Start Location: Istanbul Turkey

Finish Location: Istanbul Turkey

Country: Turkey

Group Size: 2 to 16

Trip Style: Signature

 

Joining Point 

Golden Horn Hotel

Address: Hoca Paşa, Ebussuud Cd. No:44, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey
Phone:+902125197474

Airport Arrival Transfer Included Only available On The First Day Of Your Trip

 

Finishing Point

Golden Horn Hotel

Address: Hoca Paşa, Ebussuud Cd. No:44, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey
Phone:+902125197474
Airport Departure Transfer Included Only available On The Last Day Of Your Trip

Essential trip information

Plunge through the millennia of history as you stitch a land marked by the Romans, the Byzantines and the Ottomans and make sense of the influences they’ve left behind in modern day Turkey. From the cosmopolitan city of Istanbul with its architectural wonders, to the far flung Cappadocia with its fairy tale setting, the religious Centre of Konya to the natural marvels of Pamukkale travertine, this tour takes you for a spin around the country like a veritable whirling dervish – mystical, magical and always enthralling. 

 

DAY 1

ISTANBUL
Hello and welcome to Turkey! Once you step out of the airport our representative will be at hand to link you up with your transfer and send you on your way to the hotel. Kick back and catch up on some zzz’s when you get there or go explore the neighbourhood until you meet your tour leader at 6pm in the evening. Get a teaser of the things to come at the meeting and then chase all the information down with a welcome dinner thereafter. 

 

Accommodation: Golden Horn Hotel Istanbul or similar

Included Activities: Nil

Included Meals: Dinner

Optional Activities: Nil

 

DAY 2

ISTANBUL
Lace up your walking boots after breakfast and lose yourself in Istanbul’s oldest quarters adorned by a cluster of some of the most famous landmarks in the country. Crawl through the cobble stoned plaza and a maze of history as you puzzle over the pieces that tie the remnants of three distinct eras and finally fit them into a cohesive whole that it is in the present day. Meander through the Hagia Sofia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace amongst other iconic sites while juggling these with observations of life as it is in the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market. There’s still so much to do here so you might want to linger around later in the afternoon and do some exploring of your own.

Accommodation: Golden Horn Hotel Istanbul or similar

Included Activities: Old City Walking Tour

Included Meals: Breakfast

Optional Activities: Street Food Tour, Turkish Bath 

 

Day 3

CAPPADOCIA
Take a flight out of Istanbul and head for the unusual but startlingly attractive Cappadocia. While its beauty is apparent its history is equally captivating and even finds mention in the pages of the bible. Take a crash course in this ancient history as you tag along with your tour leader for an orientation walk, rounding it off by lifting your knees a little higher as you hike up to a spot and cast an eye upon the magical kingdom below. As the morning spreads into a late afternoon, raise some dust up as you rev your quad bikes and head deeper into the valley, culminating with a spectacular sunset that extends a crimson glow on the fairy tale landscape.

 

Accommodation: Cervansarai inn hotel or similar

Included Activities: Orientation Walk, ATV Safari

Included Meals: Breakfast

Optional Activities: Turkish Night, Whirling Dervish Ceremony

 

DAY 4

CAPPADOCIA
Knock those walking boots against the floor and get them hike ready in the morning as you make your way to the Red Valley, so called because of the red sandstone rock formations that change from light brown, to pink and crimson as the sun marks its progress on the day. Discover the cave dwellings and churches that lodge themselves on this surreal landscape and end the hike on a positive note by gorging on some Turkish delights at a Women’s Cooperative restaurant. Reclaim your onward journey by visiting a local potter who might even give you pointers on how to spin the wheel and then head off to the ancient underground city of Özkonak to witness the ingenuity of the ancients. 

