MTB Cycling Tour in Cappadocia - gotowild.eu

Turkey, Cappadocia

MTB Cycling Tour in Cappadocia

Oct. 05 - 11, 2025 - 1070 €

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Route description

1070 €

Guide services, 6 nights in guesthouses, breakfast and dinner, and route transfers.

7 days

Accommodation in guesthouses: 6 nights.

120 km

Transfers: 250 km.




Cappadocia is a unique geological formation famous for its fascinating lunar landscapes, an abundance of cave temples, and ancient dwellings. It is the most visited destination among active travel enthusiasts in all of Turkey. We invite you to dive into a world of incredible adventures with us! Every day, we will cover a well-balanced distance—enough to enjoy both an invigorating physical challenge and the breathtaking scenery around us. Tour duration: 7 days. Weather:At this time of year, temperatures in Cappadocia range from 25-30°C during the day and 15-20°C at night.



Travel programme

1

Göreme – Güzelyurt

Arrival in Kayseri – Transfer to Göreme – Güzelyurt Upon arrival in Kayseri, you will travel independently to Göreme for an overnight stay. For those who wish, we can arrange a transfer and accommodation. In the morning, at 10:00 AM, the group meets with the hiking guide at the bus station. We will then head to rent bicycles (for those who need them). Afterward, we drive to Güzelyurt (about a one-hour drive), a small town known for its traditional Greek architecture. Upon arrival, we check in at an ethnic-style guesthouse. In the afternoon, we go for a cycling tour around the outskirts of the town. Total cycling distance: ~10 km Total elevation gain: ~100 m

2

Trip to Ihlara Canyon

Around 10,000 years ago, lava flows from nearby volcanoes shaped the dramatic landscape of the Ihlara Canyon, which stretches for 15 km. We begin our journey in Belisırma Village, where we will explore the developed section of the canyon (optional entrance fee: ~ €5 ). The scenic trail follows the banks of the Melendiz River, offering breathtaking views of lush greenery and towering rock formations. Along the way, we will discover rock-carved Christian churches, dating back as early as the 4th century. Many of these churches still contain well-preserved frescoes, including: Yılanlı (Snake Church) Ağaçaltı (Daniel’s Church) Sümbüllü Monastery In the afternoon, we will cycle through the untouched part of the canyon, heading toward Selime Village. From the Yaprakhisar viewpoint, we will enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. Finally, we return to Güzelyurt after covering 40 km by bike on a mix of asphalt and dirt roads.

3

Lake in an Extinct Volcanic Crater

Our journey to the crater lake will not be boring: first, we will climb to the cave city of Savrihisar. Lunch from a packed meal. From here, a mountain road takes us to the yaylas – high-altitude mountain pastures. Here, we will increasingly encounter ancient solidified lava flows. The road runs directly along them. A few kilometers of adrenaline-filled descent to an ethnic village, a miniature canyon – and we find ourselves in the crater of an extinct volcano, where the Nar Lake has formed at the bottom. The sulfuric waters of this stunning reservoir bubble and change color like a chameleon throughout the day, shifting from green to yellow or blue. There will be an opportunity to swim! We return to Guzelyurt. The cycling distance is 55-65 km, covering both asphalt and dirt roads.

4

UNDERGROUND CITY OF DERINKUYU

This morning, we pack our belongings, disassemble our bicycles, and travel by minibus to Göreme. On the way, we will visit the mysterious underground city of Derinkuyu (approximately 15 euros), the most "multi-story" cave city. This city is as old as biblical events—over 4,000 years old. It was founded by the enigmatic Hittites, who are considered the pioneers of a unique architectural style based on cave living. In the first centuries AD, the Hittites in the caves were replaced by the first Christians. Here, on the outskirts of the vast Roman Empire, they sought refuge and safety from the persecution of pagan emperors. It is truly an underground city. It has 12 levels extending 85 meters underground. A 10-kilometer underground tunnel connects it with another cave city, Kaymaklı. By midday, we will arrive in the village of Çavuşin, located a few kilometers from Göreme. Göreme is a national park of natural and cultural heritage, listed by UNESCO. We will stay in one of the hotels. Then, we will reassemble our bicycles and ride through one of the fantastic gorges of the Meskendir Valley. Dinner time. Distance: 12-15 km. Dirt roads.

5

ROSE VALLEY – GÖREME – ÇAVUŞIN

Today, we head to the Rose Valley and take an intricate trail to the Sunset Point. Our efforts will be rewarded with an otherworldly panorama. The breathtaking landscape, featuring stone pillars (called "peribacaları" in Turkish – fairy chimneys) and deeply carved tuff rock formations, will leave no one indifferent. A thrilling downhill ride for several kilometers through the Red Valley floor awaits us. This is one of the most captivating canyons of the vast Meskendir Valley. Next, we arrive at the village of Çavuşin and climb the rock formations, riddled with caves like a piece of cheese. After dinner, those interested can visit an ethnic guesthouse estate, carved directly into the fairy chimneys. In the evening, you can also stop by the ethnic café "Cappadocia Natureland." A cozy night by the fireplace, tasting fine Cappadocian dry wine, enjoying live Turkish music, listening to the saz (a string instrument), and experiencing the heartfelt songs performed by the hospitable cave hacienda owner, Özer, will create unforgettable memories. Cycling distance: 30-35 km.

