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Cappadocia Trails

Overview

Experience the incredible and unusual beauty of Turkey's Cappadocia region from the back of a horse. Something like a cross between the Grand Canyon and a moonscape, Cappadocia boasts some of the world's most unusual and spectacular landscapes. Traversing the countless valleys and mountains by hors…

Highlights

  • Spectacular scenery with iconic 'fairy chimneys'
  • Canter for mile after mile on fit horses
  • Authentic accommodations built into the rocks
  • Ride under rock arches and through tunnels
  • Take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise

Essential Facts

  • 4 itineraries available
  • Max 8 riders per group
  • Average of 5 - 6 hours riding per day
  • Weight limit: Strictly no more than 85kg / 187 lbs / 13 stone 5 lbs for riders (dressed weight).
    more info

Description

Experience the incredible and unusual beauty of Turkey's Cappadocia region from the back of a horse. Something like a cross between the Grand Canyon and a moonscape, Cappadocia boasts some of the world's most unusual and spectacular landscapes. Traversing the countless valleys and mountains by horseback brings riders in touch with the area's breathtaking beauty. Forget the tour buses or even the rental cars - this astonishing region of Central Anatolia is best seen from a horse!

There are two stables that are used for these rides, who both work in partnership with each other. Kapadokya Ranch is just a short distance from the villages of Ortahisar and Urgup and Cappadock in Avanos. Located in the heart of the national park, away from roads, these are the perfect starting point for these trails and the exploration of Cappadocia's most famous valleys. Their herds are composed of forward-going Arabs and Arab-crosses who will surprise you with their robustness and agility. They are around 15hh, the ideal size for the tortuous paths. Horses are assigned according to riding levels and riders' preferences and of course, according to size.

Kapadokya Ranch is owned and managed by French-born Nicolas and Hélène who decided to make Cappodocia their home some years ago and have been organising horse riding tours ever since. Cappadock Farm is run by Ibo who will guide The Classic Ride. Riders must be of a confident intermediate standard or above and have good physical fitness as you will be required to lead your horse at times. For this reason, you must also be able to mount and dismount unaided. The sportive trail is really only for strong, fit riders and for all tours you must not be afraid of heights.

Horses & Riding

Tack

The horses are ridden in McClellan trail saddles which are lightweight and comfortable. Saddles are fitted with two saddlebags which you can use to carry the picnic and personal belongings for the day (water bottle, sunscreen, camera etc.). Bridles are simple leather headstalls with snaffle or pelham bits, or hackamore bitless bridles.

Horses

Horses are Anatolian, Arab and Arab-crosses who are extremely robust and agile. They are small and well-built, the perfect size for following the difficult paths between rocks. Your hosts hope that you will find these horses to be sure-footed, responsive and well-balanced. They are assigned according to guests’ riding levels and preferences, as well as their size and weight.

Riding

There are 4 itineraries:

  • Sportive Trail is a trail ride
  • Active Trail is a trail ride
  • Classic Trail is a trail ride
  • Black Mountains (Aladaglar) Trail is a trail ride

Ages

12 years and above.

Health

Fit and healthy, able to withstand long hours in the saddle. PLEASE NOTE: Riding will include narrow mountain passes so not suitable for riders who have vertigo.

Weight

Strictly no more than 85kg / 187 lbs / 13 stone 5 lbs for riders (dressed weight).

Food & Accommodation

Food

Turkey is famous for its kebabs, mezes (different types of appetizers) and also very rich in vegetable and fish dishes. Central Anatolia is well known for its pasta dishes such as manti and gözleme, a hand-made and hand rolled pastry filled with, for example, spinach and cheese. Guests will be able to sample a vast array of different foods that are so beautifully prepared in this country.

Breakfast is usually continental style and is taken at the guesthouse or whilst camping, the Turkish way, sitting on a carpet under the communal tent. On most days you will ride to a local restaurant for lunch although some days lunch will be a picnic, but with a proper table and chairs.

Dinner is Turkish style, comprising of a starter, one or two main courses and a dessert. Vegetarians can be catered for with prior notice. Water, tea and coffee are included. Cappadocia wine, beer and other drinks are available and payable locally - alcohol is not always promoted for cultural reasons but most places do stock some wine if you ask.

