Turkish Odyssey - Modified for GCMH3 !

Map

Turkey is a land of contrasts that awaits discovery - the echos of calls to prayer, postcard-perfect beaches, azure waters, ethereal lunar-like landscapes and Greco-Roman ruins that are the envy of Greece and Italy. All of this beauty combined with the warmth, smiles and hospitality of its people make a trip to this land on two continents a truly remarkable adventure.

DAY BY DAY ITINERARY :: Turkish Odyssey - Modified for Hash !

Day 1 - Friday 15th May 2009 / Istanbul

Our trip starts today in Istanbul – a trove of treasures waiting to be discovered. Our hotel is located within walking distance of all the main sights, so if arriving early there is time to soak up the atmosphere and explore on foot. There are no formal activities planned for today, so you may arrive at any time. This evening we meet our tour leader and fellow travel companions. We can then join our tour leader for an introduction to some fabulous Turkish cuisine in a street side café (optional).

Day 2 - Saturday 16th May 2009 / Istanbul

This morning our guide shows us the treasures of the Old Town including the iconic Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome, the exotic Spice Market and the famous Grand Bazaar. The afternoon is free to do our own exploration – perhaps barter for a bargain, enjoy a cruise on the Bosphorus or indulge in a traditional hamam (Turkish bath), before we catch an overnight train to Ankara.
Meals included: 1 breakfast

Day 3 - Sunday 17th May 2009 / Ankara – Goreme

After an early morning arrival to Ankara we depart in our minibus and head for Cappadocia, travelling through typical Anatolian landscape via the salt lake (Tuz Gölü) - one of the richest salt beds in the world. We stop to explore a 13th century Seljuk caravanserai, which was built as a shelter and once provided protection to traders. There is also an optional visit to Derinkuyu – an incredible underground city that descends eight floors below the surface. Late in the afternoon, we arrive in Cappadocia - an extraordinary region that has bewitched travellers for centuries. It was formed thousands of years ago as volcanic ash settled, hardened into soft rock and then eroded, forming strange and fantastic spires, domes and gorges.

Day 4 - Monday 18th May 2009 / Cappadocia

We drive to the top of the trail at the beginning of the Akvadi (White Valley) and walk amongst fruit gardens and vineyards to arrive in Uçhisar around noon. We visit the village and high viewpoint known as The Fortress. In the afternoon we walk in Pigeon Valley before heading back to Goreme. We also have the chance to discover the local handicrafts of carpet making and pottery. Tonight is free to experience Goreme’s nightlife or there is also an option of attending an original Whirling Dervish 'Sema' performance.
Meals included: 1 breakfast

Day 5 - Tuesday 19th May 2009 / Cappadocia - Village Homestay

For early birds, there is the option this morning to experience the best views of the sunrise in Cappadocia – from a hot air balloon! Alternatively, after a leisurely breakfast, we drive to the start of Pasabaglari (Priest Valley) and follow a trail to the picturesque village of Çavusin. We walk through Kizilçukur (Red Valley) - the most beautiful valley in Cappadocia. Tonight is one of the highlights of our adventure - we experience traditional Turkish hospitality as guests of a family in their local village house.
Meals included: 1 breakfast, 1 dinner

Day 6 - Wednesday 20th May 2009 / Konya

We take a local bus today to Konya, once a regular stop on the old caravan routes and the capital city of the Selcuk Empire. It is also the hometown of Mevlana, founder of Whirling Dervish Sect. After an orientation tour of Konya, there is the opportunity to visit Mevlana's Mausoleum. Alternatively, you are free to explore Konya at your leisure.
Meals included: 1 breakfast

Day 7 - Thursday 21st May 2009 / Antalya

Today’s adventure takes us by local bus to Antalya. A walking tour showcases its palm-lined boulevards, small marina and old castle with traditional architecture, all set amidst a thriving modern city. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore the old town of Kaleici, with its cobbled streets and alleyways, or soak up the atmosphere in a harbour side café.
Meals included: 1 breakfast

