia. Why? Because the two tours not only cover the museums, underground cities, castles, valleys, monasteries but also include lovely hikes through valleys, local food/wine tastings, and art workshops.

As a result, you get to experience the best of Cappadocia and understand why it has to be included in your Turkey itinerary .

Besides, you anyway end up covering a few places similar to those included in the Blue tour. So it makes more sense to do the Cappadocia Red and Green tours. This way you end up saving both time and money. However, you can do the Blue tour as well if you have an extra day or two.

The Ultimate Cappadocia Itinerary

Day 1 – red tour cappadocia.

Red Tour Cappadocia helps you explore the northern region of Cappadocia. The places and activities that you’ll be covering on your first day under this tour are :

• Göreme Open Air Museum,
• Uchisar Castle,
• Carpet Shop,
• Love Valley and Rose Valley,
• Ceramik Kapadokya Pottery Workshop,
• Urgup Fairy Chimneys,
• Devrent Valley and
• Wine Tasting in Urgup

Goreme Open Air Museum

A UNESCO World Heritage site since 1984, the Göreme open-air museum is one of the most popular attractions to visit in Cappadocia. It’s a vast monastic complex consisting of individual monasteries placed side by side – each with a refectory and a private church.

You feel like you’re in a parallel universe as you walk through the rocky settlement area exploring the various cave houses, churches (kilise in Turkish), dining halls, chapels, sitting-rooms inside the rock-cut blocks.

The rock-cut churches are well preserved and have some beautiful frescoes and paintings that date back to the Byzantine era.

You see a reflection of the monastery life led by nuns and monks in the Byzantine cave churches. These churches have wall paintings and frescoes that depict scenes from both the Old Testament and the New Testament.

Some of the popular cave churches in the museum which you must not miss out on are the Dark Church (separate entrance fee), Tokali (Buckle) Church, Elmali Church, Yilanli Church, St. Basil’s Chapel, Saint Barbara Chapel, and   St. Catherine’s Chapel. 

The entry fee for the Göreme open-air museum is 40 TL.

IMPORTANT NOTE :

1. Visit this place early in the morning (around 8 am) to avoid both, the queues and the hot afternoon sun. 2. If you wish to explore the place on your own, then you can opt for an audio guide. The audio guide fee is 15 TL. 3. Your Cappadocia Museum Pass is valid for this museum.

Uchisar Castle

Situated on the highest point of the small town of Uchisar, this tall volcanic-rock outcrop is a famous tourist spot in Cappadocia. The Uchisar Castle, located just 5 km away from the town of Göreme, is one of the best viewpoints to witness the alluring sunsets of Cappadocia.

You can either take a bus from Göreme bus station to Uchisar village (a 10-minute journey) which costs you 3-5 TL per ticket or walk your way from Göreme to the Uchisar castle, hiking through the Love Valley/Pigeon Valley.

The Castle historically acted as a place of refuge for the locals when the enemy armies attacked/occupied the surrounding areas.

Once you climb the 100 odd stairs (10-minute climb) that lead you to the top, you are rewarded with the most spectacular 360-degree panoramic view of surrounding towns and rock valleys garnished generously with the surreal-looking fairy chimneys.

The entry fee for the Uchisar Castle is 9 TL.

Carpet Shop

I know that as soon as you read the word shop , all you can visualize is locals pestering you to buy their stuff. But trust me this inclusion in the itinerary isn’t a tourist trap.

In fact, by the end of your tour of the shop, you are tempted to buy every silk carpet that you lay your eyes on. Carpet weaving is an art and the Anatolian region is the center where this art flourished.

In the carpet shop, you are shown the 2 main types of rugs under production currently – the  kilim  (a flat-woven carpet) and  halı  (knotted rug).

I particularly loved watching graceful Turkish women making woollen and silk carpets with their bare hands using designs that reflect the cultural heritage of Turkey.

The staff at the store show you different kinds of Turkish carpets – both vintage and modern. They teach you how to distinguish between an authentic silk carpet and a fake one, winning you over with their warmth, genuineness, and knowledge.

You get to witness products of their masterful craftsmanship over a delicious cup of Turkish tea/coffee which, according to me, is an absolute win!

Love Valley And Rose Valley

Considering the one-of-a-kind terrain that Cappadocia is blessed with, the valleys form an integral part of the gorgeous landscape. Two such valleys are the Love Valley and the Rose Valley. 

Love Valley gives you an interesting perspective of the cave dwellings and volcanic-rock formations. You see an endless spread of cone topped rock structures called Fairy Chimneys , formed due to wind and rain erosions over thousands of years.