Accommodation

Accommodation is dependent on your chosen programme. The hotels are often family-run and typically Anatolian. There are double rooms with en-suite toilets and shower. Most of the hotels offer free internet access and a laundry service. For the luxury option, boutique hotels are used which have been selected for their historical architecture (cave hotels), special atmosphere, high quality of service and attention to detail. Single rooms can be arranged at an additional cost.

During itineraries when you camp, guests are required to help put up and take down their tents. Double tipi tents are provided along with floor mats and single camp mattresses. Camps have a “shower tent” with a bucket and a gas stove where you may heat the water.

Itineraries

Sportive Trail Standard accommodation.

Active Trail Standard accommodation.

Classic Trail Standard accommodation.

Black Mountains (Aladaglar) Trail Tented / Standard accommodation.

Other Activities

This trail is specifically designed for horse riders, you will spend a long time in the saddle so evenings are spent relaxing. There are other activities available on the Family/Luxury Trail as listed.

Non-riders can follow a specific non-riding itinerary - this is designed for walkers/hikers who are happy to follow a non-guided trail using a GPS and guide book. The trails are 2-4 hours of hiking each day and you meet the riders at lunchtimes and in the evenings. Please enquire if you have a non-riding partner/friend who would like prices/itineraries for this.

Travel

Transfers are included from and to Kayseri airport for guests arriving between 5 am and 6 pm - these are organised via a shuttle bus service which collects tourists at the airport and stops off at different hotels (we will tell you where to get off).

Turkish Airlines, BA and Easy Jet all fly to Istanbul, Turkey. From Istanbul Ataturk airport, you should take a domestic flight to Kayseri. There are a number of different options to take and guests should aim to arrive strictly before 6 pm. Return will be on the following Sunday morning, leaving Kayseri at 9 am.

If you are only able to arrive after 6 pm, we would advise planning to travel a night early instead. We can organise the transfers from Kayseri airport a day or two early and this will still be included in the package price. We can also book additional hotel nights for you at a small extra charge - please do just ask!

Testimonials

Sandra B., Oct. 18, 2023

A forward going ride, either walk, climbing up & down in canyons/mountains or cantering through canyons, over plains, paths. Very exciting and unique landscape without any other tourists – mostly, the group is all on its own. Surprisingly diverse region, topography. Great, always fresh food in family owned guesthouses. Horses are well-mannered, reliable, surefooted, forward going and have balanced characters.


Laura D., Oct. 3, 2023

This ride was our sixth trip organized by Far and Ride. We have loved all of the trips so far, but Cappadocia was extra special. Everything - and I mean everything - was spectacular, from the horses, scenery, accommodations, food, fellow guests, stables, options for additional sightseeing, and value.


Mandy C., April 26, 2023

Super forward going, well mannered horses in a beautiful and unusual landscape. I have wanted to ride in Cappadocia since I saw photographs of its beautiful and unusual landscapes in a magazine 20 years ago and it really did live up to those photographs! Stunning scenery for mile after mile and for most of the trail we saw no tourists. We stayed in 3 different places which were all attractive for different reasons and all formed from parts of a cave which was authentic, interesting and fun. The food for breakfast was exceptional with lots of choice of fresh ingredients. We also ate some delicious traditional salads and vegetable dishes.


Clifford, June 7, 2021

Excellent, beautiful countryside, very nice hotels and food, well-behaved horses, plenty of galloping and cantering. My favourite trip so far. Nico (guide) was really nice and friendly and kept us safe and looked after the horses well, he was there if we needed anything.


Katherine W, Feb. 18, 2020

Incredible scenery, something totally unique to that part of the world. Fantastic long canters through challenging terrain. Very well kept healthy horses, schooled excellently and of course a wonderful group of ladies!


Sarah C., March 22, 2017

Excellent! Very active - long canters and some walking up and down steep sections. Stunning scenery - Cappadocia is beautiful! Was very happy with my horse (Tootsie) and the equipment. Guide was excellent, very knowledgeable about the area and history. Very passionate about his horses and the trails. And good fun!


Kate G., May 19, 2016

Amazing - a real adventure, test of my riding skills and a huge buzz. I had a big grin on my face, especially on the last day when we had a mad, twisty, up and down canter that my horse loved.


Christer S., May 17, 2016

I'm very pleased, fantastic I would say. Good planning, good horses, the guides were so nice and the scenery was marvellous!


