From Istanbul: 8-Day Eastern Anatolia and Mesopotamia Tour

Discovering Eastern Turkey: An 8-Day Adventure from Istanbul

Traveling through Turkey’s southeastern regions offers a tapestry of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes—if you know where to look. This 8-day tour from Istanbul, operated by Tripster Travel Cappadocia, promises to show you the very best of Eastern Anatolia and Mesopotamia, from historic ruins to stunning waterfalls and sacred sites.

What makes this experience appealing? First, the expert-guided tours enrich your understanding with insights from knowledgeable guides. Second, the journey covers iconic sights like Mount Nemrut and Ani Ruins, blending history with scenic beauty. Third, the varied transportation—from flights to ferries—keeps the adventure comfortable and dynamic.

The only potential downside? The itinerary involves long travel days between some destinations, which might challenge those with limited mobility or a preference for more relaxed pacing. Still, if you’re a traveler eager for a comprehensive and authentic Eastern Turkey experience, this tour offers great value.

This tour suits those who love history, culture, and nature, and are ready for an immersive journey through Turkey’s lesser-explored but incredibly rewarding eastern regions.

Key Points

Comprehensive Exploration: This 8-day trip hits all the highlights of Southeastern Anatolia, from ancient ruins to scenic waterfalls.
Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides help unpack the significance of each site, making history come alive.
Variety of Transport: The mix of flights, vans, ferries, and even sleds ensures a dynamic travel experience.
Authentic Encounters: Opportunities inside workshops, local markets, and traditional sites deepen your understanding of Turkish culture.
Value for Money: All entrance fees, accommodations, and flights are included, offering peace of mind and straightforward planning.
Long Travel Days: Be prepared for some extensive travel times between locations, which is worth considering if you prefer a more leisurely pace.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Review of the 8-Day Eastern Anatolia & Mesopotamia Tour

Starting Point: From Istanbul to Erzurum and Dark Canyon

Your adventure begins with a flight from Istanbul to Erzurum, setting the tone for a journey into Turkey’s less-traveled, yet mesmerizing, eastern territories. The first day involves arriving at Dark Kanyon, a stunning natural formation, and enjoying a breakfast before setting off on a jeep safari. The rugged terrain and panoramic views make this a memorable start, especially for those who love a bit of adventure early on.

Guests consistently mention that the guides do a good job explaining the geological formations and local flora, which adds an educational layer to scenic sightseeing. Most appreciated the combination of activity and nature, although the early start may require some extra coffee.

Erzurum and Kars: Historical Gems and Natural Wonders

Over the next day, the tour explores Erzurum’s castle and the Twins Minareted Madrasah, which showcase the city’s rich Islamic and medieval heritage. Moving on to Kars, travelers get a taste of historic fortifications and the Ani Ruins, often called the “City of 1001 Churches.” Here, the ancient walls, Lion Gate, and cathedral ruins tell silent stories of civilizations past.

Guests loved the guides’ detailed explanations of the ruins’ significance, especially around the Walls and Great Cathedral. One reviewer noted, “You get a real sense of the location’s importance in history, thanks to the guides’ storytelling.” The Tuzluca Cave adds a splash of natural beauty and unique geological formations worth noting.

Dogubeyazit, Ishak Pasha Palace, and Lake Van

The journey continues to Dogubeyazit, where the Ishak Pasha Palace offers a striking example of Ottoman architecture perched amid rugged mountains. Visitors describe the palace as “a fairy-tale fortress,” with many rooms and courtyards to explore.

Later, the tour visits the Muradiye Waterfall, the highest in eastern Turkey, offering a refreshing break amid lush scenery. The tour then heads to Lake Van, with a boat ride to Akdamar Island, famous for its church and stunning views. The boat ride is often highlighted as a peaceful, picturesque experience, with some reviews mentioning the chance to spot local birdlife.

Travelers consistently appreciated the expert guidance explaining the historical and religious significance of the church, which dates back centuries. Visiting the Cat House to see the Van Cats—noted for their striking eyes—adds a quirky, memorable element.

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Mardin and Midyat: Ancient Cities and Artisans

The next segment explores Old Mardin, a city famed for its medieval architecture, narrow streets, and vibrant market scene. Visitors love wandering the Ulu Mosque and soaking in the city’s unique blend of cultures.

From there, the journey takes you to Midyat, where Artuklu architecture and traditional crafts like Savat and Arubani workshops shine. Guests mention the Kasmiye Madrasah and the Dara Ancient City, which add layers to the historical tapestry.

The guided tours in both towns are praised for their friendly atmosphere and depth. One reviewer said, “Our guide, Mr. Hasan, was fantastic—so passionate about the history and craftsmanship.”

