Regional Cappadocia --- Our three day sample itinerary covers major highlights of the region, and takes you beyond the beaten path for a unique travel experience...
The unique rock formations are the result of a continuous erosion of volcanic ash and lava rocks. But Cappadocia is not just a natural wonder.
Here in the rural part of the country, you will stroll the streets of non-touristy villages, and get to know real people...

• Itinerary specifics are to be re-arranged depending on seasonal flight schedules.
• Refer to hiking tours & trekking pages for hiking alternatives.
• Tour can be extended to include other regional tours.

day 1 --- Meet your guide at the airport, and drive to the heart of the region. En route, you may stop at Dervent, Pasabag, or the Pigeons Valley to observe and photograph some of the most picturesque land and rock formations.
You will have your lunch with a local family, in a small village. This is a private visit, the family open their doors only to our travelers. During lunch, you will have a chance to chat with family members, and learn about the rural life in Cappadocia.
In the afternoon, you will visit the Goreme Open Air Museum and the late Byzantine churches carved in the rock. The museum is a Unesco world heritage site.
Based on the time and your personal interest, you may visit a pottery workshop, to learn more about this traditional craft, and the ancient kick-wheel.

day 2 --- Hot air balloon ride at the sunrise, followed by a walk in Mustafapasa, a typical Cappadocian village under state preservation for authenticity of its architecture.
The walk will give you a clear look and understanding of the geography, culture, and history of Cappadocia.
Lunch in the home restaurant of a young couple. House overlooks the picturesque Ibrahimpasa valley.
After lunch, you will visit the Uchisar Castle. You will then drive to the underground city of Kaymakli that was once a temporary shelter in times of danger and siege.
Later in the day, you may visit a local winery and/or a carpet weaving facility.

day 3 --- In the morning, you will enjoy a nature walk in Gomeda, or the Ihlara Valley, to appreciate the Cappadocian landscape. Then you will drive off the beaten path to the town of Guzelyurt for lunch.
In the afternoon, you will walk through ancient Guzelyurt, to see the centuries old cave dwellings, and the renowned Church of St. Gregory. The initial church was physically built by St. Gregory of Nazians, one of the founding fathers of the Orthodox faith.
Today, the building serves as a mosque. You will meet with the imam of the mosque for a Q&A on Islam.