* * * Own Arrangements * * *

Day 8 - Friday 22nd May 2009 / Euro Hash @ Antalya

Registration Day

Day 9 - Saturday 23rd May 2009 / Euro Hash @ Antalya

Hashing Day

Day 10 - Sunday 24th May 2009 / Euro Hash @ Antalya

Recovery Day

Day 11 - Monday 25th May 2009 / Çirali

After a leisurely breakfast this morning we drive to Çirali, a beautiful beach backed by mountains, where there is plenty of time to swim and relax. For the more adventurous, there is an option to explore the Chimeira - an impressive site where eternal flames burn in the rocks - as well as the magnificent ruins of Phaselis, an ancient Lycian city. We also explore Olympos, a beautiful wilderness cove with a long stretch of sandy beach.
Meals included: 1 breakfast

Days 12-14 - Tuesday 26th - Thursday 28th May 2009 / Southern coast cruising

Time now for a memorable voyage along the Turquoise Coast, which offers some of the most stunning coastal scenery in the world. We cruise to the sunken cities around Kekova Island from where remains of mysterious civilisations can be viewed just below the surface of the water. We also walk up to nearby Simena Castle, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding bays and islands. There are also numerous Lycian rock tombs to be explored. We spend the days sailing along the beautiful azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea where we can swim, snorkel and explore the natural and historical sites along the way. At night we indulge in unforgettable feasts before being lulled to sleep by sultry Mediterranean breezes.
Meals included: 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners

Day 15 - Friday 29th May 2009 / Kas - Fethiye

We reach the picturesque Kas harbour, where there is time to visit the quaint town centre before we drive to Fethiye, famous for its Persian, Lycian, Carian and Roman art. This charming village is on a pretty bay scattered with large and small islands and surrounded by pine forests. Fethiye is highly recommended as a great place to watch the sunset from one of the many seaside restaurants and enjoy some Turkish nightlife.
Meals included: 1 breakfast

Day 16 - Saturday 30st May 2009 / Fethiye - Ölüdeniz - Pamukkale

We take a dolmus or local bus to Ölüdeniz, described as ‘the Eden bestowed by God to the world’. The three-kilometre-long beach has the appearance of a natural lagoon with warm lapping water. There is plenty of time to enjoy a swim before continuing on to Pammukale.
Meals included: 1 breakfast

Day 17 - Sunday 31st May 2009 / Pamukkale – Selçuk

This morning we recommend a visit to Pamukkale, with its spectacular natural pools, shelves and ridges. It was formed by a spring with high calcium bicarbonate content, which cascaded over the edge of the cliffs, leaving calcium deposits. There is also an option to explore the ancient city of Hierapolis, known for its abundance of temples and religious structures. We then take a local bus to Selçuk, our base to explore one of the best-preserved classical cities in the eastern Mediterranean. After an orientation tour we are free to explore Selçuk, a town full of history and packed with artefacts and relics that reflects its past as an ancient fortress on Ayasoluk Hill.
Meals included: 1 breakfast

Day 18 - Monday 1st June 2009 / Ephesus – Sirince – Selcuk

Today is free to explore or to take an optional tour to Ephesus - the greatest Greco-Roman site in the world. It is a full and exciting day. Ephesus, founded by Ionian Greeks in the 11th century BC and brought to full flower under Roman rule, was always an important religious centre. We can walk the marble streets once trodden by Antony and Cleopatra and marvel at the gymnasium, baths and the wonderfully restored Library of Celsus. Close by is the last home of the Virgin Mary who, as legend has it, came here accompanied by St John and lived out her days in this beautiful spot. Later we head to Sirince, a stunning small mountain village a short distance from the coast. Everything from olive trees and goats to the market place typifies Turkish rural life and the charming whitewashed houses are a reminder of its Greek origins. We return to Selçuk for the night.
Meals included: 1 breakfast

Day 19 - Tuesday 2nd June 2009 / Selçuk - Ayvalik

After breakfast we take a local bus to Ayvalik, a charming seaside town with colourful and old Ottoman-Greek houses, cobblestone streets and lively cafes. We can enjoy an orientation walk through the old part of town and perhaps taste some olive oil for which the place is famous for. A drink at a harbourside bar is a great way to enjoy the sunset.
Meals included: 1 breakfast

