Tour the Underground Civilizations of Cappadocia, Turkey
Explore Anatolia in its many layers: A Neolithic archaeological site; ancient rock-cut monasteries and churches in a dramatic gorge; an underground civilization cut from the rock; a Seljuk caravanserei. Witness a Sufi Whirling Dervish Ceremony. Wander among one of a kind limestone 'fairy chimneys'. Climb a 10,000+-foot volcano with broad views across the Anatolian plain (optional non-technical climb).
Tour Konya, a spiritual and historical center of central Anatolia and home of Mevlana, the founder of Sufism. (Can reach Konya by plane from Istanbul, or with a lovely 5-hour drive or bus trip from Antalya on the Mediterranean coast across the caravan country.) Witness a free Whirling Dervish ceremony at the Konya cultural center. Then travel north and east to Cappadocia, with options along the way to see a Seljuk caravanserai, tour an active Neolithic archaeological site at çatal hüyük, and walk a dramatic gorge to some ancient rock-cut churches and a monastery. Tour the unique fairy-chimney landscape of Cappadocia out of the town of Goreme, with an underground civilization cut from the rock. Take an optional hot air balloon trip over the unique canyons and towering limestone formations. While in the area, those who are interested can complete a two-day non-technical summit of a 10,000+ foot volcano, with expansive views across the Anatolian plain toward the Black Sea.
- Suitable Activities: Global Adventures
- Seasons: February, March, April, May
- Weather: View weather forecast
- Difficulty: Moderate/Strenuous
- Land Manager: Land Manager Varies
- Parking Permit Required: see Land Manager
- Recommended Party Size: 10
- Maximum Party Size: 12
- Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12
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