Walking in Cappadocia

Heather Crossland   -  Traveled, May 2024

Walking in Cappadocia - great trip, poor accommodation This was a wonderful trip and one I would highly recommend to keen walkers. The scenery in the different valleys was stunning and the guide went above and beyond to offer extra evening activities for us to take part in. Unfortunately, Dreams Cave Hotel let the trip down, as it had several issues, including no/limited hot water, limited outdoor seating, and leaks in the room when it rained. Most Inspirational Moment Walking through Red Valley on a nice warm day with the sun accenting the various coloured rock. Thoughts on Group Leader The leader was great and very knowledgeable. He went above and beyond to offer additional activities and adjusted the itinerary to make the most of the weather and conditions. Advice for Potential Travellers The description of the trip as 'moderate' is fair as the walks were not particularly challenging. However, some of the ascents and descents are quite steep, so take walking poles to provide support on these sections. Suggestions I'd highly recommend the trip - walking around every corner revealed another awe-inspiring view and the scenery is completely different to anything you'd get anywhere else.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/24/2024

Jo James   -  Traveled, August 2023

Amazing landscapes and lots of balloons The landscape is amazing, the walks mainly involved going down valleys and along the bottom. Descents were tricky as the terrain is rock or scree. Our leader helped the less sure.footed. Take poles. The hotel was great and the food excellent especially breakfast. Lunches involved local restaurants or big buffets, The latter were full of tourists but the food was Turkish with plenty of variety The area is a tourist trap but most come for the balloon rides, very few were on the walks. One of the best walking holidays I have done Most Inspirational Moment The Red Valley, stunning rock formations Thoughts on Group Leader Haydi was excellent and looked out for everyone. He also organised extra trips including a whirling dervish performance. Our driver was excellent. Advice for Potential Travellers Take jumpers! It was 25 plus in the daytime but cold at night, I travelled the first half of September . Take cash, card machines were erratic. Drinks and snacks are pricey as it is a tourist area

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/19/2023

Sharon Townend   -  Traveled, August 2022

Walking in Cappadocia All in all, an enjoyable trip with a very friendly group. Really interesting place to visit from a historical and geological point of view. As expected, the scenery is amazing. Most Inspirational Moment The hot air balloon ride. Thoughts on Group Leader Very knowledgeable about the area (particularly history, geography, restaurants) and well able to adapt the walks to fit with the different weather conditions and fitness levels of the group. Only two minor criticisms: 1) Unlike on previous trips, we were not given the leader's mobile number, which could have posed difficulties for those who were unable to join the day's walk for any reason and needed assistance. 2) The leader tended to walk a long way out in front of the rest of the group on walks during the trip. This was occasionally problematic given the difficulty that less able members of the group faced with some of the descents in this area (i.e steep sections with loose gravel and sand). Advice for Potential Travellers Be prepared for how exhausting the heat can be when walking in Cappadocia. Walks are not particularly long but there are some tricky descents. Also due to the heat there are no packed lunches on this trip so watch out for the tourist lunch buffets - two of the group suffered bad gastric bugs. Suggestions The Stone Sobek Hotel was excellent - beautiful rooms, friendly staff and good food. Turkish Airlines, with whom I have flown previously, maintained their very high standard. The new Istanbul Airport is amazing, if rather distant from the city. This was the first Exodus trip that I have done with full board. I can understand that it is difficult to provide packed lunches for walks due to the heat, but there was an excess of food provided at lunchtimes. The tourist lunch buffets (we had two during the week) are in my view to be avoided. I booked the hot air balloon ride in Goreme but was disappointed to hear on arrival that the cost per person (in a 26 + 2 person capacity balloon) was €230 (or £200) instead of the €175 mentioned in the brochure. The leader explained that this was due to high demand from Latin American visitors at the moment. However, my son who is visiting Goreme independently next month has been told by his hotel to expect to pay around £130 to £150 for a balloon ride.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/18/2022

