TURQUOISE COAST ODYSSEY 13 DAYS / 12 NIGHTS

Itinerary Overview

Hike and explore ancient lands of Anatolia and voyage in the wake of bygone civilizations along the blue Mediterranean coast of Turkey on our Turquoise Coast Odyssey. This flagship Wildland Adventure through western Turkey takes you walking along the cobble-stone streets, bustling bazaars, and through historic cobble-stone neighborhoods of Istanbul. Hike among fairy chimney landscapes, underground cities, and hidden churches of Cappadocia, and cruise in a Phoenician-style gulet along the pine-clad coast among Crusader castles, and Greek, Roman, and Byzantine ruins, many of which are only accessible on footpaths from turquoise-colored coves where we set anchor. A great trip for family and friends, you relax on board with time to swim, snorkel, read, and explore small white-washed resort towns and rural villages where traditional life prevails. Accommodations include a restored Ottoman home in the heart of a mountain village, a boutique cave hotel, and Istanbul inns with rooftop restaurants offering spectacular skyline views centrally located for exploring the city on foot. By virtue of our Kutay family Turkish heritage, Wildland travelers are received as friends and family by exceptional Turkish guides who share their vast knowledge of history, personal insights about political affairs, and their favorite restaurants and cafes where you savior a variety Turkish cuisine. Join one of our scheduled departures in Spring or Fall, or charter a private gulet with family or friends. Consider adding an extra day in Istanbul and hot air ballooning. DAY

DATE

OVERNIGHT

HOTEL/BOAT

MEALS

1

Tues

ISTANBUL

Arcadia Blue

D

2

Wed

ISTANBUL

Arcadia Blue

BLD

Full day walking guided tour of Istanbul’s Sultanahmet historic district.

3

Thurs

CAPPADOCIA

Taskonaklar or Elkep Evi

BLD

Fly to Kayseri, drive to Cappadocia. Goreme Open-Air Museum and Uchisar Castle.

4

Friday

CAPPADOCIA

Taskonaklar or Elkep Evi

BL

Hike and Underground City in Cappadocia.

5

Sat

ŞIRINCE VILLAGE

Nisanyan Houses

BD

Fly to Izmir. Visit Temple of Artemis, Ephesus and vicinity.

6

Sun

EKINCIK

Cevri II Gulet

BLD

Drive to Ekincik. Dalyan River boat. Board gulet.

7

Mon

FETHIYE BAY

Cevri II Gulet

BLD

Sail to Ağa Limani via Fethiye, hike to Lydea

8

Tues

GEMILER ISLAND

Cevri II Gulet

BLD

Drive and hike to Kaya Köy. Sunset at Gemiler Island

9

Wed

KAŞ

Cevri II Gulet

BL

10

Thurs

APERLAI

Cevri II Gulet

BLD

Sail to Aperlai, snorkel- kayak over sunken city. Hike to Simena.

11

Friday

ANTALYA

Puding Marina

BLD

Disembark. Visit Myra amphitheatre. Drive to Antalya and explore old town.

12

Sat

ISTANBUL

Adahan Hotel

BD

13

Sun

DEPARTURE

B

HIGHLIGHTS Transfer in. Guided stroll to welcome dinner overlooking the Golden Horn.

Sail to Kalkan. Lunch at village home; on to Kaş for sunset

Fly to Istanbul. Farewell dinner. Transfer to the airport.

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Itinerary in Detail DAY 1: ARRIVE IN ISTANBUL Upon arrival in Istanbul, pass through immigration and transfer to your hotel. Meet your guide in the hotel lobby in the afternoon for a stroll through the streets of the old city through the University Square to the mosque complex of Suleiman the Magnificent, the exquisite work of architect Sinan the Great. Continue into the Grand Bazaar and through back streets behind the Spice Market leading to the busy promenade of the Golden Horn. Enjoy an introduction to authentic Turkish cuisine in a local restaurant overlooking the busy ferry boats on the Bosphorus and Golden Horn. Overnight in the historic Sultanahmet District of Istanbul. [D]

