Red Valley Sunset Point Göreme
Witness breathtaking sunsets over Cappadocia's iconic red rock formations. A must-visit for stunning panoramas and vibrant hues.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Valley glows with color
Red Valley Sunset Point Göreme
Best Time
Valley glows with color
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness breathtaking sunsets over Cappadocia's iconic red rock formations. A must-visit for stunning panoramas and vibrant hues.
"Absolutely stunning. Best place to watch the sunset."
Bring Your Own Seating
Pro tip: Pack chairs for a more comfortable sunset viewing experience! :chair:
Hike for Hidden Gems
Explore the Red and Rose Valleys on foot; discover ancient churches and enjoy the unique landscape. :hiking_boot:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Sunset Views
Red Valley
Witness the valley transform into a canvas of fiery reds and oranges as the sun dips below the horizon. Absolutely stunning.
Hot Air Balloon Spectacle
Overlooking the valleys
Catch a glimpse of the iconic hot air balloons dotting the sky, especially magical during sunrise and sunset.
Red & Rose Valley Hike
Connecting valleys
Embark on a moderate hike through the unique rock formations, discovering hidden churches along the way.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for That Perfect Sunset
Getting There & Entry Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Your Own Seating
Pro tip: Pack chairs for a more comfortable sunset viewing experience! :chair:
Hike for Hidden Gems
Explore the Red and Rose Valleys on foot; discover ancient churches and enjoy the unique landscape. :hiking_boot:
Beat the Crowds
Consider alternative viewpoints like Uchisar Castle or local cave houses for a less crowded sunset.
Capture the Colors
The red stones become incredibly vibrant as the sun sets. Perfect for photography!
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Your Own Seating
Pro tip: Pack chairs for a more comfortable sunset viewing experience! :chair:
Hike for Hidden Gems
Explore the Red and Rose Valleys on foot; discover ancient churches and enjoy the unique landscape. :hiking_boot:
Beat the Crowds
Consider alternative viewpoints like Uchisar Castle or local cave houses for a less crowded sunset.
Capture the Colors
The red stones become incredibly vibrant as the sun sets. Perfect for photography!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the absolutely stunning panoramic sunset views at Red Valley, calling it a must-visit for its vibrant colors and unique rock formations. Many enjoy the moderate hike through the valleys, discovering ancient churches. Some find it a bit crowded during peak sunset times, and a few felt it was less interesting if visited without the sunset glow.
"The Red Valley is one of several valleys just west of Goreme known for the lunar like landscape with Fairy Chimneys and other fantasy like rock and land formations with ancient cave rooms, homes and churches that you can climb into and explore. Most impressive for us was Column Church (Kolonlu Kilise). What makes the Red Valley different to its peers is the pinkish-red colours of the mineral rich tuff layers that makes the valley appear crimson colour during dusk and dawn.
You can visit Red Valley by way of taxi drop off at one of the viewpoints from which you can walk to Goreme. Alternatively, just walk there to/from the town centre. You can also combine with a walk through Rose Valley as a longer loop trail which is what we did during our recent stay in Cappadocia.
Our combined loop walk was around 15km (allow 4-5 hours), do make sure to download trail map app so that you can make sure you are staying on your desired path. There are numerous splinter trails throughout and so much that is interesting to see that it is easy to get distracted and find yourself off trail. There are a few spots within Red Valley where venders have setup make-shift cafes selling orange and pomegranate juice, lemonade and water. These make for good places to take rest breaks if you are planning a long day out. It was a great day hiking in Cappadocia."
Brad
"It is an amazing place to hike and we truly enjoyed it, especially with the cooler weather in the '50s. It was just perfect and sunny. For anyone who has been to the Badlands in the United States, it has a somewhat similar look but is nothing like it, different geology completely, and the addition of all of the stone homes and churches is just amazing. Dug into the rocks! One of the best things about going to that valley is that you can escape the tourist madness of Gureme and Uchisar. We saw camels and horseback riders so I assume there are tours available and that would also be a pleasant way to enjoy this beautiful valley."
Phae Drus
"Nice hike from red valley to rose valley and back. We visited allot of churches. We ended the hike when the sun was going under. This gives the red stone a very bright color. The hike was medium! 5 a 6km depends on what route you follow."
Arno De Feyter
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Red Valley Sunset Point by hiking from Göreme, taking an ATV tour, or hiring a private driver. Many visitors enjoy the hike, which can take around 1-2 hours depending on your starting point and route.
