Turkey: Origins of Western Civilization

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*This tour has multiple departure dates

Additional Dates:

Sep 23 to Oct 11 2024

Sep 22 to Oct 10, 2025

Explore Turkey’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes on a 19-day journey curated by INCA International Nature & Cultural Adventures.

From the breathtaking landscapes of Cappadocia and the Turquoise Coast to vibrant Istanbul! Immerse yourself in cultural treasures led by our guest-favorite guide in Turkey, Bihter Kuranel.

This is the perfect expedition for travelers who share our belief that profound encounters with culture and heritage are the richest luxuries of travel. Turkey is a captivating and varied country with an intricate history, breathtaking archaeological sites, magnificent art, exquisite crafts, and stunning landscapes.

You could explore for a lifetime and still have more to discover. We aim to acquaint travelers with the heart of Turkey’s wonders. This includes hikes to ancient sites, tours of Istanbul’s historic mosques, and exploration along stunning coastlines. Enjoy the beauty aboard a traditional Turkish gulet (yacht)

What to Expect

Days 1-5: Cappadocia Start your journey in Kayseri with an overnight stay before heading to Uçhisar in Cappadocia. Stay at the stunning Argos in Cappadocia hotel, hike through orchards and vineyards, and explore ancient rock churches and underground cities. Enjoy a performance of the Whirling Dervishes and, if you choose a hot-air balloon ride at dawn.

Day 6: Crossing the Anatolian Plain Travel southwest across the Anatolian Plain, visiting Sultanhani Karavansaray, the tomb of Rumi in Konya, and the ancient city of Catalhoyuk. Continue through the Taurus Mountains to Antalya, stopping at the Greco-Roman theater at Aspendus.

Day 7: Termessos and Antalya Hike to the mountaintop ruins of Termessos and visit the Antalya Archeological Museum. Explore artifacts dating from the prehistoric to the Ottoman Empire.

Days 8-12: Gulet Cruise on the Turquoise Coast Board our luxury gulet for a five-night cruise along the Turquoise Coast. Visit ancient sites; Phaselis, Myra, and Kale. Enjoy leisurely sailing, hike to the abandoned village of Kayaköy, and explore the Lycian site of Caunus. Experience the loggerhead sea turtle nesting sites along the Dalyan River.

Days 13-14: Aegean Coast and Sirince Disembark the gulet and visit the Temple of Zeus at Euromus and the grand ruins of Didyma and Priene. Stay in the charming village of Sirince and explore the magnificent Graeco-Roman city of Ephesus. Participate in a hands-on cooking class.

Days 15-18: Istanbul Fly to Istanbul. Enjoy four nights at the Four Seasons Sultanahmet near iconic sites such as the Blue Mosque, Aya Sophia, and Topkapi Palace. Enjoy a private Bosphorus cruise and stroll through the Grand Bazaar and Taksim Square.

Day 19: Departure Transfer to the airport for your flight home, concluding your unforgettable journey through Turkey’s heart and soul.

12 guests maximum. Contact us for Custom Extensions before or after this adventure.

Activities & Highlights: Hiking, Swimming, Gulet Cruising, Cooking Class, Museum Visits

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