The rock structures strangely resemble mushrooms . So I’m assuming the person responsible for naming this valley had a “love for mushrooms” .

Hiking through the Love Valley is an option if you love hikes and have time on your hands. I, however, got a bit creative. I spotted a sofa at a vantage point which offered an incredible view of the valley (no kidding!).

So I removed my footwear, slid down a rocky slope, and enjoyed the remarkable view of the valley, resting my butt on that oddly but strategically placed sofa.

Rose Valley is another picturesque valley that has to be on your must-visit list. Again, you have the option of hiking the Rose Valley trailhead to get to the valley or you could drive for 15 minutes from Göreme town and get straight to the viewpoint. I chose the latter option.

Rose Valley has unique rock formations which give it a corrugated appearance. But what makes the Rose Valley incredibly exquisite is the fact that the minerals in the sandstone have a pink coloured tinge to them.

This pink is accentuated through the day and is at it’s peak during sunset when the slanting rays create an impression of a valley resplendent in a rosy pink blanket. Rose Valley during sunset is a sight to behold and an absolute natural wonder that leaves you awestruck.

Ceramik Kapadokya Pottery Workshop

If you think that weaving beautiful silk carpets is all there is to Cappadocia, then you’re wrong because there’s an entire world of ceramic art that awaits you. I went to Ceramik Kapadokya which is a ceramic pottery workshop cum store.

The place has a demonstration area where you’re shown how the pottery products are made from scratch. You can even try your hand at it and learn the skill from the masters. The ease with which they make such intricate and wonderful pieces of ceramic art leaves you mighty impressed.

There is a section of products in the store that’s exorbitantly priced as it is designed and made by the experts at the craft. But then there is another section made by the students that’s more affordable.

I chose the latter section to buy Turkish wine decanters and decorative plates famous in that region. If artgasm (yeah, I coined that) is a thing, then the sight of turquoise ceramic pieces of whirling dervishes in a “sema” dance pose has to be the definition of it. The place is an absolute haven for art lovers!

Urgup Fairy Chimneys

The Fairy Chimneys  are a distinctive geographical feature of Cappadocia that makes it one of the most famous destinations in Turkey.

In the Red Tour Cappadocia, you’ll be visiting Urgup and seeing the Fairy Chimneys from close quarters. A 15-minute drive from Göreme town leads you to these surreal towering rock formations.

What’s interesting to know is the story behind their emergence! Volcanic eruptions that occurred millions of years ago blanketed the region with a thick layer of ash, which later solidified into tuff (soft rock). Then erosion by wind and water removed the softer layers of the rock formations leaving only the harder elements to form the Fairy Chimneys.

Fairy Chimneys generally have a conical-shaped body with a boulder on top of it that could resemble a cap, mushroom, or pointed rock. Fairy Chimneys of different kinds can be spotted in different parts of Cappadocia.

Human inventiveness during the Roman period gave the Chimneys their current structure. In this period, Christian inhabitants made a network of caves, churches, sitting rooms, tunnels, and storehouses.

Holes in the walls were for air circulation and blackened walls implied they were part of the kitchen. Just walking around these structures transports you to those times and makes you wonder how the nuns and monks must have lived the “monastery life” inside them.

Devrent Valley

Devrent Valley is a place you’ll enjoy visiting if you have an active and vivid imagination. No kidding! The valley is also called Imagination Valley  for the same reason. Wondering why? That’s because the rock formations here resemble shapes of animals. The most noticeable animal shapes are those of camels, snakes, dolphins, and snails!

You feel like you’re in a customized sculpture zoo designed by nature. The small Fairy Chimneys here have a different appearance compared to those in other valleys. You’ll see them forming a moonscape or a lunar landscape because of their strange look.

Unlike other valleys, you won’t find any cave dwellings or churches in this valley as it was never inhabited by the humans. But what will appeal to you about the Devrent Valley is the lunar landscape. The place is a mere 15 minutes away from Göreme town (11.5 km) and is worth visiting.

Wine Tasting In Urgup

Exploring Cappadocia would be incomplete without getting a taste of the natural, authentic, delicious wines of the region.

Turkey is the world’s fourth-leading producer of grapes with Urgup being the heart of the wine-producing region of Cappadocia. So it comes as no surprise that wine’s always been an integral part of the Turkish culture.

I was taken to the Turasan Sarapcilik  in Urgup. The staff members at Turasan Sarapcilik were warm, friendly, and offered me complimentary tastings of their award-winning wines. 

The quality of wine here is great thanks to the stocking of the grapes at a constant temperature inside the caves. The main grape varieties that are used to make wine here are Emir, Okuzgozu, Kalecik Karasi, Bogazkere, and Narince.