Mary Dunn   -  Traveled, November 2019

Excellent guide, fascinating trip Loved the daily walks that we did as we covered some fascinating history and saw a unique part of Turkey that’s off the beaten track of the standard beach holidays that people do when they think of Turkey. The guide Ikut was one of the best guides I’ve seen, and I’ve done lots of this kind of trip. He was kind, attentive, diplomatic and very cheerful. The walking was pretty relaxed and we went at a slow pace and it was all quite easy. The main point of our walks was to see the beautiful landscapes and hidden, painted rock churches. The food was plentiful and delicious and we were well looked after. The only bad points are the hotel Ciner, which wasn’t great (days without hot water, no bar to hang out in at night, and repetitive food at breakfast) but it was close to the town centre and adequate for our needs. Also the communication from Exodus prior to the trip wasn’t good. But the locals in Goreme, including our guide, worked hard to look after us and it’s a really beautiful part of Turkey to experience. The walking routes were dry, dusty and exposed so hats, sunglasses and water are recommended. Most Inspirational Moment Just being able to walk at a leisurely pace so that we could fully take in the magnificent landscape and awesome rock formations. Thoughts on Group Leader Excellent in every way! He dealt with a tricky situation diplomatically when we had a challenging member of the group. Advice for Potential Travellers Proper walking boots are a must for the rocky, dusty paths.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 12/19/2019

Eliza Z   -  Traveled, April 2023

Beautiful landscapes This was a very good trip. The landscapes of Cappadocia are truly otherworldly and like nothing I’ve ever seen. Our guide, Aykut, was very good. We had a group of 16 and while some found the walks more challenging than others, everyone seemed happy. Good pacing both on the walks and in the structure of each day. Some notes: – I am not the most surefooted walker but I was fine without hiking poles. There are some steep descents at the beginning of a few valleys but nothing very challenging after that. Some valleys are muddy so consider bringing a mud brush. – The food, though all fine, was not what I had hoped for. The lunches alternate between picnics/barbecues (which I preferred) and stops at enormous lunch buffets designed for big tour groups. There was more variety at the latter but the ambiance was not the local, authentic Turkish experience I had hoped for. Dinners alternate between restaurants and the hotel. The food consists almost invariably of cheese, bell peppers, sausage or kebabs, eggplant, mushrooms, lentil soup, and beans. While I appreciated the abundance of vegetables, everything was repetitive and a bit bland. – I didn’t take out any cash and regretted it. You need cash for some bathrooms and juice stands (try the orange and pomegranate mix). You don’t need cash for drinks at meals; they accepted cards at restaurants and in all the stores we went to. – The balloon ride was a highlight because of the views but the prices do seem to go up frequently. We were charged 300 euros, which is more than Exodus had indicated. There are 24 people crammed into a single balloon in compartments of 4 each. If you happen to arrive after the other people in your compartment, you may end up in the back with an obstructed view. The “champagne” afterward turned out to be some kind of sugary thing that looked like it would glow in the dark. – The valleys do tend to blur together a bit after day 2. If you skip a day I would recommend the one with Pancarlik Valley, Mastafapasa and Gomeda Valley. That day started with a 2-mile walk on very flat main road. – I would have felt safer if we had been given the guide’s phone number for emergencies. There is no cell service at some spots in the occasional valley but it seemed pretty good overall. – The hotel, while spacious and very clean, is obviously still working out a few kinks. Our wet towels were folded up instead of being left hanging to dry (or perhaps we were given new but not dry towels) and the breakfast buffet was seriously depleted by the time we got there if another group staying had been there earlier. The coffee was borderline undrinkable. The hotel is owned by the local company Exodus contracts (Sobek Travel) so I’m not sure how much motivation they have to improve. – And, though this is obviously beyond Exodus’ control, my final note is that, to judge from the experience of our group, Turkish Airlines flights are rarely on time. Leave a lot of time for connecting flights. I was supposed to have six hours in Istanbul and it turned out to be more like an hour. Most Inspirational Moment Views from the balloon and Göreme Open Air Museum (where I would have liked to have a bit more time).