 

Accommodation: Cervansarai inn hotel or similar

Included Activities: Red Valley, Pottery Demonstration, Özkonak Underground city

Included Meals: Breakfast

Optional Activities: Hot Air Ballooning, Rug Making Demonstration

 

DAY 5

CAPPADOCIA
While you’re left to your devices today, you might want to make use of your free day to discover more of what Cappadocia has to offer. With the region being so vast and so remote and with plenty of things to do, it’s not quite possible to encompass them all in the space of a single day. There’s the Red Tour that covers North Cappadocia and the sights around Goreme and the Green Tour that covers South Cappadocia; ask your tour leader who’ll break down the difference between the two so that you can make an informed choice on how best to utilize your day.  

 

Accommodation: Cervansarai inn hotel or similar

Included Activities: Free Day 

Included Meals: Breakfast

Optional Activities: Red Tour, Green Tour, Wine Tasting

DAY 6

KONYA 
Leaving the remote location that’s been your base for three nights, drive for approximately 3.5 hours to emerge at Konya, the spiritual and religious centre of Turkey. Once you’ve checked in at the hotel and had some rest, step out to explore the city. Move your feet towards the doorsteps of Mevlana Museum first, a former school of the whirling dervishes, now the resting place of the 13th century philosopher, poet and religious teacher, Mevlana Rumi. Wander around the complex and then exit to the central square, threading your way through slender lanes to finally reach and discover the architectural brilliance of the 13th century Aziziye Mosque. Join the locals next as they mill around the Aladdin Tepe, a park with its bed of flowers and tea cafes, before visiting the Aladdin Mosque nearby.

Accommodation: Dergah Hotel or similar

Included Activities: Mevlana Museum, Sultan Selim Mosque, Aziziye Mosque, Aladdin Mosque, Aladdin Hill

Included Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Optional Activities: Nil

 

DAY 7

PAMUKKALE
Traverse the distance from the spiritual to the surreal as you drive to Pamukkale and come face to face with one of the most unique land formations in the world – travertine calcite cliffs borne of calcium deposits from hot springs. Enter this world of frost white terraces cradling ponds of soft blue hues and indeed walk upon this Cotton Castle (as it is whimsically known) to make sure it isn’t a figment of your imagination!  Before all this, however, take some time out and visit the ancient ruins of Hierapolis and recall stories of the 2nd and 3rd centuries when its glories had reached its zenith.

Accommodation: Villa Lycus Hotel or Similar

Included Activities: Hierapolis, Pamukkale Travertine

Included Meals: Breakfast 

Optional Activities: Nil

 

Day 8

BODRUM

Head for the coastal town of Bodrum this morning. On arrival, take a short walk to get your bearings around the town centre, pausing to contemplate the 4th century open theatre that feels like something conjured straight out of a period film set. Follow this up by knocking at the gates of Bodrum Castle built on a promontory during the early 15th century and exhibiting among other things, the Museum of Underwater Archaeology and a Glass Blowing Workshop. Later in the afternoon, make the most of visiting one of Turkey’s best boutique winery, wandering through the olive groves and vineyard, learning about the traditional methods of production and finally swirling the real thing in your mouth. There’s more to wine than red and white but if wine isn’t your thing, the food here is an absolute delight.

Accommodation: Merih Boutique Hotel or Similar

Included Activities: Wine Tasting

Included Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Optional Activities: Nil

 

DAY 9

BODRUM
Unfurl a map, chalk out a plan and let your feet lead you to some of the most visited spots in Bodrum. Go wandering around the Old Town, tucked just round the corner from the Castle of St. Peter, and spend a languid afternoon here negotiating the skinny alleys that present whitewashed houses and quaint stone cottages leading out to the sea. Follow the trail of sun worshippers and head for the beaches of Bodrum Peninsula if you’re looking to put in some down time. There’s plenty here to keep you engaged so check with your leader regarding these possibilities. You might also want to sail across the blue expanse of the Aegean Sea aboard a Gulet Boat stopping at intervals to explore some tiny islets and bays or perhaps create ripples of your own as you plunge into the waters for a languorous swim.

