ITINERARY

• Embark on a Journey of Discovery at Göreme Panorama! Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of the landscape, sculpted over millennia by the dance of lava, ash, and tuff stone. Traverse the enchanting valleys carved by the relentless touch of erosion, revealing a lunar terrain that tells the story of the Neocene period. Explore the intricate geological formations that stand as a testament to thousands of years of transformative erosion, giving rise to whimsical pyramids and cones. Step into a world where nature's artistry unfolds in every curve and crevice, inviting you to unravel the mysteries of Göreme Panorama.
• UCHISAR beckons with its troglodyte charm, showcasing a colossal rock formation that once served as a formidable fortress. This towering rock, the highest peak in the region, provides an unparalleled panoramic vista of Cappadocia, with the distant silhouette of Mt. Erciyes completing the breathtaking scene. Wander through the interconnected rooms of the castle, linked by stairs, tunnels, and passages, unveiling a labyrinthine marvel. Adorned with millstone doors reminiscent of those in underground settlements, these entrances controlled access to various spaces. These structures, once utilized by farmers, served a dual purpose—collecting pigeon droppings, a natural fertilizer enhancing orchards and vineyards, while preserving the historical tapestry of Uchisar Castle. Immerse yourself in the living history and captivating views that define this unique troglodyte village.
• The residents of Kaymaklı (Enegup in Greek) ingeniously integrated their homes around nearly 100 tunnels, forming the foundations of the underground city. Today, these tunnels continue to serve practical purposes as cellars, storage areas, and stables, seamlessly accessed through the courtyards of the locals. As you traverse the passages of Kaymaklı Underground City, be immersed in the unique atmosphere created by its low, narrow, and sloping corridors. Explore the historical layers of this underground masterpiece, which comprises eight floors below ground. Although only four levels are currently open to the public, each space is thoughtfully organized around ventilation shafts, providing a glimpse into the ingenuity of ancient architecture. Step back in time and witness the living history of Kaymaklı Underground City, where the past converges with the present in a harmonious blend beneath the surface.
• Immerse yourself in the captivating allure of over 10 cave churches within the Göreme Open Air Museum. These ancient sanctuaries, accompanied by rectories, dwellings, and a religious school, collectively form a grand monastic complex. Carved out of the surreal, ring-shaped rock formations that define Cappadocia's otherworldly landscape, this museum offers a glimpse into the spiritual and architectural legacy of the region. Embark on a journey of exploration along the clearly marked path, leading you counterclockwise through the cave churches of Göreme. Each church carries a modern Turkish name bestowed by local villages, reflecting a prominent feature or characteristic. Uncover the stories etched into the walls of these sacred spaces and witness the intricate fusion of art and spirituality that defines Göreme Open Air Museum.
• Step into Pasabag: Sculptures of Nature in the General's Vineyard In Pasabag, the extraordinary sculptures of nature are showcased magnificently in the midst of a vineyard, earning it the fitting name "the Pasha's vineyard." The term "Pasha" translates to "General" in Turkish, serving both as a military rank and a common nickname. As you explore Pasabag, immerse yourself in the rich cultural significance embedded in its name. This captivating location, also known as Monks Valley, derives its alternative title from distinct cones carved into tuff stones, standing gracefully apart in the landscape. Currently adorned with a thriving vineyard, Pasabag beckons with a collection of tuff cones lining the roadside, inviting you to witness their silent beauty. Each cone narrates a tale of geological marvels, creating a harmonious blend of nature's artistry and human cultivation.
• In the heart of Cappadocia lies Pigeon Valley, a mesmerizing landscape adorned with thousands of pigeon houses intricately carved into the rock. The scene unfolds like a surreal vision, reminiscent of an outrageously phallic landscape that could be lifted straight from a Salvador Dali painting. The conical formations that grace this valley are the remarkable legacy of volcanic eruptions that unfolded millions of years ago. Through the eons, the relentless forces of wind, rain, and nature have sculpted the volcanic rock into a soft and malleable stone known as tufa. These extraordinary formations, often referred to as fairy chimneys, stand tall with caves and labyrinths concealed within. Marvel at the whimsical shapes and intricate details carved by time, creating a landscape that transcends the ordinary and invites you to explore the enchanting secrets hidden within the fairy chimneys.
• Discover the Artistry of Avanos: A Pottery Haven in the Heart of Cappadocia Nestled in the center of Cappadocia, the town of Avanos beckons with its rich heritage in pottery making. As we journey through this captivating town, we'll make a delightful stop at one of the renowned pottery workshops, immersing ourselves in the age-old craft that defines Avanos.
• Welcome to Devrent Valley, a place also known as Imaginary Valley or Pink Valley, where the absence of cave churches is more than compensated by its extraordinary lunar landscape. What sets Devrent Valley apart and makes it famous? It's the captivating spectacle of the lunar-like terrain! As you traverse Devrent Valley, you'll encounter a myriad of rock formations, each telling a unique story through its strange and whimsical appearance. The small fairy chimneys scattered throughout the valley collectively create a moonscape, transporting you to a realm that feels otherworldly. This lunar landscape, characterized by the peculiar shapes of the fairy chimneys, is a visual feast for the imagination.