Horseback riding in Cappadocia, a region in central Turkey, allows you to experience the history and beauty of the area. It has been a meeting ground for European and Asian civilizations since long before the time of Alexander the Great.
More than two thousand years ago the ancient Greeks wrote about the fine horses raised in Cappadocia. Those horses are the ancestors of the animals used now for the ride through this fascinating region.
Not only is the region rich in history, the natural wonders are unlike anything else in the world. The heartland of Turkey is Anatolia, an ochre-hued high plateau rising progressively towards the east. It is broken by river valleys and ravines, dominated by volcanic peaks, and features dramatic rock formations in colors ranging from warm red and gold, to green and grey. The most striking of these are what the Turkish call “fairy chimneys.”
The plateau was one of the cradles of human civilization, with settlements dating back as far as the eighth millennium B.C. In this historic battleground of East and West, numerous civilizations have fought for sovereignty and established their rule. During its turbulent history, Central Anatolia has endured invasions by great conquerors such as Alexander the Great and Tamerlane, and has hosted an amazing number of civilizations including the Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans.
Much of this horseback riding tour proceeds along narrow trails in steep, rocky terrain, and riders should be prepared to dismount and lead horses occasionally. Previous experience trail riding is important for riding in Cappadocia. Experiencing this fascinating landscape, meeting the local people, and visiting some of the ancient and unusual structures will surely be a grand adventure.
Arrive at either Kayseri Erkilet Airport Airport or Nevşehir Kapadokya, depending on your flight you will be picked by a shuttle from the airport and transferred to your hotel. If you would like, you can take a stroll around the town and until dinner time or relax in your room. Depending on your arrival time, you will have the first night dinner together with your tour guide.
Departure from the hotel after breakfast. Meet the horses at the equestrian center and take a short warm-up ride along the banks of the Red River to Lake Bayramhaci. Pass through the village of Sarihidir and return through the vineyards of Mount Ziyaret to finish in Avanos. (5 hours). Overnight in Avanos.
Ride from Avanos and spend the night in KaranKemer Valley.
Enter the most beautiful Cappadocian valleys with their multicolored lunar shapes: the Valley of Kiliçlar, the Red Valley, and many others, to admire the varied landscapes created by volcanoes and erosion. Lunch on the terrace next to the Uzumlu chapel will let us experience Turkish hospitality. Return to our accommodation through the KaranKemer Valley. Overnight in Uçhisar.
Venture into a less-known Cappadocia by classic travelers. The village of Ibrahimpacha (also called Babayan) still retains its agricultural aspect. Continue towards Gomeda and Uzengi, valleys with immense pigeon houses. You will end our day in Mustafapaşa, an old Greek village that has preserved an authentic character. Night in Mustafapaşa
This day offers total change and diversity. This hike takes us to another image of Cappadocia. Through plateaus and valleys, we will pass by the fairy chimney formations of the Golgoli site. A trail will take us to the Keşlik Monastery, where we will have lunch and then visit the rock monastery. Return to Mustafapaşa via a trail that overlooks the entire valley. Night in Mustafapacha.
Every day and every moment has its uniqueness in Cappadocia. Through the Pancarlik Valley and a monastery that was once a hospital, we will take a path to admire an impressive view of the Rose Valley. Then, we will transition to the Devrent Valley, now called the Valley of Imagination, to arrive at the 13th-century Saruhan Caravanserai, built by the Seljuks. We will then follow along the Red River to return to the stable. Night in Avanos
You’ll get to enjoy the authentic Turkish breakfast for the last time! Checkout time is at 12pm. Your transfer will pick you up from the hotel and take you to the airport. If you flight is later in the evening, you are welcome to stay in the lobby.
This itinerary is flexible and may be adjusted at the guide's discretion due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
April 6 through November 2
March 30-April 6, November 9 through 23
December 7-14
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There are lots of opportunities to meet people and they are incredibly kind and hospitable. It was one of the biggest highlights of the ride for me.
Susan Wirth
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