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/16/2023

Yolanda Harris   -  Traveled, November 2022

A Good Trip although you must be a keen walker 6 days of walking. After the first 3 valleys they start to look the same (how many pigeon holes do you need to see?) but the group was great, and the guide was enthusiastic and patient, managing the fast walkers at the front, and the ones at the back who took lots of photos. He was very good at finding different places to eat, and it was great that food was all included so you just paid for extra drinks. Water was always available on the minibus so plastic waste much reduced. If you are vegetarian expect a lot of vegetable stew and eggplant! There are some lovely churches to visit in the rocks (as in small places of worship with the remains of old frescoes dating back several hundred years, not churches as tend to be build here) Most Inspirational Moment The churches I visited in the Ilhara valley, and the cathedral we visited on the final day (not one building, again a collection of beautifully decorated rock spaces with Christian wall paintings) Thoughts on Group Leader The group leader was patient, with a good sense of humour. He occasionally cam across as a little impatient and on one walk I rarely saw him as I was at the back taking photos and he stayed at the front. Every time I was nearing to catch up he set off again. He was probably on a time schedule and was frustrated. He was very good at sorting out everyone's requirements - ATM visits, people wanting to stop at pharmacies, tracking down the lost luggage of one of the group, and keeping us all informed (often having to repeat the same information 3 or 4 times) and answering all our questions. Advice for Potential Travellers Be sure you want to walk for 6 days (or you can always miss a day and relax by the pool at the hotel!). Be prepared to get dusty. Do the balloon flight!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 12/14/2022

Richard Crookes   -  Traveled, September 2018

A good trip Trip started badly as I was unwell and spent the first day recovering. The course leader (Alkan) was helpful and arranged for the bus to take me to meet up with the other members of the group. I was coughing a lot when I started but this got better and i was alright by the end of the walk. Another “patient” was helped in the same way. The group was 17 strong and this took all his resources. Most Inspirational Moment The chance to see the underground city. Thoughts on Group Leader He was always good humoured full of knowledge of all the sites. He was always prepared to come with us to see us ready to take on the system of shopping and other sightseeing. as well as available on the walks and meal times to give the instructions. Advice for Potential Travellers Take plenty of tea and coffee with you - the local stuff is undrinkable. Remember to buy some alcohol before the meal times! Suggestions No.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/08/2018

John Carter   -  Traveled, May 2018

Very good week walking We really enjoyed the trip with excellent local guide Alcan. Great scenery well balanced walks and good variety of restaurants the balloon flight is a must all in all 5 stars. Well organised trip from start to end .Nice simple hotel ideal as a base . Good transport with excellent driver . Nothing to much trouble for our guide or driver ?? Most Inspirational Moment The balloon flight spectacular 120 balloons in air at once . Thoughts on Group Leader Alcan great friendly nothing to much trouble Advice for Potential Travellers Try this trip well worth a week of your life Suggestions This an ideal trip for those that like a steady but slightly challenging walk mainly a walk in the park with a few tricky bits but take a waterproof coat it can rain

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 06/19/2018

Vivien Urban   -  Traveled, April 2018

Great trip! This is a great trip and we had a lovely group. I travelled from the end of April to early May. The weather was great. Although rain and storms were forecasted while I was there, we had beautiful sunshine with some picturesque white clouds (look great on my pictures) and it was quite hot so make sure you take your sunscreen and a sunhat. Mornings were a bit chillier but not too cold and the weather warmed up quickly during the day. If you are considering the ballooning, take some warmer clothes too. The walks were lovely and all quite different. We saw some interesting rock formations on the way, not to mention the stunning landscapes. Some of the walks are flat while others are quite steep and slippery so good walking boots and walking poles come handy. Don’t underestimate a moderate trip. Water from a big water container was provided on the bus as well as in the hotel. Make sure you have your own bottle so you can keep refilling it. If you have a hiking hydration bladder bag, that is the best to take. We also stopped at little local cafes during our walks. My favourite was the freshly squeezed orange and pomegranate juice (mixed). Make sure you try that! Our leader was a character, entertaining, knowledgeable and helpful. The locals are friendly. The hotel was 3 star, a bit tired but for only 10 minutes walk from the town so it was convenient, we could easily walk there for some souvenir shopping in our free time. All meals were included on my tour and the portions were generous… Lucky we did all that walking!! If you are considering doing this trip, I recommend budgeting in the balloon ride. It is such an amazing experience. I am afraid of heights and I was a bit worried but it is so relaxing up there with such a wonderful view that I even forgot about feeling scared. Most Inspirational Moment The hot balloon ride definitely. Cappadocia is the place to do it. Love Valley was a highlight too. Thoughts on Group Leader Alkan has a great knowledge of the area and looked after the group well. He was funny and engaged with us. Also offered to take us to places that were not part of the original itinerary. He has a real passion for his country and he wanted to share that with us. Advice for Potential Travellers Make sure you take a water bottle and your walking poles. Suggestions This trip is great value for money. My group flight was through Istanbul so I did a stopover on the way back. It is worth doing.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 05/16/2018