My favourite wines from the ones I tried were  Kalecik Karasi and Emir . They have a unique aroma and flavour which makes them irresistible. I ended up buying a couple of them and I recommend you try them as well!

Day 2 – Green Tour Cappadocia

Green Tour Cappadocia helps you explore the southern part of Cappadocia. The places and activities that you’ll be covering on your second day under this tour are :

• Göreme Panorama Viewpoint,
• Kaymakli Underground City,
• Ihlara Valley Hike,
• Selime Monastery,
• Pigeon Valley,
• Turkish Delights Tasting and

Kapadokya Onyx Stone Centre

Goreme panorama viewpoint.

You begin your Green tour Cappadocia with a marvellous view that could easily replace your current desktop wallpaper. Since the name of the place is self-explanatory, I don’t need to tell you much.

You just need to take a deep breath, marvel at the stupendous panoramic views of Göreme, and have a good camera with you to capture the magic on display!

It’s best to go to the Göreme Panorama point either at the beginning of the tour (just after sunrise) or the end of the tour (during sunset). Because it’s during these two periods of “golden light” that the valleys containing fairy chimneys and other rock formations of Göreme come alive.

There is no entrance fee and the parking here is free as well. There are some souvenir stores and small coffee shops at the venue for tourists.

Kaymakli Underground City

Does the idea of an underground city fascinate you? If yes, then you’re in for some exciting times as the Green tour gives you a chance to explore the widest underground city of Cappadocia.

Built under the hill known as the Citadel of Kaymakli, the  Kaymakli underground city  was first opened to tourists in 1964 and was part of the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1985. The ancient name of the city was Enegup.

Though Kaymakli city is an 8 level deep maze of tunnels and rooms carved into the Earth, only 4 of them are open to the public. Each space is organized around ventilation shafts. So the size and design of rooms vary depending on the ventilation available.

Our guide informed us that the first underground caves were built by Indo-European people called “Phrygians” and the material they used to build the city was the soft volcanic rock.

Later, Christian inhabitants expanded the cave chambers by constructing chapels, storage rooms, and living spaces. But the underground caves were mainly used by the Christians to seek protection from the Arab, Mongolian and Ottoman invasions that occurred at different times.

The first floor was used as a stable since it was difficult to take animals downstairs to lower floors through narrow passageways. To the right of the stable, you’ll see rooms that were probably living spaces.

On the second floor , you’ll see a church with a few small living spaces. The third floor is the largest and the most important of them all. Here you’ll come across community kitchens, wine/oil presses, and storage areas. On the fourth floor , there are spacious living quarters and storage rooms.

Archaeologists believe that the city once accommodated 3000-3500 people. I had a great time exploring this special place. After all, where else would you get the opportunity to time-travel to 7th century BC while squat-walking fancily through narrow tunnels? 

It is a must-visit place in Cappadocia. According to me, exploring the underground city is the most thrilling activity among all activities in the Cappadocia Red and Green tours.

1. Exploring the underground city requires a certain level of fitness. So if you have a bad back or knee problems, then I advise you to avoid visiting the place. 2. Only the passageways that lead you from one level to another can get a bit too tight. Otherwise, it’s very easy to navigate the site. However, if you’re too claustrophobic, then don’t visit the place.

Ihlara Valley Hike

This was my favourite part of the Green tour of Cappadocia. The Ihlara Valley is a beautiful gorge in the Aksaray province of central Anatolia region. 

Lined with trees on both sides, the Melendiz river flows through the Ihlara valley and gives it a calming appearance. For those wanting to connect with nature, this hike is highly recommended.

It’s an easy 3.5-4 km walk from one end to the other. You get down a series of steps and reach the base of the valley where the hike begins. Along the stairway path, you’ll come across a lovely little cave church carved into the volcanic rock.

What surprised me were the colourful frescoes on the inside walls of the church! They were surprisingly well maintained.

Walking along the river, you’ll see many historically significant caves and rooms carved into the cliff that arouse your curiosity. Thankfully, I had a guide named Ahmet  (from Andromeda Tours ) who answered all my questions.

He informed us that Christians escaping from the Roman soldiers took shelter in the rock caves of the Ihlara valley because of the abundant water supply.

The hike is full of visually pleasing sights that have a soothing effect on you. When you’ve got cool fresh air, a serene atmosphere, and pristine natural beauty for company, what more can you ask for?

You’ll even find ducks roaming around freely near the river, at a washroom stop in your hike.

The hike ends with an appetizing lunch at the BelisIrma restaurant which offers you an “over-the-river” dining experience. Tasty food, a friendly staff that serves you with a smile and a view of the picturesque scenery ensure you end your Ihlara experience on a high.

