Embark on an extraordinary journey through the captivating remnants of the Hittite civilization. This 5-day tour, led by expert guides, offers a unique opportunity to explore iconic archaeological sites like Hattusa and Yazılıkaya. Explore the rich history and cultural treasures of Cappadocia, while enjoying comfortable accommodations and delicious meals. With a limited group size and flexible cancellation policy, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for history enthusiasts seeking a personalized exploration of the Hittite world.
Key Points
- This 5-day tour focuses on exploring Hittite archaeological sites, museums, and Cappadocia’s natural wonders with a specialist guide.
- The tour includes accommodations, meals, transportation, and expert guidance, catering to a maximum of 15 participants.
- Highlights include the Ankara Anatolian Civilizations Museum, the ancient city of Hattusa, and the Yazılıkaya sanctuary.
- Participants will hike through the picturesque Rose Valley and Red Valley in Cappadocia, and visit the Göreme Open Air Museum and Derinkuyu Underground City.
- The tour is available in English, Russian, and German, with flexible reservation options and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Overview
The "5 Days Hittite Monuments Tour with Specialist Guide" offers an immersive journey through the rich Hittite heritage of Anatolia.
Priced from $2,026.06 per person, the 5-day tour is limited to 15 participants and available in English, Russian, and German. Guests can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour includes accommodations, meals, transportation, and expert guidance, allowing travelers to explore Hittite archaeological sites, museums, and Cappadocia’s natural wonders.
With a focus on history and culture, this tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to discover the Hittite civilization.
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Itinerary Highlights
On day one, guests meet their guide at Ankara Airport by 09:00 and visit the Ankara Anatolian Civilizations Museum.
They then explore Alacahöyük and Çorum Museum before settling in Çorum for the night.
The second day takes them to the ancient city of Hattusa and Yazılıkaya, followed by a journey to Cappadocia.
Highlights on day three include:
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Hiking in the Rose Valley and Red Valley.
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Visiting the Göreme Open Air Museum and Derinkuyu Underground City.
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Exploring the Gümuşler Monastery.
The tour continues with a visit to the significant Neolithic settlement of Çatalhöyük and ends in Konya on day four.
Ankara Anatolian Civilizations Museum
As guests meet their guide at Ankara Airport, they first visit the Ankara Anatolian Civilizations Museum, one of Turkey’s premier archaeological institutions.
The museum showcases an impressive collection spanning 7500 years of Anatolian history. Guests explore galleries displaying Neolithic figurines, Hittite hieroglyphs, and Bronze Age artifacts.
The museum’s centerpiece is the Sphinx Gate from Alacahöyük, a Hittite royal monument. Visitors gain insights into the rich cultural heritage of the region, setting the stage for the upcoming Hittite sites on the itinerary.
The museum visit provides a valuable introduction to the Hittite civilization explored throughout the tour.
Hattusa and Yazılıkaya
After visiting the Ankara Anatolian Civilizations Museum, the tour moves on to explore the ancient city of Hattusa and the Yazılıkaya temple complex.
Hattusa, the capital of the Hittite Empire, offers a glimpse into the grandeur of this ancient civilization. The highlights include:
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The Lion Gate, a monumental entrance adorned with impressive stone carvings.
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The Sphinxes Gate, featuring intricate reliefs depicting mythological creatures.
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The Yazılıkaya sanctuary, a remarkable open-air temple with carved rock reliefs depicting Hittite gods and goddesses.
Taking in the rich history of the Hittites sets the stage for the next leg of the journey through Cappadocia.
More Great Tours NearbyCappadocia Exploration
From Hattusa, the tour moves to the captivating region of Cappadocia.
Travelers hike through the picturesque Rose Valley and Red Valley, marveling at the unique rock formations.
Next, they visit the Goreme Open Air Museum to see ancient rock-cut churches with stunning Byzantine frescoes.
The journey continues underground as the group explores the Derinkuyu Underground City, an expansive network of tunnels and chambers that provided shelter centuries ago.
The final stop is the Gumusler Monastery, where they uncover the region’s rich religious history.
Throughout, the expert guide provides insightful commentary to bring Cappadocia’s wonders to life.
Çatalhöyük and Konya
The tour then makes its way to Çatalhöyük, a significant Neolithic settlement that offers a glimpse into the lives of ancient hunter-gatherer societies.
This early farming community provides a rare opportunity to explore:
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Remnants of mud-brick houses and interconnected rooms that housed families.
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Intricately decorated walls adorned with murals, including depictions of animals and geometric patterns.
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Insights into the sophisticated social structures and religious practices of these pioneering civilizations.
From Çatalhöyük, the tour proceeds to Konya, where you will have the chance to explore the historical and cultural richness of this captivating region.
Hittite Period Sites
What highlights await as the tour explores the Hittite period sites?
Travelers will visit the impressive Fasıllar Monument, an ancient Hittite rock relief, and the stunning Eflatunpınar Monument, a significant Hittite shrine.
The tour also includes a stop at the breathtaking Eşrefoğulları Mosque, a unique example of Seljuk architecture.
Guests will learn about the rich history and cultural significance of these remarkable Hittite-era sites, gaining a deeper understanding of the ancient civilization that once thrived in this region.
The tour concludes at Ankara Airport around 17:00, marking the end of an immersive Hittite heritage experience.
Inclusions and Important Information
The tour package includes a one-way flight from Istanbul to Ankara, as well as transfer to the Istanbul airport.
Plus, the tour provides 4 nights of accommodation with breakfast, 5 days of guided tours by an expert English-speaking guide, and 5 lunches.
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 7, pregnant women, or individuals with certain medical conditions.
Participants should bring hiking shoes and aren’t allowed to consume alcohol or drugs.
The tour requires a minimum of 6 participants and is subject to changes due to external factors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Experience Level of the Specialist Guide?
The specialist guide is highly experienced, having extensive knowledge of the Hittite civilization and Anatolia’s rich history. They provide informed and engaging commentary throughout the tour, ensuring participants gain a deep understanding of the cultural context.
Can the Tour Be Customized for Individual Preferences?
The tour can be customized to individual preferences, though specific details may require additional fees and advance notice. Travelers should discuss any customization needs directly with the tour operator prior to booking.
Are There Any Special Dietary Accommodations Available?
The tour does not specifically mention dietary accommodations, but the company is likely able to cater to special dietary needs with advance notice. Guests should contact the provider to discuss any specific requirements.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexible policy allows customers to easily adjust their plans if needed.
Can Participants Extend Their Stay in Turkey After the Tour?
After the tour, participants can extend their stay in Turkey at their own expense. The tour company does not make any arrangements for an extended stay, but can provide recommendations upon request.
The Sum Up
This 5-day Hittite Monuments Tour offers an immersive exploration of the Hittite civilization’s rich history. Visitors will discover iconic archaeological sites, cultural treasures, and gain insights from expert guides. With comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and a personalized experience, this tour is a must-visit for history enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable adventure.
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