DAY 2: ISTANBUL Today is a walking exploration of the grandeur of ancient Constantinople. Visit splendid relics of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires including the Topkapi Palace, 400-year-old Sultanahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque), and 2000-year-old Roman Hippodrome, the Underground Cistern and the Hagia Sophia Church miraculously built in the first half of the 6th century, by Emperor Justinian. Lunch is at the Karokol Restaurant serving exquisite Ottoman cuisine on the terrace inside the massive gate on the sprawling grounds of the Topkapi Palace with a view of the Bosphorus. Around sunset board a commuter ferry, joining local Istanbulians as they return home from work; a journey that reveals palaces, lavishly restored Ottoman homes and embassies on both the European and Asian sides of the Bosphorus waterfront. Dine in the open-air of a local restaurant on summer eve enjoying a traditional Turkish dinner with a creative menu. Overnight Sultanahmet hotel. [BLD]

DAY 3: CAPPADOCIA WALKS AND HISTORIC SITES, WHIRLING DERVISH

Transfer to the airport for the short flight to Kayseri (50 min) and drive to Cappadocia (50 min). Today is the first of two days to explore Cappadocia driving between villages to cultural sites and beautiful canyons and landscapes with plenty of opportunities for walking and hiking. Wander around Uchisar Castle, a natural rock formation carved out of the soft volcanic tuft. Visit Goreme Open-Air Museum, a complex of medieval cave churches carved and elaborately painted by Christian Orthodox monks. The itinerary is flexible with options based on individual interests including visits to towns specializing in various handicrafts. This evening see an authentic Whirling Dervish performance in a restored Caravan Serai in the desert. Overnight in a boutique Cappadocia cave hotel. [BLD]

DAY 4: LOVE VALLEY HIKE AND UNDERGROUND CITIES

Begin the day hiking through one of the lovely valleys of Cappadocia amidst the bizarre geological formations where trails wend through orchards, vineyards, and small family gardens. Amble among hidden churches, abandoned cave homes, and pigeon roosts carved into the sandstone cliffs where early Christians worshiped in obscurity hiding from Roman pagans until Rome subsequently adopted Christianity. Hiking routes are flexible in this trekking paradise; trekking poles are recommended. Cappadocia is the heartland of Turkey, rich in culture, history, and agriculture. In the charming town of Avanos you learn more about making Turkish food and enjoy typical dishes prepared at a women's co-op restaurant that benefits local families in the community. Nearby visit a master potter's workshop where you have a chance to throw a pot; the potter's wheel was invented in Anatolia. Out of town in Kaymakli or Derinkuyu descend 150 feet down into the honeycomb depths of underground cities where Christians escaped from marauding invaders and survived in these tunnels and caverns. En route back to your hotel, Wildland Adventures | Turquoise Coast Odyssey | www.wildland.com -3-

you may stop to view a 13th century Selcuk Turk Caravanserai, former rest stops for camel caravans similar to those made famous by Marco Polo. We highly recommend an optional hot air balloon ride in the early morning (cost not included). Overnight Cappadocia cave hotel. [BL]

DAY 5: EPHESUS – ŞIRINCE Transfer to the airport for morning flight to Izmir (1.5 hrs) whereupon we drive to Ephesus (45 min) for an afternoon guided walk through the ancient city. One of the most impressive Roman ruins and important ancient coastal cities, Ephesus attracted the world’s merchants, artists, and statesmen from across the Mediterranean for many centuries. Visit the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, and walk through the vast ongoing excavation and restoration project featuring mosaics and wall paintings of the Yumac Houses vividly representing the lives of wealthy Ephesian residents from the first century BCE. Rather than stay in a local hotel in the tourist hub of Selcuk, we drive 20 minutes into the hills to Şirince village, frequently visited by residents of Ephesus in ancient times as a cool mountain retreat. Check into your Nisanyan cottage, a beautiful Ottoman-style bungalow richly decorated in color and antique style, then wander the cobblestone streets amongst the charming residences, shops, and open air market selling homemade fruit wine, herbal soaps, honey, olive oil, and delicious natural local foods. Overnight in an Ottoman-style cottage of Nisanyan Evleri. [BD]

