Live your cowgirl /cowboy dreams in Turkey! Start volunteering in Turkey at a farm stay that specializes in equestrian tours for tourists. Stay for free in Cappadocia – one of the most popular destinations in all of Turkey! Check out all of the details of this exciting HelpStay gig:
Overview
- Location – Göreme
- Host – Irfan
- Duration: 15 days
- Minimum Age – 18+
- Available Spots – 2 helpers
- Weekly Hours – 30 hours
- Room Type – Shared dorm
- Meals – Full-board
- Nearest Airport – Kayseri Erkilet International Airport (ASR)
Nestled in the beautiful Gorkundere Valley, just minutes from Goreme, the ranch features a small stable of Anatolian and Arabic horses.
They offer customized horseback riding tours through the stunning valleys of Cappadocia, ranging from 1-2 hours to half-day, full-day, and even multi-day adventures.
The most popular tours include sunset rides to Red and Rose Valleys and moonlight tours during the days surrounding the full moon.
Run by Irfan and his family, who were born and raised among Goreme’s fairy chimneys, the ranch offers volunteers a taste of village life and the opportunity to explore the captivating region of Cappadocia.
In your free time, you can enjoy activities like hiking among the fairy chimneys in Love Valley, visiting the underground cities or Goreme Open Air Museum (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and tasting local Cappadocian wines.
Tasks
They are looking for two dedicated helpers: one to assist with the horses and another to help with construction, maintenance, and gardening. They are starting a seasonal vegetable garden and continuously planting new things.
They also have a delightful flock of chickens, along with five dogs and three cats. At least one person needs to stay at the farm at all times.
As a local, Irfan knows the valleys and the area very well and loves to share my horse knowledge. He truly needs help to keep up with the numerous tasks and look forward to meeting you!
Accommodation
Volunteers can stay in a shared room or choose to sleep in a tent.
Location
You can reach the ranch easily. There’s a bus station in Goreme, and Irfan can pick you up there. Alternatively, you can fly into Nevşehir Airport and catch a bus from there.
The region is well-known for its extensive network of trails, making it ideal for hiking. You can wander through the valleys, discovering hidden churches, ancient cave dwellings, and breathtaking viewpoints.
Hot air balloon rides are one of the most popular activities in Cappadocia, offering a stunning bird’s-eye view of the unique rock formations and valleys. It’s best to book your balloon ride in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
Flights usually take place at sunrise, providing an unforgettable experience as you float above the fairy chimneys and cave dwellings.
Besides hot air ballooning, Cappadocia offers a wealth of attractions. The Goreme Open Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must-visit, featuring well-preserved rock-cut churches with beautiful frescoes.
Other notable sites include the underground cities of Derinkuyu and Kaymakli, where you can explore ancient subterranean complexes used by early Christians as hiding places.
For a taste of local culture, visit the town of Avanos, renowned for its pottery. You can take a pottery-making workshop or shop for unique souvenirs.
The local cuisine is another highlight, with dishes like testi kebab (a meat and vegetable stew cooked in a clay pot) and manti (Turkish dumplings) being popular specialties. Be sure to try local wines, as Cappadocia is one of Turkey’s main wine-producing regions.
Cappadocia’s climate varies greatly with the seasons. Summers can be hot, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C (95°F), while winters are cold and can be snowy.
Spring and autumn are the best times to visit, with milder temperatures and fewer crowds. Regardless of the season, pack comfortable walking shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of exploring on foot.
For safety, always carry water and sun protection when hiking, and be cautious of uneven terrain. Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.
More Information
Imagine exploring the expansive valleys of Cappadocia, known as the land of beautiful horses, just as they have been cherished for millennia: on horseback.
Uncover hidden viewpoints, ancient caves, and historical churches, immersing yourself in Cappadocia’s majestic essence.
As the sun sets, marvel at the breathtaking hues of the rocks in Red and Rose Valleys, glowing in the fading light.
When night descends upon the towering fairy chimneys, savor traditional Turkish tea or a glass of wine under the enchanting radiance of the full moon.
Come join them for an unforgettable experience on our horse ranch in the heart of Cappadocia!