Heidrun & David C., Nov. 25, 2015

Very enjoyable, fantastic scenery, busy and very friendly people - both those we had direct contact with and other locals. Very relaxed and informal trail. (Favourite memory?) Cantering uphill "Wild-West" fashion to come out on top of a ridge, with an amazing panoramic view of the wild scenery. Good, reliable, sturdy little horses. (Guides) helpful and very friendly - made it like a family day out every day. (Accommodation?) The cave guesthouse was very basic but very authentic - gave us a real feel of the country and it was very nice not to be isolated in a "posh" hotel. Plenty of food - actually more than enough!


Itinerary & Pricing

Day 1 - Sunday

Riding: No riding.

Arrival at Kayseri airport. You will be met by your shuttle driver and transferred to your guesthouse in Urgup where you will have dinner with your guide. The transfer takes approximately 50 minutes.

A welcome dinner will be served at around 8pm, for those guests who arrive in good time, and is a great opportunity to meet your hosts and guides.

Day 2 - Monday

Riding: 5 - 6 hours

You will be driven to the ranch in the early morning to meet and choose your horse (in 2025 this will be in Avanos) and get acquainted with the tack. You will have time to test your horse on a 1km training course going around the farm. The trail will begin with one hour of riding through lush vegetation and along the stream of the Uzengi canyon. Villagers cook lunch for you on a woodfire at the foot of troglodytic citadels of dovecotes which have been carved out of the rock walls.

After lunch you will ride in the stream of Uzengi and your first long canter takes you to Avlak mountain with a magnificent encompassing view of Cappadocia. The rocky hills could provide the perfect background to a Western movie. The afternoon is spent riding through a huge valley where the ghost village of Karain is situated - the horses will be settled for the night near to Karain and you can enjoy a drink as you watch them. A shuttle bus will then drive you back to Urgup to spend a second night (driving time, approximately 25 minutes).

Day 3 - Tuesday

Riding: 5 - 6 hours

Today starts by cantering through the fields of the high Anatolian plateau (1600m): barley, wheat, oats and beans. You will dismount to walk and lead your horse along a steep trail, single file, for approximately 20 minutes. This brings you down to Damsa lake. The villagers will cook lunch for you over a woodfire when you arrive to Keslik Monastery.

The scenery in the afternoon is made of bare hills surrounding the lake and you will also be overlooking a valley of fairy chimneys. In hot weather you can swim in the lake with your horse. There are tracks of soft red clay this afternoon, ideal for cantering, and you will eventually reach the village of Ayvali by passing through a hidden canyon. Here you will find your hotel.

Day 4 - Wednesday

Riding: 5 - 6 hours

This morning you have a quick start with another canter, bringing you to the underground village of Golgoli. Your sure-footed horse will take you off the beaten track, following scenic paths through rock formations, vineyards and orchards, all surrounded by table-mountains.

You will arrive to the centre of the old Greek village of Mustafapasa, visiting on horseback, and then onto a scenic plateau with a chance for another blast on your horse. After a little more riding you will reach your hotel in Ayvali once again.

Depending on the season and the weather, lunch today will either be in Mustafapasa or next to the swimming pool in Ayvali.

Day 5 - Thursday

Riding: 5 - 6 hours

After leaving the hotel on horseback you will find yourself amidst varied scenery of narrow tracks, small canyons, farmed land and the wide open spaces of Subasi where shepherds are still leading their flocks. You wind your way along the lush, narrow canyon of a remote village, before galloping on large sandy tracks. Today you will visit a second and different type of underground village called Kirkule.

Another long canter leads you through vineyards and orchards, over rolling hills of white tuffa to reach the fairy chimneys of Gomeda Valley. More riding fun awaits you here as you ride through the narrow corridors and archers of the Gumuslu canyon. Riding uphill you will reach one of the best restaurants for lunch, 'Babayan evi'. This serves very good, healthy, local style food.

After lunch in this picturesque village you can start ascending the 'twin hills' of Cappadocia to reach a panoramic viewpoint which encompasses northern Cappadocia and the towering rock fortress of Uchisar. As you ride towards the village you can admire the multi-coloured rock formations of the famous Pigeon Valley and Uchisar's charming fairy chimneys. You will reach your panoramic guesthouse on horseback and enjoy a drink on the terrace.