Accommodation: Merih Boutique Hotel or Similar

Included Activities: Free Day  

Included Meals: Breakfast

Optional activities: Gulet Boat Tour with Lunch

 

DAY 10

SELCUK

Get back on the road again and head for Selcuk, the town that acts as a gateway to the ancient city of Ephesus. Before going for a jaunt around the sites however, drop anchor at a local family run café and dig into some ‘Gözleme’ or Turkish pancake. Once you’ve got these under your belly proceed to the ruins of Artemis Temple – one of the ancient wonders of the world built around 550 BC. Explore the Isa Bey Mosque, one of the earliest examples of a Turkish Mosque adorned with a courtyard and then, later in the afternoon, take a tour of the other important sites of Ephesus and discover for yourself what the fuss its all about!

Accommodation: Hotel St John or Similar

Included Activities: Artemis Temple, Isa Bey Mosque, Ephesus 

Included Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Optional activities: 

 

DAY 11

CANAKKALE
Leaving Selcuk behind, make an approximate 5-hour journey to Troy this morning. Break the journey up by visiting a local atelier at Pergamon to watch the village women deftly move their fingers around strings to spring knots in place, hammer in the wefts and warps and give final shape to the famous Turkish carpets. Tuck in to some lunch thereafter and then construct the threads of Homer’s epic tale of love, retribution and heroism as you explore the ancient and multi-layered ruins of Troy before finally arriving at Canakkale, your halt for the night. 

Accommodation: Md Barbaros Hotel or Similar

Included Activities: Troy, Carpet Educational 

Included Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Optional activities: 

 

DAY 12

ISTANBUL
Start out early this morning to visit the Gallipoli Peninsula to pay homage to those soldiers who fell on both sides – the Allies comprising of the British, Australian, New Zealand, Indian and French troops; and those of the Ottoman Empire. For many of the visitors here, it’s about trying to make sense of history by recounting the sobering tale of a nine-month long siege, the emergence of Turkey’s modern founder, Mustafa Kemal, as well as the inevitable horrors that any war inflicts on people and their psyche. Understand and listen to the stories from different perspectives and after having visited these sacred grounds strewn with graves of those who fell during the campaign, complete a full circle of your Turkish adventure by driving back to where you started – Istanbul. Upon reaching your destination, come together for a final dinner to close the tour out with a bang.

 

Accommodation: Golden Horn Hotel Istanbul or similar

Included Activities: Gallipoli Tour 

Included Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Optional activities: Nil

 

DAY 13

Departure Day

It’s time now to bid farewell to your tour leader and new friends but not without a backpack full of memories. Departure Transfers are included on the day. Please consult with your tour leader or the hotel desk to confirm the check out time.

 

Included Meals: Breakfast

 

Itinerary disclaimer

Itinerary Changes

The itineraries for One World Adventures are updated on a regular basis during the year, reflecting the current situation in each of our destinations and customer feedback. Information that forms the Essential Trip information may vary from your initial booking and it is vital that you read and review the information provided before your departure. This will provide you with the latest information. Your itinerary may change once you’re in the country- as a result of transport schedules, changes in weather conditions, public holidays and varying local conditions. To ensure our guests have the best experience, the scheduled activities in each location may vary in order and time depending on the season travelled. Your tour leader will inform you of any changes once on the trip.

 

Optional Activities

Our optional activities selected have been popular with past guests and are listed in the itinerary. This list is only some of the activities you can enjoy and should be used as a guide only to what is available. Prices are for entry only and do not include transport to and from the sites or local guides. Prices are approximate and the activities are subject to availability. Some activities maybe on a join-in basis. It is not possible to participate in all the activities listed due to the limited time in each destination. Planning ahead and choosing the activities that suit you is highly recommended.

Pre-booking recommendations for activities will be noted in the Special information listed in the daily itinerary. Usually, activities can be organized independently on the day or alternatively inform your tour leader and they can assist you make the arrangements.

