TURKEY
WOMENS EXPEDITION
Istanbul - Cappadocia - Konya - Pamukkale - Selcuk - Adatepe
On this women-only adventure, you'll experience both traditional and modern ways of life by connecting with local women. Learn the ancient art of Turkish coffee fortune-telling, and pay a visit to the unmissable Turkish hammams. Prepare to see life from the unique perspective of the incredible local women.
- 12 Days
- Easy
- Turkey
- Turkey Womens Expedition led by local expert guides
- Visit an Istanbul home to meet a local mother and daughter, savour homemade borek, and discover the ancient female tradition of fortune-telling
- Experience the life of cave dwellers, by enjoying a traditional meal cooked by the women who live there
- Explore the Soganli Valley during a relaxed hike, taking in the impressive landscape with its quirky rock formations
- Learn how to make a popular Cappadocian souvenir, a ‘kitre’ doll
- Wander the endless markets of Istanbul filled with colourful clothes, beautiful ceramics, and spices
- Take part in a cooking class to learn how to make traditional delicious Turkish dumplings
- Taste some fruity wines in the ancient hillside village of Sirince
BOOK FROM
- *Secure your spot with a £200 deposit. Full payment due 70 days prior to departure
- Pay in instalments*
- Financial Protection on your payment
ITINERARY
![Turkey map 1](https://adventuressinthewild.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Turkey-map-1-768x513.webp)
Welcome to Turkey! Your women-only expedition begins in Istanbul, the historic city that has been home to Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. Your welcome meeting is scheduled for 1 pm at your hotel, so be sure to have all your important documents ready for your trip leader.
After the meeting, explore Istanbul with a guided walk through Hippodrome Square. Next, visit Topkapi Palace & Harem to learn about the fascinating Sultanate of Women—a time period when wives and mothers of Ottoman Sultans called the shots!
Don’t miss the Grand Bazaar, a bustling labyrinth of alleys and colourful stalls. All of your five senses will be awakened as you discover textiles, ceramics, spices, and beautiful jewellery.
Consider joining an optional dinner later. You can see life in action in this cosmopolitan part of the city, with women of all backgrounds enjoying raki, mezze, and coffee with friends.
Inclusions
Accommodation: 1 night
Meals: There are no meals included on this day.
Activities
- Istanbul – Grand Bazaar tour
- Istanbul – Historic Peninsula walk
- Istanbul – Topkapi Palace & Harem Guided Tour
Essential information: Please make sure to attend the welcome meeting, as your trip leader will be gathering insurance and emergency contact details. If you anticipate being late, kindly inform us or hotel reception. You can also inquire at the reception desk or check for a notice in the lobby to find out where the meeting will be held.
Start your day with a brief stroll to KEDV, a social enterprise established in 2003 to empower economically disadvantaged women. KEDV provides a platform for women across Turkey to sell their handicrafts to boost their income. After learning about their impactful work, you can take the memories home by shopping for their homemade gifts.
Next, hop on a local bus to the Spice Bazaar to meet a spice merchant and discover Turkey’s finest spice blends. You’ll also have a chance to visit a traditional Turkish Delight merchant…Some people either love this curious treat or hate it! Which team will you be on?
Conclude your day in suburban Istanbul by visiting a local mother and daughter in their home. Enjoy homemade borek and learn how to brew the perfect cup of Turkish coffee. They’ll also share the ancient Anatolian tradition of fortune-telling using coffee grounds…Are there more adventures in your future? The rest of the evening is yours to unwind or explore.
Inclusions
Accommodation: 1 night
Meals: Breakfast
Activities:
- Istanbul – Spice Market
- Istanbul – Visit to KEDV Foundation
- Istanbul – Bosphorus Cruise
- Istanbul – 5 o’clock Tea & coffee in a local home
Add on activities
- Istanbul – Water Marbling (Ebru) Art – EUR40
This morning, you’ll transfer to the airport for a mid-morning flight to Kayseri, which is located in the Cappadocia region, which looks like it could be straight from a fantasy novel. From there, you’ll take a one-hour drive to Goreme, the most iconic part of Cappadocia. Goreme lies in a valley of curious looking volcanic rock formations, which look like needles, cones, and columns.
The landscape is dotted with caves that were carved out of the rock to create churches and homes, known as fairy chimneys and castles. During times of war the people would flee into their network of caves. Upon arriving in Goreme, you can see more of this beautiful town by joining a walk to discover more with your local guide.
Later you’ll experience the Göreme Open Air Museum which was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This awe-inspiring wonderland features ancient rock-carved monasteries and churches. Admire the intricate mural paintings decorating these unique structures, which are carved directly into the fairy chimneys. Learn about the rich history of the town whilst wandering the surreal landscape.
For dinner, you’ll have a special experience – meeting and dining with Nuray Abla, a well-known local woman. Nuray Abla cooks delicious Turkish cuisine in her home cave. Nuray Alba has helped many women in the town improve their income by encouraging them to work in tourism. Sharing her famous cuisine with tourists has given her the opportunity to send her daughter to university, and provide a better life for her family.
