Cappadocia: Fairy Chimneys, Kaymakli Underground City & Valley Tour

4.97

(145 reviews)

What’s the experience like?

I nearly lost my hat to the wind on the ridge above Pigeon Valley—didn’t expect it to be that strong in Cappadocia, honestly. Our guide, Eda, just grinned and pointed out the evil eye charms swinging from a gnarled tree nearby. She said locals believe they keep away bad luck, but I’m pretty sure they’re also there for people like me who can’t keep track of their stuff. The view down into the valley was scattered with little pigeon houses cut right into the rock, and you could hear cooing if you listened past the chatter of our group.

The day trip moved fast but never felt rushed. We ducked into Kaymakli Underground City next—cool air and that earthy smell you only get deep underground. Eda handed me her flashlight at one point (my phone torch was pathetic), and we squeezed through these narrow tunnels that Hittites once used to hide from invaders. I bumped my head twice (watch out if you’re tall), but honestly, being down there made history feel less like a museum and more like something alive under your feet.

Lunch was in a small family spot—nothing fancy, just lentil soup and bread with a hint of smoke from the wood stove. Afterward, we watched a potter shape clay in Avanos. He made it look easy until he asked if anyone wanted to try; Li from our group gave it a go and ended up with mud all over her jeans. Everyone laughed—even the old potter cracked a smile and wiped his hands on his apron before showing us how it’s really done.

By late afternoon we were wandering through Devrent Valley where rocks twist into animal shapes if you squint (or maybe if you’re just tired). The sun hit Uchisar Castle at this perfect angle—gold on stone—and I still think about that light sometimes when things are gray back home. Didn’t get every photo I wanted but maybe that’s better anyway.