Diyarbakir and Mount Nemrut

Diyarbakır’s city walls and the 10 Arched Bridge are highlights, along with visits to archaeological museums and churches. The city’s architecture and history of diverse civilizations are brought vividly to life through expert commentary.

The final major stop is Mount Nemrut, home to the famous Eagle Tumulus and Septimius Severus Bridge. Most travelers find the sunrise at Mount Nemrut awe-inspiring, with the giant stone heads and statues creating a surreal scene. The guides help decode the significance of these monumental statues, making the experience both visually and intellectually satisfying.

Final Day: Gaziantep, Gobeklitepe, and Sunken City

The tour concludes with visits to Halfeti, where a boat tour to Savaan Village, known as the Sunken City, offers hauntingly beautiful views of submerged ruins. Travelers enjoy the lunch and local atmosphere, often remarking on the peaceful waters and historical intrigue.

Next, a visit to Gobeklitepe—a UNESCO World Heritage site—is a highlight for many, offering a glimpse into some of the world’s earliest religious structures. The tour wraps up in Sanliurfa, with its Lake, Abraham’s Cave, and the Mevvlid-i Halil Mosque. The energetic market scenes and archaeological museum round out the experience.

Practical Aspects and What to Expect

Transportation and Pacing

Throughout the tour, you’ll benefit from a variety of transport modes—flights between Istanbul and Erzurum, vans, ferries, and occasional sleds. The mix of transport keeps the journey dynamic but also means long hours on the road or in the air. Reviewers note that the long travel times are a consideration; packing snacks and being prepared for some fatigue is advisable.

Accommodations and Meals

Accommodations are included with breakfasts, simplifying logistics. While meals other than breakfast aren’t covered, many guests report enjoying local restaurants, especially in cities like Mardin and Diyarbakır, where traditional Turkish and Kurdish dishes shine.

Guides and Language

The guides are praised for their knowledgeability and friendliness. They speak English, Russian, and Turkish, and are known for sharing interesting stories and answering questions thoroughly. Many reviews highlight the guides’ ability to bring sites to life and explain their significance with clarity.

Costs and Value

Considering that entrance fees, flights, accommodations, and transport are covered, this tour offers good value, especially for those eager to see many sites without the hassle of planning each detail. The price is justified by the comprehensive itinerary, expert guides, and the included flights, which save travelers both money and time.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is ideal for travelers who crave culture and historic sites but are comfortable with a somewhat active schedule. It suits those interested in archaeology, religious history, and scenic landscapes, and who want a guided experience that takes care of logistics.

However, it’s less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those seeking a more relaxed pace, as some days involve substantial travel and walking around large sites.

The Sum Up

This 8-day tour from Istanbul to Eastern Turkey is a strong choice for history buffs, culture seekers, and those eager for a detailed look at Turkey’s lesser-known yet incredibly fascinating regions. The itinerary balances natural beauty, ancient ruins, and vibrant cities, all led by knowledgeable guides who enrich your understanding of the sites.

The combination of multiple transport modes, included flights, and all entrance fees makes it a convenient and cost-effective way to explore this diverse part of Turkey. Travelers will leave with a deeper appreciation for the region’s history, architecture, and landscapes, along with plenty of memorable photo opportunities.

While the pace can be demanding, especially with travel times, the experience rewards those ready to embrace the adventure. If you’re keen on uncovering hidden treasures and experiencing authentic Turkish culture away from the crowds, this tour offers a comprehensive, well-organized way to do so.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers round-trip flights, accommodations with breakfast, entrance fees to all sites, transportation by van, bus, train, ferry, sled, and a knowledgeable guide.

Are meals besides breakfast included?
No, meals other than breakfast are not covered, but many guests enjoy local restaurants for lunch and dinner.

Is there a lot of travel between destinations?
Yes, expect some long travel days, including flights and road trips, which are necessary to reach all the sites comfortably.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for children under 6, pregnant women, or travelers with mobility impairments or wheelchair needs due to the nature of site access and travel distances.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if plans change.

Are guides fluent in English?
Yes, guides are fluent in English, as well as Russian and Turkish, and are praised for their informative and friendly approach.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, sunglasses, a hat, camera, water, and weather-appropriate gear, as weather can vary greatly.

Will I see natural sites like waterfalls and lakes?
Absolutely, including Muradiye Waterfall, Lake Van, and boat rides around Akdamar Island—all offering scenic and photo-worthy moments.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
While not specified, it’s wise to consider the weather—spring and fall generally offer milder conditions for outdoor activities.

In short, this tour offers a detailed, immersive experience into Turkey’s eastern regions—perfect for those who want a guided, culturally rich adventure packed with history, natural beauty, and authentic encounters.

You can check availability for your dates here: