In the heart of Cappadocia, between the villages of Göreme and Uçhisar, lies the Pigeon Valley. This is a beautiful valley where you can take a nice short hike. From Göreme, you can easily enter the valley and immediately enjoy the silence and beauty of nature. The Pigeon Valley is not a crowded place, and we hardly encountered any other people among the impressive rock formations. However, we did have some lovely company from two friendly four-legged friends who enthusiastically joined us along the route. In this article, we’ll share our hiking route and tips for the Pigeon Valley hike in Cappadocia!
Fun fact: The Pigeon Valley has had the same residents for centuries, namely, pigeons. Many pigeon houses were built in the rock formations centuries ago by the residents of Cappadocia. The pigeon droppings were used as fertilizer, which helped improve crop yields.
The Hiking Route through Pigeon Valley
There are many different hiking paths through Pigeon Valley, and when you look at the map, it can be challenging to choose a route. Before our trip, we did some research and found a beautiful route. Unfortunately, it’s not possible to complete a circular hike, so you’ll have to walk back the same way you came. Alternatively, you can walk only the one-way route and take a taxi or bus from Uçhisar to Göreme or vice versa. The hike through Pigeon Valley is most beautiful in the first hours after sunrise, so it’s recommended to start early in the morning.
We’ve shared our hiking route on Komoot. When you open the route, you’ll see that it takes a different path near Göreme. This is a nice part to include in your hike as it takes you through the farmland. The path is a dead-end, so you’ll need to walk back afterward.
Explanation for using the Komoot app for free: You don’t need to pay to save this route for offline use. Download the Komoot app > click on the link to our route above > tap on “Save” at the bottom left > check the box “Save for offline use” > then tap “Save” again. To follow the route during your trip, open the app > tap on “Profile” at the bottom > under “Tours,” you’ll find “Planned,” where your saved routes are > open the downloaded route > tap on the map. Do not click on the green “Start navigation” button, as that function is paid. Now, you’ll see the entire route along with your current location and a directional guide to help you easily find your way.
What Does the Pigeon Valley Hike Look Like?
The hike through Pigeon Valley is very easy and not strenuous. If you walk both ways, you probably won’t need more than 2 hours. There’s almost no elevation difference, and the hiking paths are well-maintained. Pigeon Valley is perhaps the greenest spot in Cappadocia, thanks to the numerous trees and shrubs. You’ll walk through a small canyon for most of the way, with the last part ascending to climb out of it. Along the route, you’ll encounter several viewpoints offering breathtaking views of the massive rocks with their beautiful shapes and lines, sculpted by erosion. Keep an eye out for hidden caves as you hike.
