Welcome to Turkey! Experience the 4 corners of Turkey and
the different cultures and peoples that make up this great
and vast country, from the agricultural farmers in the north
to the arid regions of the east, the historical sites of the
south give depth and age to the local environment and the
varied people that will entertain and accommodate you through
this wonderful journey.
21 DAYS ECOTOURISM TOUR ITINERARY:
Day 1 - Istanbul - Arrival Day
(Dinner included)
Welcome to Turkey, arrival into Istanbul. Transfer from airport
& check in to your hotel. Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 2 - Istanbul City Tour
(Breakfast and dinner included)
We depart at 09:00 for the Istanbul city tour. We will begin
with the ancient Hippodrome, which was the scene of chariot
raoes, with the three monuments: the Obelisk of Theodosius,
the bronze Serpentine Column and the Column of Constantine.
We will then continue with Sultanahmet Mosque across from
the St. Sophia built in the 16th century by the architect
Mehmet. It is also known as the Blue Mosque because of its
magnificent interior decoration of blue Iznik tiles. We will
then arrive at our last stop, which is the famous Hagia Sophia.
This ancient basilica was built by Constantine the Great in
the 4th century and reconstructed by Justinian in the 6th
century, it is one of the architectural marvels of all time.
After the tour you have the option to experience The Bosphorus
Cruise. You will have the chance to enjoy magnificent views
of Bosphorus, which connects Asia to Europe. The rest of the
evening is your to enjoy Istanbul. Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 3 - Seven Lakes and Abant Lake Tour
(Breakfast and dinner included)
Visiting 7 lakes which are found to be diffirent height points
from each other and at the same time connected with each other
on foot. You find seven small lakes in a valley formed as
the result of a landslide: Buyukgol (Big Lake), Seringol (Cool
Lake), Deringol (Deep Lake), Nazligol (Elegant Lake), Kuçukgol
(Small Lake), Incegol (Thin Lake) and Sazligol (Reedy Lake).
The lakes are on an area of 550 hectares, while the National
Park they are located in is 2019 hectares. The area is among
the best-known trekking places. There are only small bungalows
belonging to the Forestry Ministry where visitors who want
to linger can stay. Deer and trout production farms are also
in the area. An entrance fee is paid according to the type
of vehicle and the number of visitors. Tables, firepits and
fountains are available for picnickers. Fishing is available
in Yedigoller between April 1st and September 1st. We will
then have some lunch and depart for Abant Lake. Abant is most
probably the most famous lake in Turkey. It is 30 kilometers
away from Bolu, and you can reach it from the crossing on
the Ankara-Istanbul highway. The lake is at the end of a 22-kilometer
drive. The seven-kilometer walk around the lake offers a great
opportunity to enjoy the area. Those who don't wish to walk
can ride horseback or complete the tour on a horse cart. Abant
lake is surrounded with pine trees. The manner in which the
lake was formed is a topic of discussion. Its deepest point
is 45 meters. The countryside is pleasantly different in each
season. Water lilies embellish the surface in summer. It is
also famous for its trout. Later, we will have free time for
shopping at the bazaar in the village. Overnight near Abant
in traditional village house.
Day 4 - Safranbolu
(Breakfast and dinner included)
After breakfast, We have a walk to the historical Safranbolu
Bazaar. We then visit Cinci Hodja Caravanserai, Cici Hodja
Bath, Kaymakamlar House (Museum), Izzet Mehmet Pashamosque
and more. Continue to Kastamonu, we visit government house,
Kaya tomb, Seyh Saban-i Veli Mausoleum, Nasrullah Seyh Mosque
and more historical sites. Overnight in authentic wooden houses
in Safranbolu.
Day 5 - Ilgarini Cave Pinarbasi
(Breakfast and dinner included)
Today we will depart for Ilgarini Cave, which is in the region
of Pinarbasi (northwest of Kastamonu), it is one of the largest
caves in Turkey. It is a wonderful place for trekking and
exploration off the beaten path. The cave had been composed
by two sections. The cave is an active one and the stalactite
and stalagmite activity still continues. A chapel and a burial
ground was found in this cave. Ilgarini Cave was chosen as
the 4th biggest cave in the world. There is no roads to IIgarini
Cave so we will be trekking to the Cave so make sure you bring
suitable footwear. Overnight in Pinarbasi.
Day 6 - Ilisu Waterfall & Varla Canyon
(Breakfast and dinner included)
After breakfast we will visit Ilisu Waterfall which is at
Kure national Park, near Pinarbasi, which is in the town and
district of the Kastamonu Province in the Black Sea region
of Turkey. After lunch you can either relax in the surrondings
of this beautifull natural Turkish village or you can take
a walk to the Varla Canyon. The walk to the Canyon is about
4km. Overnight Pinarbasi.
Day 7 - Comlekciler Village Horse Riding
(Breakfast and dinner included)
After breakfast depart for Comlekciler Koyu this village has
fantastic horse riding facilities which you can do as an optional
activity. Horse riding is not only for the advanced riders
they have lessons and treks for beginners also. This village
is rich in natural beauty. All meals are home made the farm
produce all their own vegetables, butter and milk. If you
are interested in doing a week’s horse riding adventure
then this can also be arranged. Overnight in Comlekciler Village.
Day 8 - Halacoglu Valley Tour
(Breakfast and dinner included)
After breakfast we depart for Halacoglu Valley. We will visit
this valley by different methods of transport such a horses
or tractors and a little bit of walking. This is one of the
best valleys in this area. You can smell and breathe in the
fresh mountain air. We will have a fantastic bbq lunch set
in lushous gren surrondings. On the way you will get to see
many farms and sheperds who stil work in this area. You will
see how friendly everyone is in this area. Overnight in Comlekciler
Village.
Day 9 - Kastamonu
(Breakfast and dinner included)
After breakfast we depart for Kastamonu. Kastamonu is a lovely
city hidden in the midst of forests in Anatolia. The beauty
of the 12th century Byzantine castle at the foot of the hill
welcomes you. The 13th century Atabey Mosque and the Ibni
Neccar Mosque are worth visiting. In the village of Kasaba
you will have the opportunity to see one of the most elegant
wood carvings of Turkey, on the Mahmut Bey Mosque. Have lunch
in City and after lunch depart for Hattusa. Hattusas(Hattusa)
was the capital of Hitites. Hititians where indo-germen semi
european people they arrived via black see to north Anatolia
at the beginning of 18 th century BC. They met here with local
people of Hatti. They had a big civilisation in Anatolia.
Their were also here during the as bronze age. They ruled
between 18th and 12th century BC. Also they used horse cartsas
their war vehicle which they used during the attack of Ramses
the 2nd and they had a big war with the Egyptians and then
they made a peace treatywhich they wrote on the clay and had
2 women sign it. This was the first peace treaty in which
woman participatied in. Overnight in Hattusa.
Day 10 - Hattusa Tour - Cappadocia
(Breakfast and dinner included)
After Breakfast at 08:30 am Visiting Yazilikaya which is the
ruins of open air temple of Hitites where there are rock carving
of Hitites god and Goddes. And then we go to Hattusas, big
temple and the city ruins including Gates of Lion and king.
Visiting summer palace of Hitites. And driving to Alacahoyuk
that was first capital of Hitites and Hatti civilisation.
After Hattusa Tour depart for Cappadocia. The strange but
beautiful formation of Cappadocia has had this appearance
for millions of years. When the volcanoes in the region were
active, the lava which poured out covered all previously formed
hills and valleys forming a high plateau. It is estimated
that there are more than 600 rock-cut churches in Cappadocia.
Walls were covered with beautiful frescoes and they were also
influenced by the Iconoclast period in the 8th and 9th Century.
The underground cities in Cappadocia are unique too. No one
knows when the underground cities of Cappadocia were built,
perhaps in Hittite times or as late as the 6Century. Another
region worth visiting in the area is the famous Ihlara Valley.
Ihlara Valley (Canyon) is a deep, narrow river gorge cut through
the tufa by the Melendiz River. The canyon runs for 20 km
/ 12 miles offering one of the most enjoyable trekking routes
to those people who can spare the minimum of half a day. In
the canyon there are about 60 churches, monasteries and cells
of anchorites. There are also loads of activities available
in Cappadicia: hot-air ballooning, horse and camel riding,
trekking, the list goes on. Overnight in Cappadocia.
Day 11 - Cappadocia Tour by Jeep Safari
(Breakfast and dinner included)
The full day Cappadocian Jeep Safari begins in the deeply
set valley town of Urgup and will then drive through to the
Uzengi River. The drive will take you through scenery that
includes pigeon houses, the grape growing district and the
near by wineries of Ortahisar. The jeep tour will then take
passengers off the beaten track with a visit to the picturesque
caves of the Red Valley. The jeep safari provides the perfect
opportunity to take a rest and soak up the natural beauty
of the Cappadocian scenery. Overnight in Cappadocia.
