Adventure tours | Active small group holidays | Encounters Travel
Your passport to adventure
PHONE: +44 203 725 8921
For help and expert advice:
+44 203 725 8921
R69120 (p/p)

Turkey Encounters Tour

View
Gallery

Turkey Encounters OVERVIEW

TOUR SUMMARY

17 days

Istanbul to Istanbul

From

R69120 (p/p)

Country(ies): Turkey

Tour type: Small Group

Group size: Min: 2 | Max: 20

Accommodation: Boutique and 4-5 star hotels

Meals:

Transport: A/C minibus/coach

Highlights: Istanbul old and new; Gallipoli war memorials; ancient sites at Troy, Ephesus, Hieropolis & Aspendos; Pamukkale travertines, Dalyan River, Mediterranean coastline & villages,Lake Van, Dogubayazit, Mount Ararat.

Turkey is a land of contrasts, with a vibrant modern culture following a long history showing the marks of several different civilisations which have left a wealth of incredible ancient sites to explore. The scenery also varies hugely, from the dramatic Bosphorous strait in Istanbul, to the beautiful Mediterranean coastline, forested hills and mountains further inland and special highlights like the surreal landscapes of Pamukkale and Cappadocia.

This comprehensive 17 day tour takes all this in and more. Starting and finishing in Istanbul, the tour learns about modern history at the war memorials and ANZAC cemeteries at Gallipoli before developing deeper into the past with tours of some of the region's most important historic sites at Troy, Ephesus, Hieropolis, Aphrodisias, Aspendos and Side. There are plenty of stops to relax and enjoy the seaside at the coastal towns of Kusadasi and Fethiye and Antalya, with a 12-island boat cruise also included in the Gulf of Fethiye. 

The tour then heads inland, following the ancient Silk Road trading route to see the Sultanhani Caravansary at Konya before heading south east to see Lake Van and the Biblical Mount Ararat. 

There are a wealth of opportunities to taste traditional and modern Turkish cuisine and to pick up souvenirs and learn more about this fascinating country along the way. Accommodation is in a mix of 4-5 star and boutique style properties, either on a breakfast only or half-board basis depending on the location and other options available nearby.

Private tour option

If our scheduled departure dates don't work for you, or you would prefer not to travel with a group, then we can also run this tour privately for you. Please contact us for more information and prices.

ITINERARY

Expand all Close all


Day 1:   Arrive into Istanbul, transfer to hotel

Upon arrival our staff will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel in the centre of Istanbul for the start of your trip. The rest of the day is free for you to settle in and start to look around Istanbul. A welcome meeting will be held in the hotel lobby at 7pm where you can meet your guide and fellow travellers. However, this is not essential and may be missed if you have a late flight arrival. 

OVERNIGHT:

Istanbul 5-star hotel

MEALS:

None

EXTRAS:

Single room supplement (TUSGTE)
Extra day in Istanbul - pre-tour


Day 2:   Istanbul, old city tour. Bosphorous cruise

Our trip begins this morning with a tour of the old city of Istanbul. Lying across two continents, this historically important city played an integral role in the development of both the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. We visit the 17th century Blue Mosque, the Aya Sofya museum and explore the former residence of the Ottoman Sultans at Topkapi Palace before ending at the famous Hippodrome.
In the afternoon we'll take a 1 hour cruise along the Bosphorous River to take a view of the city from this narrow straight of water which separates Europe from Asia, along the way your guide will give you an overview of the historical sights as you pass by. 

OVERNIGHT:

Istanbul 5-star hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None


Day 3:   Gallipoli battlefields and memorials tour

We depart Istanbul this morning for the drive to Gallopoli where we will receive a fully guided tour of this World War I battlefield site. Although home to some of the fiercest fighting during the War, today the site is full of poignant memorials set against a subdued wooded landscape. Our tour will include the Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair memorials, ANZAC Cove, Johnston Jolly as well as The Nek and Gallipoli Museum. There will also be chance to see the original trenches and tunnels used during the war before we head to our hotel in Canakkale.

OVERNIGHT:

Canakkale 5-star hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast, Dinner

EXTRAS:

None


Day 4:   Tour of Troy and the Acropolis of Pergamum

This morning we make the short drive to the ancient city of Troy. Lying undiscoverd until midway through the 19th Century the excavations here brought the legend of the Trojan horse and the poems of Homer back to life. We then continue our drive south to the acropolis of Pergamum. A former kingdom we enjoy a full tour of the site including the Temple of Trajan and the famous library which is believed to have rivalled the library of Alexandria and helped shape Pergamum into a renowned cultural and political centre.

OVERNIGHT:

Kusadasi 5-star hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast, Dinner

EXTRAS:

None


Day 5:   Kusadasi, Ephesus Roman ruins, wine tasting in the village of Sirince

After breakfast we drive to the Roman site of Ephesus. The city at one time housed 250,000 people and is regarded as one of the best preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean. We visit the Temple of Artemis, and explore the ancient marble streets of this ruined Roman city. This afternoon you'll learn a little about carpet weaving and visit a local vineyard in the former Greek village of Sirince, famous for it's fruit wines. Whilst here you'll have an opportunity to learn about the techniques using in producing wine and samples 3 local wines before returning to your hotel. 

OVERNIGHT:

Kusadasi 5-star hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast, Dinner

EXTRAS:

None


Day 6:   Aphrodisias and onwards to Pamukkale

After a leather shop visit, we will head to Aphrodisias the ancient city dedicated to Aphrodite, the goddess of Beauty, Love and Fertility, also famous for its school of sculpture, we visit the stadium, which is the best preserved in Anatolia, the Temple of Aphrodite, the Tetrapylon, theatre and the Museum. We then continue onwards to Pamukkale.