Day 6 - Friday

Riding: 5 - 6 hours

This morning there is an optional hot-air balloon flight (additional cost) in the early morning - travel with the wind over Cappadocia's magical landscapes at sunrise. Your hosts can help you organise this locally and you will pay the balloon operator direct.

Today you wind your way through the rock tunnels, arches and small woods of the spectacular 4km-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 ocre rock, and its beautiful troglodytic churches, this is Cappadocia's most spectacular ensemble of geological formations.

A cave cafe located in an ancient monastery welcomes you for lunch. In the afternoon you explore more of the Red and Rose Valleys and then further out into the fields, surrounded by the rock 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.

Day 7 - Saturday

Riding: 5 - 6 hours

This is your last riding day and you begin by exploring another beautiful canyon called the White Valley, named after the colour of its rock. You will ride through stone labyrinths and lush vegetation, passing by more of the impressive fairy chimneys which will leave you with lasting impressions from your ride.

On crossing the picturesque village of Çavusin you dismount for a short walk to reach the plateau of Boz daha, cantering on the crest overlooking the Red Valley on one side and Devrent Valley on the other.

The maze of woody, sandy paths of the valley of Urgüp invite you to more pacey riding, before reaching the valley of Pancarlik and its multicoloured rock formations, gardens and orchards. You return to the ranch in the afternoon.

After a final tea on the terrace you have the option to be driven to the hammam in Ürgüp for a relaxing steam bath and massage (extra cost). There is a short transfer back to your guesthouse for a farewell dinner and overnight.

Day 8 - Sunday

Riding: No riding.

After breakfast, departure to Kayseri airport for your flight home to Istanbul. 

NB: This itinerary is an example. In case of rain, the trail will be modified accordingly to ensure the safety of horses and riders. Please note that the balloon flight date is subject to change due to local circumstances

Accommodation

Accommodation will be in comfortable guesthouses, most of which offer internet access and laundry. You stay in four different accommodations during the week.

Experience Experienced

Confident, strong experienced riders only. This ride includes long canters over difficult terrain and steep down hill sections where you will be expected to walk and lead your horse. You must be able to tack up and to mount your horse without help several times a day. Canters can be long, 10 minutes at a time, and sometimes technical. You will be riding along mountain passes so the ride is not suitable for riders who suffer from vertigo.

Minimum group size 4
Maximum group size 8
Departure windows

Oct. 20, 2024 - Oct. 27, 2024

March 9, 2025 - March 16, 2025  (Low Season)

March 30, 2025 - April 6, 2025  (Mid Season)

April 20, 2025 - April 27, 2025  (High Season)

Sept. 7, 2025 - Sept. 14, 2025  (High Season)

Sept. 28, 2025 - Oct. 5, 2025  (High Season)

Pricing

2024
Per person sharing
£2155 $2725 €2600
2025
Low Season
£1990 $2515 €2400
2025
Mid Season
£2320 $2935 €2800
2025
High Season
£2485 $3145 €3000
Included 7 nights accommodation in shared rooms, all meals from dinner on arrival day to breakfast on departure day, non-alcoholic drinks (water, tea and coffee), 6 days of riding with an experienced guide and return Kayseri airport transfers by shuttle on arrival and departure.
Not included Flights, personal travel insurance, transfers outside of set times, drinks, tips and personal expenses.

Extras

2025 - Extra Night (Standard, Shared) £82 $104 €99 per night
Paid to Far and Ride
Extra night, half board in standard shared room.
2025 - Extra Night (Standard, Single) £109 $138 €132 per night
Paid to Far and Ride
Extra night, half board in standard single room.
2025 - Extra Night (Standard, Single) £109 $138 €132 per night
Paid to Far and Ride
Extra night, half board in standard single room.
2024 - Hot Air Balloon €230
Paid locally
Hot air balloon rides are available but must be booked in advance of arrival. Price is per person, however, discounted rates are sometimes available for children.
2024 - Luxury Accommodation Upgrade (sharing) £104 $131 €125
Paid to Far and Ride
* only available first, the second and final night of the ride.
2024 - Luxury Accommodation Upgrade (single) £395 $500 €480
Paid to Far and Ride
* Only available for first, second and final nights. This price already incudes the single room supplement for the whole week.
2025 - Single Supplement £315 $395 €380
Paid to Far and Ride
* Single supplement payable by anyone requiring a single room.
2024 - Single Supplement £250 $315 €305
Paid to Far and Ride
* Single supplement payable by anyone requiring a single room.
2024 - Young Rider discount 10% discount for Riders less than 30 years of age
Note: All programmes and itineraries are weather dependent; in the face of adverse, or unexpected, weather conditions reasonable attempts will be made to provide equivalent riding. All programmes are accurate at the time of writing. However, the team may adapt or modify details, whilst aiming to provide a similar experience.

