Wild Turkey Adventure

from USD 1873 for 15 days

The excitement of canoeing in Turkey’s Koprulu Canyon and hiking amid the stunning natural beauty of the Lycian Mountains is combined with the equally striking landscapes of Cappadocia, Pamukkale and two wonderful nights on a traditional gulet.

Detailed Description Show brief

Day 1 - ISTANBUL

Arrive and check into your hotel. Later this evening you will have the chance to meet your tour leader and the other members of the tour. (No meals)

Istanbul
Once the imperial capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, Istanbul is both a city steeped in history and an exciting modern day hub of activity. Always described as a fusion of East and West, it is not difficult to understand why as you walk through narrow alleys flanked by wooden Ottoman houses to emerge in a funky restaurant and bar strip in the downtown area, the call to prayer mingling with modern Turkish pop. Bisected by the Bosphorous, a strategically significant passage of water which links the Black Sea to the Aegean, the city has several distinct divisions. Across the Golden Horn, a watery cul-de-sac which branches off the Bosphorous, is Sultanahmet which boasts some of the city's finest Byzantine and Ottoman monuments. After exploring the Blue Mosque, St Sophia Museum and Underground Basilica you may like to dine on seafood at one of the countless restaurants along the narrow alleys of downtown Taksim. Afterwards why not board a local ferry to observe the beautifully lit sprawl of Istanbul by night and then finish your evening with the timeless wind-down of smoking a nargileh (Ottoman water pipe). But if nargileh doesn't appeal, there is always a glass of apple-tea to be drunk at the friendly insistence of the locals.

Day 2 - ISTANBUL

A full free day to explore the city. In the evening we board the overnight couchette train to Ankara. (B) Approx. 10 hrs train journey

Day 3 - ANKARA - CAPPADOCIA

Arrive in Ankara, the capital of Turkey. Visit Ataturk's Mausoleum and continue via the salt flats of Tuz Golu to Cappadocia where we visit the underground city of Kaymakli. Tonight there is the chance to take a Turkish bath (US$15). (B) Approx. 5 hrs driving

Ankara
Although Istanbul is the historical capital of Turkey, Ankara is the thriving modern capital, carefully designed by European urban planners in the 1920s. It has wide boulevards, wooded parks and shaded avenues and is home to all the apparatus of government as well as embassies and universities. It is difficult to imagine that only 90 years ago, Ankara was a small dusty town of 30,000 people famous only for its production of the soft angora wool produced by its resident angora goats. Indeed the name of the town was Angora rather than Ankara. Now it is a pleasant place to explore and the area around the castle and museum retain a historical feel. There is also a small bazaar which was the traditional centre of the wool trade and still today the traders (who now sell much more than wool) call out their wares and try to attract the interest of passers by.

Day 4 - CAPPADOCIA

A full morning hiking in the spectacular valleys of the region. Free afternoon. In the evening there is the opportunity to view a Folkshow (US$48) or to see a Whirling Dervish Ritual (US$35). (B)

Cappadocia
Often talked about as the absolute highlight of a visit to Turkey, Cappadocia is one of the most surreal places you will ever see. Here repeated volcanic eruptions around 40-50 million years ago covered the area with layers of a light rock called tufa creating a natural 'lunar like' landscape. Over time the elements have eroded this surface rock to create unusual valleys and vast rock sculptures or 'fairy chimneys' which have been incorporated into the building of towns, villages and underground settlements. Wandering around Cappadocia, clambering in and out of the buildings and over the rippling tufa deposits you will almost certainly feel like you have just landed on another planet. But however you choose to spend your time here, whether you decide to wander on foot, on horseback or maybe even take to the air in a hot air balloon, the bizarreness of the rock formations and the amazing blend of nature and man will leave you astounded.