Day 20 - Wednesday 3rd June 2009 / Gallipoli - Çanakkale

We cross the Dardanelles by ferry to the shores of Gallipoli, a place of immense significance to Australians and New Zealanders. It is a spot of pilgimage and reverence and the calm lapping waters belie the murderous campaign that took place here. This now serene site, located at Turkey’s most westerly point, played a crucial role in 1915 for Allied forces in the First World War that included other Commonwealth and British troops, as well as the French and Turkish. We spend time visiting the battlefields, monuments and cemeteries before returning to our hotel in Çanakkale in the afternoon. For those who wish, there is also the possibility of organising an excursion to Troy, where we can explore the ancient walls, climb around the ruins and gaze across the Troad (the Plains of Troy) towards the waters of the Dardanelles and the hills of the Gallipoli Peninsula.
Meals included: 1 breakfast

Day 21 - Thursday 4th June 2009 / Çanakkale - Istanbul

After breakfast, we catch the bus to Istanbul for a last night on the town. Istanbul is the only city in the world to be situated on two continents and offers a plethora of great eating spots and lively night venues. Our tour leader knows all the best places, so tonight is sure to be a fitting finale to our amazing trip!
Meals included: 1 breakfast

Day 22 - Friday 5th June 2009 / Istanbul

Our tour ends after breakfast. Say farewell to new-found friends as Istanbul bids you 'bon voyage'!
Meals included: 1 breakfast

About Gecko's

Gecko's is designed for younger travellers, on a budget, who want the freedom and flexibility of independent travel, with the safety and fun of a small group. You travel with a highly-trained local tour leader, who was raised in the region and can show you a side of their homeland that other travellers miss out on.

We visit the 'must see' sights, and on many trips we venture off the beaten track for some unforgettably unique and unusual experiences. Gecko's trips are great fun, highly interactive and designed to immerse you in the culture of the place you're visiting.

Trip grade

Moderate

A moderate level of fitness is required. These trips generally involve some physical activities and occasional long travelling days. Accommodation and travel conditions may be more basic.

Included

An experienced English-speaking local leader, all transportation, accommodation, meals and sightseeing as indicated.

Not included

International flights, local payment, arrival and departure transfers, airport/departure taxes, entrance fees, visas, pre-tour or post-tour accommodation, additional meals, drinks, optional sightseeing tours, travel insurance, tips, laundry and other items of a personal nature.

Meals

Allow approximately US$400/E325 for additional meals. Although a number of meals are included, we also allow you the flexibility to go out and make your own choices as far as what and where to eat. Your tour leader will always be on hand to offer recommendations and, in some places, he will help organise a group meal that includes a variety of local specialities; all such meals are optional.

Accommodation

1 night village homestay, 1 night overnight train, 9 nights budget/tourist class hotels, 4 nights pensions, 3 nights boat

Airport transfers

If you are arriving into the joining city by air you may find it easier to book an airport transfer with us, as the airports can often be very crowded and negotiating a taxi can be hard work. Please contact Gecko's or your travel agent for details and prices when you book your trip.

Transport

boat, local bus, overnight train, private aircon bus

Local payment

The Local payment is INCLUDED within the Tour Price.

Optional Excursions

* prices below are a guide only.

Cappadocia

  • Derinkuyu Underground city - 7 Euro
  • Hot Air Balloon - 1 hour flight - 140 Euro
  • Hot Air Balloon Flight - 1.5 hour flight - 210 Euro
  • Ortihasar Castle - 2 Euro

Cirali

  • Chimaera (Burning Rocks) - 2 Euro

Fethiye

  • Pinara Ruins - 3 Euro
  • Saklikent Gorge (Includes private transport to and from Fethiye) - 20 Euro

Goreme

  • Open Air Museum - 7 Euro

Istanbul

  • Carpet Museum (Blue Mosque) - 1 Euro
  • St. Sophia - 10 Euro
  • Topkapi Palace (Harem) - 6 Euro
  • Topkapi Palace (Palace & Museum) - 14 Euro

Konya

  • Whirling Dervish Museum - 5 Euro
  • Whirling Dervish Performance - 20 Euro

Olympos

  • Lycian Coastal Ruins - 5 Euro

Other information

This trip is graded as 'Moderate', meaning a reasonable level of fitness is required. These trips generally involve some physical activities and occasional long travelling days. Accommodation and travel conditions may be basic and varies from local pensions to budget hotels.

Last Updated

by Gecko's 18 December 2007