Entrance Fee: Free (fee to enter El Nazar Kilise)
Duration: 2-3 hours
Crowds: Low
Zemi Valley, starting from below the Göreme Open-Air Museum, runs parallel to Pigeon Valley for 6 kilometers and ends at the Nevşehir-Ürgüp highway.
The Experience:
This valley offers a peaceful and scenic hike with fewer crowds compared to other popular valleys in Cappadocia. Along the trail, you’ll encounter fascinating caves, arches, and the 10th-century El Nazar Kilise. This church, carved from a cone-like rock, is more interesting from the outside than the inside, so it might be better to save your money for the entrance to the Karanlık Kilise in the Göreme Open-Air Museum.
Exploration Tips:
- Hiking: The trail is relatively easy and well-marked, making it ideal for a relaxed hike.
- El Nazar Kilise: While it’s worth a look from the outside, consider skipping the interior in favor of more impressive sites like the Karanlık Kilise.
Best Time to Visit:
- Anytime: The valley can be enjoyed at any time of day, offering a serene experience throughout.