Day 5 - KONYA - KOPRULU CANYON

You could take an early morning hot air balloon flight (US$190 - US$280). After breakfast we drive to Konya, home to the famous Whirling Dervish sect. Tonight we overnight in Koprulu Canyon. (BD) Approx. 8 hrs driving

Konya
Konya is one of the most typical Anatolian cities and an excellent place to stop between the coast and Cappadocia. Nicknamed the bread basket of Turkey as it is surrounded by vast fields of wheat, the city is often crowded with people from the villages who have come to do their weekly shopping. However it is the city's standing as the undoubted religious centre of Turkey that makes it most intriguing. Home to the tomb of the Sufi philosopher, poet and teacher Mevlana, founder of the Whirling Dervish sect, Konya offers an interesting museum, which houses the tomb of the Mevlana and some relics from the Muslim faith.

Day 6 - CANOEING - RAFTING

Full morning on the Koprulu River. You can chose between canoeing or rafting as our group negotiates the waters. In the afternoon we drive to Olympos where we stay in bungalows. (BLD) Approx 3 hrs driving

Koprulu Canyon - Canoeing
At Koprulu Canyon we use imported modern 1 or 2 person inflatable canoes. They are not kayaks, but an open style similar to Canadian canoes. There is also an option to join an 8-person raft, but most of our groups prefer the canoes. Safety is a key feature in watersports - life vests are provided, and both an instructor and our tour leader escort our canoeing excursions. The sections of river chosen offer a balance between easy canoeing, allowing time to take in the lovely scenery, and some white water sections ideal for those who have not tried this activity before. We canoe for around three or four hours and generally stop for a barbecue lunch which is prepared for you on the riverbank. Valuables can be left in a secure place on our coach, which is also on hand to carry luggage.

Olympos
Olympos lies in a National Park area where major development is prohibited. One of the highlights of the area is to head to the mysterious site of Chimaera after dark. This optional excursion involves a 45 minute minibus ride followed by an 30 minute walk. Greek mythology tells of the Lycian hero Bellerophon who together with his winged horse Pegasus, was sent to slay the Chimaera (a fire-breathing part-lion, part-goat, part-snake). Although successful in his mission what remained to this day is a mysterious phenomenon. Gas seeps from the earth and fuels flames which burst out from within cracks in the bare hillside. The flames can be covered and extinguished but the air becomes gaseous, and without cover the flames will spontaneously reignite!

Day 7 - KAS - KALKAN - VILLAGE STAY

Today we visit the picturesque towns of Kas and Kalkan before driving to Minare village where we stay with a Turkish family. (BD) Approx. 5 hrs driving

Kas
The ancient Lycian city of Kas is now a quiet seaside village lying on a stunning section of the Turquoise Coast at the foot of the Taurus Mountains. It is a perfect place to stroll and you can explore the narrow alleyways or the small harbour. The town is also dotted with relics from the past and there are a number of impressive rock tombs in the hills above the town as well as a unique seaside amphitheatre.

Kalkan
Kalkan used to be a small fishing village but with its beautiful location, has become popular place on the Mediterranean. There are several restaurants here where you can sample the local cuisine.

Minare Village Stay
Tonight we stay as guests of Hüseyin and his family in Minare – the village from where we begin our trek. Our hosts will provide a delicious traditional evening meal served on a low table which we all sit around. Like any Turkish home there is only one toilet and shower so you might have to be prepared to queue. We sleep dormitory style in two rooms.

Day 8 - TREKKING

Early morning start for our 6-8 hour trek via P?nara. We will have a picnic lunch on the way to Kara Agac where we stay in an old stone cottage. (BLD)

Mountain Trekking
The Taurus Mountains which line the southern Anatolian seaboard are amongst the highest in Turkey. We spend one and a half days trekking along some of the most spectacular stretches of the ranges. We begin our trek along a small goat-trail in order to explore the ruined Lycian city of Pinara. Nestled in an elevated valley, the city sprawls beneath a vast stone massif, out of which are carved the tombs of Lycian nobility. Continuing on our way to Kara Agac we follow fire access roads which link the remote shepherding communities. Wildlife in the densely forested mountains is generally shy however if you are lucky you may see tortoises ambling lazily to a clearing for some sunbathing or (believe it or not) crabs scuttling in the dew of mountain springtime. The trek is not difficult - however some initial ascents can be taxing during the summer. We need to carry 2-3litres of water today as it can get hot.