Stuart Mann   -  Traveled, October 2015

Walking in Cappadocia We arrived in Cavusin after 2 flights, with Turkish airways, that were on time, comfortable and with good food.Our hotel ‘Green Hotel’, was just opposite a ‘fairy chimney’ of incredible beauty. Our room wasn’ t the better one that the Hotel had but it was nevertheless comfortable with ensuite shower.The people there did their utmost to welcome us and the new chef’s food was glorious. Our guide Omer was a lovely fellow,with a good sense of humor, good English and with plenty of knowledge of the local history. The walks were varied and interesting, not tiring at all and we were lucky to have wonderfully warm days with blue skies. For me the best of the walks were through the red valley and Ihlara valley ,my wife also liked the first one very much :the Akvadi and up to Uchisar: spectacular views at the top !But we both were thrilled with our first Hot Air balloon flight, in perfect weather with a perfectionist Pilot that landed the basket onto the waiting trailer!!! Amazing. Most Inspirational Moment the Hot air balloon flight was incredible, the views of the 'fairy chimneys' amazing. The rock formations of the 'red valley' and the white. Goreme open air museum with its many churches and frescoes. Thoughts on Group Leader Omer was a calm ,relaxed guy with a sense of humor and plenty of knowledge, a really likeable fellow: he never was put out if my wife was recording whilst he was talking of the churches ,history or else. He always obliged when we stopped to take pics Advice for Potential Travellers We would recomend taking trekking poles as they do help with unsteady terrain and climbing on the rocks. Suggestions We ate too much ,perhaps if we had to choose our lunch we would have preferred it.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/19/2015

Ann Priestley   -  Traveled, August 2015

Walking in Cappadocia TTG Truly awesome place. Challenging in places but a great way to push yourself and achieve. Great guide, so knowledgeable. We had lessons in Language, Religion, Geology, Politics, History and Turkey. Nobody passed the ‘exams’! Lots of fun and laughter. Most Inspirational Moment Contouring Table Mountain. I was worried but Ilhan, our guide, gave me confidence to do it. Thoughts on Group Leader Ilhan Senturk...superb leader. As I said before, he gave lessons. We learnt so much. We enjoyed so much. We were a team helping each other when needed. He never rushed us. Lovely guy with a sense of humour. Advice for Potential Travellers Just do it. No such thing as cannot. Suggestions On your packing list please add sink/bath plug. I was advised to take £100 of Lira. A tad more would have been more comfortable. Tell people about the hot air balloons in more detail as the cost is quite high.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/09/2015

Carol Capper   -  Traveled, June 2015

Walking in Cappadocia This was my first Exodus trip and I was very impressed with the whole holiday. The organisation was first class and I can’t praise our Trip Leader enough. Nothing was too much trouble and everything was done with a smile. If anyone wants a first class holiday with mind blowing scenery then Cappadocia must come top of your list of treks. Most Inspirational Moment The walking on the table top mountain and the amazing scenery on the walk around the mountain and the valley - in fact too many highlights to mention. One of the most amazing holidays I've ever had. Thoughts on Group Leader Ilhan was amazing. He was exceptionally knowledgeable on all subjects and was happy to answer any questions we put to him. A big thank you to him. Advice for Potential Travellers You need really good walking boots for this holiday.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/19/2015