Day 1 - Sunday

Riding: No riding.

Arrival at Kayseri airport. You will be met by your chauffeur and transferred to Suban Hotel (Selcuklu Evi for luxury upgrade choice) your guesthouse in Urgup where you will have dinner with your guide. The transfer takes approximately 50 minutes.

A welcome dinner will be served at around 8pm, for those guests who arrive in good time, and is a great opportunity to meet your hosts and guides.

Day 2 - Monday - Mustafapasa

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

Today you will enjoy some long canters on the way to the Avlak Mountain from where you will witness some magnifcent views of Cappadocia (in case of rain, the Avlak mountain is unrideable so will be avoided) - the rocky hills could provide the perfect background to a Western movie. Your ride will take you to the centre of the old Greek village of Mustafapasa.

After lunch, you have time to stroll around Mustafapasa’s old stone houses, its Ottoman madrasa and its painted church.

In the afternoon, you will ride through a varied scenery of narrow tracks, small canyons, farmed land and the wide-open spaces, where shepherds lead their flocks, before arriving at Dilek Tepesi Hotel or similar in Ayvali.

Day 3 - Tuesday - Keslik Monastery

Riding: 4 - 5 hours

The ride today starts with some canters through fields of the high Anatolian plateau (1600 m high) amongst barley, wheat, oat and beans fields. The ride then takes a slower pace and follows a steep single trail down to Damsa lake where villagers cook lunch for you on a woodfire. While the horses rest you will have the opportunity to visit the monastery.

Your afternoon ride is to the underground village of Golgoli and along the way the scenery is through valleys and hills which surround lake.

You can enjoy canters along tracks of soft red clay then through a hidden canyon which leads you back to the village of Ayvali and your hotel for the night (the same as previous night).

Day 4 - Wednesday - Uchisar

Riding: 3 hours

Todays ride (morning only) takes you to the beautiful valleys of north Cappadocia and to the village of Uchisar. Trot and canter through vineyards and orchards and over rolling hills of white tuffa to reach Ibrahimpasa. From this picturesque village you start ascending the 'twin hills' of Cappadocia. A nice canter at the top takes you to a panoramic viewpoint encompassing northern Cappadocia and the towering rock fortress of Uchisar.

As you ride towards the village you can admire the multicoloured rock formations of the famous Pigeon Valley and Urchisar's picturesque fairy chimneys. You reach the village in time for late lunch on the terrace. The rest of the day is free for exploring the village, visiting the churches of Goreme's Open Air Museum or hiking through Pigeon Valley. Tonight, you will stay in Kilim Pension or similar in the village of Uchisar.

Day 5 - Thursday- Red Valley

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

Optional hot-air balloon flight in the early morning: travel with the wind over Cappadocia's magical landscape at sunrise (paid directly to the balloon company). Yours hosts can assist you with this.

Mount up and enter another beautiful valley called the White Valley and sneak your way through arches, rocky labyrinths and lush vegetation into Sword Valley and then Red Valley. With its citadels of red, pink and ochre rock and its beautiful troglodytic churches, this is Cappadocia's most spectacular ensemble of geological formations. A cave cafe located in an ancient monastery welcomes you for lunch.

In the afternoon, continue exploring the Red and Rose valleys and then ride out into fields surrounded by the rocky hills of north Cappadocia. The winding paths of the Shepherds Valley take you on a long canter back to your guesthouse in Uchisar in time to admire Cappadocia in the sunset light. You will return today to your accommodation in Uchisar.

Day 6 - Friday - Balkan Valley

Riding: 5 hours

Leave the village on horseback and ride through rock tunnels, arches and small woods in the spectacular 4km long canyon called the Green Valley. Make a detour through the famous Love Valley and its gigantic phallic rock formations before continuing to the village of Ortahisar where you have lunch.

In the afternoon, canter a sandy track lined with trees before crossing the Valley of Pancarlik and its multicoloured fairy chimneys. You arrive back at the ranch in the afternoon and have a short transfer to your hotel in Urgup, Suban Hotel (Selcuklu Evi for luxury upgrade choice).