Luckily, I even got to experience my first live snowfall while standing on the wooden bridge just outside the restaurant. Forget feeling exhausted, I felt rejuvenated after the hike. That visual of the snow falling gently on the river is also my favourite memory from the Cappadocia Red and Green tours.

Selime Monastery

Located at the end of the Ihlara valley, at a distance of about 28 km from Aksaray province, is the stunning rock-cut Selime monastery. Selime Monastery is one of the most stunning places to visit in Cappadocia. It is the biggest religious building in Cappadocia with a cathedral-sized church.

The monastery is said to date back to the 8th or 9th century BC and it took almost 200 years to shape and organize the monastery. Inhabitants from Hittite, Assyrian, Persian, Roman, Byzantine, early Christian, Seljuk, and Ottoman civilizations settled here.

The monastery was believed to house 5000 people at one time, which is 1,500 people more than the total capacity of the Kaymakli underground city.

After the 11th century, the monastery was converted into a caravanserai ie. a resting place/hotel for travellers and traders along with their animals. This practice was started by the Seljuk Turks to promote the growth of trade in Turkey along the Silk Route.

As you climb up the steep slippery path to the top of the monastery, you’ll see kitchens, stables, dining rooms, living quarters, storage spaces, a church, a chapel, and a cathedral.

Walking inside the impressive rock-hewn caves gives you an idea of the lifestyle of the people from ancient civilizations.

After the 16th century, the monastery was abandoned and only the local shepherds and village kids visited the place for the longest time, damaging the interiors of the monastery. The paintings and frescoes inside the church though are mostly destroyed due to vandalism and smoke.

There are various vantage points in the monastery from where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding areas. You can easily spend 1.5 hours to 2 hours touring the monastery.

All in all, the Selime Monastery is a wonderful place worthy of your time and effort.

IMPORTANT NOTE : 

1. Exploring the place requires some climbing. Since the path is steep and slippery, elderly people and people with knee issues can avoid the climb. 2. Remember to wear proper climbing shoes.

Pigeon Valley

After exploring the Selime monastery on foot, you proceed to the Pigeon Valley viewpoint. The Pigeon Valley gets it’s name from the various pigeon houses and shelters with nest holes for domesticated pigeons that were carved into the rock formations.

But why give such importance to pigeons? Well, pigeons were once used as message carriers and their poop was used as a fertilizer . So they helped the people of those times in communication and effective farming.

As a result, pigeons became an important part of the local household, and subsequently a valley was named after them as a mark of reverence to honour their contribution to the Turkish culture.

You can feed the pigeons and enjoy scenic panoramic views of the valley. Keep your eyes open and you’ll be able to see the Uchisar castle from here as well.  You’ll also spot a strikingly beautiful evil eye tree at the viewpoint.

If you choose to hike the Pigeon valley, then you’ll come across cave dwellings, ancient paintings, earth pillars, and of course a huge flock of pigeons!

Turkish Delights Tasting

Travelling to Turkey and not tasting their world-famous Turkish delights is a sin. And since I’m not a sinner, I thoroughly enjoyed the Turkish delights tasting included in the Green tour Cappadocia.

Turkish delight, also known as lokum  is a delicately chewy confectionery item made from sugar, starch, and exotic dry fruits.

In this tasting, you’ll be taken to a sweet mart where you’ll be made to taste all kinds of local dry fruits and exotic Turkish delights. The scent of these desserts coupled with the rich flavours of hazelnuts, walnuts, pistachios, and dates makes for a deadly combo.

Chocolate-coated apricots were my absolute favourite and I recommend you try them. For people with a sweet tooth, this experience is truly worth it!

If you’re into handmade jewellery, onyx stone souvenirs, and pottery, then you will love visiting the Kapadokya Onyx stone centre. It’s located just outside of Uchisar on Hacialibey Street No: 36.

The owner – Mr. Alpaslan is a friendly, funny, and knowledgeable gentleman who gives you information about different types of Onyx stones and explains the techniques used to craft them into attractive jewellery.

The handmade stonework in the centre is impressive and most importantly, authentic. Since all the stonework is done at this very place, you get the best quality products at a cheap price. The variety of onyx stone jewellery on display is so huge that you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Unlike other onyx stores in Cappadocia where the prices of products are exorbitant, the Kapadokya Onyx stone centre offers you bona fide products that are bang for your buck.

Activities To Do In Cappadocia If You Have An Extra Day

Since I had half a day extra in addition to the 2 days, I chose to do an activity that I’m sure many people have on their bucket lists ie. an ultimate Hot Air Balloon Tour of Cappadocia with Royal Balloons .

