Trip Highlights
What you will Experience
Explore the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, including its iconic fairy chimneys and deeply carved valleys.
Visit the Göreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing stunning Byzantine frescoes.
Discover the underground cities of Kaymakli and Derinkuyu, where early Christians sought refuge.
Hike through the breathtaking Ihlara Valley, home to hidden rock-cut churches and lush riverbanks.
Optional hot air balloon ride at sunrise for panoramic views of Cappadocia’s otherworldly terrain.
Stay in the charming Les Maisons de Cappadoce, a boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Uçhisar.
Enjoy authentic Cappadocian cuisine and immerse yourself in local culture.
Sample Itinerary
3-Day Cappadocia Extension
Day 1: Dalaman to Cappadocia
Fly from Dalaman to Istanbul, then connect to Kayseri Havalimanı.
Transfer to Uçhisar and check into Les Maisons de Cappadoce.
Meals: None
Day 2: Cappadocia
Optional hot air balloon ride at sunrise.
Visit Uchisar Castle and hike through the Red Valley.
Lunch in Çavuşin Village and a visit to a rug-weaving center.
Explore the Göreme Open Air Museum.
Dinner featuring Cappadocian specialties.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Cappadocia to Istanbul
Transfer to Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport for a flight to Istanbul.
Check into The Haze Karaköy in Istanbul.
Meals: Breakfast
4-Day Cappadocia Extension
Day 1: Dalaman to Cappadocia
Fly from Dalaman to Istanbul, then connect to Kayseri Havalimanı.
Transfer to Uçhisar and check into Les Maisons de Cappadoce.
Meals: None
Day 2: Cappadocia
Optional hot air balloon ride at sunrise.
Visit Uchisar Castle and hike through the Red Valley.
Lunch in Çavuşin Village and a visit to a rug-weaving center.
Explore the Göreme Open Air Museum.
Dinner featuring Cappadocian specialties.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Cappadocia
Explore the underground cities of Kaymakli and Derinkuyu.
Hike through the Ihlara Valley and visit Byzantine rock-cut churches.
Lunch at a riverside café.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Cappadocia to Istanbul
Transfer to Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport for a flight to Istanbul.
Check into The Haze Karaköy in Istanbul.
Meals: Breakfast
Travel Arrangements
Details
Flights: Local flights from Dalaman to Istanbul and Istanbul to Kayseri are not included.
Transfers: All ground transfers within Cappadocia and Istanbul are included.
Accommodation: Stay at Les Maisons de Cappadoce (Cappadocia) and The Haze Karaköy (Istanbul).
Guides: Professional, certified guides for all tours.
Weather
Cappadocia experiences a semi-arid climate with distinct seasons:
Spring (April–June): Mild temperatures (10–25°C / 50–77°F), ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.
Summer (July–August): Warm to hot (20–35°C / 68–95°F), with cooler evenings.
Autumn (September–October): Pleasant weather (10–25°C / 50–77°F), perfect for exploring.
Winter (November–March): Cold (0–10°C / 32–50°F), with occasional snow.
Getting Ready
Passport & Visa: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. USA passport holders require an e-Visa to enter Turkey, which can be obtained online before departure. The e-Visa is valid for 90 days and allows multiple entries. Apply at the official Turkish e-Visa website.
Health: No specific vaccinations are required, but consult your doctor before traveling.
Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY). ATMs are widely available.
Language: Turkish, but English is spoken in tourist areas.
Packing List
What to Bring
Clothing:
Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots (for uneven terrain).
Layered clothing (mornings and evenings can be chilly, even in summer).
Warm layers, gloves, and a hat (especially if you choose the hot air balloon ride, as you’ll be out before dawn when temperatures are coldest).
Lightweight, breathable clothing for daytime activities.
A scarf or shawl (useful for visiting mosques or covering up during cooler evenings).
Essentials:
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat (the sun can be intense, especially in summer).
Reusable water bottle (stay hydrated during hikes and excursions).
Small backpack or daypack for carrying essentials during daily activities.
Accessories:
Camera or smartphone for capturing stunning landscapes.
Power bank (for keeping devices charged during long days).
Travel adapter (Turkey uses Type C and F plugs, 220V).
Miscellaneous:
Personal toiletries and any necessary medications.
Lightweight rain jacket or poncho (especially in spring or autumn).
Reading List
Cappadocia: A Journey Through History by Richard Stoneman – A deep dive into the region’s rich historical and cultural heritage.
The Geology of Cappadocia by Ali Yılmaz – Explores the unique volcanic landscapes and rock formations that define Cappadocia.
The Turkish Kitchen by Ghillie Basan – A cookbook and guide to Turkish cuisine, including Cappadocian specialties.
The Byzantine Churches of Cappadocia by Lyn Rodley – A detailed look at the frescoes and architecture of Cappadocia’s rock-cut churches.
Cappadocia: The Underground Cities by Peter Chrissomallis – A fascinating exploration of the region’s underground cities and their secrets.
A History of Turkey: From Empire to Republic by M. Sükrü Hanioglu – A comprehensive overview of Turkey’s history, providing context for Cappadocia’s role in the region.
Helpful Links
More Information
Official Cappadocia Tourism Website
Turkish Airlines for flight bookings.
Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism for visa and travel information.
Terms & Conditions
Please see our full Terms & Conditions HERE.