Border information: If you are joining in Tbilisi, you will most likely enter Georgia at Tbilisi International Airport (IATA code: TBS).There will be a pre-departure meeting at 6.00pm - on arrival please look out for a note from your leader with more information about this important meeting. Please note that many of the options listed below will only be possible for those with extra time in Tbilisi before the start of your trip with us - please contact your Sales Agent if you would like to book pre-tour accommodation with us to have extra time exploring Tbilisi. *Important note - do not bring any medicines containing tramadol, codeine, temazepam, morphine or opiates to Central Asia. These are illegal in all circumstances in most of Central Asia and you will risk arrest. If in doubt about a particular medicine, please do not bring it. See the notes at the bottom for more details.*
This morning we drive to Gori, the birthplace of Stalin - here we will have a guided tour of the city and the Stalin Museum.We then make our way to the ancient town of Kutaisi. This afternoon we will visit the medieval Bagrati cathedral and the Gelati monastery.
Today we will continue to the port town of Batumi, where we will have a free afternoon to explore.On the way we will visit the Prometheus Caves
Border Information: Exit Georgia at Sarpi, enter Turkey at Sarp.This morning we will continue to the border and cross into Turkey. We will reach the Sumela Monastery near the town of Macka, which we will either visit in the afternoon or the next morning.We will camp overnight in a campsite near Sumela if conditions allow. Or we may opt to stay in a local hotel in Macka or Trabzon.
This morning we will visit the beautiful Sumela Monastery if we didn't have time yesterday, and then start our drive through central Turkey towards Göreme.We will break the journey with a wild camp near Zara or the village of Alucra.
Today we will complete our drive to Göreme, a small enchanting town in the heart of the Cappadocia mountains.In Göreme we will stay 2 nights here in a well-equipped hostel - please note that dorm beds are sometimes used here.
Today will be a full day to explore Goreme, including a guided tour of the enchanted valley of Cappadocia. There will also be an opportunity for a magical optional balloon ride over the valley during your time here.. Weather permitting.
After breakfast we will continue south towards the town of Egirdir, today will mostly be a travel day. Tonight we will wild camp near the small town of Egirdir or stay in a guesthouse depending on the time of year and weather.
This morning we will continue onto the ancient beach town of Olympos on the Southern Turkish coast. On the way we will make a small detour to visit the ancient city of Termessos in Gulluk Dagi National Park.This evening we will walk up to the Chimera Fire Mountain and toast some marshmallows.We will have 2 nights in Olympos staying in multi share accommodation.
Today we will have time to explore and participate in optional activities today or simply take a dip in the cool turquoise waters on one of the many beaches.
Today we will head back inland to the small village of Pamukkale. Either this afternoon or tomorrow morning we will have time to visit the thermal hot springs and traverse the travertine pools and terraces.
We only have a short drive this morning to make it to our next destination Selcuk where we will have two nights. On arrival we will have free time to explore the local area or simply relax in one of the many cafes or tea bars which are great for people watching.
Today we will have a full day exploring the Ephesus Ruins and Terraced Houses
After breakfast we will leave Selcuk and drive to Helsik following the coast. Here we will have an included tour of the Troy Ruins. In the afternoon we will cross the Dardenelles by ferry to arrive into Ecebat where we will stay the night.
Rising early we will have an included tour of Gallipoli with our local guide. After lunch we will then jump on the truck one last time to make our way to the bustling city of Istanbul.
Border information: if leaving the trip in Istanbul, you will most likely exit Turkey from Istanbul Ataturk International Airport (IATA code: IST).Today will be free to explore the many sights of the incredible exotic city of Istanbul, including the Grand Bazaar, the Bosphorus River and the phenomenal Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia!Today is the end day for passengers finishing their trip in Istanbul. Please note there is no accommodation included on the trip tonight - please contact the Sales team if you are interested in booking extra nights of accommodation in order to fully explore and take part in some of the optional activities listed below.
