Eastern Turkey Adventure - 8 Days

From £1,102£138 per day Save 26%

Who is this trip for

Age range

12 - 100

Start / End

  • Istanbul
  • Kars

Physical rating

2/5

Group size

1 - 15

Meals included

10

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Summary

Step back in time on this eight-day journey through the ancient wonders of Eastern Turkey. Wander the ruins of Karakus Tumulus, a grand funerary monument, and soak in the breathtaking views from Ataturk Dam before indulging in a farm-fresh lunch at a Karahantepe farmhouse. Discover the world’s oldest known temple at Göbekli Tepe, explore the open-air museum of Mardin, and gaze out over the vast, shimmering expanse of Lake Van, Turkey’s largest lake. Stand before the imposing Van Castle and lose yourself in the haunting beauty of Ani, the “City of 1000 Churches”. With every step, this journey unveils layers of history, culture, and stunning landscapes — an adventure so rich, you’ll be longing for more.

Itinerary

  • Day 1

    Istanbul

    Arrive at any time, and meet your CEO and group in the evening at a welcome meeting. Afterwards, head out for a short orientation walk around the hotel area on the way to an optional group dinner.

  • Day 2

    Istanbul/Adiyaman

    Transfer to the airport this morning for the flight from Istanbul to Adiyaman. Settle in for lunch by the lake of the Ataturk Dam before continuing on to the Mt. Nemrut area. Visit the funerary monument, Karakus, the Cendere bridge, then ascend to the summit of Mt. Nemrut for sunset. Continue on to Adiyaman where you can settle in for the night and enjoy dinner in the hotel.

  • Day 3

    Adiyaman/Sanliurfa

    After an early breakfast, transfer to Ataturk Dam to enjoy the viewpoint, then continue to Karahantepe. You'll be welcomed into a local home for lunch before continuing on to the ancient and impressive archaeological site of Gobekli Tepe. Afterwards, transfer to the nearby town of Urfa for the night and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

  • Day 4

    Sanliurfa/Mardin

    Travel to Mardin after breakfast this morning. Mardin's old town is protected by UNESCO and is considered to be an open-air museum. Explore the historic limestone architecture and learn about the interesting landmarks throughout. The rest of the day is free for individual exploration or time to relax before joining the CEO for an optional dinner in the evening.

  • Day 5

    Mardin/Van

    Settle in for a drive to Lake Van, the largest lake in Turkey. Upon arrival to the lakeside town of Gevas, board a boat to Akdamar Island for a CEO-led walk, then head back to your hotel in Van. Enjoy a free evening to end the day.

  • Day 6

    Van/Kars

    Visit the Van Citadel this morning, built by the ancient kingdom of Urartu. From there transfer to the previous capital of the Republic of Ararat, Dogubeyazit. Explore Ishak Pasha Palace then take in views of Mt. Ararat and across the mountains where the possible resting place of Noah's Ark is said to be located. Continue on to Kars for a brief orientation walk, then settle in for the evening with free time.

  • Day 7

    Kars

    Drive to Ani this morning, known as the city of 1001 churches,. Explore the Ani complex with your CEO, seeing the many religious buildings, palaces and forts before heading back to Kars for a free evening and optional final dinner out with the group.

  • Day 8

    Kars

    Depart at any time.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Hotels (7 nts).

  • Meals

    Breakfasts: 7, Lunches: 2, Dinners: 1

    Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.

    Vegetarian options available

  • Local Guide

    Guided

    This adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.

  • Wifi

    Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.

Dates & Prices

  • Oct 25

    from £1,102
  • May 26

    from £1,469
  • Jun 26

    from £1,400
  • Jul 26

    from £1,400
  • Aug 26

    from £1,400
  • Sep 26

    from £1,469
  • Oct 26

    from £1,469
  • Nov 26

    from £1,322
  • May 27

    from £1,322
  • Jun 27

    from £1,322
  • Jul 27

    from £1,322
  • Aug 27

    from £1,322
  • Sep 27

    from £1,322
  • Oct 27

    from £1,322
  • Nov 27

    from £1,322
  • Save 26%
    Fri 3 Oct 2025 > Fri 10 Oct 2025Guaranteed Departure
    6+ spaces of 15 left
    £1,499Best offer£1,102
    Solo Room from +£606

Essential trip information

Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.

Frequently asked questions

  • What is the maximum group size for this tour?

    The maximum group size for the 'Eastern Turkey Adventure' tour is 15 participants.
  • What is the minimum age requirement for participants?

    The minimum age requirement to join this tour is 12 years old.
  • What type of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

    You can expect to stay in small family-run hotels or pensions for 7 nights, which are generally clean, safe, simple, and in central locations. Please note, some may not have elevators, air-conditioning, or English-speaking staff.
  • Are meals included in the tour price?

    Yes, 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner are included. Generally, other meals are not included to provide flexibility, but your CEO can suggest local restaurants, and groups often choose to eat together.
  • What kind of transportation is used during the tour?

    Transportation includes planes, private vehicles, boats, and walking. Private transport is used for nearly all included activities and travel between destinations.
  • Who will be leading the tour?

    This tour is accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout. Local guides are also utilized where specific knowledge enhances the experience.
  • What level of physical activity is involved in this tour?

    The tour has a physical rating of 2. Activities involve walking explorations of archaeological sites like Göbekli Tepe and Ani, visiting monuments like Karakus Tumulus, and ascending to the summit of Mt. Nemrut for sunset.
  • Are there any specific dress code requirements for visiting sites in Eastern Turkey?

    Yes, it is recommended to dress modestly, wearing loose, lightweight, long clothing with shoulders covered. Short shorts or skirts are not advised, especially outside of capital cities and more touristic centers, as local dress is often more conservative.
  • What is the tipping policy for local guides and the CEO?

    Tipping is expected. A guideline for local guides is 3-5 USD/EUR per person per day. For your CEO, a guideline of 20-25 USD/EUR per person per week is appreciated.
  • What if I am a solo traveler? Will I have my own room?

    Solo travelers on group trips are typically paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex. A 'My Own Room' option is available if you prefer a single room for all night stops.
  • Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

    Yes, optional activities include visiting Latifiye Mosque and Tellallar Bazaar in Mardin, and the Kars Museum in Kars.
  • What health precautions should I consider before the trip?

    It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and inoculations. Protection against typhoid, tetanus, infectious hepatitis, and polio is recommended. Carrying a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers, and personal medical requirements is also advised, as leaders cannot administer drugs.
  • Is there an emergency fund recommended for this tour?

    Yes, it is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances.
  • Are international flights included in the tour price?

    International flights are not included in the tour price.
  • What is the tour's travel style?

    The travel style for this tour is 'Classic', offering a rich experience of history, culture, and stunning landscapes.
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