Newsletters
In Cappadocia, mornings begin long before the sun rises over the valleys and rock formations.
Sarp Kutsi Poyraz, a 32-year-old local horse rider known as the “Rider of the Slopes,” begins his day at his farm in Goreme, caring for the horses he will use to explore the region. Each morning, he feeds, waters, and grooms the animals, preparing them for a day that often involves riding to remote areas inaccessible by vehicles.
Poyraz specializes in horseback exploration of Cappadocia’s hidden landscapes, including steep ridges, narrow trails, and valleys rarely visited by tourists.
His preferred horse, Melek, accompanies him on these rides, navigating terrains that require both skill and trust between rider and animal. These excursions allow Poyraz to access viewpoints and sites that remain largely undiscovered, giving him a unique perspective on the region’s natural and historical features.
From higher elevations, the landscape reveals one of Cappadocia’s most iconic sights: the colorful hot air balloons that rise over the valleys at sunrise.
Observing them from the slopes provides a perspective different from the usual tourist routes, highlighting the scale and distinctiveness of the region’s geological formations, including the famous fairy chimneys, volcanic ridges and deep valleys.
Tourists visiting Cappadocia, both local and international, often participate in guided tours led by Poyraz and other local operators.
These tours offer an immersive experience of the region’s natural beauty, historical landmarks and cultural significance, while also introducing visitors to the practical and traditional aspects of horse care and riding.
For him, horseback exploration is a lifelong passion that combines personal fulfillment with professional expertise.
Beyond guiding tourists, he also dedicates time to discovering lesser-known areas of Cappadocia, documenting the terrain and offering voluntary guidance to visitors interested in deeper knowledge of the region.
His work illustrates how local traditions and tourism can intersect to create meaningful, sustainable experiences in one of Türkiye’s most unique landscapes.
Set as preferred source
3 min read