It’s not a part of the Cappadocia Red and Green tours but you should definitely include it in your itinerary. I had the time of my life on that Hot Air Balloon and can’t recommend the activity enough!!

Besides that, some other activities that aren’t included in the Cappadocia Red and Green tours but which you can do are – the ATV Bike Tour of Göreme ,  visiting the  Red Valley, Sword Valley  and booking a spa appointment at a nice Turkish Hammam to end the Cappadocian journey on a relaxing note.

Cappadocia is a jaw-droppingly beautiful destination. The magical Cappadocian landscape makes you feel like you’re on Mars and not Earth. And it’s this very characteristic that makes Cappadocia appear almost otherworldly and sets it apart from other places in Turkey.

I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Cappadocia and hence, strongly recommend you include it in your Turkey trip itinerary. Any number of days feels less when it comes to exploring a place like this.

However, I tried curating an ideal 2-3 day Cappadocia itinerary where you get to explore the best that Cappadocia has to offer through the Cappadocia Red and Green tours. Trust me, the money spent here doesn’t feel like expenditure, it feels like an investment!

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Vaibhav Mehta

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Hi!Absolutely loved reading ur travelogue.We are a family of 4 and ur blog has helped to plan my trip to Cappadocia better.Thanks once again.

Glad the blogs helped you Ranjita. Hope you have a wonderful trip!

Great and very helpful blog Vaibhav. Top marks. My question is that we have only 1.5 day itinerary and we want to fit both red and green tours spots. I understand that we won’t be able to cover everything but is there a private tour where we can select few spots on the red and few on the green tour. Also what’s your experience of prices for the hot air balloon as we can easily fit it in the morning schedule. Thanks again

Thanks Pankaj, glad you found the blog helpful. And yes, you can arrange the private tour without much stress from the property you stay at, in Cappadocia. We did it right there and without any hassles. These 2 tours are extremely popular with the travellers so you can tell the travel agency to selectively take you to spots you want to go to.

Also, prices of the Hot Air Balloon experience can be a bit steep. But if you want the whole experience of it in the best manner possible, then go for Royal Balloon Cappadocia. They start early in the morning so you can be done with it and from there, head on to your red or green tour for that day. Hope that helped. Safe travels, goodluck!

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Complete Guide to Red Valley Cappadocia

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler. Globetrotter, Adventurer, and Frequent Traveler to Turkey!

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Perhaps one of the most startling sights in Cappadocia is that of Red Valley. This elusive landscape is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Goreme National Park and home to iconic fairy chimneys, historic cave dwellings and expansive views of the vibrant red rock that gives the valley its name.

Though often mistaken for its neighbor, Rose Valley, Red Valley is a valley of its own, and its sunset viewpoint is one of the most visited attractions in the region.

If you’re thinking of adding Red Valley to your Cappadocia itinerary , you wouldn’t be wrong to do so.

But how do you get there? How do you hike it? What is there to see and do? We’ll be answering all of these questions in our helpful guide to Red Valley Cappadocia below.

Planning a trip to Cappadocia last-minute?

Make sure you book your tours, places to stay, and airport transfers ahead of time to ensure availability!

Here is our recommended airport transfer in Cappadocia:

• Airport Shuttle From Nevşehir Airport (NAV) or Kayseri Airport (ASR) (Super affordable!)

Here are our recommended tours in Cappadocia:

• Hot Air Balloon Flight In Cappadocia At Sunrise (A must-do In Cappadocia)
• ATV Tours At Sunset
• Green Tour In Cappadocia (Perfect for those not renting a car!)

Here are our recommended places to stay in Cappadocia:

• Koza Cave Hotel (Amazing views and great photo opportunities)
• Museum Hotel (Most luxurious hotel in Cappadocia)
• Kamelya Cave Hostel (Budget hostel with cave rooms!)

Why visit Red Valley Cappadocia?

One of the most memorable things to do in Cappadocia is to go hiking through its iconic rocky landscape. The fairy chimneys that tell of the region’s past are marvels to witness, and if you really want to see the best of them, you’re going to hike to them.

But why Red Valley specifically? Because it’s one of the most accessible valleys to get to, along with Rose Valley and Love Valley . 

If you’ve just landed in Cappadocia, either by night bus or by plane, chances are you’re going to be staying in Goreme or Avanos. Red Valley is only a 20-30 minute walk from Goreme and a short bus ride from Avanos, so it’s really easy to get to.

On top of this, it’s also stunning. It gets its name from the red hue the sun creates on the pinkish rock throughout the day, and it really lights up during sunset.

The valley is brimming with gorgeous nature, cave houses and cave churches, and it’s not too taxing to hike it. You could even argue, why wouldn’t you visit Red Valley?

