Göreme

Non-Slip Footwear Is Essential

Eroded volcanic tuff breaks down into an extremely slippery fine dust on sloping rock; wear hiking boots or shoes with a ridged sole to walk the valleys.

Caution at Unfenced Viewpoints

Many panoramic viewpoints such as Sunset Point or the Red Valley canyon end in sheer drops without protective railings; do not approach the outer edge to take photos.

Wind Chill While Flying

The early-morning air and altitude make the temperature in the balloon basket noticeably lower than on the ground; dress in layers including a windbreaker, hat and fleece even in summer months.

The Testi Kebab Ritual

Order the 'Testi Kebab' a couple of hours in advance at family-run restaurants; the lamb is slow-cooked in a terracotta pot sealed with dough, which the waiter breaks open with a ceremonial blow at your table.

Pide and Lahmacun from the Wood-Fired Oven

For a tasty, cheap midday meal, look for local ovens that make 'pide' (Turkish boat-shaped pizza with minced meat and 'kaşar' cheese) freshly baked on stone.

Volcanic Wine from the Emir Grape

Taste the white wines made from the native 'Emir' variety, a grape that only thrives in Cappadocia's volcanic microclimate and produces mineral, dry, refreshing wines.

Getting There from the Airports

There are two airports of access: Nevşehir Kapadokya (NAV, 40 min away) and Kayseri Erkilet (ASR, 1 hour away). It is essential to book a shared shuttle bus in advance with your cave hotel.

Getting Between Villages by 'Dolmuş'

Local minibuses leave every 30 minutes from Göreme Otogar to Avanos, Nevşehir and Uçhisar, with tickets paid directly to the driver in cash or by card.

Vehicle or Electric Car Rental

To explore remote valleys, Soğanlı or the underground cities freely without depending on the guided bus tours ('Red Tour' and 'Green Tour'), renting a small car is the most flexible option.

Protecting Ancient Frescoes

Inside the rock-cut churches it is strictly forbidden to touch the walls with your hands or use camera flash; sweat, body oils and light destroy the historic mineral pigments.

Hospitality and Apple Tea

In carpet shops and small stores it is customary to offer you a glass of black tea or hot apple tea ('elma çayı'); accept it graciously as a social gesture that does not oblige you to buy anything.

Dress at Monuments and Mosques

Although Göreme is very tolerant and open to international tourism, when visiting surrounding villages or active places of worship it is advisable to cover shoulders and knees.

Drone Use Strictly Prohibited

Flying recreational drones is strictly prohibited throughout Göreme National Park and over balloon takeoff areas for reasons of air safety and heritage preservation, under penalty of confiscation and heavy fines.

National Archaeological Protection

Collecting, gathering or attempting to take out of the country pieces of ancient pottery, carved stones or fossils from the valleys is punished under Turkey's strict historic heritage law.

Restrictions on Road Traffic in Canyons

Motorized vehicles and quad bikes are prohibited from driving outside the marked dirt tracks in the valleys to prevent degradation of the volcanic tuff soil.

Drinking Water

Drinking tap water is not recommended because of its high chalky mineral content; opt for bottled spring water for drinking and infusions.

Sun and Wind Protection

The whiteness of the rock formations strongly reflects solar radiation; use UV-filter sunglasses, sunscreen and lip balm to protect yourself from the dry plateau air.

Balloon Booking and Time Buffer

Schedule your balloon flight for the first morning of your stay; if the General Directorate of Civil Aviation cancels departures due to excessive wind, your booking will automatically move to the next morning.

Morning Views from Cave Terraces

If you decide not to fly one day, go up to your hotel terrace around 5:45 a.m.: you will witness the mystical silence of dawn broken only by the soft roar of the balloons' gas burners brushing the chimneys above your head.