OVERNIGHT:

Pamukkale 5-star hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast, Dinner

EXTRAS:

None


Day 7:   Pamukkale Pools, Hierapolis and Salda Lake

This morning we explore Pamukkale, the site is well known for the white calcium terraces known as Travertines. Pamukkale translates as 'cotton castles' and the naturally occuring geology here has created cloud like formations unlike anywhere else. We then head to the ancient city of Hierapolis to enjoy a dip in the hot thermal pools lodged amongst ancient columns left by the Romans who used the pools for their therapeutic powers.
Then we will head to Salda Lake, is known as Turkish Maldives. It is a mountain lake and located in the mountains before we travel down to South.

OVERNIGHT:

Fethiye boutique hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None


Day 8:   Fethiye. 12-island boat cruise

Today we include a relaxing day cruise around the 12 Islands of the Gulf of Fethiye, during which you can enjoy swims in the clear blue waters and views of many secluded bays, tiny islands and beaches. Lunch is included on board the boat. As part of Turkey's 'Turquoise coast', the Gulf of Fethiye is very popular for Gulet Cruises, and this gives you full day's taste of the scenery and experience on board. If you're lucky you may get to see turtles of dolphins swimming. If you'd prefer to miss the boat trip, you could take an optional day tour to Saklikent Gorge, Turkey's longest and deepest canyon. You could also spend the day relaxing at the famous Oludeniz beach, a short drive away. 

OVERNIGHT:

Fethiye boutique hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast, Lunch

EXTRAS:

None


Day 9:   Deserted Greek village of Kayakoy, to Antalya

We leave Fethiye this morning and start our drive to Antalya. Our first stop of the day is to the deserted Greek village of Kayakoy, where the morning light should help produce some excellent photos. After arriving back at the coast in Antalya in the afternoon we'll have a walking tour of the old town area known as "Kaleici". Whilst on the your we'll visit Hadrian's Gate, the Ancient Harbour and the Suna-Inan Kirac Museum and the Greek Orthodox Church which sits within its gardens..

OVERNIGHT:

Antalya 4-star hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None


Day 10:   Perge & Aspendos

We will visit Perge a famous antique site, early in the morning. After Perge we drive to Aspendos which has the best preserved 2nd Century Amphitheatre in Turkey. We return back to Antalya city in the afternoon and the remainder of your day is free.

OVERNIGHT:

Antalya 4-star hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None


Day 11:   Exploring Konya and Sille

We leave the coast behind today and head inland towards the important city of Konya. Once in Konya we'll visit to the Mausolem of Mevlana Celeleddin Rum and the Mevlana Museum where we learn more about the whirling dervishes. We also make a stop at the greek village of Sille before before spending the night in Konya. 

OVERNIGHT:

Konya 4-star hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast, Dinner

EXTRAS:

None


Day 12:   Cappadocia; underground city, local home dinner

Today we continue our journey which will end amidst the spectacular landscape of Cappadocia with its fairytale views full of improbable rock formations and fascinating underground cities, along the way making a stop at the Sultanhani Caravansary.
Today we'll explore the many levels of one of the several underground cities in the region. These were able to hold up to 20,000 people, and contained miles of tunnels connecting chapels, storage rooms, kitchens and wells, stables for livestock, wine and oil presses, school rooms and living quarters. They may have first been carved out of the soft volcanic rock by the Phrygians in the 8th-7th centuries BCE, and were further expanded in Roman times. They were then used in the Byzantine era as safe refuges for the Christian population from persecution by Muslim Arabs and later from Mongolian incursions of Tamerlane. 

This evening we'll visit a traditional Turkish home for dinner, where you can also learn a little about Turkish cuisine by assisting with the preparations and cooking of tonights dinner. 

OVERNIGHT:

Cappadocia boutique cave hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast, Dinner

EXTRAS:

None


Day 13:   Cappadocia Goreme, Pigeon and Red Valley

We have another day to explore Cappadocia today where we'll make stops to marvel at the lunar landscape of Cappadocia today as we visit the Goreme Valley Open Air Museum and the fairy chimneys, the Pigeon Valley, known for its many pigeon houses which are carved into the soft volcanic tuff. Later, we'll visit the Red Valley, Cavusin and Avanos Town where we'll learn a little about handmade pottery.

OVERNIGHT:

Cappadocia boutique cave hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast, Dinner

EXTRAS:

None


Day 14:   Travel to Ankara and fly to Van

After leaving Cappadocia this morning, we'll heard to the capital city of Van, from where we'll take a direct flight to the eastern city of Van. On arrival at Van Airport, your local guide will meet you and travel with you to the Citadel. The Citadel of Van is a huge stone fortress, built during the Kingdom of Urartu between the 9th and 7th centuries BC. Later, you'll be transferred to your hotel where you'll have free time during the evening. 

OVERNIGHT:

Van Boutique Hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None


Day 15:   Van and Akdamar Island

After breakfast today, we'll take a ferry to cross Lake Van, making a stop on Akdamar Island, where you'll have a chance to see the amazing 10th century church, built as a palatine church for the kings of Vaspurakan. Time permitting, you may have a chance to take a swim in Lake Van. After time at Lake Van, we'll travel back to the city centre by road, to visit the Uratu Museum, the largest of its type. The museum is laid out in such a way that it will take you on a historical journey, through different time periods from the Paleolithic to the Ottoman era. 
Leaving the museum behind, we'll make time to visit some Van cats, possibly the best known export of this region of Turkey, often referred to as 'the swimming cats'.

OVERNIGHT:

Van Boutique Hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None


Day 16:   Dogubayazit, Ararat and return to Istanbul

Today is our final day in Eastern Turkey and it'll begin with a drive to Dogubayazit, with stops along the way in Muradiye and the Bendimaahi Falls. Whilst in Dogubayazit, we'll visit the beautiful Ishak Pasha Palace, constructed between 1685 and 1784. The Palace features a unique fushion of architecture from Seljik, Ottoman, Georgian, Armenian and even Persian eras. 
Later in the day we'll travel around the Western edge of Mount Ararat, known as one of the great natural spectactles of the word, and considered to be one of the resting places of Noahs Ark. The name 'Ararat' comes from the Bible and is a transliteration of 'Uratu' the name foreigners gave to this region during the time of the Bible. 
We'll end the day with a flight from Igdir Airport to Istanbul where we'll spend our final night.