If you don’t have a lot of time to spend in Cappadocia, consider checking out  Devrent Valley  instead, which is a lot smaller and can be seen in 30 minutes.

Where is Red Valley Cappadocia?

Red Valley is located in the Nevsehir region of Cappadocia, Turkey. It can be found in the rocky landscape between Goreme, Cavusin, and Urgup, right next to Rose Valley. 

Since Red Valley and Rose Valley are connected, they are often mistaken for one another, but they are separate valleys.

This map shows where Red Valley is located:

These are the distances from the nearest towns to the Red Valley trailhead.

• Distance from Goreme: 1.6km
• Distance from Cavusin: 1.7km
• Distance from Uchisar: 6.1km
• Distance from Avanos: 5.9km

Don’t Miss Out on the BEST Experience in Cappadocia!

No trip to Cappadocia is complete without taking an epic hot air balloon flight at sunrise!

Make sure you reserve your tour well in advance to avoid missing out or paying any additional fees last minute!

Getting to Red Valley in Cappadocia

Red Valley is located 1.6 km North-East of Goreme or 1.7km South-East of Cavusin. Depending on whether you want to hike the Red Valley or just visit the viewpoint for sunset will determine the route you take. But we’ll cover how to get to both below.

There is a bus that takes you from Goreme to Avanos, stopping at Cavusin. Since the valley is located between Goreme and Cavusin, you’ll want to take this bus and ask the driver to stop outside Silkroad Göreme ATV Turları & Oskonca Travel.

You’ll see a balloon landing site on your right and a dirt road that goes around it. The path winds around a little bit and you’ll see a bunch of ATV tour companies here. You’ll see signs pointing in the direction of Red Valley.

Get off the bus where you see the ATV tours and follow the route to the Red Valley viewpoint. You can download the map on MapsMe or you can follow Google Maps by clicking the photo below. Make sure you have downloaded Google Maps as there is little cell service in the valley.

The bus you need to take is the Nevşehir Bus, which operates from Nevşehir to Avanos and departs every 20 minutes.

When we visited Red Valley, we decided to walk from Goreme town center, which took us only 20 minutes. Depending on where you’re staying in Goreme, this is probably your best option as you’ll reach the valley quicker than getting the bus.

If you want to walk to the viewpoint, your best option is to hike through the Red Valley trail, rather than walk along the road around it. 

Thankfully, the road is all flat so at least you don’t have to do any strenuous walking. You should note that the walk is along a dirt road that is frequently used by ATV tours and horseback riding tours, so keep your eyes out for vehicles in both directions when walking on the road.

If you are visiting in the warmer months, the heat in Cappadocia can be strong at times and the sun is at its most powerful in the middle of the day, so we recommend visiting late afternoon or early in the morning to avoid the hot sun.

If you’re only interested in heading to the viewpoint then you might as well drive or take a taxi. We highly recommend hiring a car in Cappadocia since public transport sometimes doesn’t arrive on time and, let’s be honest, it’s inconvenient.

If you want to go to the viewpoint without hiking this is your only option, as from our knowledge there is no bus that takes you there.

The Red Valley viewpoint is 15 minutes driving distance from the center of Goreme. 

From the town, you will want to drive down Müze Cd., past the Goreme Open Air Museum, and all the way to the end of the road. Turn left on the D302, and take the first left onto Dr. Zeliha Berksoy Blv. 

You will reach the viewpoint at the end of this road.

One of the most popular attractions in Cappadocia is to ride an ATV through the desert landscape. You will find an abundance of ATV tour companies at the entrance of Red Valley, but we highly recommend you book in advance to make sure you have a vehicle (it’s a popular activity, they might all be full!).

If you’ve never been on an ATV before, then it’s a good idea to look at tours. This way you will be accompanied by a skilled driver who can help you if you get stuck, and will also be able to tell you where to go.

Red Valley and Rose Valley are also the first stop on the Blue Tour, a small group tour that takes you to some of the highlights of Cappadocia including an Underground City, Cavusin, and Uchisar Castle.

Hiking Red Valley in Cappadocia

The Red Valley hike is one of the best hikes in Cappadocia . It is often combined with the Rose Valley hike since together they make a nice, easy loop of the area.

Of course, you can simply hike Red Valley if you’re not bothered about Rose Valley, but since you’re only option is to turn back and go the way you came, you might as well continue on to Rose Valley – but that’s just the way we did it!

Whichever way you decide to hike, we recommend going late afternoon so you can catch the iconic Red Valley sunset and see that glorious red rock glow.

