Cappadocia Cross Country Ride Cappadocia Turkey This progressive riding trail, with nights spent in guesthouses, is an invitation to discover the immense natural, historical and cultural wealth of Cappadocia's unique landscape. A listed UNESCO World Heritage site, the Cappadocia regions is the result of incredible volcanic eruptions and  ancient human activity. In personal riding groups of no more than 8 people, you will spend 5 - 6 hours per day exploring on horseback through a land rich with wonder. Beginning from the ranch located between Ortahisar and Ürgüp, the itinerary  will take you on a 120 km tour around 'geological' Cappadocia, in 6 riding days. From the peasants' Cappadocia of the South to the most beautiful valleys of the North, a succession of fantastic rock formations, lush canyons, high plateaus, steppe-like landscapes, vineyards and orchards, compose a surprisingly varied route. The villages you will be introduced to will reflect the Anatolian way of life and the frescoed churches and many troglodytic treasures will testify to the stunning historical past of the area.  You will experience the legendary Turkish hospitality in the typical Anatolian guesthouses that we have selected for you to stay in along the way. You will visit the cave villages, a renovated caravanserai and ancient frescoed churches. Come discover the beauty of the rural way of life found here, where the oldest traditions still live on. It is now possible to include a hot-air balloon flight over Cappadocia's surreal landscape during the week. Flights take place on Thursday or Friday morning at sunrise.   Camping Ride with vehicle support Progressive Ride (no camping) Meeting: Ortahisar Airport: Kayseri Transfer: Kayseri Airport Riders: Min 2 riders Max 8 riders (per riding group) Max Capacity 14 Trip Brochure (PDF) Trip Rating

Packages and Options

Click here for updated current rates.

 

Transfer and Other Charges:

Pick-up/ drop-offs are available from Erkilet International Airport/ Kayseri Erkilet Airport (ASR). Pick-up is between 8:00am and 6:00pm on Day 1.
The free transfers are included at a set time only - NO EXCEPTIONS! If you have no choice but to arrive at an alternative hour, we can book you a commerical airport shuttle (limited hours of operation) or in extreme cases you will need to take a taxi from the airport.

Sample Itinerary - subject to changes

The description below is an example of program. However, because of the weather or for safety reasons, the guide can choose to change the itinerary of the trail at any time.

Day 1 (Sunday): Arrival
Arrival at Kayseri airport and transfer to the ranch (transfers are only included at set times!). You are met by our driver and transferred to your hotel in Urgup, where you have dinner with your guide.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at Hotel in Urgup

Day 2 (Monday): Avlak
You are driven to the ranch in the morning to meet your horse, and get acquainted with the riding equipment. You will have time to try your horse on a 1 km training course going around the farm.
The trail begins with a 1-hour ride through lush vegetation and along the stream of the Uzengi canyon. Villagers cook lunch for you on the wood fire, at the foot of troglodytic citadels of dovecotes carved out the abrupt rock walls.
After lunch, you will ride in the stream of Uzengi, very quickly, the first long canter brings you to Avlak mountain, with a magnificent view of Cappadocia. We then ride through a huge valley until we reach the ghost village of Karain. A shuttle bus will drive you back to Urgup where you will spend a second night.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel in Urgup

Day 3 (Tuesday): Keslik Monastery
We start this day by cantering through fields of the high Anatolian plateau (1600 m above sea level). We dismount in order to walk our horses (about 20 minutes) along a steep trail down to Damsa lake. Villagers cook lunch for us on a wood fire near the Keslik Monastery. Passing by and overlooking a valley of fairy chimneys, the afternoon scenery is made of bare hills surrounding the lake (in case of hot weather, you can swim in the lake with your horse). You canter along tracks of soft red clay leading you to the village of Ayvali through a hidden canyon, and stop for the night at your hotel.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel in Ayvali