Inclusions
Accommodation: 1 night
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Included activities:
- Cappadocia – Goreme Open Air Museum
- Goreme – Cooking Class with Nuray
- Goreme – Orientation Walk
If you’re up for an early adventure, consider embarking on a hot air balloon ride over the enchanting Cappadocian landscape, and watch the sky fill with hundreds of balloons (See the Essential Information below for this experience). Back on solid ground, your day unfolds with explorations of the region. You’ll visit Pigeon Valley and Pasabag (also known as Monks Valley), immersing yourself in their unique beauty. A leisurely 3-kilometre hike through Soganli Valley will have you feeling like you’ve landed on a different planet, have your camera ready!
Next, discover the art of crafting a popular Cappadocian souvenir: the “kitre.” Local women have been skillfully creating these charming rag dolls for generations.
The remainder of the day is yours to explore at your own pace. For dinner, why not indulge in the regional specialty – testi kebab? Your knowledgeable leader can recommend the best restaurant where this delicious claypot dish is perfected
Inclusions
Accommodation: 1 night
Meals: Breakfast
Activities:
- Cappadocia – Soft Hike in Soganli Valley
- Cappadocia – Doll making with local woman
Add on activities
- Cappadocia – Kaymakli Underground City – EUR13
- Cappadocia – Hot Air Balloon Regular Flight – EUR260
- Cappadocia – Hot Air Balloon Deluxe Flight – EUR330
- Goreme – Whirling dervish performance – EUR30
Special information
If you don’t mind an early start, a hot air balloon ride over the majestic Cappadocian landscape is a highly recommended experience. Please advise your local leader in advance if you want to book it, as it needs to be arranged with one of the certified operators.
The cost will vary depending on the type of flight chosen, but your local leader will be able to advise you of the options. Hot air balloons in Cappadocia can only be booked directly with your trip leader locally. Please speak to your Turkish group leader early on your trip to secure a spot for this popular activity.
Due to local regulations, sunrise hot air balloon excursion times do vary which may result in your excursion beginning just after sunrise. This is subject to the tour provider’s discretion and is not within our control. The price of the hot air balloon activity is indicative only as the prices may fluctuate between different seasons. Your tour leader will advise you the correct rate at the time of booking.
A 3-hour drive through the Turkish countryside and you arrive in Konya. Home to one of the few remaining felt makers, visit her in her atelier and learn about the background and tradition of her craft, which like so many other traditional Turkish arts are on the verge of dying out. The rest of the day is yours to relax and a possible visit to the Mausoleum of Rumi.
Accommodation: 1 night
Meals: Breakfast
Activities
- Konya – Felt Making Atelier & artist visit
Add on activities:
- Konya – Visit to Mausoleum of Rumi – Free
During this visit to Pamukkale (4 hour drive) you could be forgiven for thinking that you had stepped back in time. Take in the ancient city of Hierapolis and explore the ruins of the Roman baths and theatre before marvelling at the ethereal allure of the nearby travertine terraces where surreal white cascades have been crafted by the mineral rich water. A trip to a local house in a neighbouring village reveals the history behind the Anatolian tradition of pouring lead to ward off the evil eye; a tradition that remains strictly for women to perform only and is handed down generationally.
Accommodation: 1 night
Meals: Breakfast
Activities:
- Pamukkale – Lead Pouring by women
- Pamukkale – Hierapolis Ancient City & Travertines (Cotton Castle)
Add on activities:
- Pamukkale – Cleopatra Ancient Pool – TRY200
Special information: Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
An orientation walk is offered upon your arrival at Selcuk (3 hour drive) following which you’ll learn how to make Mantı in the local restaurant. These traditional Turkish dumplings are created using a delicate dough and involve an intricate folding technique, as the women will demonstrate. Turkish carpets weaving has a long and prodigious history, dating back to the
Neolithic era. In this visit to Sultanköy, a social enterprise that employs local women, you’ll enjoy a carpet weaving demonstration whilst learning about this traditional art.
Inclusions
Accommodation: 1 night
Meals: Breakfast
Activities:
- Selcuk – Selcuk Manti Cooking Class
- Selcuk – Sultankoy Carpet Cooperation
- Selcuk – Leader-led orientation walk
Special information: Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
The ancient city of Ephesus was once the capital city of Roman Asia Minor, and these ruins are amongst the preserved Greco-Roman classical cities in the world. A local guide really brings these ruins to life, and you will find yourself imagining them as they once were over 2000 years ago, with the hustle and bustle of daily life passing through the same streets. The theatre continues to host concerts as it is so well preserved, but it is perhaps the library that is the most striking.
Lunch is held at a woman run and staffed restaurant that serves up an impressive array of local traditional dishes. Hatice first started cooking gözleme on the roadside as a way of making ends meet when her husband’s business went bankrupt, and this is where her own restaurant is located today. Hatice is now a well-known local chef and woman entrepreneur.
In the afternoon you’ll take a drive to an authentic Greek Ottoman village that modern development seems to have forgotten about. Following a drive into the hills through apple and pear orchards to sample the locally produced fruit wines in the picturesque village of Sirince, this place is truly a photographer’s dream.