OVERNIGHT:

Istanbul 5-star hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None


Day 17:   Istanbul, free time, transfer to airport

The tour ends in Istanbul today, and your time is free for some last minute shopping or sightseeing until we transfer you to the airport for your departure.

OVERNIGHT:

N/A

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

Extra day in Istanbul - post-tour


Expand all Close all

Included:
  • All accommodation as stated in the itinerary
  • All transport and transfers
  • 24-hour airport arrival & departure transfer service
  • Services of a local tour guide throughout
  • Entrance fees to sites visited
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • Tipping kitty

Excluded:
  • International flights (available on request)
  • Visa fees
  • Travel insurance (compulsory, available on request)
  • Meals not indicated in the itinerary
  • Drinks, snacks and other personal expenses (e.g. laundry)
  • Tips for guide and driver
  • Any other items not mentioned above
Notes:

Note - the itinerary on our 22nd April 2023 departure will be amended stightly to take account of Anzac Day on 25th April. We will extend our stay in Gallipoli so that we can attend the Dawn Service at Anzac Cove, and the Australian or New Zealand memorial service that follow. 

Related Tours

If you are looking for a tour and not finding what you are looking for, have a look at our best other related tours to check out for your travel plans. At Encounters Travel, we offer a variety of tours to suit your needs. So sit back, relax, and let us help you plan the perfect getaway.

Dates and Prices

Small-group departure dates are shown below. These are guaranteed to run with a minumum of 2 people. The tour is also available for booking privately for travel anytime through the year, and we can also customise the itinerary to fit your personal requ

Start Date
End Date
Price (P/P)
Offer price
Note

6th of Apr 2024

22nd of Apr 2024

R69120.00

-


Book this tour in less than 3 minutes!

JCB Logo maestro Logo Visa Logo Mastercard Logo WorldPay Logo

20th of Apr 2024

6th of May 2024

R69120.00

-


Book this tour in less than 3 minutes!

JCB Logo maestro Logo Visa Logo Mastercard Logo WorldPay Logo

4th of May 2024

20th of May 2024

R69120.00

-


Book this tour in less than 3 minutes!

JCB Logo maestro Logo Visa Logo Mastercard Logo WorldPay Logo

18th of May 2024

3rd of Jun 2024

R69120.00

-


Book this tour in less than 3 minutes!

JCB Logo maestro Logo Visa Logo Mastercard Logo WorldPay Logo

1st of Jun 2024

17th of Jun 2024

R69120.00

-


Book this tour in less than 3 minutes!

JCB Logo maestro Logo Visa Logo Mastercard Logo WorldPay Logo

15th of Jun 2024

1st of Jul 2024

R69120.00

-


Book this tour in less than 3 minutes!

JCB Logo maestro Logo Visa Logo Mastercard Logo WorldPay Logo

29th of Jun 2024

15th of Jul 2024

R69120.00

-


Book this tour in less than 3 minutes!

JCB Logo maestro Logo Visa Logo Mastercard Logo WorldPay Logo

13th of Jul 2024

29th of Jul 2024

R69120.00

-


Book this tour in less than 3 minutes!

JCB Logo maestro Logo Visa Logo Mastercard Logo WorldPay Logo

27th of Jul 2024

12th of Aug 2024

R69120.00

-


Book this tour in less than 3 minutes!

JCB Logo maestro Logo Visa Logo Mastercard Logo WorldPay Logo

10th of Aug 2024

26th of Aug 2024

R69120.00

-


Book this tour in less than 3 minutes!

JCB Logo maestro Logo Visa Logo Mastercard Logo WorldPay Logo

24th of Aug 2024

9th of Sep 2024

R69120.00

-


Book this tour in less than 3 minutes!

JCB Logo maestro Logo Visa Logo Mastercard Logo WorldPay Logo

7th of Sep 2024

23rd of Sep 2024

R69120.00

-


Book this tour in less than 3 minutes!

JCB Logo maestro Logo Visa Logo Mastercard Logo WorldPay Logo

21st of Sep 2024

7th of Oct 2024

R69120.00

-


Book this tour in less than 3 minutes!

JCB Logo maestro Logo Visa Logo Mastercard Logo WorldPay Logo

5th of Oct 2024

21st of Oct 2024

R69120.00

-


Book this tour in less than 3 minutes!

JCB Logo maestro Logo Visa Logo Mastercard Logo WorldPay Logo

19th of Oct 2024

4th of Nov 2024

R69120.00

-


Book this tour in less than 3 minutes!

JCB Logo maestro Logo Visa Logo Mastercard Logo WorldPay Logo

Accommodation

The hotels and accommodations listed below are the ones we most often use on this tour. From time to time we may exchange these for similar properties at the same level. In general, specific hotels cannot be guaranteed on our group tours, but you may select your preferred options if you are booking a tailor-made trip.

Port Bosphorus Hotel

Port Bosphorus Hotel

Istanbul

Local rating

Our rating

 Port Bosphorus Hotel Port Bosphorus Hotel

This large hotel is found in the Istanbul city centre, near Karakoy and the Galata Tower. It has 111 rooms of different types, some with river views and some family-friendly. All feature air-conditioning, satellite TVs, a kettle and free toiletries. Hotel facilities include a rooftop terrace, restaurant and bar, free WiFi and free parking.

This large hotel is found in the Istanbul city centre, near Karakoy and the Galata Tower. It has 111 rooms of different types, some with river views and some family-friendly. All feature air-conditioning, satellite TVs, a kettle and free toiletries. Hotel facilities include a rooftop terrace, restaurant and bar, free WiFi and free parking.

MD Barbaros Hotel

MD Barbaros Hotel

Canakkale

Local rating

Our rating

 MD Barbaros Hotel MD Barbaros Hotel

MD Barbaros Hotel is found in the heart of Canakkale, a city in northwestern Turkey. Several attractions are nearby, including the Archaeological Museum, Mirrored Bazaar, and Cimenlik Castle. The 64 rooms are air conditioned and fully-equipped, featuring TVs, WiFi, hairdryers, fridges, safes, and complimentary bottled water. There is a restaurant, as well as room service, and complimentary breakfast is served from 7am until 10.30am.