Day 4 (Wednesday): Golgoli
In the morning, a quick start with a canter brings you to visit the underground village of Golgoli. Your sure-footed horse takes you off the beaten tracks along a scenic path through rock formations, vineyard and orchards, surrounded by table-mountains. Arrival in the center of the old Greek village of Mustafapasa and visit on horseback. You climb a scenic plateau where you have the opportunity to gallop your horse again. After a short ride, you arrive to your hotel in Ayvali.
(Depending on the season and weather forecast, lunch in Mustafapasa or next to the swimming pool in Ayvali)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel in Ayvali

Day 5 (Thursday): Uchisar
Leaving the hotel on horseback, you can enjoy a varied scenery of narrow tracks, small canyons, farmed land, and the wide- open spaces of Subasi, where shepherds lead their flock. You sneak your way along the lush, narrow canyon of a remote village, before galloping on large sandy tracks. Visit of a second and different type of underground village: “Kirkule”. A long canter leads us through vineyards and orchards and over rolling hills of white tuff to reach the fairy chimneys of Gomeda valley. Then more riding awaits you in the narrow corridors and arches of the canyon of Gumuslu. You ride uphill to reach a restaurant for lunch: “Babayan evi”. Very good and healthy local food. From this picturesque village, you start ascending the ‘twin hills' of Cappadocia to reach a panoramic viewpoint encompassing northern Cappadocia and the towering rock fortress of Uchisar. As you ride towards the village, you can admire the multicolored rock formations of the famous Pigeon Valley, and Uchisar’s picturesque fairy chimneys. Your reach your guesthouse on horseback and enjoy a drink on the terrace.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Guesthouse in Uchisar

Day 6 (Friday): Valley of Roses
Optional hot-air balloon flight in the early morning.
You sneak your way through the rock tunnels, arches and small woods of the spectacular, 4 km-long canyon called the Green Valley. You make a detour through the famous Love Valley and its gigantic phallic rock formations, then into the Sword Valley and Red Valley. With its citadels of red, pink and ochre rocks, and its beautiful troglodytic churches, this is Cappadocia’s most spectacular ensemble of geological formations. A cave café located in an ancient monastery welcomes you for lunch. In the afternoon, you keep exploring the Red and Rose Valleys, and then ride out into the fields, surrounded by the rocky hills of north Cappadocia. The winding paths of the Shepherd’s valley take you back with a long canter to your guesthouse in Uchisar, in time to admire north Cappadocia in the sunset light.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Guesthouse in Uchisar

Day 7 (Saturday): Boz daha’ plateau
You enter another beautiful canyon called the White Valley (named this way because of the color of its rocks). You ride through stone labyrinths and lush vegetation, and pass the impressive fairy chimneys of yet another Love Valley ...
Crossing the picturesque village of Cavusin, you dismount for a short walk to reach the plateau of Boz daha. You canter on the crest overlooking Red valley on one side and Devrent valley on the other, with its strangely shaped fairy chimneys on the other side. You enjoy more long canters through the maze of woody, sandy paths of the valley of Urgüp before reaching the valley of Pancarlik and its multicolored rock formations, gardens and orchards. You return to the ranch in the afternoon. After tea on our terrace, you have an option to be driven to the hammam in Urgüp for a relaxing steam bath and massage. Short transfer back to your guesthouse and farewell dinner.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel in Urgup

Day 8 (Sunday): Departure
After breakfast, departure to Kayseri (or Nevsehir) airport for your flight back home.
Meals included: Breakfast


Non Riders
Non-riding companions are welcome to join this trip. It is best to have a car in order to do some sightseeing while the rest of the group explores on horseback.

For those interested in experiencing the hot air balloon flight over Cappadocia's surreal landscape at sunrise it can be arranged. The cost varies depending on season and type of ride, from 150 to 220 Euro plus 10% tax -- paid locally in cash or credit card. The price includes:
- pick-up from hotel around 04:00h
- deluxe flight (1 hour, up to 16 passengers)
- return to hotel before breakfast
Note that if the weather does not permit for the balloon flight the operator will advise at the last minute, often after the pick-up.

