7 Days

6 Nights

4 Days Riding

Intermediate

FAIRY CHIMNEYS TOUR

Cappadocia — a land shaped by time, wind, and volcanic forces — is one of the world’s most extraordinary landscapes.

Cappadocia — a land shaped by time, wind, and volcanic forces — is one of the world’s most extraordinary landscapes. Famous for its whimsical rock towers known as “fairy chimneys,” colorful valleys, and the iconic hot air balloons drifting over the horizon at sunrise, this enchanting region has captivated travelers for centuries. Officially recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985, Cappadocia is not just a destination; it’s a dream carved in stone.

While there are countless ways to explore this mystical land, we believe that the most authentic and soul-stirring way to experience Cappadocia is on horseback.

Our horseback riding tours are tailored for experienced and confident riders who are looking to connect with nature, history, and their horse in a truly unforgettable way. Some parts of the trail require fast gallops across open plains, while others involve navigating steep or rocky terrain, which may mean dismounting and mounting your horse independently. For your comfort and safety, it’s important to be comfortable with these requirements.

You’ll be paired with one of our spirited and graceful Arabian horses — each carefully trained and deeply loved. Their gentle temperament and powerful energy will carry you across ancient valleys, through hidden trails, and alongside panoramic views that seem almost surreal.

If you’re seeking a profound adventure that blends nature, culture, and equestrian passion, then saddle up. Cappadocia is waiting to be discovered

LONG FAIRY CHIMNEYS TOUR

Cappadocia — a land shaped by time, wind, and volcanic forces — is one of the world’s most extraordinary landscapes. Famous for its whimsical rock towers known as “fairy chimneys,” colorful valleys, and the iconic hot air balloons drifting over the horizon at sunrise, this enchanting region has captivated travelers for centuries. Officially recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985, Cappadocia is not just a destination; it’s a dream carved in stone.

While there are countless ways to explore this mystical land, we believe that the most authentic and soul-stirring way to experience Cappadocia is on horseback.

Our horseback riding tours are tailored for experienced and confident riders who are looking to connect with nature, history, and their horse in a truly unforgettable way. Some parts of the trail require fast gallops across open plains, while others involve navigating steep or rocky terrain, which may mean dismounting and mounting your horse independently. For your comfort and safety, it’s important to be comfortable with these requirements.

You’ll be paired with one of our spirited and graceful Arabian horses — each carefully trained and deeply loved. Their gentle temperament and powerful energy will carry you across ancient valleys, through hidden trails, and alongside panoramic views that seem almost surreal.

If you’re seeking a profound adventure that blends nature, culture, and equestrian passion, then saddle up. Cappadocia is waiting to be discovered

QUICK FACTS

Suitable for intermediate and experienced riders

Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

One non-alcoholic drink is included with each meal.

Private guided group tour

Ride trails and hard gallops in valleys

Well-mannered, smooth gaited, high-spirited horses

Accommodation in boutique hotels

Reliable and modern equipment

Riders are advised to bring their own riding equipment (helmets, boots,etc.)

Helmets are provided upon request

Riders must be fit, able to trot, canter and gallop and have experience with trail riding. MAX WEIGHT = 85 kilo! (If you weigh over 85 kilograms, you can join our tour with two horses. Please contact us for the additional fee for the second horse.)

DEPARTURE DATES & RATES

NEW! Secure your saddle seat NOW with a 50% deposit

 

DEPARTING FINISHING
11.04.2026 17.04.2026
18.04.2026 24.04.2026
25.04.2026 01.05.2026
02.05.2026 08.05.2026
09.05.2026 15.05.2026
16.05.2026 22.05.2026
23.05.2026 29.05.2026
30.05.2026 05.06.2026
06.06.2026 12.06.2026
13.06.2026 19.06.2026
20.06.2026 26.06.2026
27.06.2026 03.07.2026
04.07.2026 10.07.2026
11.07.2026 17.07.2026
18.07.2026 24.07.2026
25.07.2026 31.07.2026
01.08.2026 07.08.2026
08.08.2026 14.08.2026
15.08.2026 21.08.2026
22.08.2026 28.08.2026
29.08.2026 04.09.2026
05.09.2026 11.09.2026
12.09.2026 18.09.2026
19.09.2026 25.09.2026
26.09.2026 02.10.2026
03.10.2026 09.10.2026
10.10.2026 16.10.2026
17.10.2026 23.10.2026
24.10.2026 30.10.2026

ITINERARY

Please note, this is a suggested itinerary only and subject to change due to weather and other influencing factors.