 

MD Barbaros Hotel is found in the heart of Canakkale, a city in northwestern Turkey. Several attractions are nearby, including the Archaeological Museum, Mirrored Bazaar, and Cimenlik Castle. The 64 rooms are air conditioned and fully-equipped, featuring TVs, WiFi, hairdryers, fridges, safes, and complimentary bottled water. There is a restaurant, as well as room service, and complimentary breakfast is served from 7am until 10.30am.

 

Ilayda Avantgarde Hotel

Ilayda Avantgarde Hotel

Kusadasi

Local rating

Our rating

 Ilayda Avantgarde Hotel Ilayda Avantgarde Hotel

Ilayda Avantgarde is a 4-star hotel located in the heart of Kusadasi. It is right across from the main beach promenade and provides ocean views from the rooftop terrace and several rooms. Facilities include a Starbucks coffee shop, conference rooms, and a rooftop bar and pool. The rooms feature all amenities needed for a comfortable stay.

Ilayda Avantgarde is a 4-star hotel located in the heart of Kusadasi. It is right across from the main beach promenade and provides ocean views from the rooftop terrace and several rooms. Facilities include a Starbucks coffee shop, conference rooms, and a rooftop bar and pool. The rooms feature all amenities needed for a comfortable stay.

Adempira Hotel

Adempira Hotel

Pamukkale

Local rating

Our rating

 Adempira Hotel Adempira Hotel

A luxury option, in the region of Pamukkale, land of the cotton castles. The Adempira Hotel and Spa offers 5-star accommodation, just a few miles from the main tourist monument Pamukkale. 
Rooms are the hotel are equipped with air conditioning, Satellite TV, kettles and en-suite facilities.
Hotel amenities include hot spring baths, hammams and an on site sauna.

A luxury option, in the region of Pamukkale, land of the cotton castles. The Adempira Hotel and Spa offers 5-star accommodation, just a few miles from the main tourist monument Pamukkale. 
Rooms are the hotel are equipped with air conditioning, Satellite TV, kettles and en-suite facilities.
Hotel amenities include hot spring baths, hammams and an on site sauna.

Gamirasu Cave Hotel

Gamirasu Cave Hotel

Urgup

Local rating

Our rating

 Gamirasu Cave Hotel Gamirasu Cave Hotel

The Gamirasu Cave Hotel is found in Ayvali, Cappadocia, known for its unique landscape of rock formations. The hotel is built into one of these rock formations, and is thus known as a cave hotel. Each fully-equipped suite has its own design, while facilities include a restaurant and conference centre. The city centre is within walking distance.

The Gamirasu Cave Hotel is found in Ayvali, Cappadocia, known for its unique landscape of rock formations. The hotel is built into one of these rock formations, and is thus known as a cave hotel. Each fully-equipped suite has its own design, while facilities include a restaurant and conference centre. The city centre is within walking distance.

Voxx Beach Boutique Hotel

Voxx Beach Boutique Hotel

Marmaris

Local rating

Our rating

 Voxx Beach Boutique Hotel Voxx Beach Boutique Hotel

Coming Soon

Coming Soon

Doğan Hotel

Doğan Hotel

Muratpaşa/Antalya

Local rating

Our rating

 Doğan Hotel Doğan Hotel

coming soon

coming soon

Nidya Marina Boutique

Nidya Marina Boutique

Fethiye/Muğla

Local rating

Our rating

 Nidya Marina Boutique Nidya Marina Boutique

coming soon

coming soon

Ramada Plaza by Wyndham

Ramada Plaza by Wyndham

Konya

Local rating

Our rating

 Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Ramada Plaza by Wyndham

The Ramada Plaza by Wyndham is a great choice for those looking for high-end accommodation in the heart of Konya. The property is location just 5 miles from the Mevlana Museum and Alaadin Mosque.
Rooms at the hotel are well appointed with all modern comforts, including air conditioning, soundproofing, kettle, satellite TV. Ameneties within the hotel include a hammam, spa and wellness centre in addition to an indoor swimming pool.

The Ramada Plaza by Wyndham is a great choice for those looking for high-end accommodation in the heart of Konya. The property is location just 5 miles from the Mevlana Museum and Alaadin Mosque.
Rooms at the hotel are well appointed with all modern comforts, including air conditioning, soundproofing, kettle, satellite TV. Ameneties within the hotel include a hammam, spa and wellness centre in addition to an indoor swimming pool.

Options

Our tours are designed to include all that you need to enjoy a really special time in the destination you‘re visiting. However, we do also offer some extra options to complement the tour and add some additional sightseeing or activities, or some extra time at either end of the tour.

All accommodation based options (e.g. Single supplements, extra nights, cruise upgrades) should be booked and paid for in advance so that we can make the appropriate arrangements. Other options may either be booked and paid for in advance or while you are on the tour, though we recommend booking in advance to ensure there are no issues with availability.

Many options are priced the same throughout the year, but some may incur single or high season supplements - full details are given on the tour reservation form or on request.

Single room supplement (TUSGTE)

From R20620*

Single room supplement (TUSGTE)

Min numbers: 1 *Based on 1 person/s


This tour is based on twin/double shared hotel rooms. This option books a single room in all the accommodation throughout the tour. If you are a single traveller and would be happy to share a room, let us know and we will see if we can pair you up with another single traveller of the same sex. If a room share is not available when you book then we will add the single room supplement to your booking and it will be payable with your balance payment unless we have arranged a room share for you by then. If a room share is arranged after you have paid the supplement then we will refund it to you. Room shares are arranged in order of booking.

Note: Single supplement prices may vary seasonally.

Extra day in Istanbul - pre-tour

From R1660*

Extra day in Istanbul - pre-tour

Min numbers: 1 *Based on 2 person/s


This option adds an extra day to the start of your tour, staying in the same hotel as the main tour itself (subject to availability). On tours which includes airport transfers, these are still included on your extra day. Prices shown are per person and based on two people sharing.

