Spend a day walking Ihlara Valley’s riverside trail, exploring Selime Monastery, and descending into Derinkuyu’s underground city on this 7‑hour Green Tour. Expect 3 km of valley hiking, cave churches, and a riverside lunch in Belisirma.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the air-conditioned minivan into an open bowl of ochre rock and wind. The valley breathes around you—ridges folded by ancient eruptions, cliffs cut into honeycombed rooms—and your guide points toward a stairway descending into a narrow canyon. The river below dares you to follow; a 380-step drop leads to a shaded hike along a stream that has carved frescoed chapels into volcanic tuff.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with moderate fitness able to handle stairs, a 3 km valley hike, and short climbs in caves.
Wildlife
History
Cappadocia’s valleys were carved from volcanic tuff after eruptions of Mount Erciyes and Hasan; the soft rock was hollowed into churches and subterranean refuges by early Christians and later populations.
Conservation
High visitor traffic stresses fragile rock-cut sites and archaeological features—stay on marked paths, don’t touch frescoes, and follow guide instructions to reduce impact.
Reserve your spot on the Cappadocia Daily Green Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Expect a 380‑step descent
The Ihlara segment begins with 380 stone steps down into the valley—use a steady pace and take breaks on the landings.
Bring a refillable water bottle
There’s moderate walking between stops; water stations are limited so carry at least 1–2 liters in summer.
Wear grippy, closed shoes
Trails are uneven and the underground city has low, sometimes wet passages—avoid sandals.
Carry local currency
Small restaurants in Belisirma and roadside vendors may prefer cash for souvenirs and extra snacks.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Provide traction on uneven valley trails and protection in the underground passages.
Refillable water bottle (1–2 L)
Keeps you hydrated through the hike and between pickup/dropoff points.
summer
Sun hat and sunscreen
Protects against strong Anatolian sun during open-air stops and the hike.
summer
Light layer and windbreaker
Useful for early morning chill and the cooler temperature inside underground sites.
spring