Inclusions
Accommodation: 1 night
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Activities:
- Selcuk – Ephesus Ancient City
- Selcuk – Hatice Lunch
- Sirince – Village visit and fruit wine tasting
Add on activities:
- Selcuk – Meryemana (Mary’s House) – EUR15
Your introduction to Ayvlik involves an orientation walk around the charming coastal town, soaking up the atmosphere provided by the quaint cafes and colourful Ottoman houses. A visit to a local project that recycles household waste into unique and attractive handbags is next on the itinerary. “Cop Madam” or Garbage Lady raises awareness about the environment whilst also providing a sustainable income for the women it employs.
After enjoying some free time for lunch, a trip to Adatepe in the foothills of the Ida Mountains will offer some tranquillity. This small Greek-Turkish village with its cobbled streets and traditional stone houses is also home to the Altar of Zeus, an ancient archaeological site, and is the perfect mixture of history and natural beauty.
Inclusions
Accommodation: 1 night
Meals: Breakfast
Activities:
- Adatepe – Ayvalik Copmadam (trashyteyze / Tara Hopkins)
- Adatepe – Orientation Walk in Ayvalık
- Adatepe – Village Tour & Altar of Zeus
Special information: Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.
The charming coastal town of Assos is the next destination. Follow the quaint streets to the Temple of Athena and marvel at the spectacular views of the glittering sea below while admiring the impressive acropolis.
Heading back to Adatepe, a local restaurant is booked for a Gözleme demonstration. This unleavened dough is hand rolled and filled with a variety of delicious ingredients before being expertly folded and griddled to crisp, golden perfection. Enjoy watching the women’s expertise before sitting down to enjoy some of them.
Inclusions
Accommodation: 1 night
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Activities:
- Assos – Temple of Athena
- Adatepe – Gozleme Demonstration and lunch
- Assos – Leader-led walking tour
And so begins the journey back to Istanbul (5 drive with stops).
The adventure closes with a women’s only hamam. Named after Hürrem Sultan, the influential wife of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, this is an elegant and opulent bathhouse. Initially hamams were for men only. Women who were unwell recovering from childbirth or not well were permitted eventually until they were opened up to all women.
A visit to the hamam was considered more than an opportunity to bathe but as a release from the isolation and routine of home. It was also a place where older women could look for potential wives for their sons.
Today this ritual is still segregated and comes complete with baths, food, music and fun.
Later this evening you may want to have a last farewell dinner with your group.
Inclusions
Accommodation: 1 night
Meals: Breakfast
Included activities: Istanbul – Turkish Hamam
Special information: Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Here your incredible Turkish adventure comes to an end after breakfast. However, if you wish to spend a few more days checking out the sights of Istanbul at your own pace, get in touch and we can arrange some extra nights for you to explore at your pace.
Inclusions
Meals: Breakfast
INCLUDED
- Meals: 11 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner
- Transport: Private Vehicle, Boat, Plane - This trip includes one internal flight
- Private transfers to and from locations and activities
- Accommodation: Guesthouse (5 nights), Hotel (6 nights)
- Istanbul - Turkish hammam, Grand Bazaar, Historic Peninsula orientation walk, Topkapi Palace & Harem Guided Tour, Spice Market, Visit to Nahil Dukkan, Bosphorus Cruise, Local home visit
- Cappadocia - Goreme Open Air Museum, Cooking Class with Nuray, Orientation Walk, Soft Hike in Soganli Valley, Doll making with local woman
- Konya - Felt Making Atelier & artist visit
- Pamukkale - Lead Pouring by women, Hierapolis Ancient City & Travertines (Cotton Castle)
- Selcuk - Selcuk Manti Cooking Class, Sultankoy Carpet Cooperation, Leader-led orientation walk, Ephesus Ancient City, Hatice Lunch
- Sirince - Village visit and fruit wine tasting
- Adatepe - Ayvalik Copmadam (trashyteyze / Tara Hopkins), Orientation Walk in Ayvalık, Village Tour & Altar of Zeus, Gozleme Demonstration and lunch
- Assos - Temple of Athena, Leader-led walking tour
- Financial Protection on your payments
- Trip logistics taken care of
INCLUDED
- Meals: 11 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner
- Transport: Private Vehicle, Boat, Plane - This trip includes one internal flight
- Accommodation: Guesthouse (5 nights), Hotel (6 nights)
- Istanbul - Grand Bazaar, Turkish hammam, Historic Peninsula orientation walk, Topkapi Palace & Harem Guided Tour, Spice Market, Visit to Nahil Dukkan, Bosphorus Cruise, Local home visit
- Cappadocia - Goreme Open Air Museum, Cooking Class with Nuray, Orientation Walk, Soft Hike in Soganli Valley, Doll making with local woman
- Konya - Felt Making Atelier & artist visit
- Pamukkale - Lead Pouring by women, Hierapolis Ancient City & Travertines (Cotton Castle)
- Selcuk - Selcuk Manti Cooking Class, Sultankoy Carpet Cooperation, Leader-led orientation walk, Ephesus Ancient City, Hatice Lunch
- Sirince - Village visit and fruit wine tasting
- Adatepe - Ayvalik Copmadam (trashyteyze / Tara Hopkins), Orientation Walk in Ayvalık, Village Tour & Altar of Zeus, Gozleme Demonstration and lunch
- Assos - Temple of Athena, Leader-led walking tour
- Financial Protection on your payments
NOT INCLUDED
- International flights to Turkey
- Airport transfers (Request to add)
- Personal equipment
- Insurance
- Alcohol, laundry and other items of a personal nature
- Not every meal is included, please check the itinerary
- Any additional costs associated with leaving the expedition early
- Any optional activities mentioned within the itinerary are an additional cost, please ask us for more details
NOT INCLUDED
- International flights to and from Turkey
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- Personal equipment
- Insurance
- Alcohol, laundry and other items of a personal nature
- Not every meal is included, please check the itinerary
- Any additional costs associated with leaving the expedition early
- Any optional activities mentioned within the itinerary are an additional cost, please ask us for more details
YOUR GUIDE
Your guide for this adventure will be Intrepid Travel. Did you know that we’re all just three degrees of separation away from somebody who has been on an Intrepid tour? Since 1989, Intrepid Travel have guided travelers across 100 countries worldwide.