Note: Single room and peak season supplements apply.

Extra day in Istanbul - post-tour

From R1660*

Extra day in Istanbul - post-tour

Min numbers: 1 *Based on 2 person/s


This option adds an extra day to the end of your tour, staying in the same hotel as the main tour itself (subject to availability). On tours which includes airport transfers, these are still included on your extra day. Prices shown are per person and based on two people sharing.

Note: Single room and peak season supplements apply.

Tour Notes

The detailed Tour Notes below have been written to give you some more detailed information about how the tour runs, what to expect, and how to prepare for your holiday. We recommend downloading an up to date copy of these shortly before you travel in case of any changes.

Expand all Close all


  1. Accommodation

Our tours in Turkey use a range of hotels at the local 3, 4 and 5-star level with some boutique style properties also used on some tours. Please check the Accommodation section for more information on the normal hotels used on this tour. This list is given as a guide though and hotels may change from time to time to others of a similar standard.
Accommodation levels and hotels are slightly different in Turkey to general Western standards. We regularly inspect all the hotels we use to ensure that the service you receive is as close as possible to your expectations. Please check your hotel room when you first arrive (hot water, cleanliness etc.), as our rep or your guide will be available to assist in case of any problems.

Please check the Single Room Supplement option for details on room sharing options and charges for solo travellers on this tour.

We will contact you with your arrival hotel details normally a couple of weeks before departure.

Check-in Times: Official hotel check- in times in Turkey are between 14.00 and 15.00. However, we do always try to ensure that if you arrive early, you can check into your room as soon as possible. We can nearly always get you into your hotel rooms well before midday, but please understand that it is out of our control if the hotel is full and it takes a little longer. You will have full use of the hotel facilities while you wait if there is a short delay.


  2. ANZAC Day Departures

ANZAC Day means many different things to different people. To some it is a true memorial service to pay respects to and remember family members or countrymen who lost their lives defending their homeland in World War I, while to others it symbolises a sense of community or belonging to the New Zealand and Australian way of life. For non Anzac nationals it remains a moving and important ceremonial day that brings thoughts of the sacrifices that previous generations have made for us, wherever we may come from.

Whichever may apply to you, this is a very special event that brings together many thousands of people every year on the shores of the Gallipoli peninsular on the western coast of Turkey.

We run special ANZAC day departures on all of our Turkey tours. The standard itineraries for each tour are adjusted slightly on these departures to coincide with the memorial services and to make the most of your time at Gallipoli. These special departures are indicated on the dates & prices table for each tour. Due to demand, group sizes on these dates may increase to a maximum of 45.

All of our ANZAC departures arrive at Gallipoli Cove early in the afternoon on the 24th giving us enough time to visit the museum and secure space for our groups. We then spend the night outdoors at the Cove waiting for the evocative dawn service to start. Afterwards, depending on the makeup of our group, the Australians will head to Lone Pine and the New Zealanders to Chunuk Bair for their country’s individual memorial service. Rest assured though that these special departures are not just about the ANZAC service. They all have their standard itineraries built around the service so you will still get to experience the history, culture and amazing sites that Turkey has to offer.


  3. Transport

Our trips feature a mix of different transport options. We want you to feel like you’re really experiencing the country you’re travelling through, but at the same time we want you to finish journeys refreshed enough to enjoy the next stage of the tour. The distances involved in Turkey mean that we use private vehicles and tourist coaches throughout this tour.


  4. Transfers

All our Turkey tours (except tours which feature Gulets) include an airport meet and greet and transfer service on the first day of your tour. This is available from/to both of Istanbul's airports; Istanbul Ataturk (IST) and Sabiha Gokcen (SAW). Our representative will be holding an Encounters Travel signboard with your name displayed for easy identification. If you can't find our representative, our emergency contact numbers are given in your tour confirmation voucher.

No refund is available on missed transfers or portions of your trip owing to incorrect flight details being provided or delayed flight arrival. Any additional cost incurred in order to meet up with your group is at your own expense.

If your flights arrive/depart before/after the tour starts/ends then we will be very happy to arrange additional accommodation and airport transfers for you. We will aim to book these in the same hotel as the main tour, though this will be subject to availability (upgraded hotels are also available on request). If you do not book your additional accommodation through us, then our arrival/departure service is not included and you will need to make your own airport transfer arrangements.

Welcome meeting: Our group tours will commence with a welcome meeting at 7pm in the reception of your hotel, where you will have the chance to meet your guide and the rest of your tour group. For those arriving after 7pm, details regarding Day 2 activities will be left at reception.


  5. International flights

We want to give you as much flexibility as possible when it comes to booking your holiday with us. So, to take account of people with varying travel plans, we don’t include your international flights in the main tour price. We are however very happy to suggest flights to go with the tour. Please contact us with your preferred dates and departure airport and we’ll give you a selection of airlines, times and fares to choose from.

Your airport arrival & departure transfers are included on the first and last days of the tour. Nearly all our Turkey tours start and finish in Istanbul and are served by Istanbul airport (IST). Transfers from other airports are also available on request but may incur an extra fee. 

We do also sometimes advertise flight inclusive packages from selected airports. Where these are shown on our website, prices are correct at the time of quoting, but are subject to continued availability of the fare used. Prices will be reconfirmed at the time of booking, and we will also provide the flight times and airline details before tickets are issued. 
Flight inclusive prices are based on the cheapest Economy ticket class available which is generally non-refundable and non-changeable unless the flight is cancelled for reasons such as Covid-19, in which case the airlines are more flexible. More flexible ticket options, as well as Premium Economy and Business Class tickets are available on request for an additional supplement. Any changes made to flight inclusive bookings will be subject to the airline rules on your ticket. 


  6. Group Size/Tour Leaders/Guides

We are committed to being a small group operator, as we feel this gives everyone in the group the best chance to get to know their fellow travellers and to hear and make the most of their guide. There’s no point in us providing great guides if you’ve got to peer over numerous shoulders to see them! So, we set our Turkey group departures to have a maximum of 20 travellers (ANZAC Day departures may be larger). During the Covid-19 pandemic maximum group sizes are reduced to 8 people. 

