Cappadocia travel guide

Turkey’s iconic Cappadocia region, separated from the Mediterranean by the stormy Taurus Mountains, can be discovered from above, by hot air balloon, and from below in its fascinating underground sanctuaries. But we suggest that one of the best ways to explore is on foot, hiking with a guide around the many valleys surrounding Göreme to admire the unique, mushroom-shaped fairy chimney rock formations which honeycomb the landscape, and the churches and caves that have been craftily carved into them. Sunsets over this striking terrain, carved by centuries of volcanic activity and water erosion, can be absolutely beguiling and there is no end of suitable vantage points.

Small group tours with around 12 people either spend a full week exploring Cappadocia: Göreme, underground cities such as Derinkuyu and Kaymakli, valleys lined with unusual rock formations on walking expeditions led by expert guides, or just a few days as part of a longer tour of Turkey which is enough time to see some of the highlights. You’ll stay either in locally owned hotels, or perhaps one of the famous cave hotels which are generally comfortable, as well as very atmospheric.

It’s worth noting that not all Cappadocia accommodations have air conditioning or fans so check with your operator, and trips that spend more than a couple of days here tend to avoid the heat of summer. Walking tours of Cappadocia involve moderate terrain that will require suitable footwear, reasonable fitness and perhaps poles. You’ll walk for around five hours a day, with a maximum daily distance of 15km.

Cappadocia’s unique landscape is catnip for trekkers, but the soft rock is sensitive to erosion. If you want to hike responsibly then visit outside the main summer months when there are fewer people around and footfall on the trails is lessened. Equally sensitive is the culture of Cappadocia. This is a ‘living museum’ highly dependent on tourism, and where traditional skills and ways of life are at risk. Purchasing locally made handicrafts and staying in locally owned accommodations such as ‘cave hotels’ is the best way to contribute to communities here.

With its huge and often bizarre rock formations, Cappadocia is an immensely popular destination for hot air balloon flights. During peak season the sky gets very crowded as it’s the one activity everyone wants. Even though this is among the safest modes of transportation, flying with a responsible balloon company, one that doesn’t take unnecessary risks such as going up in winds that are too strong, is vital. The best way to ensure that, is to book a holiday with a responsible operator.