Day 7 - Saturday - Departure

Riding: No riding.

After breakfast, departure to Kayseri (or Nevsehir) airport for your flight to Istanbul.

NB. Please note that whilst this is the proposed itinerary, the guide may change the plan due to weather or unforeseen circumstances.

IN 2024 THIS RIDE WILL BE 7 NIGHT'S WITH 6 DAYS OF RIDING. THE EXTRA DAY WILL BE AT THE BEGINNING OF THE WEEK AND WILL BE SHORTER RIDING AROUND THE UZEGI CANYON.

Accommodation

You can choose either standard comfort or luxury accommodation. During the programme you will stay in 3 different accommodations, all of which are near to where the horses stay. Solo travellers will need to pay a single supplement when booking but if a sharer can be found the single supplement will be refunded.

Experience Intermediate / Experienced

Strong intermediate riders and above. You should be confident on rough terrain and able to control a forward-going horse in group canters. Please note: Some riding will be on mountain passes so is not suitable for those with vertigo.

Minimum group size 2
Maximum group size 7
Departure windows

March 2, 2025 - March 8, 2025  (Low Season)

March 23, 2025 - March 29, 2025  (Mid Season)

April 13, 2025 - April 19, 2025  (High Season)

May 4, 2025 - May 10, 2025  (High Season)

Aug. 31, 2025 - Sept. 6, 2025  (High Season)

Sept. 21, 2025 - Sept. 27, 2025  (High Season)

Oct. 12, 2025 - Oct. 18, 2025  (High Season)

Pricing

2024
Per person sharing
£1655 $2095 €1995
Bookings made after 31st January 2024.
2024
Per person sharing
£1575 $1990 €1900
Bookings must be made before 31st January 2024.
2025
Low Season
£1655 $2095 €1995
2025
Mid Season
£1820 $2305 €2200
2025
High Season
£1990 $2515 €2400
Included Accommodation in shared rooms (7 nights in 2024 / 6 nights in 2025), all meals from dinner on arrival day to breakfast on departure day, non-alcoholic drinks (water, tea and coffee), 5 days of riding with an experienced guide and return Kayseri airport transfers by shuttle on arrival and departure. IN 2025 THIS RIDE WILL BE 6 NIGHT'S WITH 5 DAYS OF RIDING. AWAITING NEW ITINERARY DETAILS (ONE OF THE DAYS WILL BE REMOVED FOR 2025 ITINERARY).
Not included Flights, personal travel insurance, transfers outside of set times, drinks, tips and personal expenses.

Extras

2025 - Extra Night (Luxury, Sharing) £110 $140 €133 per night
Paid to Far and Ride
Extra night in Urgup, luxury shared room, half board.
2025 - Extra Night (Luxury, Single) £152 $192 €183 per night
Paid to Far and Ride
Extra night in Urgup, luxury private room, half board
2025 - Extra Night (Standard, Sharing) £82 $104 €99 per night
Paid to Far and Ride
Extra night in Urgup, standard shared room, half board.
2025 - Extra Night (Standard, Single) £109 $138 €132 per night
Paid to Far and Ride
Extra night in Urgup, standard private room, half board
2024 - Hot Air Balloon €230
Paid locally
Hot air balloon rides are available but must be booked in advance of arrival. Price is per person, however, discounted rates are sometimes available for children.
2024 - Luxury Accommodation Upgrade (sharing) £104 $131 €125
Paid to Far and Ride
* Only available for first, second and final nights.
2025 - Luxury Accommodation Upgrade (sharing) £62 $79 €75
Paid to Far and Ride
2 nights in Urgup.
2024 - Luxury Accommodation Upgrade (single) £395 $500 €480
Paid to Far and Ride
* Only available for first, second and final nights. This price already includes the single room supplement for the whole week.
2025 - Luxury Accommodation Upgrade (single) £91 $115 €110
Paid to Far and Ride
2 nights in Urgup
2025 - Single Supplement £270 $340 €325
Paid to Far and Ride
* Payable by anyone requiring a single room.
2024 - Single Supplement £250 $315 €305
Paid to Far and Ride
* Payable by anyone requiring a single room.
2024 - Young Rider Discount 10% discount for Riders less than 30 years of age
Note: All programmes and itineraries are weather dependent; in the face of adverse, or unexpected, weather conditions reasonable attempts will be made to provide equivalent riding. All programmes are accurate at the time of writing. However, the team may adapt or modify details, whilst aiming to provide a similar experience.