Intrepid’s women only tours promise to take you off of the beaten path, connecting you with local women, offering total cultural immersion and a whole lot of adventure!
TURKEY
Turkey, located where Europe meets Asia, is a country known for its rich culture and stunning scenery. In cities like Istanbul, ancient mosques stand alongside modern cafes and lively markets. You’ll never find another place like Cappadocia, which is famous for its unique rock formations and underground cities carved into soft rocks. Along the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts, there are beautiful beaches and ancient ruins such as the bright blue pools of Pamukkale’s terraced hot springs. You’ll never get enough of the Turkish food, famous for its spices and tasty kebabs. Don’t forget to try a traditional turkey coffee!
THE IMPORTANT STUFF
Yes. At Adventuress in the Wild we work with tour operators who are providing trips for anybody who identifies as a woman. We have found that women are more likely to step out of their comfort zone and try new activities when they are surrounded by other supportive women. All of the tour operators we work with believe that adventure is for every woman no matter your background, ability, body type, or orientation.
The temperature from May to October can be very hot in Turkey and some of the more traditional hotels will not have air-conditioning. Evening temperatures are usually very pleasant and an open window with a breeze should do the trick. This expedition covers a lot of ground in 12 days as there is a lot to see and do in Turkey. There are a few one-night stops along the way, but you will be travelling in the comfort of a private vehicle.
If you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip there is a single supplement available, subject to availability. Please enquire with us for further information. One internal flight is included in this trip. Checked in luggage is restricted to 15kg checked-in and 8kg for hand luggage. It is possible to store a small piece of luggage at the starting and ending point guesthouses in Istanbul.
WHEN IS THE FINAL PAYMENT DATE?
This adventure can be booked with a £200 deposit. The remainder of the balance will be paid 70 days prior to departure. If booking within 70 days prior to departure then full payment will be required.
WHERE DOES THE TRIP START?
No.11 Hotel & Apartments
Balyoz sok no 11 Asmalı Mescit beyoglu Istanbul 34430, Turkey
Accommodation:
Guesthouse (5 nights), Hotel (6 nights)
Description
No:11 Hotel is located within walking distance of Istanbul’s most famous historical sites and surrounded by restaurants, shops, boutiques, cafes, and bars. Facilities include free Wi-Fi, kitchenette and a garden area. Rooms have television, air-conditioning, fridge, hair dryer, and tea and coffee amenities.
The hotel was awarded the green key award in July 2020 as one of Turkey’s first small independent hotels with an international eco-label. The hotel uses new waste reduction measures, green cleaning and recycling and measures the carbon footprint of each guest in alignment with international eco-labeling standards in tourism and hospitality.
Instructions
We can assist with pre-booking an arrival transfer from the airport. Please enquire with us and advise your flight details, including which airport in Istanbul, at least 14 days prior to the start of your trip.
Two international airports serve Istanbul. Istanbul Airport (IST) is 50 kms/30 miles northwest of central Istanbul, on the European side. Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) is 50 kms/30 miles southeast of central Istanbul, on the Asian side. A metered taxi can be taken from either airport to the joining point hotel costing approx. TRY 500-600.
Arriving at Istanbul Airport (IST)
For your transfer, collect your luggage and proceed to Gate 8 in the arrival hall. Exit through
Gate 8 and you’ll see a representative on the left holding an “Intrepid” sign. Due to airport regulations, drivers must wait offsite so you will need to wait briefly before they arrive at the pick-up area. Once the driver arrives, the representative will escort you two floors down to meet with your driver.
In case of difficulty locating the representative at the airport, please call the local emergency number listed in the Essential Trip Information.
Travel to the hotel will take approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour but can take 90 minutes or longer during rush hour.