Anonymous   -  Traveled, October 2014

Walking in Cappadocia This was an excellent and highly enjoyable holiday amidst a stunning landscape – featuring great walking, an informative and expert guide, lovely group of people, pleasant hotel and tasty food. Cappodocia is a relatively small area offering a wonderful variety of walks without involving too much travelling. Most Inspirational Moment Just being in the peace and beauty of such a fantastic environment. The Turkish bath was a fun experience. Thoughts on Group Leader Fahti was knowledgeable, friendly and adaptable - able to flex the tour to suit the group's wishes and needs (e.g. adding in extra features of interest, being supportive to less fit walkers). He related well to local people we encountered and was helpful and considerate at all times. Advice for Potential Travellers The historical and cultural aspect of the area is fascinating. But don't expect too much of the frescoes in the cave churches. Most have not been preserved and many have suffered vandalism. Suggestions A photographer's paradise.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/23/2014

Anonymous   -  Traveled, September 2014

Walking in Cappadocia This was an excellent and highly enjoyable holiday amidst a stunning landscape – featuring great walking, an informative and expert guide, lovely group of people, pleasant hotel and tasty food. Cappodocia is a relatively small area offering a wonderful variety of walks without involving too much travelling. Most Inspirational Moment Just being in the peace and beauty of such a fantastic environment. The Turkish bath was a fun experience. Thoughts on Group Leader Fahti was knowledgeable, friendly and adaptable - able to flex the tour to suit the group's wishes and needs (e.g. adding in extra features of interest, being supportive to less fit walkers). He related well to local people we encountered and was helpful and considerate at all times. Advice for Potential Travellers The historical and cultural aspect of the area is fascinating. But don't expect too much of the frescoes in the cave churches. Most have not been preserved and many have suffered vandalism. Suggestions A photographer's paradise.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/19/2014

Hannah Hannah   -  Traveled, September 2014

Lovely Cappadocia Cappadocia is beautiful and I’m really glad I chose to go on this trip. You get to see so many different landscapes within a relatively small distance and walking through it all is such a good experience. On most days we didn’t see any other walkers in the areas we were exploring and the peace and quiet away from it all was fantastic. Most Inspirational Moment Walking the Red Valley and the high outcrop above it, fabulous! Thoughts on Group Leader Our group leader was very friendly and organised and seemed to know everyone in each small village we stopped in. Advice for Potential Travellers If you don't mind heights, or fancy challenging yourself if you're a bit scared of them, definitely take the opportunity for a hot air balloon ride. Also, the walking is very manageable for people of low/medium fitness. I was a bit worried I hadn't got myself fit enough in the weeks leading up to the holiday, but it was all relatively easy walking with just a few short steep uphills here and there. Suggestions The Green Hotel is a bit basic, but does have spectacular views from the rooms and terrace.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 10/09/2014

Nigel Donovan   -  Traveled, May 2017

Walking in Cappadocia From the moment I started having information sent back to me in 2016 I have been impressed with all aspects of the trip. The walks were all different and well organised. Our driver (Reg) was excellent at no time did I have any concern for our safety. Sensible routes and breaks made the trip a really harmonious event. I can only encourage people to take holidays in Turkey as they need our support . Most Inspirational Moment The first walk with the "fairy towers" landscope was a revelation. The balloon ride was breathtaking and well worth two false starts. Thoughts on Group Leader Firat Solak was excellent. He was both informative and humourous. His pace on the walks was just right for the various members. His checks on the state of the members showed a good understanding of what was going on during the day. The places we ate during the day and evening was a hit with everyone. Advice for Potential Travellers Go as soon as possible. Suggestions The roof area of the hotel was slightly tired but the helpfullness of people, the food and the position of the hotel was excellent.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 06/17/2017