Upon arrival at either Kayseri Erkilet Airport or Nevşehir Cappadocia Airport—depending on your flight—you’ll be greeted by our shuttle service and comfortably transferred to our hotel in the charming town of Avanos.

Once settled, you can choose to unwind in your room or take a leisurely stroll through the town’s quaint streets. Depending on your arrival time, we’ll gather for a delightful welcome dinner where you’ll meet your guide and fellow adventurers.

(Dinner included)

Start your morning with a rich and satisfying breakfast served from 8:30 AM. Around 9:30 AM, your guide will pick you up from the hotel and accompany you to our nearby ranch in Avanos. Once there, we’ll gear up—checking saddles and filling our bags with fresh water—before mounting our horses and heading out.

Today’s ride follows the scenic banks of the Kızılırmak (Red River), taking us toward the peaceful riverside village of Sarıhıdır, famed for its fishing culture and serene atmosphere. As we trot and gallop along the riverside, you’ll experience a harmonious blend of excitement and serenity, with photo moments captured by your guide throughout the day.

Once we arrive in Sarıhıdır, we’ll allow our horses to cool down by gently washing their legs in the river. Then it’s time to sit back and enjoy a relaxing riverside picnic—don’t forget to snap a photo and share the adventure online!

On our return journey, we’ll ride past a beautifully preserved 13th-century caravanserai, a striking landmark that whispers tales of the ancient Silk Road. We’ll be back at the ranch by late afternoon, bringing home a day full of laughter, stories, and unforgettable views. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Today we venture into a more hidden and mystical corner of Cappadocia—Mustafapaşa, a village where time seems to stand still. Once known as Sinasos, this charming destination will offer you a deeper cultural experience.

After breakfast, we’ll head back to the ranch and prepare for another memorable ride. Our journey winds through some of Cappadocia’s most spellbinding landscapes, including the white-sand beauty of Ak Vadi (White Valley), the fairy-tale formations of Paşabağ, and the crimson-hued wonder of Red Valley (Kızılçukur).

As we ride beneath towering fairy chimneys and through sweeping vistas, bursts of galloping will add a thrill to our scenic route. Around midday, we’ll take a well-earned break in the heart of Red Valley for a delicious picnic lunch surrounded by nature.

From there, we continue toward Mustafapaşa, where we end our day at our second ranch. After settling the horses into their stables, we return to the hotel for a restful evening and another shared dinner.

A bit about Mustafapaşa: once called Sinasos (Greek: Σινασός), this town in the Ürgüp district of Nevşehir has a population of 1,295 as of 2022. Previously reclassified as a village in the 2013 administrative reorganization, it regained town status by court order in 2024. Nestled just 5 km from Ürgüp and 27 km from Nevşehir, Mustafapaşa is situated to the west of the Gomeda Valley.

The village’s name is believed to derive either from Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey, or a local figure, Mustafa Pasha, who famously resolved the village’s water shortage by commissioning a well. While historically based on agriculture—especially grape cultivation—the village now thrives on tourism, with a growing number of boutique hotels and guesthouses welcoming visitors from around the world. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

After breakfast, our guide will pickup you at 9:30

The first stop is at Uçhisar Castle, the highest rock formation in the Cappadocia.  The guide will explain just how this amazing landscape came into existence.

At Zelve Open Air museum the guide will explain the importance of Christianity and monastic life in Cappadocia before leaving you free to explore the 10th and 11th century cave churches and monasteries with beautifully painted frescoes depicting famous biblical scenes

See the old Greek houses in Çavuşin village, abandoned during the Greek/Turkish population exchange in 1924.

Enjoy a lunch in Avanos, offering a wide range of Cappadocia food including mezes, salads, meat and vegetarian dishes and desserts.

Still in Avanos, visit an authentic family-run pottery workshop located in an underground cave.  Clay from the Kızılırmak (Red) River was first used in pottery production by the Hitites prior to 1700BC and continues as an art form today.  Watch a master demonstrate how to make a pot, and watch the the painters and glazers apply their delicate patterns.  Have a go at the potter’s wheel yourself and make your own unique pot if you wish.