Arriving at Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW)
For your transfer, you will exit from the international terminal and cross the road between
Column 9 and Column 10 to “Simit Sarayı” bakery. Once there you will see a representative holding an Intrepid sign. Due to airport regulations, drivers must wait offsite so you will need to wait briefly before they arrive at the pick-up area. The representative will then advise the driver to come.
In case of difficulty locating the airport representative, please call the local emergency number listed in the Essential Trip Information.
Travel to the hotel will take approximately 60 to 90 minutes but can take 2 hours or more during rush hour.
WHERE DOES THE TRIP END?
No.11 Hotel & Apartments
Balyoz sok no 11 Asmalımescit beyoglu Istanbul 34430 TURKEY
Description
No:11 Hotel is located within walking distance of Istanbul’s most famous historical sites and surrounded by restaurants, shops, boutiques, cafes, and bars. Facilities include free Wi-Fi, kitchenette and a garden area. Rooms have television, air-conditioning, fridge, hair dryer, and tea and coffee amenities. The hotel was awarded the green key award in July 2020 as one of Turkey’s first small independent hotels with an international eco-label. The hotel uses new waste reduction measures, green cleaning and recycling and measures the carbon footprint of each guest in alignment with international eco-labeling standards in tourism and hospitality.
Instructions
We can assist with pre-booking a departure transfer to the airport. Please enquire with us and advise your flight details, including which airport in Istanbul, at least 14 days prior to the start of your trip.If you have pre-booked a departure transfer your group leader or local representative will advise you of your pick up time the day before your trip ends.
Taxi fare from your hotel to the airport will cost approx. TRY 700-900. Please ask your group leader or local representative or hotel staff for assistance in arranging a taxi.
Departing from Istanbul Airport (IST)
Express bus services are available to the airport from Taksim which is a short taxi ride from your hotel.
Departing from Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW)
We recommend taking the ferry to Kadikoy on the Asian side of the city. From here there are express bus services available to the airport.
Problems and emergency contact information
While your operator endeavours to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or local representative straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip.
There may be times when your group leader or local representative may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction – if this is the case, please ask to speak to their direct manager.
You may also choose to provide feedback, which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip. Please be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is completed, so informing us while still travelling will allow us to resolve the issue in real time.
ITINERARY DISCLAIMER
Itinerary changes
Itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may differ from when you first booked your trip. We advise that you review this information to have the latest updates. Due to local conditions changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway.
Optional activities
Popular activities are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn’t an exhaustive list and prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available, so some pre-planning is advised. When pre-booking is recommended to look for a note in the Special Information section of the itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested in the Welcome Meeting.
Where activities are considered medium or high risk, the operator works with operators whose safety and credentials they have sighted and assessed. Medium and high-risk activities not listed have not been assessed and as such the group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with these activities. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own risk.
Add on activities:
- Istanbul – Water Marbling (Ebru) Art – EUR40
- Cappadocia – Kaymakli Underground City – EUR13
- Cappadocia – Hot Air Balloon Regular Flight – EUR260
- Cappadocia – Hot Air Balloon Deluxe Flight – EUR330
- Goreme – Whirling dervish performance – EUR30
- Konya – Visit to Mausoleum of Rumi – Free
- Pamukkale – Cleopatra Ancient Pool – TRY200
- Selcuk – Meryemana (Mary’s House) – EUR15
PASSPORTS, VISAS AND ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Passport
Most countries expect that your passport has a minimum of 6 months validity remaining. Please ensure the name on your passport matches the name on your booking and airline tickets. Your passport details are required to complete your booking. We will contact you when this is required. Take a copy of the main passport pages and other important documents with you and leave another copy at home with family or friends.
Visas
Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. Entry requirements can change frequently so check for the latest information. Visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality. We can point you in the right direction with acquiring visas. Visas can take several weeks to process, so allow yourself plenty of time for processing.
Turkey Visa
Most nationalities require a visa to enter Turkey which must be obtained through the e-Visa system. Please go to https://www.evisa.gov.tr/en/ at least two weeks before you arrive in Turkey.
Passport holders from New Zealand, Argentina, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Japan, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland do not require a visa for stays up to three months. We recommend all nationalities check with their local consulate for current visa requirements.
Turkey Covid-19 Entry & Exit Requirements
For the latest update of what is required to enter Turkey, check your government’s foreign travel advice and monitor for any changes as they may change without notice.
MEDICAL HEALTH & INFORMATION
Drinking Water
As a rule, we recommend you don’t drink tap water, even in hotels. For visitors drinking the tap water, the higher levels of minerals can result in illness. Generally an upset stomach is the only symptom, but it can spoil a day or two of your holiday. Many hotels and lodges provide safe drinking water, while bottled water is another alternative. Water consumption should be about two litres a day. Rehydration salts, motion sickness tablets, and diarrhoea blockers are useful, please source from home and bring them with you.
Food and dietary requirements
Your group leader or local representative will endeavour to cater to specific dietary requirements where possible, and vegetarianism and gluten intolerance will be catered for in most instances.
However, some meals and activities are fixed in advance and cannot be modified.