In Turkey we provide fully trained, local English-speaking guides for all of the sightseeing tours. Our local reps in all the towns and cities en-route are also at your service, and will be handling all the practical arrangements for the tour. At Encounters Travel we try to use local Turkish guides and reps as much as possible. We feel this gives you the best experience of the country and the sites you are seeing. 


  7. Entrance Fees

The tour price includes entrance fees to all the tourist sites mentioned in the itinerary . You will need to cover the cost of entrance to any other extra sites that you may wish to visit (this excludes tours which feature a gulet - on these tours entrance fees are not included and any required entrance fees should be paid locally).

Camera Fees: Photography is restricted in various ways at different sites. Often flash photography is often forbidden to protect the exhibits and ancient pigments, and sometimes cameras are not allowed in at all. Please respect these rules as they are there partly for your benefit. Tickets are not required for normal cameras, but if you have a video camera, if its use is permitted there will normally be a charge.


  8. Tipping

Tipping or Bahsis (bahk-sheesh) is common practice in Turkey, as a sign of appreciation for services provided for everything from table service in a restaurant to a massage in a Turkish bath. Wages for service staff in Turkey are very low and tips are a necessary supplement to meagre incomes.. Your tour price includes a contribution to various tips that your tour guide and driver will make along the way to ensure the smooth running of your tour.

This tipping kitty does not cover your tour guide or driver though. You may therefore wish to tip them at the end of the time they spend with you.  You should not feel obliged to tip any particular amount, and should consider your personal budget and your satisfaction with the service provided. We are often asked to provide a guide however:

Restaurants and taxis: Local markets and basic restaurants - leave the loose change. For more up-market restaurants we suggest 5% to 10% of your bill.

Local guides: Throughout your trip you may at times have a local guide in addition to your tour guide or tour leader. We suggest around GBP 1.50 / EUR 2.0 / USD 2 per person per day for local guides.

Drivers: You may have a range of private drivers on your trip. Some may be with you for a short journey while others may be with you for several days. We would suggest a higher tip for those more involved with the group however GBP 1.50 / EUR 2 / USD 2 per person per day is generally appropriate.

Gulet Boat Trips: If you are travelling through Southern Turkey on a Gulet boat trip we suggest GBP 1.50 / EUR 2 / USD 2 per person per day for the boat staff.

Tour guide: As a guideline we suggest around GBP 20-35 / USD 35-50 / EUR 25-45 per person for the whole tour, but this is ultimately up to you.


  9. Health and Vaccinations

You should ensure you are fully insured for medical emergencies including emergency evacuation and repatriation.

Recommended vaccinations and other health protection measures vary according to the country you are visiting and where you are travelling from. We recommend you contact your GP/medical practitioner or a travel clinic for current information on vaccinations needed for your destination.
You should ensure that you are up to date with vaccines and boosters recommended for your normal life at home, including for example, vaccines required for occupational risk of exposure, lifestyle risks and underlying medical conditions. In addition, additional courses or boosters normally recommended for Turkey are Hepatitis A and Tetanus.

More information is available here: Turkey
Malaria map - there is low risk malaria in some south eastern regions, not visited on our tours.
Yellow fever certificates are not required.


  10. Passports and Visas

Passports should be valid for at least six months after your departure from the country. Please do not bring an almost full or almost expired passport. Visa arrangements are the responsibility of the traveller, and requirements are subject to change by the local authorities.

Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter Turkey, and need to obtain it in advance online through http://www.evisa.gov.tr. Applicants just need to log on to the following link, provide the requested information, (after the application is approved) make online payment and download their e-Visa. More information is available here  http://www.mfa.gov.tr/visa-information-for-foreigners.en.mfa

From the 2nd March 2020 all UK nationals will not need to obtain a visa for Turkey (for visits of up to 90 days in each 180 day period). This will also apply to citizens of the Schengen area countries Austria, Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain and Poland.


  11. Time

Turkey Time is GMT plus 2 hours. Daylight saving adjustments of 1 hour are applied, starting at the end of March and finishing at the end of October.


  12. Money - Turkey

The Turkish lira was re-valued at the end of 2004 to become the ‘New Turkish Lira’. The word ‘New’ has now been dropped, and we are back to ‘Turkish Lira’ again (TRY).

It is normally cheaper to convert money to Turkish Lira in Turkey than at home. Using an ATM or a credit card will often get you the best possible exchange rates; the post and telephone office (PTT) and banks offer very reasonable rates, too. Try to use ATM machines that are attached to banks while they are open, so that if your card is swallowed you can go into the bank and get it released back to you.

It is difficult for us to specify the money that you will spend per day, however, as a general rule USD 20-50 per day can provide you with additional meals, tipping, snacks & drinks. Should you wish to purchase many souvenirs or other luxuries, of which there is a diverse range, you will have to budget for these.

A mixture of cash and credit cards are the best forms of currency. Credit cards are accepted in most restaurants, bars and pubs. MasterCard and Visa are most welcomed; American Express cards work at some ATMs and AmEx offices. Credit cards are also useful for cash advances, which allow you to withdraw Lira instantly from associated banks and ATMs throughout Turkey. Cash cards and ATM’s are widespread in most of Turkey including in Istanbul, Canakkale, Selcuk, Marmaris, Pamukkale, Fethiye, Kas, Cappadocia, and Ankara.


  13. What to take

Luggage: Suitcases, rucksacks or fabric holdalls are all fine to bring with you to Turkey. You should also bring a small daypack/bag to take out during the day. Your main luggage will normally be left in the hotel during your sightseeing trips – you will not need to carry it far, and there are nearly always hotel porters to assist.

Luggage limits: There is no luggage limit for this tour. However, most airlines restrict you to between 20kg and 25kg for your hold luggage and between 5kg and 10kg for hand luggage. Please check with your airline before travelling to the airport.

