Activities to do in the land of beautiful horses 🐎

#1: Horse riding

There are options to do the horse riding during sunrise or sunset and it was very interesting to navigate through the rock valleys of the Cappadocia landscape on horse back. Almost felt like a nomad 😂

There are also camels or the option of ATVs as well. Our accommodation had helped to book the experience for us and we paid about $60 per pax including tips.

#2: Hiking within rose 🌹 valley (FREE!)

It was a little overcast and cloudy that morning, but it also meant less people out on the trails too! Getting to hike to different points and admire the scenery was the highlight. We also got to explore some abandoned rock-cut homes/temples. An interesting find was the quirky little beverage kiosk parked seemingly in the middle of nowhere. We got hot beverages to take along our hikes as the weather was chilly.

#3 : Going on a sunrise hot-air balloon ride

It was definitely expensive at about $420 per person. We went with Turquaz Balloons and chose the Turquaz Comfort flight which accommodates up to 20 people. We chose them due to their reliable and safe reputation. They offer pick-up and drop-off from our accommodation, a light breakfast buffet, drinks to commemorate end of flight, certificate and a souvenir. There are cheaper options and operators out there, but they may have more people (up to 28 people) on the flight or if you're willing to go at a later timing in the morning. The views were immaculate and definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience. ✨ Will recommend if you have the budget!

#4: Exploring more valleys/ ancient settlements

There are many of such attractions around Cappadocia and in my opinion, you don't have to visit all as the landscapes may seem a bit repetitive. You can opt to go on private/group tours where they would bring you to some of the key attractions.

Goreme open air museum is a paid ticketed attraction, but the church complex is well-preserved and you can enter and explore the structures.

Go to love valley if you would like to admire phallic rock structures. 🤔

*We rented cars for the trip for ease of getting around the different places.

Hope this post helps if you're considering to go to Cappadocia!