                                        Mustafapaşa area

Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Average High Temperature (°F)	38	44	53	63	71	80	87	88	78	66	53	41
Average Low Temperature (°F)	22	25	33	39	48	54	59	60	50	42	32	25
Average High Temperature (°C)	4	7	12	17	22	27	30	31	26	19	12	5
Average Low Temperature (°C)	-6	-4	0	4	9	12	15	15	10	5	0	-4

Source: NOAA


Seasons
Cappadocia has a semi-arid, continental climate, with 29 days of rain per year on average.
If you suffer in the heat, avoid the hottest weeks of the year which are from mid-July to end of August.

March: Cold weather, last frost after winter.

April: The sun is back, nature has woken up. Nights remain cold.

May: Sunny weather but may turn stormy at short notice.

June: Vegetation is lush, fields are covered with flowers, the horses are at the top of their form, the kids are still at school ...

July: Beautiful weather. Highly recommended.

August: Very sunny weather, and hot (35°). Siesta is a must after lunch. Bring your hat and sunglasses.

September: Very nice, Indian-summery weather. The trees bear fruits.

October: Beautiful light, great colors. Days are cooler and nights are cold again.

November: Rain is back. May be frosty at night. For the most adventurous riders only.


This trip is not running in January, February and December as temperatures are too cold and snow can make the trails dangerous.

*Send us a copy your travel insurance policy - with your reservation (or shortly after) All  non-insured riders will not be allowed on the trail*
-- to make sure bring along a copy as well

Every rider should bring along:
• hard water bottles (preferably 2 x 1 litre). We want to avoid plastic waste so we provide mineral water in big tanks, not in individual bottles !
• warm and waterproof clothing in spring and autumn. Many people overlook the fact that Cappadocia is in altitude and may have some cold wind and rain.
• good walking shoes or ankle boots with good rubber soles are essential. Full riding boots and shoes with smooth soles are absolutely not recommended. It makes the walks difficult or impossible.

In summer, dress as if you were going for the desert; in spring and autumn, bring some warm clothing and a waterproof (low risk of rain).
Every evening, the logistic vehicle will forward your luggage to the camp site or pension.You will have to move your luggage around several times during the week so you should pack several, lighter bags rather than one large, heavy suitcase.
The guides do carry first aid packs with them, but you may also want to bring your own water purifying tablets, aspirin, large spectrum antibiotics and sunscreen.

This list is only a guideline for you

Travel documents and Voucher

Flight tickets

Passport

Visa (check with your consulate)

Travel Insurance

RIDING GEAR

Riding pants or Jodhpurs (used if possible!)

Long sleeved shirts

Good walking shoes, rather than boots! However, make sure your shoes are not too big, or they may get stuck in the stirrups.

Riding helmet  (recommended for all trips) Riding without a hard hat is at your own risk.

Riding gloves

chaps or mini chaps

Hat with chin Strap

PERSONAL CLOTHING

Sweatshirt for evenings

Comfortable T-Shirts/Shirts

Jeans

Underwear and socks

Pyjamas

Bag for dirty clothes

Walking shoes

For Camping trips:

Sleeping bag rated down to -10 F (-20 C) at least

Flashlight

Flask

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO BRING

Personal Toiletries

Insect protection

Personal medications

Sore cream (for an emergency)

Sewing kit

Handkerchiefs

Camera and enough extra films

Address book and pen (for pictures postcards!)