Clothing: Turkey’s climate changes drastically, with cold winters and hot summers. In western Turkey from late March to May, spring brings with it average temperatures of around 15C, though the weather does gradually warm up with sunny days interspersed with rain showers. From May to the end of October, the climate is hot and sunny, getting cooler as the year progresses. In Central Turkey around Cappadocia, the climate is cold with regular snowfalls from the end of November until late February. With spring the weather warms and the snow disappears altogether, though it still remains cold at night and first thing in the morning. Summer starts from May onwards, with temperature reaching around the mid 30’s. The East of Turkey from late May has warmed up considerably, and stays hot until late September with sunny days, but the night time temperatures start to drop. By the end of October you can expect the first of the winter snows. So you must pack for cool and potentially wet conditions late in the year.
Modesty rates highly in some parts of Turkey, especially for women and in the East, so please ensure clothes are loose fitting and not too revealing. Loose shorts are OK in tourist sites, as are T-shirts, but these should not show too much bare flesh (your shoulders should remain covered). In Eastern Turkey villages, and any mosques throughout the country, legs and arms should be covered. Attidudes are more relaxed in the seaside resorts.

Other items: We also recommend you bring a sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, a basic first aid kit, toiletries, money belt, small torch, camera & charger.


  14. Voltage

Sockets are two round pronged and 220 volts (Type C). Universal adaptors are available in most airport shops if you don't have one already. Standard European adapters will work fine, though sometimes they may feel a little loose in the sockets. All hotel rooms have electrical sockets where you can re-charge cameras, phones etc. Hair dryers are normally available on request from the hotel reception if not in your room already.
If you have US appliances (110 volts) you will need a voltage converter as well as a plug adapter.


  15. Dates & Prices

We run regular small-group departure on this tour starting on Saturdays from April to October. All departures are guaranteed to run with a minumum of 2 people. The tour is also available privately if you do not want to join a group, or our departure dates do not work for you. Please contact us for details and for a personalised quote based on your preferred departure date and the number of people in your party. 


  16. Booking & Payment

If you would like to book a place on this tour, please complete the online reservation form on our website (via the Dates & Prices tab on the tour page). You may make a deposit or full payment online, or just hold a reservation if you prefer (full payments are due 8 weeks before departure). We will then contact you with more details about how to complete your booking. Payments may be made by debit or credit card (subject to a card processing fee), or by making a bank transfer, or posting us a cheque/bank draft. Full details will be provided in your booking confirmation email. Please contact us if you would like any more information or have any questions before making a booking.


  17. Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our tours and needs to cover personal accident & liability, medical expenses and repatriation, travel delay & abandonment. We also strongly recommend that you take out cover against cancellation and lost/stolen baggage. Personal medical insurance does not normally provide sufficient cover and is generally not suitable for travel on our tours. You will not be able to join your tour if you have not provided us with details of your insurance or if you arrive without cover in place (no refunds will be due in this event). More information...

You may arrange your own insurance, or you can take advantage of a comprehensive policy that we can arrange for you through Endsleigh Insurance which has been designed to be suitable for our tours. The policy is available to travellers of all nationalities and you do not need to live in the UK  to take out the policy. For full details of cover provided, prices and to apply for one of our policies, please complete travel insurance application form.
Note: Any country that borders the Mediterranean is considered as 'Europe' for the purposes of travel insurance (including Turkey, Israel, Egypt and Morocco). If you are doing a tour that visits one country in 'Europe' and one that is 'Worldwide' (for example, an Egypt and Jordan tour), then you need a 'Worldwide' policy. When completing the form you should enter your travel dates including any extra days involved in overnight flights or connecting travel between your home and the tour. Our policies are not able to cover any extra time or activities other than your tour and options booked with us and your travel to & from home.

Note - to comply with insurance sales regulations, our travel insurance policies are only available to customers booking directly with us. If you have booked through a travel agent you will need to arrange your own insurance.

If your tour includes car hire, ior if you plan to arrange a hot air balloon flight locally or do some scuba diving during your tour, you should check the small print in your policy to make sure these are covered (these are covered in our policy). Please also check the maximum altitude that you will be reaching and that full cover including emergency evacuation is provided up to this altitude.

If you are taking expensive camera gear or other electronic equipment with you then please check the coverage and the fine print of your policy to ensure that you have sufficient cover.

IMPORTANT:  We must have your travel insurance details (policy number and type of insurance) before you depart or you may not be allowed to join the tour.  If you haven't told us already, please let us know the details when you can. You should take a paper copy of your insurance policy with you as you may be asked to show this at the start of the tour.

Covid-19
Before purchasing any travel insurance, please check the coverage provided for situations related to Covid-19, and for the rules about government travel advice. Your normal policy may not be suitable. Details about our own policies cover levels are given on our website


  18. Language - Turkey

The official language of Turkey is Turkish. In addition, between 10 per cent and 15 per cent of the population speaks a different mother tongue, usually Kurdish or Arabic. Turkish words are spelled with an adapted Roman alphabet. The language is phonetic; each letter has only one sound that is always pronounced distinctly.

You'll find you won't have much of a problem with the language barrier. English is well communicated by many Turks. Below you will find some important phrases that will have you sounding like a Turk in no time!

Yes = Evet (eh-vet)                                                No = Hayir (hah-yuhr)
Maybe = Belki (behl-key)                                         Please = Lutfen (loot-fen)
Thank you = Tesekkur (tesh-eccur)                          Pardon me = Pardon (phar-don)
Who = Kim (kim)                                                    When = Ne zaman (neh zah-mahn)
Today = Bugun (boo-ghoon)                                   Yesterday = Dun (dhuen)
Tomorrow = Yarin (yar-in)                                        I'm sorry = Ozur dilerim (oz-oor del-eh-rim)
Help = Imdat (eem-daht)                                         Police = Polis (po-lis)
Hello = Merhaba (mehrhaba)                                    Goodbye = Hoscakal (hosh-cha-khal)
Good night = Iyi geceler (ee-yee geh-jeh-lehr)           How are you ? = Nasilsin ? (nah-sil-sihn)
Open = Acik (ach-oek)                                             Closed = Kapali (kap-ah-lee)
Bad = Kotu (koh-too)                                              Good = Iyi (eeh-yea)
Hot = Sicak (sijark)                                                  Cold = Soguk (sooh-ook)
Bill, please = Hesap lutfen (hesarp, lewtfen)                My name is Paul = Ismim Paul (Eas-meem Paul)
I am a vegetarian = Vejeteryanim (vej-e-tar-ian-eam)   I need a doctor = Doktora ihtiyacim (dohk-tor-ah eeh-tee-yajum)
Do you speak English ? = Ingilizce biliyor musun (een-geal-je bee-leh-your-moe-sean)
I don't speak Turkish. = Turkce bilmiyorum (Terkche-bil-me-you-room)
I don't understand = Anlamiyorum (ahn-luh-mee-your-room)


