Trip code: ERKT
Countries experienced: Turkey
Price From: R 24 400 Land Only
Join a small group adventure to Turkey and see Istanbul's Blue Mosque, the domes of Cappadocia, the exquisite churches of Goreme and cruise the waters off Kekova
Experience the stunning sights and tantalising tastes of Turkey on this two-week adventure that takes in all the highlights and then some. Become acquainted with illustrious Istanbul, behold landscapes like no other around Cappadocia and sail the all-too-pretty islands off Kekova. Marvel at the ancient ruins of Ephesus, settle in for a spectacular soaking in Pamukkale’s thermal hot springs and reflect on the tragedies and gallantries that took place along Gallipoli’s windswept peninsula. Brimming with history, bustling with progress and bursting with flavour, Turkey intrigues and delights at every turn of this perfectly paced small group adventure.
Day 1 Istanbul
Arrive in Istanbul and get to know this fascinating city on your own terms before meeting up with your group and trip leader in the evening.
Day 2 Beypazari
Head out on a guided morning walk of Istanbul’s Old Town that takes in the resplendent Blue Mosque.
Later, drive he beautiful rural town of Beypazari. Around 100 kilometres from Ankara, Beypazari is a small city with a village feel that reflects the beauty of the Turkish Culture with its historical houses out of Seljuks and Ottoman times. You'll spend the night here in Beypazari.
Wind and weave a trail through captivating Istanbul
Duck underground for an unusual city tour of Derinkuyu
Be treated to a local lunch while sailing around Kekova
Bliss out on the beaches of Fethiye
Wander through the fairy-like landscape of Cappadocia
Walk the deserted streets of Kayakoy’s haunting ghost town
Days 3-4 Goreme
The next two days are dedicated to exploring the domed, rock-hewn dwellings and chapels dotting the landscape and learning about the region’s local traditions and handicrafts. For the ultimate vantage point of this make-believe landscape, join an optional sunrise hot air balloon flight.
Day 5 Konya
Get a taste of traditional village life on a walk through the Ihlara Valley.
Day 6 Antalya
Stop in at the mausoleum of Mevlana, founder of the Whirling Dervish order, en route to Antalya – Turkey’s premier coastal tourist destination.
Days 7-8 Kas
Amble among the ancient ruins of Phaselis, a Lycian trading city founded in the seventh century BC. Soak up the area’s serene natural beauty before continuing on to the charming fishing village of Kas. Cruise out into the deep blue Mediterranean yonder, visiting the island hamlets of Ucagiz and Simena.
Day 9 Fethiye
Ponder the past of desolated Kayakoy, and pamper the senses in picture perfect Fethiye.
Day 10 Pamukkale
Take a restorative dip in the thermal hot springs of Pamukkale before visiting the ethereal travertines, Turkey’s most surreal natural phenomenon.
Day 11-12 Ephesus/Selçuk
Admire the astonishingly well preserved Greco-Roman ruins of Ephesus and learn what life was like during this empire’s reign.
Day 13 Çannakale
Travel by public bus up to the waterside town of Çanakkale (approximately 5 hours). Arrive in the afternoon and take an orientation of this exciting university city perched on the Dardanelles. The rest of the day is yours to spend as you please.
You might like to see the Trojan horse used in the film Troy in 2004, which was later gifted to the city. The city has a great range of dining and nightlife option, or perhaps you'd like to simply take a stroll along the waterfront and sample some dondurma – Turkish ice-cream.
Days 14-15 Istanbul
Wander the sombre grounds of Gallipoli and be moved by the relentless courage and epic tragedy that was the culmination of so many young lives. Return to Istanbul for a final night in this fascinating city before this trip comes to an end.
Accommodation: Hotel (14 nts)
Meals included: 14 breakfasts, 2 lunch
Airport arrival transfer included
Single supplement available if you would like your own room
Minimum group size of 4 travellers for custom departure (join our group departures if your party is less than 4)