From Istanbul: 5-Day Private/Shared Eastern Anatolia Tour

Setting out on a captivating 5-day tour of Eastern Anatolia from Istanbul can be a remarkable experience. This private or shared journey takes travelers through stunning landscapes, historic sites, and cultural wonders. From the intricately carved Akdamar Church on Akdamar Island to the mesmerizing Muradiye Waterfall, the tour promises a diverse array of highlights. With round-trip flights, accommodations, and an English-speaking expert guide, the experience promises to be both immersive and convenient. What awaits those who venture on this adventure?

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Key Points

5-day private or shared tour of Eastern Anatolia, departing from Istanbul, exploring highlights like Akdamar Island, Van Cats, Mount Ararat, and Divriği Grand Mosque.
Tour price starts at $930.89 per person, including round-trip flights, accommodations, entrance fees, transportation, and an English-speaking guide.
Itinerary includes visits to cultural and natural attractions, such as Akdamar Church, Muradiye Waterfall, İshak Paşa Palace, and Çıldır Lake.
Not suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility issues due to long travel times and potentially strenuous activities.
Tour includes comprehensive services, but excludes meals other than breakfast, personal expenses, tips, and travel insurance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This 5-day private or shared tour explores the captivating Eastern Anatolia region, departing from Istanbul.

Priced from $930.89 per person, it offers a comprehensive itinerary with highlights like Akdamar Island, Van Cats, Mount Ararat, and Divriği Grand Mosque.

The tour includes round-trip flights, accommodations with breakfasts, entrance fees, transportation, and an English-speaking guide.

Travelers can expect long travel times between destinations, and some sites may be under restoration.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues.

Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance qualify for a full refund.

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Daily Itinerary Highlights

The 5-day Eastern Anatolia tour kicks off with a visit to Akdamar Island, nestled in the serene waters of Lake Van.

Travelers will explore the historic Akdamar Church, learning about its unique architecture and religious significance.

Next, they’ll discover the famous Van Cats at the Cat House and visit a local silver workshop.

Day 2 takes them to Muradiye Waterfall, the grand İshak Paşa Palace, and the ancient Ani Ruins, with stunning views of Mount Ararat.

On Day 3, they’ll sled on Çıldır Lake, tour Kars Castle, and shop for local delicacies like Kars cheese and honey.

Inclusions

The 5-day Eastern Anatolia tour package includes round-trip flights, accommodations with breakfasts, and entrance fees to all the sites visited during the itinerary.

An English-speaking expert guide accompanies the group throughout the journey. Transportation via van, bus, train, ferry, and even sled is provided. Compulsory seat insurance is also included.

The tour excludes meals other than breakfast, personal expenses, tips, and travel insurance. Guests should bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and other essentials like sunglasses and a camera.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, or those with mobility impairments.

Important Information

Although weather can vary throughout the Eastern Anatolia region, travelers should pack accordingly with comfortable shoes, warm clothing, sunglasses, and a hat.

This tour isn’t suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility issues. Expect long travel times between destinations, and some sites may only be viewed from the outside due to ongoing restorations.

Visitors should be aware that the Van Cats, a unique breed, are protected and can’t be removed from their natural habitat.

Plus, flash photography isn’t allowed at certain historical sites during the tour.

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Akdamar Island, Lake Van, and Van Cats

Akdamar Island, situated in the serene Lake Van, provides visitors with a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

The island is home to the Akdamar Church, a stunning Armenian cathedral adorned with intricate stone carvings. Visitors can explore the church’s history and admire its architectural splendor.

Lake Van itself is a captivating attraction, known for its unique ecosystem and the endemic Van cats, a breed with striking amber eyes and distinctive fur.

These cats are deeply rooted in the local culture and are protected, ensuring their conservation for future generations to appreciate.

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Muradiye Waterfall, İshak Paşa Palace, and Ani Ruins

As travelers venture deeper into Eastern Anatolia, they’ll encounter the Muradiye Waterfall, a captivating natural wonder nestled in the region’s rugged terrain.

This cascading masterpiece offers:

Breathtaking views, as the water thunders down from a height of 30 meters.
A serene environment, perfect for nature lovers seeking a moment of tranquility.
Opportunities to hike alongside the falls and explore the surrounding forests.
Insights into the geological history of the area, shaped by the region’s dynamic landscape.

Next, the tour explores the majestic İshak Paşa Palace and the ancient Ani Ruins, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Eastern Anatolia.

Çıldır Lake, Kars Castle, and Local Shopping

On the third day, travelers have the opportunity to enjoy sledding on the frozen surface of Çıldır Lake.

After this winter activity, the tour proceeds to explore Kars Castle, an imposing medieval fortress that showcases the region’s rich history.

Nearby, the Kümbet Mosque impresses with its intricate architecture.

Visitors also stop at the Namık Kemal House, which honors the renowned Turkish writer and intellectual.

The day concludes with free time for exploring local markets, where travelers can discover delightful regional specialties like Kars cheese and honey.

This immersive experience allows a deeper appreciation of Eastern Anatolia’s cultural heritage.

Divriği Grand Mosque and Sivas

Leaving the winter wonderland of Çıldır Lake behind, the tour now shifts its focus to the architectural marvels of Eastern Anatolia.

First, the group travels via the scenic Eastern Express train from Erzurum to Divriği, marveling at the landscape along the way.

In Divriği, they visit the Grand Mosque, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its:

Intricate stone carvings
Harmonious blend of Islamic and Byzantine architectural styles
Historic significance as a major religious and cultural center
Preservation as an outstanding example of Seljuk Turkish architecture

Finally, the tour explores the historic city of Sivas, home to impressive madrasahs and other medieval landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Solo Travelers Book This Tour?

Yes, solo travelers can book this tour. The tour is available as either a private or shared group experience, providing flexibility for individual travelers.

Is Wifi Available on the Bus/Train During the Tour?

The tour does not specify if WiFi is available on the bus or train during the trip. Travelers should inquire with the tour operator about internet connectivity during the journey, as it may vary between transportation modes.

Can the Tour Accommodate Vegetarian/Vegan Dietary Needs?

The tour can accommodate vegetarian and vegan dietary needs. Travelers should notify the tour operator in advance so appropriate meal arrangements can be made during the tour. Meals other than breakfast are not included, providing flexibility for dietary preferences.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

While the tour doesn’t explicitly mention student or senior discounts, it’s worth inquiring with the tour operator. They may offer discounted rates for these groups, so it’s best to ask about any available pricing options.

Is It Possible to Extend the Tour or Add Additional Days?

Yes, it’s possible to extend the tour or add additional days. The tour operator offers flexible arrangements, allowing travelers to customize the itinerary to their preferences. Additional costs may apply for extended stays or added destinations.

The Sum Up

This 5-day Eastern Anatolia tour from Istanbul offers a captivating exploration of the region’s stunning natural and cultural highlights. Travelers can visit iconic sites like Akdamar Church, discover the unique Muradiye Waterfall, and enjoy adventurous activities such as sledding on Çıldır Lake. With round-trip flights, accommodations, and an expert guide, this comprehensive tour provides an immersive experience of Eastern Anatolia’s rich history and natural beauty.