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Turkey: Hike, Bike & Kayak

Turkey: Hike, Bike & Kayak

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Description

Experience Turkey from a different perspective. Abandon well-worn routes to forge a path through unexplored terrain, deep in the historical heart of Turkey. Travel from the minarets of Istanbul city, visiting Turkey’s holiest sites, hiking through valleys for fairy chimneys, tackling the Lycian Way, cycling the streets of Kas and kayaking over sunken cities on the Turquoise Coast. Take up the challenge and be amazed by the diversity that’s revealed on this active adventure.

Trip Name
Turkey: Hike, Bike & Kayak
Last Updated
2024-09-02
Days
12
Capacity
12
Highlights
  • Get a taste of incredible Istanbul and its bustling backstreets with your local leader.
  • Hike the valleys of Cappadocia and picnic among surreal fairy chimneys that dot the landscape.
  • Visit Ephesus’s astounding Roman ruins, where the Greco-Roman world still feels very much alive.
  • A kayak trip over a sunken city is the perfect way to experience the lush blue waters of the Mediterranean.
  • Hike the famous Lycian Way with breathtaking views of the Turquoise Coast. 
  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, World Bicycle Relief. Donations provide school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas with bicycles that provide access to education, healthcare, and income.

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.

Day 1 - Istanbul
Merhaba! Welcome to Istanbul. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 1 pm. Check-in time at our joining-point hotel is after 2 pm. Early check-in is not guaranteed, but if you arrive early, luggage storage is available. Speak to the hotel reception on arrival. Today you'll become acquainted with the eclectic character of the city on an orientation walk around the Historical Peninsula.
Day 2 - Cappadocia
Say goodbye to Istanbul. It’s a good idea to grab a snack as you won’t arrive in Cappadocia until the afternoon – roasted chestnuts are a delicious and easy street food option! In the morning, transfer to the airport and board your flight to Cappadocia. Your leader will confirm the exact time of the flight during the welcome meeting on Day 1. On arrival in Cappadocia, transfer to Goreme, where your leader will help you get your bearings on an orientation walk. Afterwards enjoy a guided Zemi Valley walk. 
Day 3 - Hiking in Cappadocia
With its towering chimneys and beehive-esque mountain caves, Cappadocia really does feel like a dreamscape. After breakfast, begin exploring with a short walk, through either the phallic pillars of Love Valley or the pink-hued rocks of Red Valley. Enjoy a free afternoon and evening in the town of Goreme. If you’re looking to relax and limber up, consider heading to a local hamam (Turkish public bath) for a steam and a scrub. If the opportunity arises visit a local carpet shop and see how carpets are weaved. 
Day 4 - Cappadocia and Konya
One of the most iconic images associated with Cappadocia is that of colourful hot air balloons drifting high above the semi-arid rock formations and valleys below. If you can handle the early start, you have the option of rising high with the sun on one of these balloons, experiencing this truly stunning wonderland from above. If you would prefer to stay grounded, your leader can organise a short walk in the morning so you can stretch out your tired legs. In the afternoon, depart for Konya, a Central Anatolian Plains city that is as dense and urban as Cappadocia is ancient and expansive. Konya has its own unique religious history as the home of the Mevlevi Order, a spiritual sect better known as the whirling dervishes. You can ponder the influence of this Islamic mysticism on the city around you at the Mevlana Museum, before grabbing a bite and jumping on the overnight train to Izmir.
Day 5 - Selcuk and Ephesus
Good morning and welcome to Izmir! From here you’ll take a one hour transfer to Selcuk. This town is steeped in Turkish traditions and packed with remnants of the past. First up are the slopes of Ayasoluk Hill, where you will find a castle fortress and 14th-century Isa Bey Mosque among other gems. The famed Temple of Artemis is also worth a look, though all that remains of this ancient wonder is a single pylon. In the afternoon it's time for what may well be the highlight of your trip – the ruins of Ephesus. There will be plenty of time to marvel at the beautifully preserved remains of this ancient metropolis, including the staggering stadium and delicately carved facades. Learn about its 1500-year history in a guided tour. Then, return to Selcuk on foot and enjoy a balmy evening in the local square, and enjoy a very Turkish evening watching locals play cards and backgammon.
Day 6 - Fethiye - Lycian Way Hiking