To begin hiking the Red Valley, you should make your way to the trailhead located just past Kadost ATV Safari , and then turn left onto a road leading up to the Exclusive Cappadocia ATV Tour . From here, you will see a trail that heads into the valley, surrounded by rocky cliffside and grassy outcrop.

Luckily, the route is laid out on Google Maps most of the way, and once you reach the start of the trail, it becomes obvious which way to go.

From the beginning, you’ll notice the trail veers off in two directions. The lower trail is the Red Valley and the upper trail heads towards Rose Valley.

Take the lower trail and you’ll soon see more vegetation on either side of the trail. As you walk, you’ll be greeted by unique rock formations, caves and tunnels. The trail is really easy and flat most of the way.

About halfway along the trail, you’ll see a little house offering refreshments to nearby hikers. You’ll also pass some farms but these are privately owned – make sure to stick to the trail and not walk on their veggies!

After about 45 minutes of hiking, you’ll see the trailhead up the right side of the valley onto the ridge, this is the only ascent in the whole trail and takes you up to the sunset viewpoint.

The incline isn’t very steep and it’s not far to the top. It’s a little narrow, so do be careful. We didn’t think it was particularly dangerous, but we noticed that horses make their way up this path, which would probably make us feel uneasy.

Once you reach the top you will be greeted by swinging chairs, benches and some restaurants. This is the viewpoint. You can chill out here as long as you need and head back the same way, or continue on to hike Rose Valley. 

• Duration: 3 hours, longer if you stop to take photos
• Distance: 5.8km in total
• Difficulty: Easy

Red and Rose Valley Hike

When we hiked Red Valley, we actually decided to do Rose Valley first. It doesn’t matter which way around you do it, but personally, we found Rose Valley had more to see along the way and we wanted to see them all. 

If you want to hike Rose Valley as well, we recommend doing it first so you can take your time and not feel like you’re rushing back.

To get to Rose Valley, remember that Kadost ATV Safari you see at the beginning? Instead of turning right here, head straight on and follow the signs for Rose Valley.

Hiking Rose Valley is slightly more complicated since it has two trails. We took the upper trail that goes onto the ridge, because we wanted to see The Crusader Church at the top. 

When you have reached a cave house at the start of Rose Valley, you will see two trails. Take the one to the far left and you’ll pass through more cave houses, past a farm and then see a trail up onto the ridge.

The trail then takes you along the rocky outcrop with mesmerizing views of the valley below. After about 30 minutes of hiking, you’ll reach The Crusader Church which is also surrounded by other cave dwellings. There’s a guy here selling fresh orange juice and over refreshments.

The path then takes you down the other side of the valley and towards The Columned Church and Rose Valley viewpoint.

Once you’ve reached the Rose Valley viewpoint, you’ll notice the path winding around the ridge towards the sunset viewpoint. This is where the Red Valley and Rose valley connect.

• Duration: 4-5 hours, longer if you stop to take photos
• Distance: 7.7km in total

Rose Valley, Red Valley and Meskendir Valley

Another way to see Red Valley is to hike through Meskendir Valley first. The Meskendir Valley starts from Kaya Camping Ground, just across from Aynali Church. From here, you will immediately see a signpost in graffiti saying ‘Rose’ and ‘Red’ indicting this is the route to take.

Adding the Meskendir valley to your hike only adds another 2.7km and it’s pretty flat most of the way. You’ll pass by gorgeous rock tunnels and formations, and it takes you straight into the Red Valley.

If you plan on hiking all three trails, then this would be a good route to take.

• Duration: 5-6 hours, longer if you stop to take photos
• Distance: 10.4km in total

Tips for Hiking Red Valley

• Download the Apps: A great way to make sure you don’t get lost is to download AllTrails and follow the route there. This shows the previous hiker’s route so you know it’s a legit route to take. We also recommend downloading Maps.Me, which is a free offline GPS. The cell service is a bit spotty in the valley, so this is also a great way to make sure you can find the trail.
• Wear hiking boots. The trail isn’t particularly steep or rocky, but it is slippery. The sand has been well-trodden and is almost like walking on marble in places. You’ll want strong shoes with a good grip.
• Pack plenty of water. There are some cafes that serve drinks along the way but not many. It’s a good idea to take as much as you need, especially if you are visiting Cappadocia in the warmer months.
• Bring snacks. We didn’t buy food from the cafes because from what we could see, they were a little expensive. That being said, the fresh-squeezed orange juice sure did look appetizing.
• Put on Factor 50 Suncream. The sun is very powerful in Cappadocia and because much of the landscape is white, it reflects those UV rays right onto you. You could be hiking in the winter and still get sunburned, so best to prepare.
• Check the best time to hike. The time of year you visit Cappadocia will determine when to start your hike. Consider looking up the best time to visit Cappadocia to make sure you plan your trip around optimal hiking times.

