Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

The Cathedral on t he second last day. Also the gorge on the same day - sorry cant remember names.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Fine. Knowledgeable and related well to the group. Gave an interesting summary of Turkish history to help us relate to the caves and their eras, altho probably went on a bit too long about it. Organized meals well and gave sufficient prior information so we knew what was intended. Was flexible, rearranging the walks to make them more sensible. Guide waited for tail end walkers to catch up occasionally, but then didnt pause to allow them to rest but started immediately.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Worth advising potential travellers that many paths have gravel making them slippery on downslopes. Need to take walking poles. Definitely need hats and sunburn cream becuase of heat in June.

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing the amazing scenery was the best thing about the trip. Having passed through the area 18 years ago I had always wanted to go back and the holiday certainly didn't disappoint. Walking through villages and seeing the local people going about their everyday activities was also good. The way of life in the cities has changed so much but we saw things that were timeless. The people were very welcoming and keen for us to see what they were doing. The ingenuity of the earlier inhabitants of the area in terms of carving out underground cities and making pigeon houses was eye-opening.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Gorkem was very good. He was so keen to show us as much of this part of his lovely country as possible in the short time we were there. He made sure that we got as much out of the trip as we could.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Prepare to be amazed at the scenery. If you go in October, also be prepared for it to be cold at night.

Suggestions

Tourism is obviously a big thing in the area. It has not yet reached all of the villages and it was these that were probably the most interesting so go soon before they change. Some of the day walks were quite short and it would have been nice to extend them.

Most Inspirational Moment

Disapearing from the group & lit up area for a few seconds in the underground city to find a stone door. (felt like Indiana Jones). And sharing laughter and stories etc with fellow travellers. Being inspired to make origarmi hot air balloons to put the guide & drivers tip inside.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Omar was a good leader spending time to get to know all the members of the group.

Advice for Potential Travellers

It can get very hot on the walks with not meany natural places to take shelter. If your a vegertarian beware of the lentil soup.

Suggestions

The staff at the hotel were very pleasant and friendly.

Most Inspirational Moment

Hot air ballooning over the fairy chimneys and rock formations. It was incredible to be amongst 100 other balloons slowly flying over the magical world below. 5 of us did it and couldn't stop grinning and raving about it afterwards. Walking through the varied landscape, fertile valleys and fairy chimneys.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Omer was an excellent leader, very knowledgeable and informative and with a great sense of humour. He made sure all arrangements went smoothly

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take walking boots/trainers with GOOD grip - the paths are very slippery with small stones. At Istanbul on the outward journey, purchase your visa at the desks on the left heading for the domestic terminal, then go through passport control to get the flight to Keyseri. Don't buy water until you are through the 2nd security check. Take a plug for the rooms at the hotel and earplugs as there are a few animals in the hotel which awake early, also you can hear the balloons passing over most mornings. Though that is a sight worth waking up for.

Suggestions

The Green Hotel is lovely and in an excellent position for the walking and watching the balloons. A very relaxing base and friendly staff.