Day 9 - TREKKING - OLU DENIZ - GULET

We follow a beautiful mountain trail down to the most famous beach in Turkey at Olu Deniz. A short drive takes us to Fethiye where we board our gulet. (BD) Approx 5 hrs trekking

Gulet
Imagine spending your days relaxing on board a traditional Turkish motorboat as you cruise along the spectacular Turquoise Coast stopping in secluded bays and pulling alongside some of the small islands that lie scattered off the coast. There is plenty of time for swimming and snorkelling around the rocky shores. You could also enjoy an evening stroll in one of the bays to have the great viewsof the bays or just relax with a cool beverage and take in the scenery. The on board chef prepares delicious traditional fare and you may even be treated to the catch of the day.

Accommodation is twin, double or triple share and toilet and shower facilities are attached to the rooms. All you need to bring is a towel and then sit back and enjoy.

Day 10 - GULET CRUISE

Our cruise takes us to some of the most beautiful bays around Gocek. (BL)

Day 11 - PAMUKKALE - SELCUK

Disembark after breakfast and drive inland to Pamukkale where we can see the calcified falls and ancient Hierapolis. Later we drive to Selçuk.(B) Approx 8 hrs driving

Pamukkale
The beautiful calcified formations which spill down the slopes on the edge of this small village are a truly unique phenomenon which has attracted people for thousands of years. The ancient Romans believed the water collected by pools formed along the startlingly white terraces was ideal for bathing and would relieve ailments. The impressive city of Hierapolis was therefore constructed nearby expressly for the purpose of utilising the healing qualities of the springs. Pamukkale today is still somewhat of a spa town however swimming is restricted to only a few pools.

Day 12 - EPHESUS

A full free day to visit the amazing ruins at Ephesus and to explore the picturesque winding streets of Selcuk. Half day guided tour of Ephesus (US$30). (B)

Ephesus
Without any doubt, Ephesus is what you will remember most about your time in Selcuk. As one of the best preserved Classical cities of the Eastern Mediterranean, a walk through the old city gives you a genuine taste of what life must have been like during the Roman times. The site is remarkably well preserved and there has also been extensive reconstruction of the more crumbling edifices. The result is very impressive and it is not difficult to believe that this was home to one of the seven wonders of the ancient world A stroll through the old city finishes at the breathtaking Library of Celsius which once competed with that of Alexandria for scholarly interest.

After a visit of the old capital you may wish to explore the charming village of Sirince nestled in the hills some 7km away from Selcuk. Formerly a Greek village, Sirince means “loveliness” and is known for its lace production and the countless wines produced in the regions many vineyards.

Selcuk
The closest town to the ancient provincial Roman capital of Ephesus, Selcuk is a cosy town with several attractive pedestrianised streets in the shadow of an impressive Ottoman castle. Selcuk's laid back atmosphere and friendly restaurateurs and salesmen will immediately make you feel at home.

Day 13 - BERGAMA - GALLIPOLI

After breakfast a short drive will bring us to Bergama where we have lunch before continuing to Gallipoli. Half day guided tour of Troy (US$35) (B) Approx. 6 hrs driving

Day 14 - GALLIPOLI - ISTANBUL

Morning visit to the war memorials of Gallipoli. Afternoon drive to Istanbul (B) Approx 5 hrs driving

Gallipoli
The site of one of the most brutal campaigns of WWI, the Gallipoli Peninsula is now a national park which preserves the monuments to the fallen. Of significant historical and cultural importance to Turks, New Zealanders and Australians alike (Anzac stands for Australia and New Zealand Army Corps), the park is located at the entrance to the Dardanelles on the Aegean Sea. It was the Allied forces’ intention to take the peninsula and thus have access to Istanbul and the Black Sea towns of their ally, Russia. However, it actually became the final resting place of many an Allied hope as well as some 700,000 soldiers. The reality of the war becomes apparent after a visit to the Gallipoli Museum and Anzac Cove. With memorabilia and copies of letters sent to families, the museum is a poignant place of reflection. Afterwards, a visit to the sheer cliffs of Anzac Cove gives an indication as to the insurmountable task the Allied forces had been set.

Day 15 - ISTANBUL

Tour ends after breakfast