6

CITY OF CERAMICS – AVANOS

In the first half of the day, those interested can embark on a short but truly spectacular hot air balloon ride (self-funded, approximately $90-120 per person). This could be one of the most exciting and unforgettable experiences of your trip. The hot air balloon flight over Cappadocia begins early in the morning and lasts for several hours. We will start our cycling journey by descending into a three-kilometer-long canyon. This canyon is unique: several mineral springs with a strong iron taste form a stream that paints the gorge in iron hues. We will head to the banks of Turkey's longest river, the Kızılırmak, and arrive in the town of Avanos. This town is famous for its ceramics, with master Galip’s pottery being exported to France, Ukraine, and many other countries. We will visit Galip’s workshop and are sure to find something special to take home as a souvenir. After some shopping, our route continues through rocky corridors and charming green valleys filled with fruit trees, vineyards, and poplars. Finally, we arrive at the "Valley of Monks" – Paşabağ. In the last rays of sunlight, the fairy chimneys take on an eerie, ghostly appearance. Cycling distance: 35-40 km. Preparation: Tomorrow we have an early departure for the airport, so we will pack our bicycles and luggage in advance.

7

END OF THE JOURNEY

In the morning, you will independently travel to Kayseri Airport. For those who wish, we will arrange a direct transfer from the hotel. Our journey has come to an end.

*The organisers have the right to change the programme depending on weather conditions and group pace.

What's included in the trip price

The price includes.

  • Travel Organization

    • Accommodation in guesthouses with breakfast (B+B)
    • Breakfast and packed lunches provided
    • Transfer from Göreme to Güzelyurt
    • Participant transfer on Day 4 from Güzelyurt to Çavuşin (Göreme)
    • Luggage and bike transfer on Day 4 from Güzelyurt to Çavuşin (Göreme)
    • Medical kit available
    • Guide services throughout the route, including accommodation, meals, and other expenses

The price does not include.

Not Included in the Price

  • Flight tickets
  • Transfer from the airport to Göreme (€10-15 – we can arrange this for you)
  • Dinners (self-paid at traditional local restaurants)
  • Entrance fees to canyons and museums
  • Bike rental for those not bringing their own (~€15-20 per day or €90-120 for 6 cycling days; prices are approximate)
  • Medical insurance
  • Optional paid excursions (~€25-35 for the entire trip)
  • Hot air balloon flight for those interested (€90-120)

Essential equipment

Clothing & Equipment Checklist

Mandatory Gear:

  • Cycling helmet (required!)
  • Cycling shoes or sports sneakers
  • Cycling gloves
  • Cycling shorts

Backpack & Essentials:

  • Small backpack (17-20L) for personal belongings
  • Front bike light & headlamp
  • 2-liter water bottle
  • Personal first aid kit (including essential medications, warming ointment, sunscreen)
  • Personal hygiene items

Clothing:

  • Sweater or fleece jacket
  • T-shirts (short and long-sleeved)
  • Rain poncho or jacket
  • Sun hat (cap, Panama, or similar)
  • Lightweight and warm sports socks
  • Thermal underwear (moisture-wicking)

Footwear:

  • Extra footwear (flip-flops or sandals)

Personal First Aid Kit (as needed)


Documents & Money

  • Flight tickets (may be required at border control or check-in)
  • Passport (valid for at least 6 months after the end of the trip)
  • Travel insurance (mandatory!)
  • Cash & credit/debit cards

Food Organization

  • Breakfast – Traditional Turkish breakfast at guesthouses (tomatoes, cucumbers, eggs, olives, butter, jam, coffee, tea, sweets)
  • Lunch – Daily packed meals, with occasional opportunities to eat at local taverns (at your own expense)
  • DinnerSelf-paid at local restaurants, either individually or as a group

First Aid Kit

  • Medications for digestive issues, pain relief, colds, and allergies
  • Antiseptics (for wounds and cuts)
  • Adhesive tape, elastic bandage
  • Personal medications (if you have chronic conditions, bring enough for the entire trip!)

Physical Activity

  • Daily distance – up to 65 km (average 40 km per day)
  • Terrainasphalt, dirt roads, trails, occasional rocky sections

Attractions & Sightseeing

  • All major sights and activities are listed in the route description
  • Entrance fees for paid attractions are covered individually on-site

Additional Expenses

  • No unexpected expenses are planned, but we recommend having ~€200 for emergencies
  • Possible extra costsTurkish hammam, souvenirs

Accommodation

  • GuesthousesAuthentic Turkish hospitality experience
  • Rooms2-3 people per room (single accommodation is not available)

Transport & Route Navigation

  • Flights to Kayseri, followed by an independent bus transfer to Göreme (~1.5 hours)
  • Pre-booked transfer – Bus can drop you off directly at the hotel
  • You may arrive a day early and spend an extra night in Göreme

Medical Insurance

  • Travel & accident insurance is mandatory
  • We can arrange insurance if needed

Group Meeting

  • Meeting point – The hotel booked for the group
  • First evening – Introduction & trip briefing
  • On the first day of the ride, we meet at 10:00 AM at a pre-arranged location

Flight Delays

  • If your flight to Kayseri is delayed or canceled, inform your tour leader

Extra Night in Göreme

  • We highly recommend arriving a day before the tour starts

End of the Tour

  • The active part of the trip ends at 16:00
  • Return flights should not be booked before 20:00

Our guides

Marat Pavlenko
Marat Pavlenko
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086766867498

Experience in tourism 22

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