Sun glasses with strap

Sun tan lotion and lip balm

Average ratings from 16 tour feedbacks (see details below) Horses: (5) Excellent (4) Very Good (3) Good (2) Satisfactory (1) Not Satisfactory Saddle/Tack: Accommodations: Meals: Host/Guide: other Riders: Name Date alistair mair 6/23/2018 virginia (ginny) swedenberg 11/16/2016 gerda göttlich 6/20/2016 karen henderson 10/24/2014 ira kupferberg 10/23/2014 katherine moran 10/16/2012 amy demint 7/14/2012 lori auhll 7/1/2011 dale miller 6/13/2011 mary bridgman 9/15/2010 jessie leyse 5/25/2010 leeann riloff 10/26/2009 kelley harrison 7/1/2009 t h 7/30/2008 peter tillman 7/5/2008 melanie donaghy 6/22/2008

Accommodations
These trails are all progressive rides where nights are spent at various locations.

Description
The traditional habitat of Cappadocia is mainly troglodyte: rooms are carved in the rock. Most of the hotels are beautifully restored old houses and offer cave rooms. Most people enjoy this amazing experience. But some guests have complained about the lack of windows and the rough (unfinished) walls in their bedrooms. Please let us know if you would have an issue with this type of accommodation.
The guesthouses are located in some of Cappadocia’s prettiest villages (Urgup, Ayvali & Uchisar). Most guesthouses offer internet access and a laundry service.
All nights are in double/twin room with ensuite toilets and shower.

Standard option - subject to changes based on availability
Night 1 & 2: Hotel in Urgup
Nights 3 & 4: Cave Hotel in Ayvali
Nights 5 & 6: Guesthouse in Uchisar
Night 7: Hotel in Urgup

Deluxe option - subject to changes based on availability
Night 1 & 2: Cave Hotel in Urgup
Nights 3 & 4: Cave Hotel in Ayvali
Nights 5 & 6: Guesthouse in Uchisar
Night 7: Cave Hotel in Urgup

Room Occupancy
Single room accommodations are possible depending on availability for some nights, depending on what program you choose. A single supplement fee applies for those nights if you are not willing to room with another rider.
If we are unable to find another rider to share the room with you, a single supplement fee applies.



Meals
All meals are included for this trip. 

A continental and Turkish breakfast option is available at the accommodations. 
A delicious picnic lunch featuring a local specialty is served while on the trail. However, on most days we can ride up to a local restaurant for lunch.  

When staying in a guesthouse, dinner vary everyday.

While camping, dinner is a traditional dish cooked on the wood fire, along with salad and fruits. Dinners are taken the Turkish way, on the floor, sitting on a carpet around a large round tray set in the communal tent or outside by the campfire. Dinner usually includes a starter, one or two main courses and dessert.

Tea, coffee and mineral water are included; wine, beer and soft drinks are available as an option, for an extra cost.

Dietary Restrictions
Vegetarian options are available upon request.

This trip can accommodate special dietary requests.

Tack:		McClellan light trailing saddles with saddlebags. Standard bits and pelhams
Horses:		Arab and cross-Arab mares
Pace:		Mostly at a walk, with opportunities for trots and canters each day. Approx 5-6 hours in the saddle per riding day (35 km per day on average) | Walk | Trot | Canter |
Level:		(4.5 to 5 out of 5)    Strong Intermediate
Age:		Min 18
Weight:		Max 185 lbs - Strictly enforced, may be weighed on arrival
Riders:		Min 2 riders	Max 8 riders (per riding group)	Max Capacity 14

This program includes 6 riding days with about 5 to 6 hours in the saddle each day except on Wednesday (3.5 hours). On average, we will cover 35 kilometers each day, on varied terrain. This route features a lot of technical canters with some long stretch (about 15 minutes). Some canters are on light down hills and rough terrain.