Day 1

Riding: No riding.

Arrival at Kayseri airport. You will be met by your chauffeur and transferred to your guesthouse in Cappadocia where you are free to check into your hotel then have dinner in one of the nearby restaurants. The transfer takes approximately 50 minutes.

Day 2

Riding: 4 - 5 hours

Your hosts will join you for breakfast then drive you to the stables (5 minutes) where you will meet the horses. Your ride will start along the banks of The Red River to Lake Bayramhaci then pass through the village of Sarihidir and return through the vineyards of Mount Ziyaret to finish in Avanos where you will stay overnight.

Day 3

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

After breakfast, transfer to the stables. Today you will ride from Avanos, through the small canyon of Cayagil then continue to the Valley of Love then onwards to Uchisar, a huge rocky outcrop with panoramic views.

Day 4

Riding: 5 - 6 hours

Today you ride through the most beautiful Cappadocian valleys with their multicoloured lunar shapes including The Valley of Kiliclar and The Red Valley where you can admire the varied landscapes created by volcanoes and erosion. Enjoy lunch on the terrace next to the Uzumlu chapel before riding through the KaranKemer Valley to your overnight accommodation in Uchisar.

Day 5

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

Venture into a less-know Cappadocia today. The agricultural village of Ibrahimpacha (also called Babayan) is the first point you will ride to today before continuing towards Gomeda and Uzengi. One of the most notable features of Uzengi valley are the pigeon houses and the natural springs, churches, and streams. Your ride will finish in Mustafapasa, an authentic old Greek village where you will spend your night.

Day 6

Riding: 5 - 6 hours

A complete change of diversity for your fifth day of riding. You will ride through plateaus and valleys, pass the fairy chimney formations of the Golgoli site. Your lunch stop will by near the Keslik Monastery before riding back to Mustafapasha via a trail that overlooks the entire valley. Overnight in Mustafapasha.

Day 7

Riding: 5 - 6 hours

For your final day of riding, you will explore the unique Pancarlik Valley with it's monastery then follow a trail to admire the impressive view of The Rose Valley. The trail then leads to the Devrent Valley, through the Valley of Imagination to the 13th century Saruhan Caravanserai built by the Seljuks. You will then follow the Red River to return to the stables and enjoy your final night in Avanos.

Day 8

Riding: No riding.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your journey home.

Accommodation

During the trail you will stay in 3 different accommodations, all of which are near to where the horses stay. Solo riders will need to pay a single supplement when booking but if a sharer can be found the single supplement will be refunded.

Experience Intermediate

Low to Strong Intermediate riders. You should be confident on rough terrain and able to control a forward-going horse in group canters but this ride is less demanding than the Active and Sportive rides. You will be riding along mountain passes so the ride is not suitable for riders who suffer from vertigo.

Minimum group size 1
Maximum group size 7
Departure windows

Oct. 19, 2024 - Oct. 26, 2024  (Mid Season)

Oct. 26, 2024 - Nov. 2, 2024  (Mid Season)

Nov. 9, 2024 - Nov. 16, 2024  (Low Season)

Nov. 16, 2024 - Nov. 23, 2024  (Low Season)

March 16, 2025 - March 23, 2025  (Low Season)

March 30, 2025 - April 6, 2025  (Mid Season)

April 6, 2025 - April 13, 2025  (High Season)

April 20, 2025 - April 27, 2025  (High Season)

April 27, 2025 - May 4, 2025  (High Season)

May 11, 2025 - May 18, 2025  (High Season)

Sept. 7, 2025 - Sept. 14, 2025  (High Season)

Sept. 14, 2025 - Sept. 21, 2025  (High Season)

Sept. 28, 2025 - Oct. 5, 2025  (High Season)

Oct. 5, 2025 - Oct. 12, 2025  (High Season)

Oct. 19, 2025 - Oct. 26, 2025  (High Season)

Oct. 26, 2025 - Nov. 2, 2025  (High Season)

Nov. 9, 2025 - Nov. 16, 2025  (Mid Season)

Nov. 23, 2025 - Nov. 30, 2025  (Low Season)