Please notify us of any dietary requirements at the time of booking. For those suffering from food allergies, your group leader or local representative will endeavor to disclose the main ingredients in dishes being consumed. It is, however, your personal responsibility to ensure that you do not consume anything to which you are allergic.
Transport
Private Vehicle, Boat, Plane
There are some long travel days and some rough travelling in areas away from main tourist routes. Bendy roads, rough surfaces and cramped conditions can make for some challenging travel experiences. Some days involve early starts in the morning to ensure optimisation of time at the next destination. We recommend you consider medication to help ease the discomfort if you suffer from travel sickness.
MONEY MATTERS
Spending money
You know your spending habits better than we do, so please budget accordingly for things like optional meals, drinks, shopping, activities, and laundry. Make sure you have read the itinerary and inclusions thoroughly so you know what is included in the trip price and what you may need to pay for on top.
TURKEY
Most goods and services can be paid for using the local currency, Turkish Lira (TRY). Given the fluctuating value of TRY, we recommend reviewing the exchange rates as your trip approaches. The EUR is acceptable as is the USD. For everyday services like meals and shopping, we recommend the local currency.
You can use your credit/debit card in ATMs, which are common throughout Turkey. Smaller venues take cash only. We recommend taking cash out in major cities before travelling to regional areas of Turkey. Check with your bank regarding fees as you may be charged for using your card overseas.
Turkey is often misjudged when it comes to costs you might have as a tourist. Prices can also vary considerably between regions. Cities like Istanbul and Antalya are very European and as such the standard of restaurants and cafes is very high and the cost equivalent to its European counterparts. Eating in local restaurants, roadside stalls and markets is still inexpensive and lots of fun. Budget is a personal choice but please bear in mind that you should not expect Turkey to be a budget destination.
TIPPING
Tipping can be an appropriate way to recognise great service when travelling. While it may not be customary in your home country, it is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many of our destinations and is greatly appreciated by the people who take care of you during your travels. It is always best to avoid tipping with coins, very small denomination notes, or dirty and ripped notes, as this can be regarded as an insult.
Optional tipping kitty
On Day 1 of your trip, your group leader or local representative may discuss with you the idea of operating a group tipping kitty, whereby everybody contributes an equal amount, and your group leader or local representative distributes tips. This excludes restaurant tips for meals not included in your itinerary.
The group leader or local representative will keep a running record of all monies spent and any funds remaining at the end of the tour will be returned. This is the easiest way to avoid the hassles of needing small change and knowing when and what is an appropriate amount to tip. Participation is at your own discretion, and you are welcome to manage your own tipping separately. The tipping kitty excludes tips for your group leader or local representative.
Tipping your group leader or local representative
You may consider tipping your group leader or local representative for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference however as a guideline 4-7 USD or EUR per person (in a currency relevant to your destination), per day can be used. Of course, you are free to tip as you see fit.
COMMISSIONS
Your tour operator understands that the receipt of commissions in exchange for recommending particular shops or services is ingrained in the culture of the tourism industry. For this reason, a centralised fund has been established for contributions from recommended suppliers so these can be collected and distributed back into the business. Travel is always an adventure so your tour operator cannot explicitly guarantee the quality of a product but aim to provide the best value trips in the market.
CONTINGENCY FUNDS
Our operator reserves the right to change an itinerary after departure due to local circumstances or a Force Majeure Event. In such emergency circumstances, the additional cost of any necessary itinerary alterations will be covered by you. Please note they are not responsible for any incidental expenses that may be incurred because of the change of itineraries. These include but are not limited to visas, vaccinations or non-refundable flights. Make sure you have access to an extra US$500 for emergencies (e.g. severe weather, natural disasters, civil unrest) or other events that result in unavoidable changes to the itinerary (e.g. transport strikes or cancellations, airport closures). The recommended amount is listed in USD for ease of understanding however, local currency may be needed once in the country to cover these costs.
CLIMATE AND SEASONAL INFORMATION
Turkey is a large country split into seven regions. Generally speaking, the Marmara, Aegean and Mediterranean coasts have typical Mediterranean climates with hot summers and mild, wet winters. In the east, it is more mountainous with warm summers and very cold, snowy winters. Central Turkey (Cappadocia) has low rainfall, very dry, hot summers and very cold winters. Istanbul and coastal centres can experience very high humidity.
Winter (November to March) can be very cold. Not all hotels have heating so consider bringing thermals, a scarf, gloves and a warm jacket in this period. Summer (June to August) can be very hot. Not all hotels have air-conditioning, and in those that do it’s not always functioning. Please consider the seasons when planning your trip.
RAMADAN
Ramadan (Ramzan in Turkey) will be in progress from 23 Mar – 21 Apr 2023 and 11 Mar – 9 Apr 2024, with the Eid ul-Fitr festival (or Bayram in Turkey) held at its conclusion for 3-4 days. Ramadan is a festival of sacrifice where the devout refrain from eating or drinking during daylight hours. Business hours are shortened, including opening hours at some tourist attractions. Alcohol is not permitted during daylight hours and many restaurants will be closed. While you should expect some delays and inconveniences during this period, the month is a fantastic opportunity to travel in a Muslim country and witness this period, particularly the nightly celebrations when the fast is broken. Although Eid ul-Fitr can be a fascinating time to travel, it’s a period of national holiday. Most government offices and businesses will be closed and some tourist site opening hours may be affected.