Day 12 - Cappadocia
(Breakfast and dinner included)
We'll pick you up in your hotel and depart at 09:00 o'clock
to drive to Ihlara Valley. There, we'll walk nearly 4 km and
visit the frescoed churches before it gets hot. Lunch is in
Ihlara Valley, at bank of Melendiz River, which is flowing
in the valley. After lunch, we'll visit Selime Cathedral and
return back to Derinkuyu Underground City. On the way, we'll
visit the Nar Crater Lake. Whilst all other tour groups are
at Ihlara Valley, we will be in an underground city where
temperature is 12-13 C afternoon. After we visit the biggest
underground city of Cappadocis, we'll drive to the Pigeons
Valley to see pigeon houses, which were made to collect guano
in. Overnight in Cappadocia.
Day 13 - Cappadocia - Konya Egirdir
(Breakfast and dinner included)
This morning we drive to Konya and see the imposing green-tiled
Mausoleum of Mevlana & museum, the mystic founder of the
Sufi sect (Whirling Dervishes). Stop in Egirdir on the southern
tip of the most beautiful of the Pisidian lakes. Egirdir is
a fine place to stop in the midst of your journey for two
days of quiet rest and contemplation. Overnight in Egirdir.
Day 14 - Egirdir Free Day
(Breakfast and dinner included)
Egirdir is beautiful and shows another side of Turkey all
together. Swimming, boating and hiking can fill a few days
if you want to be active. You can also swim in the beautifull
natural lake that lies at Egirdir. There are famous fish to
be caught here that seem to have no bones… The fish
is extremly delicious dont miss out on the traditional meal
of Balik ‘’Fish ‘’ and the famous
Turkish drink Raki. There are a number of small farms located
in this area where you can see the workers using traditional
methods of farming. You will be welcomed by all people in
this region. Overnight in Egirdir.
Day 15 - Egirdir to Pamukkale
(Breakfast and dinner included)
After breakfast at 08:30 we depart for Pamukkale. We shall
visit the calcium terraces of Pamukkale (cotton castle) and
the ruins of Hierapolis, walking around this natural phenomenon
gives you the option of lying in the waters of the natural
springs that flow down the calcium terraces. Overnight in
Pamukkale.
Day 16 - Pamukkale - Ephesus
(Breakfast and dinner included)
At 0830 we depart for Ephesus (2. 5 Hour drive) - once the
commercial centre of the ancient world - it is a highlight
of any visit to Turkey. The city, whose wealth and patronage
supported its splendid architectural program, was dedicated
to the goddess Artemis. Her enormous temple, once considered
one of the seven wonders of the Ancient World and rebuilt
several times, dates in its latest form from the third century
B. C. The tour of the ruins also includes a theatre, gymnasium,
agora and baths, as well as the Library of Celsus. After lunch,
we will make a shopping tour in which you will become aware
of the ancient arts of Turkey like leather manufacturing and
jewellery. As this will be a guided tour, you will avoid the
constant nagging and sometimes bullying that is well known
in the markets of Turkey. Enabling you to enjoy the shopping
experience whilst gaining the knowledge of the ancient craftsmen.
Overnight in Sirince.
Day 17 - Tour of Village Sirince
(Breakfast and dinner included)
After breakfast at 08:30 we will depart for Sirince Village.
Visit the beautifull village of Sirince and the ruins of 42
churches, the suggested birth place of the Virgin Mary. Sirince
Village also has a fantastic reputation for making some of
the best wines in Turkey - especially fruit wines. Sirince's
construction style today belongs to Anatolian Greeks. The
houses on the slope are all original with their white paint.
There is a good view at the slope all buildings are still
original with their white paint. There is a good view at the
entrance of the village and its streets are also wonderful.
Sirince is very popular for its building style, house, streets
and apple wine made by the villagers. In 1922 the Anatolian
Greeks immigrated back to Greece and Turks coming from Greece
settled there. After the Sirince tour we will visit Mount
Ida, Turkish Kazdagi, with a meaning of "Goose Mountain"
it is a mountain in northwestern Turkey, and lies southeast
of the ruins of Troy, along the north coast of the Gulf of
Edremit. The name, Mount Ida, is an ancient one. Overnight
Kazdagi Village houses.