Brian Hills   -  Traveled, May 2017

Walking in cappadocia may/june 2017 sid A very enjoyable week in a unique area,local people were welcoming and all the food provided varied and tasty. Five of the walks were 5*, day 3 Kavac to Bahceli had to much road walking though the first rest stop and final village were worth visiting,manageable walks for first timers like ourselves.A good mixed group.The only small disappointment was the accommodation not as described,we stayed at Goreme, hotel Matiasos ,it was clean,good staff,good breakfast but no bar or public area to chill out, also bathroom to small to dry yourself with towel. Most Inspirational Moment The balloon trip,worth getting up at 4am. Thoughts on Group Leader Fred was a star,looked after us 24/7 Advice for Potential Travellers Possibly take a little more spends 100 sterling would be a bit tight for drinks and tips,150 each more like it.All prices are in turkish or euros,balloon trip was 150 euros or 130 sterling each Suggestions Just do it

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 06/16/2017

Robert Taylor   -  Traveled, October 2015

Walking in Cappadocia A totally unique landscape which is a “Must See” if you want something different. The walks are mostly in valleys and are easy. We’ve never seen so many caves! This is the true way to see Turkey and meet the people, who are very friendly and welcoming. Don’t expect to loose weight though – the traditional food is very tasty and plentiful! Most Inspirational Moment Hard to say as it was all great. The valley walks are fascinating. We also went on an early morning (start before sunrise) balloon trip which was brilliant- well organised and magical. Over 100 balloons in the air at the same time. It was like fairyland as we set off in the early morning twilight seeing all the flames from the gas burners lighting up the balloons - never to be forgotten! Remember to take your camera! One thing that will always stay with us is one morning whilst walking through a local village an old lady gave us some freshly baked bread to taste and a man came across with some molasses he was preparing in which we dipped the bread - it was like nectar. Someone else then came over with grape juice to sample. What a nice gesture by a poor community. Thoughts on Group Leader Ferat was an excellent leader, living up to the exodus high standards we have always experienced. Our driver was also excellent, very safe and thoughtful. Advice for Potential Travellers Take a travel sink plug for the sink in the hotel - there wasn't one in it! Although the walks are easy you will still need good boots as the ground can be rough. Suggestions The hotel bedrooms / bathrooms were adequate & clean but not of the usual standards we expected. The sitting areas are comfortable & plentiful in traditional décor. The hotel staff were very friendly and helpful.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 11/10/2015

Celia Harrison   -  Traveled, August 2014

Walking in Cappadocia Based in one hotel with day excursions/walking trips. Amazing scenery. Love Cappadocia!! Most Inspirational Moment The scenery, the hot air balloons every morning, the view from the plateau - the sight of an older group decending a steep slope with one gentleman, who was quite shaky on his legs and appeared to be in his late 70s, being stopped from toppling by someone behind him holding his belt from behind all the way down. Thoughts on Group Leader Our leader was very quiet and sweet, but not very engaging. His pace was good for the walking and he took care of those who struggled. He listened to what the group said they wanted and did his best to arrange it, particularly issues around food. He opened up more towards the end of the week, which was nice. Advice for Potential Travellers Do take walking poles, a hat, sun cream. I had walking boots, but some of the group got by with walking sandles - I preferred boots. Suggestions I really enjoyed this trip. The group were lovely. We were all women, apart from one man, which must have been a challenge for our guide! I have not laughed this much in years. The walks were mostly gentle, with only two days which were slightly more challenging. The scenery was just incredible. Those who had the hot air balloons said it was worth it and were proud of their certificates saying they had done it. The Turkish bath was good, although busy. Hotel staff lovely and friendly. Might do this trip again!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/17/2014

Paula Evans   -  Traveled, September 2014

walking in cappadoccia Really good holiday, Fantastic scenery and setting. Hotel nice with friendly staff. Lovely to see the animals. A nice place to wander round on your own without getting hassled or lost. Most Inspirational Moment There were a lot but I think getting up early and watching the balloons take off from the valley really had the wow factor. And the balloon trip was brilliant. Thoughts on Group Leader Fahti very informative and helpful, took on board a few suggestions made by members of the group. Advice for Potential Travellers Go with an open mind and expect to see lots of interesting things.. Suggestions For light sleepers take ear plugs because there is a mosque opposite and when the call to prayer goes out at 5am the local dogs and cockerels join in! On the plus side you don't need an alarm clock and its great to get up early and watch the balloons!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/18/2014