Salt Lake: Tours and Guided Visits

As the second-largest lake in Turkey, Salt Lake is one of the most picturesque locations in the country. Join a Salt Lake tour from Cappadocia to immerse yourself in its beauty and discover its surrounding attractions.

Here's all you need to know about Salt Lake, one of the most stunning sightseeing tours in Cappadocia.

Where is Salt Lake located?

Salt Lake is located approximately 130 kilometers west of Cappadocia. To reach it, you can hire a car in Goreme and drive approximately 1.5-2 hours to the lake.

Alternatively, you can join a guided tour that will arrange the transport for you in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, including hotel pickup and drop-off.

What are the best things to do at Salt Lake?

Salt Lake

Tuz Gölü, which translates directly to Salt Lake and is also known as Lake Tuz, is an expansive natural phenomenon. Spanning 1,600 square kilometers, Salt Lake is low or dry for most of the year, creating a crystalline surface that mirrors the sky above.

At some points, it turns pink in color, creating a fantastic photo opportunity.

Underground cities

On your way to Salt Lake, you have the opportunity to visit one of the multiple underground cities in the region. Built as shelters hundreds of years ago, these underground cities provide a view into the past.

You may visit Saratli Underground City or Tatlarin Underground City on your tour.

Ağzıkara Han

A popular stop on the way to Salt Lake is Ağzıkara Han, an ancient caravanserai dating back to the 13th century. These served as roadside inns to travelers journeying through the region.

Pigeon Valley

On some tours, you may have the opportunity to visit Pigeon Valley, one of Cappadocia’s fascinating valleys filled with fairy chimneys. Here, residents designed their homes in order to attract pigeons and use their droppings.

What are the best tours to visit Salt Lake?

The majority of tours to Salt Lake from Cappadocia are private, ensuring you have a smoother and more personalized journey.

Salt Lake tour including afternoon tea

Expand your experience of Salt Lake with a private tour that includes stops at Saratli Underground City and Ağzıkara Han. This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as lunch and afternoon tea.

The entirety of the trip lasts 7 hours and ends at Salt Lake before returning to your hotel.

Salt Lake tour including Pigeon Valley

For a further exploration of Cappadocia, you can join a private tour that includes Pigeon Valley in its itinerary.

Make stops at Tatlarin Underground City, Ağzıkara Han and Salt Lake before heading for Pigeon Valley and Pasabag, where you can admire the fascinating fairy chimneys.

The tour includes lunch as well as hotel pickup and drop-off.

What are the prices of Salt Lake tours?

Tours to Salt Lake from Cappadocia can start at approximately US$100.

If you are joining a private Salt Lake tour that also includes afternoon tea, expect to pay US$160 per person.

A private tour to Salt Lake that includes a stop at Pigeon Valley costs US$400 for a group of 15 people.

Where do Salt Lake tours start?

Salt Lake tours typically start with pickup from your hotel in Cappadocia. Arrange with your tour guide the correct location beforehand. From there, they will transport you to Salt Lake and other notable attractions.

When is the best time to visit Salt Lake?

While a stunning location to visit at any point, sunset is the best time to visit Salt Lake as you may have the chance to capture the reflection of the pink hues in the lake.

What other sightseeing tours can you do in Cappadocia?

• Ihlara Valley
• City tours
• Cavusin
• Devrent Valley
• Classic car tours

Travel tips

• Remember to pack your passport, as it may be required as part of your tour.
• Wear a hat, sunscreen and comfortable shoes for your journey.
• Bring along a camera or fully-charged smartphone to capture the incredible beauty of Salt Lake.