Day 18 - Kazdaglari (Mount Ida)
(Breakfast and dinner included)
Situated in the West of the province of Balikesir, the Mount
Ida of classical mythology retains something of its ancient
magic in its delightful trails and waterfalls, its rural charm
and scenic views. This mountain has the second best natural
Oxygen levels in the world. Today it is a haven for climbers
and trekkers. The mountain's healthy climate is also home
to a range of arts and crafts, including some which date back
to nomadic Turkish tribes. The steep and level tracks, asphalted
lanes and gardens of Zeytinli afford the walker a constant
permutation of surface and vista. In the Village of the Wooden
Birds (Tahtakuslar Koyu), just a few kilometres from Akçay,
stands Turkey’s first private ethnographical museum
and first village art gallery. The legends of the Kaz mountains
are told here and the medicinal plants which grow on them
can be purchased along with local handicrafts. A kilometre
to the Southeast is Þarlak, with its commanding view
of Çamlibel and the Gulf. Its picnic area and tea garden,
containing a pool in the shape of the Sea of Marmara, are
an ideal place to gather breath. Mount Ida defined with various
names in the Iliada Legend of Homeros have comprised many
legends throughout the history with its natural-cultural assets
and unique beauties. Besides it’s an important attraction
center considering the recreation and tourism activities.
Overnight Kazdagi Village houses.
Day 19 - Assos & Troy Tour
(Breakfast and dinner included)
Assos lies within the village of Behremkale. It is believed
that Assos was founded by the people of Methymna in the 7th
century B. C. a town on the island of Lesbos. Walls surround
the Acropolis, built on a hill dominating both sea and land,
about 3 km. in length. These walls were distinctively built
at the time expressing different style and workmanship. Try
the restaurants and the cafes in the village and also at the
harbour. Enjoy the small cobbled beach next to the harbour,
swim over the huge remnants of ancient harbour ruins, lying
just under the surface of the gentle sea. or walk down the
cobbled road to the harbour (iskele) and admire the mosaics
of a partly excavated byzantine church, as well as the marvellous
view on the Greek island of Lesbos and the gulf of Edremit.
After lunch depart for Troy where you can explore the site
of the legendary town, made famous by Homer and visit the
Temple of Athena. Overnight in Eceabat.
Day 20 - Gallipoli Tour - Istanbul
(Breakfast and dinner included)
After the breakfast visit the sites that have made Gallipoli
a landmark and the memorial for all those that fell during
the Battle of Gallipoli during World War 1. Gallipoli also
stands as the birth place for the foundation of Turkey as
we know it today. The rise of Turkeys founder Ataturk as well
as the friendships formed between several nations during the
battle for the Dardanels. After the Tour Depart for Istanbul.
Overnight in Istanbul.
Day 21 - Istanbul - End of Tour
(Breakfast included)
After breakfast check out from the hotel. We hope your tour
was a memorable one and we would like to see you in the future
in one of our tours again. We make your return airport transfer
services. Have a nice trip back home.
21 DAYS ECOTOURISM TOUR INCLUDES:
•Arrival airport transfer from Istanbul Ataturk Airport
•Accommodation in 3 and 4 Star hotels, village houses,
bungalows and boutique hotels
•3 nights hotel in Istanbul
•1 night hotel in Abant
•1 night hotel in Safranbolu
•2 nights hotel in Pinarpasi
•2 nights hotel in Comlekciler
•1 night hotel in Hattusa
•3 nights hotel in Cappadocia
•2 nights hotel in Egirdir
•1 night hotel in Pamukkale
•2 nights hotel in Sirince
•2 nights hotel in Kazdaglari (Mount Ida)
•1 night hotel in Eceabat
•Guided tour in Istanbul
•Guided tour at Seven Lakes
•Guided tour at Abant Lake
•Guided tour in Safranbolu
•Guided tour in Ilgarini Cave
•Guided tour in Ilisu Waterfall
•Guided tour in Varla Canyon
•Guided tour in Pinarbasi
•Guided tour in Comlekciler Village
•Guided tour in Halacoglu Valley
•Guided tour in Kastamonu
•Guided tour in Hattusa
•Guided tour in Cappadocia
•Guided tour in Egirdir
•Guided tour in Pamukkale
•Guided tour in Ephesus
•Guided tour in Sirince Village
•Guided tour in Kazdaglari (Mount Ida)
•Guided tour in Asos
•Guided tour in Troy
•Guided tour at Gallipoli
•All entrance fees mentioned in the itinerary
•Transportation in a fully air-conditioned, non-smoking
coach
•Professional English-speaking tour guides
•Return airport transfer to Istanbul Ataturk Airport
21 DAYS ECOTOURISM TOUR PRICES IN EURO:
Per Person Shared Double Single
min. 4 people £2,640.00 £3,300.00
5 - 8 people £2,200.00 £2,750.00
9 + people £1,980.00
£2,450.00
The above Eco tour is based on a private tour. If you would
like to visit any other places not mentioned in this itinerary,
we are happy to create a tailor made Ecotourism holiday to
suit whatever you wish to do. Just let us know how long you
would like to stay and which places you are interested in
visiting.
|