A port city with a stunning coast, an archaeological hotspot and the site of precipitous green cliffs – Fethiye has an abundance of natural and manmade beauty. You’ll arrive here after a 3.5-hour bus ride, check into your hotel and then travel by public bus to Kayakoy to begin exploring with a hike along part of the historical Lycian Way trail. This 2-hour, 6-kilometre trek along the rugged coast will take you up a steep rocky path and through forest before you emerge with stunning views of the Mediterranean. Descend into Oludeniz and witness the stunning vista of the Blue Lagoon hemmed by an arching peninsula. Travel back to Fethiye by public bus, this evening you may want to rest up and sort out your pack for tomorrow, as you prepare to tackle another section of the Lycian Way.
Day 7 - Lycian Way Hiking
Take a short bus ride to Ovacik which marks the official start of the Lycian Way. Begin a 14-kilometre walk toward Faralya. As you pass through areas of pine forests, rocky terrain, and Mediterranean shrub on this day-long hike, you'll catch stunning vistas of clear blue water and Mount Babadag looming above. Your route takes you through the villages of Kozagac and Kirme, where you'll meet a few local farmers and maybe even stop for a cup of tea. Lunch is simple picnic en route. Arrive in Faralya late in the afternoon then transfer by public bus to the nearby tiny coastal hamlet of Kabak and perhaps cool off in the clear water of the Mediterranean.
Day 8 - Lycian Way Hiking and Kas
Rise and shine for the inspiring hike from Kabak inland to Alinca, a journey with incredible views of lush forest against glittering blue waters of the Mediterranean. On arrival jump on a private vehicle to the picturesque Esen Valley then board a public bus to Kas. It’s a 2-hour ride, so make sure you’ve got a book, a podcast or the desire to strike up a conversation with a local. Kas is a charming city, with cobblestoned streets and whitewashed walls galore. You might want to rest your aching limbs at one of the waterfront restaurants, where the price of a drink will get you a deck chair, and umbrella and gorgeous views of the sea. Another early night in order. The local handicraft markets make for a great evening activity, and the small ancient theatre offers the best sunset, but don’t forget you’ll be up early tomorrow.
Day 9 - Kas Sea Kayaking & Hiking
This morning is a real highlight as you kayak over the sunken city near Kekova, where ruins jut from the crystal clear water. Off the coast of Ucagiz, lies the island of Kekova. On the northern side of the island, you’ll find the stone archways, worn down steps and crumbling walls of a an ancient Lycian settlement, rebuilt during the Byzantine era but has long been abandoned. It will be a 12-kilometre paddle, taking about two hours to complete. The sunken city isn’t the only sight in the area – explore myriad of coves and tiny islands. Then you will return to beautiful Kas, where you may wish to catch the local handicraft market. This afternoon opt to take an enjoyable hike along the coast to a small beach and cool off in the crystal clear water, before then returning to Kas.
Day 10 - Kas Cycling
Settle into the saddle this morning for an exciting cycle around Kas and its surrounds. Transfer to the start point – Ambararasifor for amazing views back over the blue waters of the Mediterranean then descend back to town and enjoy a flatter ride along the peninsula. The rest of the day is clear so you can relax and recharge in whatever way suits you. You may want to head out on the water again, this time on a gulet (a traditional sailing vessel) and enjoy cruising around the calm waters. Or maybe hit one of the local beaches with a good book. If you’ve still got energy, the nightlife of Kas is the perfect place to burn it. There are bars and restaurants aplenty for you to while away the evening in.
Day 11 - Istanbul
Start the morning with an early transfer to the two millenia old Delikkemer Aqueduct then begin your hike to the stunning Patara beach and nearby ancient Roman city of Patara. Take some time to explore these well preserved ruins before driving (approximately 2-3 hours) to the nearby Dalaman airport for the flight back to Istanbul. After arriving in the late evening, check into your hotel then perhaps head out on a scenic walk across the Galata Bridge to cap off your trip. Perhaps sip some cay (Turkish tea) while reminiscing and saying goodbye to your fellow travellers.
Day 12 - Istanbul
Your trip comes to an end after breakfast today, and you can depart the accommodation at any time.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type

Accommodation

Hotel (9 nights),Guesthouse (1 nights),Overnight Train (1 night)

Transport

Private Bus,Public Bus,Overnight Train,Plane

Map

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