PIGEON VALLEY

Locally known as the Guvercinlik Valley, the Pigeon Valley is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the region between the towns of Goreme and Uchisar. The Pigeon Valley is spread across an area of almost 6 km and derives its name from the several pigeon houses that can be found here carved into the soft stone of the caves.

The famous Pigeon Valley in Cappadocia is best known for its hiking trail, a key highlight of any trip to Turkey. The trail can commence in either Uchisar Town or Goreme Town, taking you through thick forests of trees and several caves. As you descend into the valley, it also provides great views of the town and the Uchisar Castle. Additionally, you can spot a number of brilliant paintings on the walls of the caves that were created by the people who lived here during the Byzantine period.

As is evident from its name, the Pigeon valley used to have a large number of pigeon holes built into the walls for the domestication of pigeons. They were not only used by the dwellers here for their meat and manure, but also for message delivery, and sacrifices. The trail is extremely picturesque with its ever changing landscape and cliffs and sudden stretches of dense greenery alongside others with bare treeless sections. Throughout the trail, you will be greeted with scattered cave dwellings as well as chimneys and earth pillars. At one end of the valley, you will find some cafes where you can relax and enjoy a refreshing bite before heading on.

Highlights

• Go on a thrilling hiking trip to one of the most popular hiking destinations in the entire Cappadocia region of Turkey
• Start at the Uchisar town from where the trek is mostly downhill and moderated so that it can be undertaken by beginner level hikers as well
• Learn how the valley got its name by witnessing the large number of pigeon houses that have been carved into the soft stone here
• Enjoy looking at some of the other popular features that make this valley very famous such as its earth pillars, ancient paintings, and cave dwellings
• Explore the various small churches dating back to ancient times that are scattered around the entire area
• Catch mesmerizing views of the sunset from the Pigeon Valley and capture some memorable moments here on camera
• Book a hot air balloon ride from here to witness the exceptional beauty of the landscape from the air