Hiking in Cappadocia

From lunar landscapes to fairy chimneys, Cappadocia is home to some of the most fascinating natural spectacles — the best of which you're bound to see on foot.

To fully immerse yourself in the varied and breathtaking vistas of Turkey, join a hiking tour in Cappadocia. Along your hike, uncover details about the history, culture, geology and fauna and flora of the region.

These treks are among the most insightful and engaging ways of experiencing this famed area.

Here's all you need to know about hiking tours, one of the most exhilarating outdoor activities in Cappadocia.

What are the best hiking tours in Cappadocia?

With its abundant valleys, Cappadocia is a walker's haven. You don't have to be an experienced hiker to enjoy its beauty. There are a range of hiking tours in the region suited to different fitness levels and budgets.

Rose Valley sunset hike

For spectacular views of Cappadocia, you can embark on a 1-hour hike to Rose Valley and watch the sun go down, illuminating the pink rocks.

During the hike, you’ll encounter the cave churches and houses that define the region and may also meet locals at the villages along the way.

Pickup and drop-off at your accommodation are included, ensuring you will make it in time for the natural display.

Ihlara Valley and underground city hike

Discover Cappadocia’s natural wonders and history on a hike through Ihlara Valley which also visits the region’s famous underground cities.

Ihlara Valley is one of the few green locations you’ll see in Cappadocia. After trekking here, you can visit either the Kaymakli Underground City or Derinkuyu Underground City depending on your tour option.

Kaymakli Underground City dates back to the eight century, while Derinkuyu Underground City is one of the largest excavated cities in Turkey. It once sheltered 20 000 people along with their livestock and food.

On these tours, you will also stop for lunch before visiting the Selime Monastery and the fascinating Pigeon Valley. The tour lasts approximately 7 hours in total.

Fairy chimneys hike and cultural excursion

See the iconic Love Valley on this mixed tour that includes exciting cultural experiences.

Immerse yourself among the rock formations known as fairy chimneys, which formed as a result of volcanic eruptions and erosion over thousands of years.

Discover more of Cappadocia’s varied landscape in Devrent Valley, also known as Imagination Valley for its surreal terrain.

As part of your trip, you'll also have the opportunity to visit the Uchisar Castle, which has towered over Cappadocia for 2,000 years, the Zelve Open Air Museum and Ozkonak Underground City.

A highlight of this tour is a pottery workshop in the town of Avanos, where you can take your creation home. The entire journey takes approximately 6 to 7 hours in total.

4-Day hike in Cappadocia

For a full excursion into the sights and attractions of Cappadocia, you can join a 4-day trek.

An experienced guide will accompany you and give you insight into the fauna, flora and geology of the region, providing a new appreciation for this landscape.

You will walk approximately 65 kilometers in total during the trek and see the best of the region along the way, including Red and Rose Valley, Love Valley, Pancarlik Valley and Pigeon Valley.

You also have the option of including hotel accommodation in your tour package, and even a hot air balloon ride over the landscape.

How much do hiking tours in Cappadocia cost?

The cost of a hiking tour in Cappadocia depends on the duration of the hike and included activities.

A sunset hiking tour to Rose Valley can start at US$20 per person.

A hiking tour of the Ihlara Valley and underground cities can start at US$45 per person.

A hiking tour to the fairy chimneys with a cultural excursion can start at US$50 per person.

A 4-day trek through Cappadocia can start at US$640 per person, including breakfast, lunch and dinner but excluding accommodation.

What is included?

Most hiking tours in Cappadocia include hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle, as well as a professional guide who will lead you on your trek.

Many tours also include lunch, and cover the costs of entrance and parking fees.

Where does it start?

Most hiking tours in Cappadocia do not a have a designated meeting point. Instead, your tour organizers will arrange to pick you up from and drop you back off at your hotel in a comfortable vehicle.

How long does it last?

A hiking tour in Cappadocia typically lasts between 7 to 9 hours as you trek through the region. Some tours, such as a sunset tour, last under 2 hours as they are relegated to the time of the sun going down.

When is the best time for a hiking tour in Cappadocia?

The best time for a hiking tour in Cappadocia would be in the morning since many hiking tours can take up to a day. If you are hoping to catch the sunset, the best time to hike would be in the late afternoon.

Is it safe?

Hiking tours in Cappadocia are safe, however, they are not recommended for pregnant people, people with back problems, heart problems or serious medical conditions.

It’s recommended to have a moderate level of fitness for the tour.

Are children allowed?

Children are allowed to join hiking tours in Cappadocia, but there are age restrictions depending on the tour. Check with your organizers beforehand to see if children will be able to join.

What happens in case of bad weather?

Most hiking tours are dependent on good weather. If conditions are poor, your tour organizers may cancel and offer you a refund or an alternative date.

Which other outdoor activities can be done in Cappadocia?

• Quad tours
• Horse riding
• Camel riding
• Jeep tours

Travel tips

• Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you will be on your feet for the majority of your tour.
• Wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun while walking.
• Bring a bottle of water and snacks to stay hydrated and fueled on your hike.
• Take a camera to capture the incredible sights of Cappadocia along your hike.