We have assessed and sighted the credentials and safety of the operators chosen for medium and high risk activities and work closely with them. As such, medium to high risk activities not listed in the itineraries (that may be less expensive) are not recommended as we cannot guarantee there quality or safety. Therefore, our staff or tour leaders will not assist you with organizing these activities. It is at your own risk and discretion if you decide to participate in activities not listed in the itinerary.

 

Feedback

We value the important feedback received by our past guests. All feedback is read and improvements to our itineraries and destinations are made. Share your experiences and let future guest gain valuable insight into One World Adventures. www.oneworldadventures.com/feedback

 

Emergency Contact Information and Issues.

Our aim is to provide the best possible experience for your holiday. Due to the nature of travel and the places we visit, not everything will always go to plan. If issues arise on your tour, please inform your tour leader or local representative so we can try and rectify the issue at the time. This will help mitigate any negative impact on the rest of your trip.

Unfortunately, a resolution to the problem may not be achieved to your satisfaction- in this event please inform your tour leader that you wish to speak to their direct manager.

We recommend guests provide online feedback within 30 days of finishing your trip, acknowledging that it is very difficult to provide practical assistance once the trip is completed. Letting us know at the time allows us to try and resolve any issues promptly.

 

Passport

International travel requires a valid Passport with at least six months validity. Your passport details are required for the completion of your booking. It is important that you ensure that the name on your passport matches exactly the name on your booking and airline tickets. Contact us immediately if they do not so errors can be corrected.It is highly recommended that you carry copies of the main passport pages and other important documents with you and also leave copies with family or friends in case required.

 

Visas

All visa requirements are the responsibility of the traveller. Changes to entry requirements may change at any time and therefore, it is import that you check your government’s foreign travel advisories as well as Consular websites for all countries that you are travelling to. This is important so you have the most up to date information that is specific to your nationality and circumstances.Whilst COVID-19 restrictions are in place other sources of visa information available on line may not be up to date or valid.

Once you have booked your trip it is your responsibility to research visa requirements, obtain the necessary documents, now the processing time and application needed for the visas for all countries you are visiting. Visas can take several weeks to process. You can apply directly through a consulate or a booking consultant can advise on a visa processing service.

 

TURKEY VISA
Most nationalities require a visa to enter Turkey. Visas must be obtained through the e-Visa system. To apply for an e-visa, please go to https://www.evisa.gov.tr/en/ at least two weeks before you arrive in Turkey.
Passport holders from New Zealand, Argentina, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Japan, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland do not require a visa for stays up to three months. We recommend all nationalities check with their local consulate for current visa requirements

 

Health Screening

If you are unwell before travelling, please stay at home. Contact us to make alternative arrangements.

If you are displaying any symptoms or have any health concerns at this time, we will follow the advice of local health authorities to determine whether medical assistance, isolation or further action is required.

 

Food and Dietary Requirements

Experiencing the different and amazing foods of the places we visit during your tour is part of the experience in travelling. Not all meals are included in the tour price and this allows for flexibility in choice. Choice of where, when and with whom you want to eat with. Your tour leader can provide some recommendations of places to eat and this allows for better budgeting for you.

Please advise any dietary requirements. Our group meals provide an opportunity to try many dishes as well as enjoy the company of your fellow guests.

 

Accommodation

Accommodation during the tour may vary- some may be basic and simple with shared bathroom facilities-some with cold water. Air-condition rooms are available. Some countries experience daily load shedding where the power may be turned off at set times during the day-usually early afternoon. Many of the hotels have cafes or restaurants that serve local meals. Please be aware that some hotels and restaurants may not serve alcohol for religious reasons or due to local laws.

 

Showers

Hot water peak times for showers are usually morning and evenings in some accommodation. Outside these times you may need to speak with the reception to obtain hot water.

 

Room Issues

Addressing any issues with your room requires immediate attention-please speak with the reception or tour leader so issues can be resolved promptly. Speaking with the travel agent will delay the issues being addressed.

 

Transport

Our tours will involve travel on may forms of transport. Theses include- bus, private vehicle, rickshaw and cycle rickshaw, metro, train, taxi, shuttle buses, jeeps,vans, boats-ferries and airplanes. Some of these modes of transportation will not be the same standard as you are use to. One World Adventures audit our suppliers regularly to make sure transportation is of a safe standard.