  19. Financial Security

We are a UK registered company and are committed to providing our customers with financial protection to provide peace of mind and to allow you to book with confidence.
We have therefore partnered with Trust My Travel Ltd., which provides financial protection services to over 2000 partners around the world. Funds paid to us by our customers are protected via an Insurance policy held by Trust My Travel. Each traveller and the description of services sold is declared against Trust My Travel’s insurance policy directly against our financial failure. In the event of our insolvency, you will be refunded for any unfulfilled products and/or repatriation to the UK (where applicable). Please see our website or booking conditions for more information.


  20. Responsible Tourism

It is impossible not to have an impact on the local environment, cultures and eco-systems when you travel. However, it is very possible to try and ensure that these impacts are as limited, or positive as possible. We are committed to ensuring that we try to leave our host countries in a better state than we found them and encourage and assist our travellers to help us with this.
The following are a few simple tips that require very little effort on your part but which will help ensure that any effect you have on the locations you visit is positive rather than negative.

  • Don't prejudge: Things in different countries will almost certainly be different. That doesn't make them worse or inferior, just different.
  • Communicate: Don't expect locals to speak your language. Take the trouble to learn a few words or phrases of the local language. Don't worry about sounding silly. Most locals are patient and accommodating and appreciate you making the effort to communicate in their language.
  • Conserve energy: Be careful not to waste valuable resources. Use local resources sparingly. Switch off lights, air-conditioning and fans when you leave the hotel room and don't waste water. Remove superfluous packaging. Many countries have far less efficient waste disposal systems than ours. Remove packaging from newly acquired items before leaving home.
  • Don't litter: No matter how untidy or dirty the country you're travelling in may look to you, avoid littering, as there is no need to add to the environment's stress. Many of the countries we visit have a tough challenge dealing with rubbish and waste. Please consider taking home as much plastic waste as you can (e.g. water bottles).
  • Choose environmentally friendly products: By using environmentally friendly (bio degradable) sun creams, shampoos and detergents you can help reduce pollution.
  • Respect local customs and traditions: As you are a guest in these countries, you should also comply with the local customs. If you are friendly and well mannered, the locals will reciprocate and it will only enhance your experience. It's important to follow dress and behaviour guidelines especially when visiting religious or sacred sites (your tour leader will advise you how best to do this).
  • If a client commits an illegal act the client may be excluded from the tour and Encounters Travel shall cease to have responsibility to/for them. No refund will be given for any unused services.

All porters are employed and equipped following guidelines set by the International Porter Protection Group (IPPG).


  21. Follow Us Online

You can stay in touch with us online by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We post updates on relevant travel news in our destination countries, special offers and discounts and other interesting travel related news and information.
www.facebook.com/encounterstravel
www.twitter.com/encounterstravl (yes, without the 'e')


  22. Before you travel

It is important when considering and preparing to travel anywhere in the world that you have a good understanding of the country you are visiting, its laws and customs, and the possible risks and situations that may occur. This includes specific risks related to your itinerary (eg. does it involve water & can you swim, are you fit enough for the activities included), as well as more general risks such as terrorism and natural disasters.

General details and links to more information about health risks, visa requirements, money, and travel insurance are given in these tour notes. We recommend that you re-read all these before your departure as well as the small print of your travel insurance policy so you know exactly what is covered and what is not.

You should take copies of your important travel documents with you and ideally also store them online securely as a backup. Make sure that you have given us your emergency contact details and told that person where and when you are travelling. Ensure you take enough money with you and that you have access to emergency funds.

Finally, you should read through and stay updated with the current official government travel advice for your destination. We are registered partners with the UK Foreign Office's 'Travel Aware' campaign which provides further useful and invaluable information.

'Travel Aware' campaign

Reviews

POSTS FROM OUR BLOG Turkey Encounters

Need some travel inspiration or looking for some handy travel tips? Our blog provides excellent insight into our travel destinations - from tour updates to country guides, packing lists to little known things to do, you'll find it all in our travel blog.

https://ucarecdn.com/a9343fad-36e3-4125-8af8-38176c0262d1/
https://ucarecdn.com/a9343fad-36e3-4125-8af8-38176c0262d1/ By: Danniell Saunders 2011-11-15 19:00:00

Turkey – The Blue Mosque

In Turkey

Istanbul began as the city of Byzantium in 667 BC under the ancient Greeks. Later called Constantinople, it became the imperial seat of the Roman Empire.

https://ucarecdn.com/371e1b76-4214-44ca-88bf-9aa5616277ec/
https://ucarecdn.com/371e1b76-4214-44ca-88bf-9aa5616277ec/ By: Martin Hosie 2016-01-01 19:00:00

Places to Visit in Turkey

In Turkey

One of the leading tourism destinations in the world, Turkey effortlessly combines the old and the new perfectly – the country boasts stunning scenery, a rich history and diverse landscapes.

https://ucarecdn.com/cac4ef8f-9ff8-49ab-94cc-4a07f6d53dd6/
https://ucarecdn.com/cac4ef8f-9ff8-49ab-94cc-4a07f6d53dd6/ By: Ant Horrobin 2016-10-04 16:00:00

A brief history of Turkey

In Turkey

Turkey has a long a varied history which dates back as far as 50,000 years where evidence of habitation can be found within a cave at Karain, north of modern day Antalya.