Yes, it's a popular option! The walk offers beautiful scenery and allows you to explore the unique rock formations. It's a moderate hike, so wear comfortable shoes.
Absolutely! ATV tours and private car tours often include a stop at Red Valley Sunset Point, especially for the sunset experience.
Many travelers recommend hiking through the Red and Rose Valleys before settling at a viewpoint for sunset. This allows you to see more of the landscape.
While not directly about Red Valley, if you're staying in Göreme, you might find cell phone stores selling SIM cards there. It's advisable to check local options upon arrival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry fees may apply, particularly if you arrive by vehicle. The cost is generally considered quite affordable.
No advance booking is typically required for general entry to the sunset point. However, popular tours might benefit from early booking.
The sunset point is accessible during daylight hours, with the main draw being the sunset itself. It's an open-air natural attraction.
While the general area is accessible, some specific viewpoints or facilities might have small charges. It's best to check on arrival.
Yes, you can visit independently by hiking or arranging your own transport. Many visitors prefer this to experience the area at their own pace.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The golden hour just before sunset offers the most dramatic lighting, making the red rocks incredibly vibrant. Sunrise is also spectacular, especially with balloons.
Higher vantage points within Red Valley offer excellent panoramic views of the balloons as they ascend or descend.
While Red Valley Sunset Point is popular, alternatives like Uchisar Castle, Göreme Panorama Viewpoint, or even private terraces can offer a more serene experience.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for balloon photography. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check current local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in Cappadocia.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The hike is generally considered moderate. It involves some uneven terrain and inclines, so comfortable footwear is a must.
Basic facilities might be available near the main viewpoints, but it's advisable to bring your own water and snacks, especially if hiking.
Wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots. Layers are recommended as temperatures can change, and bring sun protection.
You might see horse or camel riding tours operating in the valleys below, offering a different perspective of the landscape.
The main viewpoints might be accessible, but the hiking trails can be challenging. It's best to inquire about specific accessibility for the main viewing areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider joining an ATV tour that includes a stop at the sunset point, as this can be an exciting way for families to travel and see the sights. Alternatively, focus on the main viewpoint where kids can sit and watch the sunset and potentially the balloons without extensive walking.
🚶 Hikers and Adventurers
Wear sturdy hiking boots and carry ample water. The moderate difficulty means you can enjoy the journey without extreme exertion, leaving you energized to appreciate the sunset. Don't forget your camera to capture the dramatic landscapes.
📸 Photographers
Bring your best lenses, a tripod for low-light conditions, and be prepared to experiment with different angles. The presence of hot air balloons adds another layer of photographic opportunity, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Cappadocia's Valleys
+1These valleys aren't just visually stunning; they hold historical significance. Ancient civilizations carved dwellings, churches, and monasteries into the soft volcanic rock, many of which are still visible today. Exploring these areas offers a glimpse into a rich past, with remnants of frescoes and monastic life.
Many visitors combine a visit to Red Valley Sunset Point with a hike through the adjacent Rose Valley. This offers a more immersive experience, allowing you to appreciate the scale and beauty of the landscape up close. The trails can be moderately challenging but are well worth the effort for the panoramic views and the sense of discovery.
Capturing the Perfect Sunset Shot
To make the most of your photography, consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the panorama and the dramatic sky. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or zooming in on the distant hot air balloons that often dot the sky during sunset. A tripod is highly recommended for sharper images in the fading light and for capturing long exposures.
While the main sunset point is popular, don't be afraid to explore slightly off the beaten path for unique compositions. Look for interesting rock formations, ancient cave dwellings, or the silhouettes of people enjoying the view. Remember to be patient, as the light and colors can change rapidly, offering new photographic opportunities every few minutes.
+1Navigating Crowds and Alternative Viewpoints
+1If you prefer a more tranquil experience, several alternative viewpoints offer equally breathtaking views with fewer people. Uchisar Castle provides a high vantage point for a panoramic overview of the region. The Göreme Panorama Viewpoint offers great valley views with fewer crowds than the main sunset spot. Some travelers also recommend finding a spot on the terrace of a local cave hotel or restaurant for a more intimate sunset experience.
+1Another strategy to avoid the biggest crowds is to visit during the shoulder seasons or to opt for an early morning sunrise viewing. While sunset is iconic, the sunrise, especially with the mass ascent of hot air balloons, is equally magical and often less congested.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit