Experience the Wonders of Cappadocia’s Great Outdoors

If you’re someone who thrives in the outdoors and craves unique landscapes, Cappadocia, Turkey, is absolutely the place for you. With countless activities and endless ways to explore this one-of-a-kind environment, Cappadocia suits travelers of all ages and fitness levels.

Nestled in central Turkey, Cappadocia is famous for its surreal rock formations and iconic hot air balloons that fill the sky each morning. From ancient valleys to underground cities, it offers a surreal, otherworldly experience you won’t find anywhere else.

Getting There

To reach Cappadocia, you have several travel options. You can fly from any major airport in Turkey and arrive at one of Cappadocia’s nearby airports, either Kayseri or Nevşehir. In my case, I began my journey in Istanbul and opted for the more budget-friendly 12-hour overnight bus to Göreme, which cost around $25 USD each way. It was a long journey, but it’s a popular choice for backpackers and budget travelers alike, providing a chance to see more of Turkey’s landscapes along the way.

Once in the region, there are a few towns to stay in, but I highly recommend basing yourself in Göreme. This town is right in the heart of Cappadocia, making it the perfect starting point for adventures. For accommodation, check out my article on one of my favorite places I’ve ever stayed. Or, explore the many unique cave hotels in the city. Cappadocia is famous for its cozy, unique spots.

What is Cappadocia, Anyway?

Cappadocia is one of the most geologically unique destinations in the world. Its distinctive landscape was formed millions of years ago through volcanic activity, with volcanic ash and lava solidifying into a very soft rock known as tuff. Over time, erosion from wind and water has carved this soft rock into stunning rock formations, caves, and underground cities. Cappadocia’s valleys each have unique names and formations – each one more intriguing than the last. I’ll go into more detail about these valleys later in the guide, but trust me, these formations are some of the most surreal sights you’ll ever encounter.

In addition to its rock formations, Cappadocia also boasts a fascinating human history, with unique homes carved into the rocks and elaborate underground cities that descend as many as eight levels below ground. Exploring these caves, castles, and underground cities feels like stepping back in time.

Exploring Cappadocia’s Valleys

Cappadocia’s landscape is divided into several distinct valleys, each worth a visit. Some of the most famous valleys are:

• Pigeon Valley: Named for the pigeon houses carved into its cliffs, which have been used for centuries. 

• Love Valley: Known for its tall, phallic rock formations that have become a bit of a symbol for Cappadocia.

• Rose and Red Valley: These valleys are particularly stunning at sunset, as the rock formations glow with a reddish-pink hue.

Each valley offers a different set of formations and scenic views, and I recommend exploring all of them if you have the time. You can wander these valleys independently or book a tour to get a deeper understanding of the history and geology of the region.

How to Explore: Tours, Hiking, and More

There are so many ways to explore Cappadocia’s unique terrain. For those who prefer structured experiences, numerous travel agencies offer guided tours like the popular Green and Red Tours, each offering different sites and activities. These tours are a great way to see the main attractions if you’re short on time or prefer a more guided experience. The tours usually include entry to the Göreme Open Air Museum, Uchisar Castle, and an underground city, giving you a comprehensive look at Cappadocia’s highlights.

Personally, I chose to explore on foot, hiking through the valleys and discovering lookout points along the way. If you’re an avid hiker, Cappadocia is paradise – there are dozens of incredible trails with breathtaking views around every corner. Hiking gives you a closer, more intimate experience with the landscape. If you’d like to go this route, I highly recommend downloading the AllTrails app, which has maps of the region’s trails. Cappadocia’s trails can be winding and confusing, so a good map is essential. If you’d rather explore with less planning, a guided tour is the way to go.