 

Contingency Funds

We try to plan for every eventuality, but there are still some things beyond our control. We reserve the right to change an itinerary after departure due to local circumstances or a Force Majeure Event. In such emergency circumstances, the additional cost of any necessary itinerary alterations will be covered by you. Please note we are not responsible for any incidental expenses that may be incurred as a result of the change of itineraries including but not limited to visas, vaccinations or non-refundable flights. Make sure you have access to an extra US$500 for emergencies (e.g. severe weather, natural disasters, civil unrest) or other events that result in unavoidable changes to the itinerary (e.g. transport strikes or cancellations, airport closures). Sometimes these things necessitate last-minute changes to enable our trips to continue to run, and as a result, there may be some extra costs involved. The recommended amount is listed in USD for the relatability of universal travellers. However, local currency may be needed once in the country to cover these costs.

 

Your Tour Leader

Tipping your tour leader for outstanding service provided to you on your tour is a personal preference and the amount is discretionary. However, as a guide US$3- US$5 per person (in local currency), per day can be used. You are free to tip more or less, depending on how you feel the service was provided. Please remember that tipping is not compulsory and should be given for excellent service. Giving coins, dirty or torn notes or small denominations is considered culturally an insult.

 

Tipping Kitty:

Your tour leader pays for all tips for drivers, local guides and hotel staff only. Restaurant tips are not included nor tips for your tour leader.

 

Spending money:

When it comes to spending money on the trip, every traveller is a little different. You know your spending habits better than we do, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals, drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry. Make sure you have read the itinerary and inclusions thoroughly so you know what is included in the trip price and what you may need to pay for while travelling.

 

Commissions:

The receipt of commissions or kickbacks in exchange for recommending particular shops or services is ingrained in the culture of the tourism industry. Rather than turning a blind eye to this unavoidable issue in some areas, monies collected will be distributed to local businesses, One World Adventures Charities and to providing sustainable travel.

 

Main Luggage

Depending on the time of year you are travelling, we recommend you pack as lightly as possible. You need to to be able to lift and carry your luggage and walk short distances. This includes up and down stairs and busy railway stations. The smaller your luggage the easier it is to store above or under bunks on overnight trains and public transport. Aim for around 15 kg. Small wheeled suitcases are easy to pick up and carry. Backpacks are also a good option. Our guests find that lighter luggage cause less worry and lead to a more enjoyable trip .

 

Day pack

A small day pack is very useful for carrying your essential items when exploring destinations and for overnight stays.

On overnight trains packing essential items provides ease of access. www.oneworldadventures.com/packing-list

 

Wifi

As a rule, WiFi is generally available in most parts of the destinations you travel and in the accommodation we use. Most hotels provide free WiFi in public areas but remember charges for in-room Wifi may occur. Always ask your tour leader on arrival to the hotel.

Usually, in tourist areas-most cafes and restaurants will have free WiFi available- always check and ask for passwords when ordering.

 

Tour Leader

One of our tour leaders will accompany you on all our trips. Their role is to take the hassle out of your travels and provide you with the best trip we can. One World Adventures aim to provide the services of an experienced tour leader. However, sometimes a tour leader may be new to a region or training other tour leaders.

Providing general information on the destinations visited, offering suggestions on available sightseeing and activities, recommendations of local places to eat and introducing you to our local friends is there main objective. A broad general knowledge of the historical, cultural, religious and social aspects of the destinations being visited will be provided.

One World Adventures aim to support the local tour guides that have the knowledge of the specific area visited. If you would like more in-depth knowledge of a specific sight nor location , your tour leader can recommend a local guide service for major destinations.

 

Personal Belongings

It is strongly recommended that you use a neck wallet or money belt when travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, airline tickets, cash and other valuable items. Ideally, leave valuable jewellery items at home. Many of our hotels provide safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of safe keeping valuables. A lock for your luggage is recommended.