Dec. 7, 2025 - Dec. 14, 2025  (Super Low Season)

Pricing

2024
Rider, Sharing, Mid Season
£1355 $1715 €1635
2024
Rider, Sharing, Low Season
£1280 $1620 €1545
2025
Rider, Sharing, Low Season
£1505 $1905 €1820
2025
Rider, Sharing, Mid Season
£1590 $2010 €1920
2025
Rider, Sharing, High Season
£1655 $2095 €1995
2025
Rider, Sharing, Super Low Season
£1440 $1825 €1740
Included 7 nights accommodation in shared rooms, all meals from breakfast on day two to breakfast on departure day, non-alcoholic drinks (water, tea and coffee), 6 days of riding with an experienced guide and return Kayseri airport transfers by shuttle on arrival and departure.
Not included Flights, personal travel insurance, single supplements, transfers outside of set times, drinks, tips and personal expenses.

Extras

2025 - Extra Night (Luxury, Sharing) £110 $140 €133 per night
Paid to Far and Ride
Extra night in Urgup, luxury half board, shared room.
2025 - Extra Night (Luxury Single) £152 $192 €183 per night
Paid to Far and Ride
Extra night in Urgup, luxury half board, single room.
2025 - Extra Night (Standard, Sharing) £82 $104 €99 per night
Paid to Far and Ride
Extra night in Urgup, standard half board, shared room.
2025 - Extra Night (Standard, Single) £109 $138 €132 per night
Paid to Far and Ride
Extra night in Urgup, standard half board, single room.
2025 - Single Supplement £330 $415 €400
Paid to Far and Ride
Single supplement for solo riders or anyone requiring a single room.
Note: All programmes and itineraries are weather dependent; in the face of adverse, or unexpected, weather conditions reasonable attempts will be made to provide equivalent riding. All programmes are accurate at the time of writing. However, the team may adapt or modify details, whilst aiming to provide a similar experience.

Day 1

Riding: No riding.

Arrival at Kayseri Airport and transfer to your first night in Urgup where you will join your fellow riders.

Day 2

Riding: 6 - 7 hours

Avanos to Golgoli (Cappadocia) with lunch in the Red Valley

Day 3

Riding: 6 - 7 hours

Golgoli to Saganli

Day 4

Riding: 6 - 7 hours

Erdemli to Sultansazli Lake, lunch in Kumeevleri, Night in a guesthouse.

Day 5

Riding: 6 - 7 hours

Sultansazil to Mountain

Day 6

Riding: 6 - 7 hours

Riding to Black Lake

Day 7

Riding: 6 - 7 hours

Ride back down from the mountain then enjoy a lunch and a long break along the stream. Tonight you camp in Kazikil Canyon

Day 8

Riding: 6 - 7 hours

Enjoy a 2 hour ride in the Emli Valley then continue riding until you reach your guest house for the night.

Day 9

Riding: No riding.

After breakfast you will be transferred back to Kayseri Airport (2 hour drive).

Accommodation

Accommodation will be in comfortable camps and a guesthouse in the middle of the week.

Experience Experienced

Confident, strong experienced riders only. This ride includes long canters over difficult terrain and steep downhill sections where you will be expected to walk and lead your horse. You must be able to tack up and to mount your horse without help several times a day. Canters can be long, at least 10 minutes at a time, and sometimes technical. You will be riding along mountain passes so the ride is not suitable for riders who suffer from vertigo.

Minimum group size 4
Maximum group size 8
Departure windows

June 7, 2025 - June 15, 2025

Pricing

2025 £1990 $2515 €2400
Included 8 nights shared accommodation (5 nights in camps and 3 nights in hotels or guest houses), all meals from dinner on arrival day to breakfast on departure day, non-alcoholic drinks (water, tea and coffee), 7 days of riding with an experienced guide and return Kayseri airport transfers by shuttle on arrival and departure.
Not included Flights, personal travel insurance, transfers outside of set times, drinks, tips and personal expenses.

Extras

2025 - Single Supplement £250 $315 €305
Paid to Far and Ride
* Payable to those riders requiring a private tent / room in guesthouse.
Note: All programmes and itineraries are weather dependent; in the face of adverse, or unexpected, weather conditions reasonable attempts will be made to provide equivalent riding. All programmes are accurate at the time of writing. However, the team may adapt or modify details, whilst aiming to provide a similar experience.