Ihlara Valley: Tours and Guided Visits
More than a simple gorge, the Ihlara Valley — located within Cappadocia — is regarded as a masterpiece by both nature lovers and history buffs alike. Home to spectacular cliffs that have been perfected over time by the meandering river that cuts through the gorge, the Ihlara Valley holds an abundance of natural charm. However, its myriad of churches, carved from rock by human hands over 1,300 years ago is what attracts an influx of visitors to the canyon.
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More than a simple gorge, the Ihlara Valley — located within Cappadocia — is regarded as a masterpiece by both nature lovers and history buffs alike.
Home to spectacular cliffs that have been perfected over time by the meandering river that cuts through the gorge, the Ihlara Valley holds an abundance of natural charm.
However, its myriad of churches, carved from rock by human hands over 1,300 years ago is what attracts an influx of visitors to the canyon.
These ancient buildings tell tales of Cappadocia’s colorful past and showcase the skills of the monks who sculpted them, which you can experience on an Ihlara Valley tour.
Here's all you need to know about Ihlara Valley, one of the most fantastic sightseeing tours in Cappadocia.
Where is Ihlara Valley located?
The Ihlara Valley is a 15-kilometer-long canyon that is situated in the southwest of Turkey’s Cappadocia region. It is located close to the town of Güzelyurt.
The location is easy to drive to from many of Cappadocia’s hotspots, such as Göreme and Uçhisar in just over an hour.
There are limited public transportation options, however, you can choose to participate in a guided excursion, in order to reach the gorge.
What are the best things to do?
The Ihlara Valley was formed several millennia ago by the mighty Melendiz River that still runs through the gorge. It is accessible via a series of steep steps from the neighboring village of Ihlara, and the canyon measures up to a staggering 150 meters deep.
While its impressive size is irrefutable, Ihlara Valley’s history is what makes the site one of the most fascinating in Cappadocia.
The area was settled by Byzantine monks in the 7th century and their buildings were sculpted from the tuff stone left behind from Mount Hasan’s eruptions. These churches have stood the test of time and can be explored today on a day tour to the Ihlara Valley.
Some of these holy sites feature artworks and frescoes that draw inspiration from different locations, including Persia and Syria. Other buildings feature classic architecture from the Byzantine period.
While originally, archaeologists suggest that over 4,000 dwellings were present in the valley, more than 50 churches can still be found in Ihlara today.
What are the best tours to visit Ihlara Valley?
There are a variety of tours in Ihlara Valley to choose from, depending on your budget and travel style.
Ihlara Valley tour plus Derinkuyu Underground City
Many tours in Ihlara Valley begin with a scenic drive to the village of Göreme, famed for its man-made caves.
Make your way to the underground city of Derinkuyu, which was abandoned for 40 years in the 20th century and dates back to the 8th century B.C.
After exploring these historic human shelters, you'll move on to Ihlara Valley, which is home to over 50 churches sculpted by hand from rock. These buildings have been standing since the 7th century when Byzantine monks inhabited the area.
Visit Pigeon Valley, where hundreds of small bird holes have been carved out of the valley. Pigeons have been used as a source of meat and fertilizer in this region of Turkey for many centuries, as you'll find out in this excursion.
Ihlara Valley tour plus hot air balloon ride and Derinkuyu Underground City
If you want to make lifelong memories, include a hot air balloon ride on your Ihlara Valley tour. You'll leave your hotel as the rest of the town is still sleeping and make your way to your takeoff area under cover of darkness.
Hop in the basket and travel across the skies of Cappadocia as the sun illuminates the landscape in a wash of gold.
Then, continue on to Derinkuyu Underground City, gaining spectacular views of Göreme's fairy chimneys as you pass by. Admire the abundance of churches situated in the Ihlara Valley, before stepping inside the Selime Monastery, which you may recognize from the "Star Wars" franchise.
Private Ihlara Valley tour
Alternatively, opt for a private Ihlara Valley excursion and enjoy a tour that is personalized to suit you. You’ll learn all about the region on your scenic drive through the Cappadocian landscape toward the gorge.
Explore Güzelyurt — the home of the 4th-century philosopher Gregory of Nazianzus — including its underground city, which archaeologists uncovered at the beginning of the 21st century.
Enjoy a local lunch beside a picturesque river before ending your tour at the Selime Monastery. You’ll usually have more control over the itinerary of a private tour and can spend less or more time at each destination, depending where your interests lie.
What are the prices of Ihlara Valley tours?
Basic tours in Ihlara Valley that include Derinkuyu Underground City in their itinerary cost between US$40 and US$50 per person. This price includes a knowledgeable guide, all entrance fees and lunch.
You’ll pay US$130 per person for a private full-day trip to Ihlara Valley, stopping at Güzelyurt along the way. However, the price per head decreases with each party member added to your group. If you travel with the maximum number of 10 guests, you’ll each pay approximately US$70.
Hot air balloon tours to Ihlara Valley cost approximately US$460 per person and include insurance to cover you for your flight, as well as a celebratory drink to toast your loved ones upon touchdown.
Where does it start?
Generally, day tours to Ihlara Valley include a convenient hotel pickup. You’ll simply select your accommodation from a dropdown menu on the booking page and await collection from your tour guide at a prearranged time on the day.
You can see whether your chosen excursion includes this handy pickup and drop-off service before booking. If it doesn’t, you’ll be informed of your meeting point ahead of time so that you can arrange any necessary transportation before embarking on your vacation.
When is the best time to visit Ihlara Valley?
The best time to take a tour to Ihlara Valley is between March and May, or September and November. During these times, the weather is pleasantly mild and dry, and you'll find less crowds outside of the main tourist season.
Ihlara Valley is one of the main sites in Cappadocia, so ensure you plan your visit for the first few days of your trip. For a quieter experience, you can head to the valley early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
What are the other sightseeing tours in Cappadocia?
Travel tips
- Remember your camera on your tour to Ihlara Valley as there are plenty of picturesque sights to see.
- Many excursions include a fair amount of walking. Ensure you’re wearing comfortable and sturdy shoes for this.
- Be prepared for high temperatures and intense sunshine during the summer months. Take sunscreen, a sunhat and plenty of water with you on your tour.
- Bear in mind that Ihlara Valley is closed to visitors on Mondays.