Ramadan month can differ from country to country and region to region and can be a wonderful inclusion in your travels. If you have concerns about travelling at this time, please check with us before your departure.
WHO IS THE TRIP HOST?
The group leader aims to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Intrepid endeavour to provide the services of an experienced leader. However, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your leader is new to a particular region or is training other group leaders.
Your leader will provide information on the places you are travelling through and offer suggestions for things to do and see. They will recommend great local venues, and introduce you to their local friends. You can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited.
In Turkey your Leader will also be a registered Guide with the Ministry of Tourism. They will have vast general knowledge of the places visited and specialised knowledge of the sites visited and will provide full guiding services.
SAFETY
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government’s advice for their latest travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all areas in your itinerary.
We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safekeeping of your passport, air tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home – you won’t need it while travelling. Many of the hotels have safety deposit boxes. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage.
Your group leader or local representative will accompany you on all included activities, however, you will have free time to explore at your leisure and indulge in personal interests. While your group leader or local representative will assist you with the available options please note that any optional activities you undertake that are not part of your itinerary, ourselves and the operator make no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them.
Please use your judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Your group leader or local representative has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it’s deemed necessary.
Fire precautions
Local laws governing tourism facilities in this region differ from those in your home country and not all the accommodations have fire exits, fire extinguishers or smoke alarms.
Balconies
Some hotel balconies don’t meet western standards. The width of the balcony fence may be narrower than 10cm.
Traffic and driving on the other side of the road
Please note that cars may drive on the opposite side of the road from what you are used to. Look both ways before crossing any road. Traffic can be more chaotic than you might be used to at home. Be aware!
Seat Belts
Please be aware that local laws governing transportation safety may differ from those in your home country and not all the transport which is used is able to provide seat belts.
Pick pocketing & Personal safety
While travelling there is always the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in the more touristy cities. Exercise caution when walking at night and we encourage you to walk in groups and on main, well-lit thoroughfares. Be vigilant on public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair or on the floor and wearing a money belt will reduce the risk of valuables being stolen or going missing.
Water safety
Please take care when taking part in any activities in the ocean, river or open water. Waves and currents can be unpredictable. It’s expected that anyone taking part in water activities can swim and have experience in open water. Seek local advice before entering the water.
SAFETY IN TURKEY & INSURANCE
We recommend that you check your government’s advice for their latest travel information before your departure and ensure your travel insurance covers all areas in your itinerary.
The safety of travellers and staff is your tour operator’s priority. Your operator monitors the situation through official travel advisories and their local operations team, and are able to quickly change arrangements if they become concerned. If there are any changes you will be advised immediately.
Whilst travelling in Istanbul before, after, or during your tour we would recommend avoiding crowded areas like Taksim Square, Galatasaray and Kadıköy Meydan after 6.00pm, especially on a weekend. If using public transport in the city please refer to http://www.iett.gov.tr/en for the latest updates and announcements.
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL & DRESS
Intrepid’s Responsible Travel Policy outlines their commitment to preserving the environment, supporting local communities, protecting the vulnerable, and giving back to the places they travel.
All trip group leaders or local representatives, suppliers, and staff are trained on these principles and are core to delivering sustainable, experience-rich travel.
Dress standards are conservative and you should pack and dress accordingly. To respect the local culture and for your own comfort, we strongly recommend modest clothing. As a guideline, shoulders and knees (and everything in between including midriff and cleavage) should be always covered. Wearing shorts and singlet tops is not appropriate and may restrict your entry and limit your local interaction opportunities. Loose, lightweight, long clothing is both respectful and cool in the predominantly warm climate.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Travel insurance is compulsory on all our trips for those travelling internationally. We require that you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation as a minimum. If you are travelling within your home country or region, please confirm before travel that you are entitled to access the public medical system easily. We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For tours run by this operator, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company’s 24-hour emergency contact number has been seen.
If you have credit card insurance your group leader or local representative will require full details of the policy including emergency contact number rather than the bank’s name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving.
For travellers who reside within the European Union, Switzerland or USA the requirement to purchase travel insurance cannot be compulsory. However, the purchase of travel insurance is still highly recommended, and travellers from these regions who decline travel insurance when travelling outside of their home region must sign a Travel Insurance Waiver Form at the Group Meeting, recognizing personal responsibility for emergency medical and repatriation costs.
Who is the guide?
The operator for this trip is Intrepid Travel
Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel light. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient but we recommend your bag has carry straps. You’ll also need a daypack/bag to carry water and a camera etc. for day trips.
The packing list has some helpful tips on what you specifically need for this trip.
- Travel documents: passport, visa (if required), travel insurance, air tickets or e-ticket receipts and a copy of this document.
