Horseback riding in Cappadocia, a region in central Turkey, allows you to experience the history and beauty of the area. It has been a meeting ground for European and Asian civilizations since long before the time of Alexander the Great.
More than two thousand years ago the ancient Greeks wrote about the fine horses raised in Cappadocia. Those horses are the ancestors of the animals used now for the ride through this fascinating region.
Not only is the region rich in history, the natural wonders are unlike anything else in the world. The heartland of Turkey is Anatolia, an ochre-hued high plateau rising progressively towards the east. It is broken by river valleys and ravines, dominated by volcanic peaks, and features dramatic rock formations in colors ranging from warm red and gold, to green and grey. The most striking of these are what the Turkish call “fairy chimneys.”
The plateau was one of the cradles of human civilization, with settlements dating back as far as the eighth millennium B.C. In this historic battleground of East and West, numerous civilizations have fought for sovereignty and established their rule. During its turbulent history, Central Anatolia has endured invasions by great conquerors such as Alexander the Great and Tamerlane, and has hosted an amazing number of civilizations including the Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans.
Much of this horseback riding tour proceeds along narrow trails in steep, rocky terrain, and riders should be prepared to dismount and lead horses occasionally. Previous experience trail riding is important for riding in Cappadocia. Experiencing this fascinating landscape, meeting the local people, and visiting some of the ancient and unusual structures will surely be a grand adventure.
