About this activity
Explore the lush green landscapes, stunning lakes, and rich history of Turkey's Black Sea region on this 8-day tour based in Trabzon. Visit the iconic Sumela Monastery, the breathtaking Uzungol Lake, and the scenic Ayder Highlands. Options available for group tours or private experiences.
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Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Trabzon: Arrive at Trabzon Airport, transfer to Usta Park Hotel (or similar) located centrally.
- Day 2: Trabzon City Tour: Explore Ortahisar district (Old Town), visit the Ataturk Mansion (a historical house museum), Hagia Sophia of Trabzon (a former Byzantine church, now a museum/mosque), and Boztepe Hill for panoramic city and sea views.
- Day 3: Uzungol Lake Excursion: Full-day trip to the stunning Uzungol Lake, famous for its mosque on the lake shore and surrounding lush green mountains. Visit the Surmene knife artisans shop and a local tea tasting spot en route. Enjoy free time by the lake, optional lunch. Pass by the historical wooden Kiremitli Bridge on return.
- Day 4: Sumela Monastery & Karaca Cave: Visit the spectacular Sumela Monastery, dramatically built into a cliff face (allow ample time as access can involve shuttles/walking). Explore the Karaca Cave, known for its stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Travel through the Zigana mountain region, enjoying scenic views.
- Day 5: Hıdırnebi Plateau & Çal Cave: Journey to the Hıdırnebi Plateau (approx. 1600m altitude) for beautiful Black Sea views and fresh air. Visit Çal Cave, considered one of the longest caves in the world. Enjoy the scenic drive and local atmosphere.
- Day 6: Ayder Highlands & Firtina Valley: Travel to the Ayder Plateau in the Kaçkar Mountains National Park. Experience the lush scenery, waterfalls, and thermal springs. Optional activities like rafting in the Firtina (Storm) Valley. Visit local honey producers. Stop at the historical Ottoman bridges.
- Day 7: Free Day / Optional Activities: Enjoy a free day in Trabzon for shopping, exploring independently, or relaxing. Alternatively, join optional tours (e.g., Rize tea gardens). (The PDF itinerary mentions this day as a 'leisure tour', implying flexibility).
- Day 8: Departure: Transfer to Trabzon Airport for your departure.
Highlights
- Discover the natural beauty of Uzungol Lake and Ayder Highlands.
- Explore the historic Sumela Monastery clinging to a cliff.
- Visit the impressive Karaca and Çal Caves.
- Experience Trabzon city's highlights including Hagia Sophia and Atatürk Mansion.
- Enjoy panoramic views from Boztepe Hill and Hıdırnebi Plateau.
- Taste local Black Sea tea and honey.
- Options for group travel with a guide or a private tour with a dedicated driver.
Includes
- International round-trip flights with Oman Air (check specific package).
- 7 nights accommodation in a 4-star hotel in Trabzon (e.g., Usta Park Hotel or similar).
- Daily breakfast at the hotel.
- Group Tour: Shared bus transportation for tours, tour guide (likely Arabic/English).
- Private Tour: Private car and driver for tours and transfers.
- Sightseeing tours as per the itinerary.
- Oman Air baggage allowance: 30 KG checked bag, 7 KG carry-on bag.
- Entrance fees to tourist attractions and sites (e.g., Sumela Monastery, caves, museums).
- Lunches and dinners.
- Personal expenses.
- Visa fees (check Turkish visa requirements for your nationality - e-Visa often available).
- Optional activities (e.g., rafting).
- Tips for guides and drivers.
Details
Immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty and rich cultural tapestry of Turkey's Black Sea coast with this 8-day tour based in Trabzon from Alwan Travel. Journey through lush green valleys, visit the breathtaking Uzungol Lake nestled amongst mountains, explore the historic cliff-side Sumela Monastery, and marvel at the formations within Karaca Cave. Discover the alpine charm of the Ayder Highlands, famous for its thermal springs and honey. Explore Trabzon city itself, visiting historical sites like the Hagia Sophia and Atatürk's Mansion. Whether you choose a sociable group tour or the personalized comfort of a private car experience, this trip offers an unforgettable blend of nature, history, and local culture. Includes flights on Oman Air, 4-star accommodation, and daily breakfast.
Know Before You Go
- Booking Deadline: Offers mention booking by April 30, 2025. Check specific dates.
- Travel Dates: Multiple departure dates available throughout June, July, and August 2025 are listed. Confirm availability.
- Visa: Check Turkish visa requirements. Many nationalities can obtain an e-Visa online.
- Hotel: Usta Park Hotel (or similar) is centrally located in Trabzon. Check-in 2 PM, Check-out 12 PM.
- Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY).
- Language: Turkish. English is spoken in tourist areas. Guide/driver speaks Arabic/English depending on the package.
- Terrain: Involves mountain roads and some walking, potentially on uneven surfaces (e.g., monasteries, plateaus, caves). A moderate level of fitness is recommended.
- Flexibility: The itinerary mentions the program is subject to change based on weather or other special circumstances.
What To Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes, potentially hiking shoes for plateaus.
- Layered clothing; the Black Sea coast can have variable weather, even in summer. Include a light jacket or fleece and a waterproof layer.
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.
- Insect repellent, especially for plateau areas.
- Camera.
- Travel adapter (Type F).
- Passport, visa, and travel insurance.
Location
Trabzon, Turkey