• Photocopy of main passport pages, visa (if required), travel insurance and air tickets.
• Personal medical kit. Your guide will carry a large kit but we recommend you carry items such as mild pain killers, electrolytes and bandaids.
• Daypack
• Watch/Alarm clock or phone that can be used for both.
• Power adaptors
• Insect repellent
• Sun protection – hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
• Earplugs and eye mask (you might be sharing with a snorer!)
• Water bottle. We recommend at least a 1.5litre capacity. The sale of bottled water contributes to an enormous environmental problem around the world. In addition to the water in bottles, the production of a 1 litre plastic bottle takes 2 litres of water and 200ml of oil. A large proportion end up in limited landfill or discarded in waterways and natural environments.
• Warm clothes including hat and gloves – When travelling in cooler climates
• Wind and waterproof rain jacket
• Toiletries/travel wipes
• Travel Towel
• Closed in, comfortable walking shoes. As most of the trips include some walking elements, we highly recommend that you take a pair of comfortable, closed-in walking shoes. Closed-in shoes will help to protect your feet from cuts and scratches when walking through bush/grass-lands, and will also act as a barrier protection in rare cases against bites or stings.
• Camera with spare memory cards and batteries
• Swimwear (itinerary dependant)
• Clothes! Bear in mind that laundry facilities will be widely available throughout this trip. The cost varies in each destination.
LUGGAGE LIMIT
You will be expected to carry your own bag on this trip. Although it is not expected for you to walk long distances with your luggage, we strongly recommend keeping the weight under 15kg. If your itinerary includes a flight, some domestic airlines have checked luggage limits of 15kg.
CLOTHING & CLIMATE
Temperatures are highly variable depending on the time of year and the region you are travelling in. Winters range from freezing in the central and eastern areas, cold in Istanbul and relatively mild on the west coast. Summer (June to August) can be extremely hot all over the country. Spring and autumn tend towards warm days and cooler nights. A light water and windproof jacket is useful and a hat essential.
VALUABLES
Please try to avoid bringing unnecessary valuables, and use your hotel safes to store the bulk of your money, passport, and airline tickets. It’s also a good idea to purchase a money belt or pouch that is easily hidden. We recommend copying all important documents and keeping the copies separate from the originals. While not valid, a photocopy makes it very much easier to obtain replacements if necessary.
BATTERIES/POWER
On this trip you will have access to power to recharge batteries for phones and cameras regularly. We always recommend that you carry an extra battery for your camera just in case. Charging is advised before checking out and there may be some nights where electricity may not be readily available i.e overnight boat.
Let us know if you would like to pay for your trip in instalments. The first instalment will always be the required deposit amount. Instalments are only available if making payments before the trip’s final payment date. The entire balance must be paid on the final payment date.
Contact us at info@adventuressinthewild.com for more information.
This booking will be subject to Intrepid Travel’s Booking Conditions, and Adventuress in the Wild Booking Conditions.
DATES & COST
Trip prices with this operator are dynamic and can change. Prices are updated here weekly but may have increased or decreased at time of booking, so you will be informed if this is the case. You will never be charged more than the operators price.
7th – 18th September: £2160
21st – 2nd October: £2205
5th – 16th October: £2430
19th – 30th October: £2180
12th – 23rd April: £2660
26th – 7th May: £2660
17th – 28rd May: £2660
5th – 16rd July: £2660
6th – 17th September: £2765
20th – 1st October: £2765
4th – 15th October: £2765
18th – 29th October: £2765
11th – 22nd April: £2765
25th – 6th May: £2765
16th – 27th May: £2765
4th – 15th July: £2765
5th – 16th September: £2765
19th – 30th September: £2765
3rd – 14th October: £2765
17th – 28th October: £2765
![kate and katia travel mentors](https://adventuressinthewild.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/WhatsApp-Image-2024-06-05-at-20.25.01-1024x1024.jpeg)
YOUR PERSONAL TRAVEL MENTOR
When booking with us you’ll receive your own personal Travel Mentor to help you book and prepare for your amazing adventures. We’ve helped hundreds of women get out there, and now can’t wait to share your excitement for your next trip.
WHY BOOK WITH ADVENTURESS?
Connect with a travel mentor
Receive speedy support before and during your trip with your personal travel mentor.
Pay in instalments
Can’t afford to pay all at once? Set up a payment plan for your trip. All money is secured in a PTS Trust account offering 100% financial protection.
Meet the community
Meet other like-minded souls in the Adventuress in the Wild digital community groups.
ADVENTURESS MUSINGS
Rated 5.0 on Google
Conquer your mountains
Ready to dive into life beyond your comfort zone? We’ve got you!
Pack your bags and get ready to meet your inner Adventuress. You’ll explore new places and try things you never dreamed possible, returning home with boosted confidence and lot of amazing stories to tell.
Life’s short, make it an adventure!
Adventure for everyone
We recognise that some of you do not feel like you are represented in the world of outdoor adventure, so we are on a mission to change that by only partnering with guides that are advocate for total inclusivity.
Let’s show the world that adventure is for everybody.