In Paşabağı (also known as Monks Valley because of the Chapel of Saint Simeon found there) wander through the unusual clusters of multi-headed mushroom-shaped “fairy chimneys” (rock formations).

Devrent Valley (“Imagination Valley”) – a stunning valley where you can spot natural rock formations in many recognisable shapes in cappadocia, including the famous camel-shaped rock.   Use your imagination and see what other shapes you can find.

Return to your hotel approx 4.00pm. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Start your morning between 8:30 and 9:30 AM with a rich, authentic Turkish breakfast to fuel your day. After breakfast, we’ll transfer you to our ranch, nestled in the historic village of Mustafapaşa.

Once there, we’ll complete the final ride preparations. With your essentials safely tucked into your saddlebag, we’ll begin our journey—starting with a ride through Golgoli, one of the oldest and most enigmatic areas in Mustafapaşa. As we move toward the Damsa Dam, the ancient ruins and panoramic views will make you feel as though you’re riding through the pages of history.

Our trail continues past the remarkable 6th-century Keşlik Monastery, where we’ll take a short pause for photos. Surrounded by centuries of sacred silence, it’s a place that commands reflection and wonder.

Next comes a special treat: lunch at a beautiful trout farm, set in a lush green oasis. Enjoy freshly caught fish prepared with local flavors. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, so please be sure to note your dietary preferences in your rider form.

After a relaxed and refreshing lunch, we’ll saddle up and ride back toward the ranch—galloping through serene stretches of the trail with plenty of stops to capture photos of Cappadocia’s stunning terrain.

We’ll return to the hotel in the late afternoon for a well-earned rest, followed by a hearty dinner to close out the day.

Prepare for approximately 5 to 6 hours in the saddle — a full day of adventure, culture, and unforgettable scenery. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Every corner of Cappadocia holds magic, and today—our final day on horseback—we’ll take in as much of it as possible.

We begin by departing from our ranch in Mustafapaşa and head straight into nature’s embrace. Our path leads us through the awe-inspiring Pigeon Valley (Güvercinlik) and the lush Üzengi Valley before reaching Ortahisar.

At Ortahisar’s panoramic viewpoint, we’ll take a break to soak in the dramatic vistas. Be sure to have your camera ready — this view is one for the books.

Then, we ascend to around 1,500 meters in elevation, heading into the legendary White Valley (Akvadi). Here, we’ll enjoy exciting gallops through its soft trails, flanked by Cappadocia’s striking rock formations and surreal silence.

Our final stretch takes us across Akvadi toward our original ranch in Avanos — where our riding journey began and where it now comes to a meaningful close. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Enjoy your last traditional Turkish breakfast with us as we bid you a fond farewell. Checkout time is at 12:00 noon. Depending on your flight time, your shuttle will pick you up and transfer you to either Kayseri or Nevşehir Airport.

If you have a later flight, feel free to relax in the hotel lobby before your journey home.

We hope your time with us was unforgettable — and that you leave with something extra in your luggage: beautiful, lasting memories of your horseback adventure through Cappadocia. (Breakfast)

NOTES

  • Riders are required to have travel insurance.
  • Accommodation will be provided at the hotel specified up to the tour unit.
  • The daily routes of the tour may be subject to change.
  • Meals will be served in a traditional style with a fixed menu. Lunches may be served as picnics.
  • Hot air balloon reservations must be made together with the purchase of the tour package. (Balloon prices are finalized approximately one month before the tour date.)
  • If a guest deviates from the standard tour program (e.g., joining the tour late or leaving mid-tour), any additional costs incurred will be charged to the guest.
  • Dinners will be served either at the hotel or at a local restaurant.
  • For late arrivals on the first day, a sandwich will be provided in the room.
  • Optional activities such as the Dervish ceremony, hot air balloon flight, ATV tour, Turkish night show, traditional Turkish bath (hamam), and underground city visit are not included in the tour price and are available at an additional cost.
  • Airport transfers will be provided by shuttle service. Shuttle operating hours are between 8:30 AM and 6:30 PM. Transfers outside of these hours will be arranged as private transfers. For private transfer fees, please contact us.
  • 12+ years old (younger riders with parents only TBC)
  • Our accommodations are arranged at Hikmet’s House in Avanos. However, if there is no availability for your requested dates, we may choose an alternative hotel of the same standard located near our ranch. https://www.hikmetshouse.com/en