Eastern Turkey Adventure image
Save 25% off, auto-applied, ends 2026-06-19
Operated by G Adventures

Eastern Turkey Adventure

From
CAD 1,665
Duration
8 days
Countries
Turkey
Activity
easy

The adventure

Step back in time on this eight-day journey through the ancient wonders of Eastern Turkey. Wander the ruins of Karakus Tumulus, a grand funerary monument, and soak in the breathtaking views from Ataturk Dam before indulging in a farm-fresh lunch at a Karahantepe farmhouse. Discover the world’s oldest known temple at Göbekli Tepe, explore the open-air museum of Mardin, and gaze out over the vast, shimmering expanse of Lake Van, Turkey’s largest lake. Stand before the imposing Van Castle and lose yourself in the haunting beauty of Ani, the “City of 1000 Churches”. With every step, this journey unveils layers of history, culture, and stunning landscapes — an adventure so rich, you’ll be longing for more.

At a glance

Duration
8 days
Route
Istanbul → Kars
Countries
Turkey
Activity level
easy
Style
Beach & Islands, Culture & History
Group size
Ask
Flights
Not included
Solo travellers
Welcome

Where you'll go

Eastern Turkey Adventure image

Day by day

Explore the stunning landscape of Cappadocia with its unique rock formations under a clear sky.
Your journey through

Turkey

Day 1Arrival dayArrivalArrive at any time, and meet your CEO and group in the evening at a welcome meeting. Afterwards, head out for a short orientation walk around the hotel area on the way to an optional group dinner.
Arrive at any time, and meet your CEO and group in the evening at a welcome meeting. Afterwards, head out for a short orientation walk around the hotel area on the way to an optional group dinner.
Day 2Transfer to the airport this morning…Istanbul
Explore Istanbul's stunning cityscape with historic architecture and waterways viewed from above.Istanbul
Transfer to the airport this morning for the flight from Istanbul to Adiyaman. Settle in for lunch by the lake of the Ataturk Dam before continuing on to the Mt. Nemrut area. Visit the funerary monument, Karakus, the Cendere bridge, then ascend to the summit of Mt. Nemrut for sunset. Continue on to Adiyaman where you can settle in for the night and enjoy dinner in the hotel.
Map showing Istanbul
Day 3After an early breakfast
After an early breakfast, drive to Ataturk Dam to enjoy the viewpoint, then continue to Doğubayazıt and İshak Paşa Sarayı in Doğu Beyazıt. Continue to the ancient and impressive archaeological site of Gobekli Tepe. Afterwards, transfer to the nearby town of Urfa for the night and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Day 4Travel to Mardin after breakfast this morning
Travel to Mardin after breakfast this morning. Mardin's old town is protected by UNESCO and is considered to be an open-air museum. Explore the historic limestone architecture and learn about the interesting landmarks throughout. The rest of the day is free for individual exploration or time to relax before joining the CEO for an optional dinner in the evening.
Day 5Settle in for a drive to Lake Van
Settle in for a drive to Lake Van, the largest lake in Turkey. Upon arrival to the lakeside town of Gevas, board a boat to Akdamar Island for a CEO-led walk, then head back to your hotel in a private vehicle. Tonight you'll be welcomed into a local home for dinner in Van.
Day 6Visit the Van Citadel this morningKars
Scenic aerial view of snow-covered mountains in Kars, Türkiye, showcasing a serene winter landscape.Kars
Visit the Van Citadel this morning, built by the ancient kingdom of Urartu. From there transfer to the previous capital of the Republic of Ararat, Dogubeyazit. Explore Ishak Pasha Palace then take in views of Mt. Ararat and across the mountains where the possible resting place of Noah's Ark is said to be located. Continue on to Kars for a brief orientation walk, then settle in for the evening with free time.
Map showing Kars
Day 7Drive to Ani this morningKars
Historic stone building in snowy Kars, Türkiye showcasing medieval architecture.Kars
Drive to Ani this morning, known as the city of 1001 churches,. Explore the Ani complex with your CEO, seeing the many religious buildings, palaces and forts before heading back to Kars for a free evening and optional final dinner out with the group.
Map showing Kars
Day 8Departure dayDepartureDepart at any time.
Depart at any time.

Discover Turkey

A glimpse of the destination you'll explore.

Peaceful winter scene of tall bare trees and snow-capped mountains under cloudy skies.
Turkeys roam freely near Mount Hasan, with snow-capped peaks and rural landscapes in the background.
Scenic view of rocky hills and calm waters in Halfeti, Türkiye.
Stunning aerial view of Cappadocia's unique rock formations in a summer landscape.
Quaint suburban view in Edremit, Turkey with lush trees and mountain backdrop.

Upcoming departures

Last Minute 25% off ETIK260619 · ends 2026-06-19 · auto-applied
DatesPrice / personAvailability
19 Jun 202626 Jun 2026CAD 1,665unknownBook my trip
Operated by G Adventures

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