Cappadocia Soganli Valley Tour
Explore Cappadocia beyond the usual routes on this full-day tour. Visit Mustafapasa, Sobessos, and Soganli Valley, see Keslik Monastery’s hidden frescoes, and admire Taskinpasa’s Seljuk-era history.
Service Provider: Travelux Cappadocia
Service Details
Pick-up from your hotel around 10:00 AM. Begin the tour with a visit to Mustafapasa (Sinasos), an old Greek town known for its stunning stone houses and elaborate facades. This village was once home to a thriving Greek population before the population exchange in 1923. Walk through its quiet streets and admire the architectural blend of Greek and Ottoman influences.
Continue to Sobessos (Şahinefendi), an archaeological site that was discovered in 2002. This ancient city features well-preserved Roman-era mosaics, a large bath complex, and remnants of a small but significant settlement that flourished centuries ago. Your guide will share insights into the excavation process and the historical importance of the site.
Next, explore the Soganli Valley, an off-the-beaten-path gem of Cappadocia. This Open Air Museum is home to a series of rock-cut churches decorated with unique frescoes that date back to the 9th–13th centuries. The peaceful valley, surrounded by nature, offers a glimpse into the monastic life of early Christians in the region.
Enjoy a lunch break at a local restaurant, where you can relax and savor traditional Turkish dishes. After lunch, visit Keslik Monastery, a hidden treasure carved into the rock. Unlike other monasteries in Cappadocia, its frescoes are concealed beneath a thin layer of smoke residue, only visible with the help of a flashlight. Your guide will reveal the hidden details of these ancient artworks, providing a unique and mystical experience.
The tour continues to Taskinpasa, an important historical site from the Seljuk era. Admire the well-preserved architectural remains, including a 13th-century madrasah and mosque, which reflect the artistic style of the Seljuk Turks who once ruled the region. Conclude the tour with a return to your hotel, taking with you a deeper appreciation for Cappadocia’s lesser-known but equally fascinating historical and cultural sites.
Tour Highlights
Soganli Valley, Mustafapasa (Sinasos), Keslik Monastery, Sobessos Ancient City, Taskinpasa Medrese, Sinasos Houses
Why Book This Service
- Explore Mustafapaşa, a picturesque Greek village with stunning historical architecture.
- Visit the ancient city of Sobessos, a recently discovered archaeological site with Roman mosaics.
- Discover Soganli Valley, a hidden gem featuring unique rock-cut churches and frescoes.
- Uncover the hidden frescoes of Keşlik Monastery, only visible with a flashlight.
- Admire the Seljuk-era architecture of Taşkınpaşa, a site of historical significance.
- Experience a quieter, less-touristy side of Cappadocia, rich in history and culture.
What's Included
- Professional tour guide
- Comfortable transportation
- Lunch at a local restaurant
- Entrance fees to all sites
- Parking fees
- Pick-up and drop-off at local hotels
Please Note
- This tour involves moderate walking on uneven terrain in valleys and archaeological sites.
- Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a hat are recommended.
- Lunch is included; please inform us in advance of any dietary restrictions.
- The itinerary may be adjusted based on weather conditions and local circumstances.
Meeting Point
At your hotel
Cancellation Details
Booking can be cancelled up to 1 day(s) before the tour start.
The contrast between shadowed cave churches and bright open-air ruins in Sobesos was fascinating. Ishak shared local legends that made the day memorable.
This tour felt like going back in time—rock churches, hidden frescoes, ancient mosaic baths. Travelux Travel’s itinerary was well thought out.
The highlight for me was the mosaics at Sobesos—they’re so intricate and beautifully preserved. Our guide Haluk explained everything with care.
Starting with the 9:30 pick-up, everything flowed beautifully. Mustafapaşa’s Greek architecture was enchanting, and Ayshe made sure we didn’t miss a single detail.
Exploring the 6th‑century cave churches in Soganlı Valley was an unforgettable experience. Our guide Ishak from Travelux guided us through frescoed interiors, and standing inside Sobesos’ Roman ruins left us in awe.
A perfect blend of nature, history, and culture. We admired cave churches, explored Sobesos, and ended with a peaceful walk through Soganlı Valley with guide Ayshe.
The private vehicle and lunch in Mustafapaşa made this tour feel luxurious yet intimate. Gamze, our guide, brought the Keslik Monastery’s story to life as we walked through its rock-carved corridors.
Pigeon houses dotting the slopes were a charming sight. Our guide Latife effortlessly balanced history and fun facts throughout the day.
Luxury vehicle, small group, expert guide—I couldn’t have asked for more. Visiting Kaymaklı underground city at the end felt like a bonus adventure.
Seeing the Church of St Barbara up close, with its delicate frescoes and wooden bridge, was moving. Guide Gamze’s depth of knowledge brought it all to life.