Things to See and Do in Red Valley

Aside from hiking the Red and Rose Valley, there are a few notable attractions to keep a look out for. Here are some of the top things to see and do that have made Red Valley so famous.

Hot Air Balloon Ride

If hiking Red Valley sounds too strenuous for you, then a good way to see the valley is from above – and by above, I mean by hot air balloon.

Embarking on a hot air balloon ride is one of the top things to do in Cappadocia and we have no doubt that the view of the Red Valley from above will be outstanding.

If you do decide to go for a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia , sunrise would be the perfect time to do it since this is when all the other hot air balloons take off.

Imagine seeing all the hundreds of balloons in the sky with you as you gaze upon the rugged landscape below. What a memorable experience.

Cave Houses and Churches

Full disclosure, the best cave houses, in our opinion, were actually in Rose Valley. We did pass by a few cave houses in Red Valley, but they weren’t as big or as impressive as the ones we saw in Rose Valley.

If you’re not familiar with cave houses, then you’re going to be soon, since many of the hotels and vacation rentals in the towns of Goreme and Ushisar are made from cave houses. 

Unlike the hotels which have been renovated with modern amenities, the cave houses in the Red Valley are uninhabited. Some of them are crumbling and inaccessible, but others are free for you to roam around and explore.

There are also some cave churches, but if you really want to see some impressive ones, we highly recommend you walk on to Rose Valley and check out The Columned Church and The Crusader Church.

Sunset Viewpoint

The viewpoint is the most iconic part of the trail. As with most things beautiful, this area has been turned into a tourist attraction. 

You’ll find love swings (benches with flowers on them) and picnic tables. There are a few Cappadocian restaurants here too and you’ll also see lots of horses taking a break from their tours.

Even though it’s a bit touristy and you’ll see a lot of people there, we still enjoyed sitting in the grass and watching the sunset over the red rocks of Red Valley.

ATV and Horseback Riding Tours

A popular way to explore the Red Valley without hiking is to take an ATV or Horseback riding tour. While we don’t have experience with these, we prefer to use our legs, many people choose to explore the valley this way and it could be a lot of fun!

FAQs About Red Valley in Cappadocia

Why is it called red valley.

The valley gets its name from the red-colored rock found in the area. It also shines in bright shades of red at various points of the day when the sun hits it.

How do I get to Red Valley?

From Goreme, go North along Bilal Eroğlu Cd until you see the ATV tour companies on the right side. You’ll see a road with a balloon landing site on the left. This road takes you to the entrance of Red Valley.

Is Red Valley worth visiting?

100% yes! It was one of our favorite valleys in Cappadocia and will certainly be a memorable experience for anyone who travels there.

Last Piece of Advice Before Visiting Red Valley

So there you have it, that is Red Valley in a nutshell! We hope our guide on Red Valley in Cappadocia has proved helpful to you, and if you ever need anything explained further, we’d be happy to answer your questions in the comments.

Before you go, we have just a final piece of advice for you. Since Cappadocia is one of the top landmarks in Turkey and Red Valley is one of the most beautiful landscapes in the region, don’t rush it. Take your time, drink plenty of water, and snap lots of photos!

And remember to bring your sunhat and shades, and plan your visit outside of the midday heat during the summer. The Cappadocian sun can be extremely hot and we wouldn’t want you to take sunburn home as a souvenir.

Co-Founder of The Turkey Traveler

Sean Lau is a professional travel blogger and writer with adoration for Turkey. Originally from the USA, Sean frequently travels to Turkey to explore every nook and cranny. From bustling bazaars of Istanbul to the tranquil beaches of Antalya, Sean has seen it all. He hopes to share his first-hand knowledge, insider insights, and personal anecdotes to inspire fellow travelers to visit Turkey, especially to his favorite destinations – Istanbul and Cappadocia.

2 thoughts on “Complete Guide to Red Valley Cappadocia”

It is very informative. Thank you for this article. Is the walking to the Red Valley and Rose Valley difficult for people in their 60’s and 70’s?

Hi Stephanie, the elevation is not very high in Red and Rose Valley, and I would say the difficulty of this hike is determined mostly by the terrain. It can get quite slippery because of the sand, and if you don’t have good mobility this can be a challenge. You’ll want to make sure you wear sturdy hiking boots. For over 60s, it really depends on the fitness level of the person, but I have seen many people of this age hike on this route. If you are worried about the distance or elevation, you can walk the route we suggested backwards which takes you through Red Valley (which is flat through the valley), and then see if you want to hike up to the viewpoint at the end.

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