 

Most National Governments provide regularly updated foreign travel advice on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your Government's advice for their latest travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip. Please refer to our website's safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues affecting our trips here: www.oneworldadventures.com/safety-policy

 

Free time

Included activities will be supported by your tour leader. However, during your tour there is free time provided to relax, take it easy, pursue your own interests and explore the destination at your own leisure. It is important that you use good judgment when choosing activities during your free time.

Important to note- the tour leader has the authority to cancel or amend any section of the itinerary if deemed necessary for safety concerns.

 

Personal Safety

When travelling in tourist areas and cities there is the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft.

It is recommended that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and preferably walk together or if alone stay in main areas that are well lit. Be particularly vigilant on public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing.

Scams

Scams involving ATM and credit cards, train tickets, taxis, temple donations and tourist guides operate in a lot of countries. If you are the victim of a scam, report it immediately to the nearest police station. You may not be able to get your money or goods back- but they can issue you with an official loss report for insurance purposes.

 

Travelling on a group tour

Group travel will expose you to all the pleasures and also the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow guests will likely come from all around the world. We ask you to be understanding of the different needs and preferences of the group. Patience's sometimes a requirement that will benefit everyone’s travel experience.

You too have a responsibility to the group- this includes being on time or at a particular place when requested - this ensures your group isn’t left waiting for you.

The best tours work well when the dynamics of the group work well and everyone is considerate to each other.

Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with the contact details or any personal information about your fellow guests that are booked on your trip-prior to departure.

Solo travellers

One world Adventures is ideal for the solo traveller as they want to meet and share the experience with like-minded people.

Solo travellers will be paired with another traveller that is a the same gender

(as identified on your passport or the information provided in our booking system), so if you identify differently, please let us know in advance. We provide a Single Supplement on most trips for travellers who prefer to have their own room.

Please note that this only applies to accommodation during the tour.

All pre-trip and post-trip accommodation booked through us will on a single room basis.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory for all our travellers and must be taken out at the time of booking. Your travel insurance must provide cover against adventure activities, personal accident, death, medical expenses and emergency repatriation with a recommended minimum coverage of US $200,000 for each categories of cover. We also recommend it covers cancellation, curtailment, personal liability and loss of luggage and personal effects. You alone are wholly responsible for arranging your insurance. The period of cover should start no later than the date you make your booking with us. You must provide your travel insurance policy number and the insurance company’s 24 hr Emergency contact number on the first day off your trip; You will not be able to join the trip without this. If you have travel insurance connected to your credit card or bank account please ensure you have details of the participating insurer, the insurance policy number and emergency contact number with you, rather than the bank's name and credit card details.

 

A couple of rules

All travellers have the right to feel safe whilst travelling. One World Adventures do not tolerate any form of violence (physical or verbal), sexual harassment-between our guests or involving our tour leaders, partners or local people. Sexual relationships between a tour leader and a guest are strictly forbidden. 

Use or possession of illegal drugs will not be tolerated on our trips. We encourage responsible drinking if you choose to consume alcohol when travelling. Abiding by the local laws regarding alcohol consumption is important.

The sex tourism industry is known to exploit vulnerable people and have negative consequences on communities, including undermining the development of sustainable tourism. For this reason, we recommend no participation in this activity.

By travelling with us you are agreeing to adhere to these rules. You must at all times comply with the laws, customs, foreign exchange and drug regulations of all countries visited, and you also agree to travel in accordance with our Responsible Travel Guidelines. 

The decision of the tour leader is final on all matters likely to affect the safety or well-being of any traveller or staff member participating in the trip. If you fail to comply with a decision made by a tour leader, or interfere with the well-being or operation of the tour group, the tour leader may instruct you to leave the trip immediately, with no right of refund.

One World Adventure reserves the right to refuse you participation in any further tours. 

If someone is behaving inappropriately while travelling with us, please inform your tour leader or local guide immediately.