Physical Condition and Riding Ability
Riders must be able to tack up and mount their horse unassisted, and be confident on leading their horse on rough terrain and riding during group canters. Our horses are forward going and you must be able to stay in control during group canters. You must be able to stay in the saddle firmly during group canters, and be able to tack up your horse yourself. Before coming to Turkey, go for a few rides and get adequately fit in order to avoid muscular pain or irritations during the trail.
Participants must be fit enough to ride on long and technical canters and to walk uphill on difficult terrain. The circuit includes a few difficult ways where riders will be asked to dismount and lead their horse, sometimes up steep paths.
For the comfort of the group, riders who do not have an adequate riding level, body weight or physical condition may be refused access to the riding trails, and be offered a walking or minibus tours of Cappadocia instead, at an extra cost. So please, be aware of your capabilities! People unsure of their physical condition and riding level should opt for the Comfort Ride or Discovery Trail option.
You need to be fit enough to mount and dismount your horse, walk on long distance and be comfortable with water (river crossing).
A regular practice of a sport is highly recommended.

Tack
The riding equipment includes standard bits and pelhams as well as McClellan light trailing saddles and saddles made by ourselves. These are fitted with two saddlebags for you to carry the picnic and personal belongings for the day.



Horses
Our stable is composed of forward-going Arab, and cross-Arab horses who will surprise you with their robustness and their agility. They are 1,50 m tall on average - the ideal size for trailing on tortuous paths! All our horses are responsive, well balanced and respectful of the rider and they are extremely sure-footed.
We have put a lot of time and investment into the quality of our horses. Since 2015 more than half of our cavalry has been renewed with pure Arabian endurance horses. Most of our horses have qualifed in national endurance races.
We have invested in a horse walker and in an arena in order to continue to offer riders well trained horses.
Our horses live together as a herd and all spend their days outside grazing in our fields when not on the trail.
Horses are assigned according to riding levels and riders' preferences, but the size and the weight of the rider are also important criteria.
Our team will groom and prepare the horses, so no participation is required by the rider.
 
Weight Restriction
Riders cannot be over 85kg. We will weigh riders on arrival and those over will not be able to participate in the riding program.

Guide
We will provide 1 guide for every 4 riders.

Travel Insurance
You must have appropriate travel insurance to take part in our trails. Make sure your policy covers horse-riding activities abroad. Your insurance details will be requested on arrival.

Passports

Passport valid for at least three months from date of departure from Turkey required by all nationals referred to in the chart, except:

1. nationals of Belgium, France, Germany, Greece, Liechtenstein, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Spain and Switzerland, who can enter with a national ID card (which must have a validity of one year).

Visas

Sticker-type entry visas: Tourists and business visitors from the following countries do require visas and can obtain a sticker-type entry visa at the point of entry for a fee (prices are dependent on nationality):

(a) 2. Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Ireland, Italy, Malta, The Netherlands, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, the UK* and USA for stays not exceeding three months;

(b) 3. Greek Cypriot Administrative Region, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania and Slovak Republic for stays not exceeding one month.

Except 4. Nationals of Bulgaria who do not require a visa for stays up to three months, but do require a visa for transit and for entry at certain points in Turkey; check with consulate.

Visa Note

(a) *British National Overseas passport holders should contact the visa section of the consulate general before travelling. (b) Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements (see Contact Addresses).

Types of Visa and Cost

British passport holders can obtain tourist visa either at the port of entry in Turkey for £10 or from the consulate general in the UK for £50. Single entry (six months): £74. Single entry (one year): £230. Single transit: £74. Study: £74 (six months) or £230 (one year). Work: £230. These prices are provided by The Consulate General for the Republic of Turkey in London; prices may vary according to nationality.

Validity

Single entry: up to six months or one year. Multiple entry: up to five years. Transit: six months. Work: one year. Study: six months or one year.

Applications to:

Consulate (or consular section at embassy); see Contact Addresses. Applicants must pre-book an appointment with the relevant consulate. An online appointment system is available for The Consulate General for the Republic of Turkey in London (website: www.turkishconsulate.org.uk/en/visa ). Travel agencies can also make visa applications.

Working Days Required

Usually three, but dependent on nationality of applicant and type of visa. Some applications may be referred to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Ankara, which may take much longer (minimum six to eight weeks).

 

This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult the embassy or consulate for updated info.