Day 1: Göreme – Early Christian Churches

At the start of our hiking week, we enjoy a beautiful walk through the Meskendir and Red Valleys, continuing through Rose Valley to the historic village of Çavuşin. After a short stop, we climb up to the impressive rock formations with ancient cave dwellings above the village. On the way back, we marvel at the fascinating fairy chimneys.

Hiking distance: approx. 12 km Duration: approx. 4 hours Ascent: 80 m Descent: approx. 230 m

Day 2: Ihlara Gorge

Another highlight of our hiking week is the Ihlara Gorge. After about a 1.5-hour minibus ride, we reach the starting point of this varied hike. The gorge, over 80 meters deep with spectacular rock formations, is often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Turkey.” Along the way, we encounter several remarkably well-preserved cave churches set within this dramatic landscape.

Descent: 90 m Hiking distance: 12 km Duration: approx. 4 hours

Day 3: Hiking in the Çat Valley

Only recently opened to visitors, the Çat Valley is one of the longest valleys in Cappadocia. Unique fairy chimneys and numerous cave dwellings with colorfully painted pigeon houses provide excellent photo opportunities. After the hike, we enjoy a typical Turkish lunch at a local women’s cooperative. In the afternoon, we have the opportunity to observe one of Turkey’s oldest traditional arts—carpet weaving—and learn interesting details about this craft.

Hiking distance: approx. 11 km Duration: approx. 3 hours Ascent: 50 m Descent: approx. 200 m

Day 4: Soğanlı Valley and the Underground City

Today’s excursion takes us south of Cappadocia to the stunning Soğanlı Valley. We hike through a fascinating lunar landscape, ascending to a plateau where erosion has shaped tall tuff cone towers with domed tops. In medieval times, these formations were carved into churches and living quarters. We also discover beautifully decorated rock-cut churches with valuable frescoes. On our return journey, we visit the underground city of Derinkuyu, featuring extensive tunnel systems, living and storage rooms, long ventilation shafts, and even animal stables with feeding troughs.

Ascent: 150 m Descent: 150 m Hiking distance: 9 km Duration: approx. 3 hours

Day 5: Pigeon Valley and Love Valley

Today’s hike takes us through two of Cappadocia’s most famous and diverse valleys. We begin in Güvercinlik (Pigeon Valley) and learn why this unique area carries its name. Countless sealed pigeon houses can be seen carved into the rock, once used to collect valuable pigeon droppings for fertilizer. After a lunch break in Göreme, we continue into Akvadi (White Valley), known as “Love Valley,” famous for its towering fairy chimneys.

Ascent: 60 m Descent: 250 m Hiking distance: 9 km Duration: approx. 4 hours

Day 6: Gomeda Valley

Today’s hike begins below the village of Ortahisar. A narrow path leads us along a stream through the green and picturesque Gomeda Valley. The tranquility and remoteness of this place create a truly special hiking experience. At the end of the tour, we visit the former Greek village of Mustafapaşa, where skilled stonemasons have lovingly restored historic houses and cave dwellings.

Ascent: 50 m Descent: 50 m Hiking distance: 9 km Duration: approx. 3 hours