Camel Safari in Meskenler Valley Cappadocia

Cappadocia and its volcanic valleys

Cappadocia, in the heart of Anatolia, owes its extraordinary landscape to ancient volcanic eruptions that covered the plateau with thick layers of ash. Wind and water slowly carved this soft tuff into cones, pillars and fairy chimneys, and people later dug houses, churches and whole underground cities into the rock. The Göreme National Park and the rock sites of Cappadocia are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Most visitors see the region from a balloon, a jeep or a quad, but a camel ride offers a slower and quieter view, at the pace of the caravans that once crossed Anatolia on the Silk Road and rested in the stone caravanserais of the area. If you are wondering what to do in Cappadocia beyond the classic tours, this short safari is an original and relaxing choice.

Meskenler Valley and Ortahisar

The ride takes place in Meskenler Valley, in the Ortahisar district between Göreme and Ürgüp. Ortahisar is a traditional town crowned by its rock castle, a natural tower of tuff once used as a fortress and lookout, and is known for the cool stone caves where farmers store lemons, potatoes and apples. Around it, the valleys are less crowded than those near Göreme.

Meskenler Valley follows a gently undulating plateau with views across soft rock formations, orchards and small vineyards. Riding along its edge, high above the valley floor, you get wide panoramas that are hard to reach on foot. The terrain is easy for the camels, and the trail is chosen for both safety and views, so it suits first-time riders who have never sat on a camel before.

Views of the Red and Rose Valleys

From the edge of Meskenler Valley you look out over two of the most famous valleys of Cappadocia: the Red Valley and the Rose Valley. Their names come from the colour of the rock, which shifts from cream to pink, red and orange depending on the light. Hidden in their walls are rock-cut churches and dovecotes, some decorated with medieval frescoes.

These valleys are a favourite place to watch the sunset in Cappadocia, and even in the middle of the day the contrast of colours is spectacular. During the ride the guides stop at the best viewpoints so you can take photos of the caravan with the valleys behind you. Bring a camera or phone with a strap, because you will want both hands free for a moment in the saddle.

The camel ride experience

The safari begins with a safety briefing from the camel team and a moment to meet your camel. Camels kneel down so that you can climb into the saddle, then rise in two movements, which is always a fun moment. The guides and the camel trainer walk with the caravan, keep the pace calm and help everyone feel comfortable, while you wear the traditional cap that is part of the experience.

The ride itself lasts about an hour, and with transfers from your hotel the whole outing takes around two hours, easy to combine with a balloon flight in the morning or a valley walk in the afternoon. Because the group is limited to six riders, it feels personal and quiet. Note that the guides speak Turkish, and that the ride does not run in rain, snow, strong wind or extreme cold.