DAY 6: BOARD GULET CRUISE TO CAUNOS Soak in the morning sun waking up in the quiet village. Early risers can stroll in the village among the scent of fresh baked pita bread and the tinkling of bells as shepherds take their goat herds to pasture. After a delicious fresh breakfast on the patio, drive south to Ekincik to board your gulet and meet your captain and crew. In the afternoon we hire a local fishing boat in the estuary to Iztuzu Beach where the rare sea-turtle species, Caretta Carettas, lay their eggs (season dependent). Continue up the Dalyan River through a maze of bamboo and cattails to reach the magnificent 4th century BCE rock-cut tombs and Carian ruins at Caunos. Hike through the ancient site to Candir Iskelesi where the gulet has moved to meet the group. Cruise off to a quiet cove to enjoy your first night on board. Overnight aboard gullet. [BLD]

DAY 7: VOYAGE TO FETHIYE & LYDEA

It's a short voyage to Ağa Limani Cove, a serene turquoise inlet in Fethiye Bay. Set anchor and hike to Batik Hamam, a Roman bath complex where Mark Anthony and Cleopatra were said to have rendezvoused, and which now emerges from beneath the water where you have the opportunity to swim and snorkel through the ruins looking for sponges, octopus, and fish. After lunch hike to Lydea, the site of the ancient Lycian Oracle, only accessible on foot. This optional hike is one of the most spectacular trails of the Lycian range, traversing coastal promontories covered in pine forests and passing shepherds' homesteads whose natural herb gardens of oregano, thyme, and sage scent the air. Anchor for the night aboard gulet in Hamam Cove. [BLD]

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DAY 8: HIKE KAYA KÖY & GEMILER ISLAND Start this exciting day with a visit to the ancient necropolis of Telmessus in Fethiye with its spectacular temple rock-cut tombs. A short 15-minute drive takes you to Kaya Köy, a ghost town of over 600 abandoned homes. The former Greek residents were subject to a population exchange between Turkey and Greece in 1930. Walk through the beautiful site, then hike downhill with views across the Mediterranean to meet the boat in Soguksu Cove where you pass the afternoon at leisure swimming and relaxing on-board. Before dusk take a short hike through the impressive ruins of a 6th century AD Byzantine monastery to the top of Gemiler Island and enjoy a sundowner watching the sun set over the bay. Overnight aboard gulet at Gemiler Island. [BLD]

DAY 9: KALKAN & KAŞ MEDITERRANEAN TOWNS The gulet sets out down the coast to the harbor of Kalkan, a small seaside resort town. Disembark and hike to a panoramic lookout where a land transport awaits to drive inland to a small Lycian village in the country. Walking through the village you are welcomed in a home for a delicious typical Turkish lunch. From here, it is a short drive to Kaş, a charming Mediterranean seaside town with a well-preserved Greek theater, narrow cobblestoned streets and white-washed houses festooned with colorful bougainvillea and wooden balconies. After free time to walk and shop, you meet to sip Turkish wine at the ancient theatre or in a bar on the harbor for sunset. Overnight aboard gullet. [BL]

DAY 10: APERLAI & KAYAK KEKOVA BAY In the nearby Kekova Sound kayak in the calm morning hours through beautiful crystal clear turquoise waters. Below the water you can see sunken ruins of this ancient island. Visit Aperlai, a 4th C Lycian city with remains scattered over the hillsides and underwater in the bay. Snorkeling in the crystal clear waters you can see marble columns, paved floors, walls, and a church foundation of a city submerged over 1,600 years ago. It’s a short hike to Simena, a pastoral village where dozens of impressive Roman sarcophagi are strewn around the base of a hill crowned with a Crusader castle. Anchor under the shadow of this ancient village and watch the sun set over Kekova Bay. Stay overnight aboard gulet at Kekova Bay. [BLD]

DAY 11: DISEMBARK – ANTALYA

After a morning swim, cruise to Cayagazi to disembark, say goodbye to your crew and take a short drive to visit the ruins of Myra and the Church of St. Nicholas (3rd century AD). Myra boasts one of the most colossal and well-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world complete with relics of the stone masks of performers. Explore the 4th century BCE Lycian house-tombs carved out of rock amidst richly-decorated facades on a high cliff above. Later drive to Antalya to spend the night in the historic district of this ancient port city. Walk around the old town and enjoy a seafood dinner overlooking the ancient harbor and the pine-forested hills of Olympos National Park. Overnight Antalya. [BLD]

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DAY 12: ANTALYA – ISTANBUL GALATA DISTRICT

Transfer to the airport for your 1 hour flight to Istanbul. Upon arrival meet and transfer to your hotel located in the bustling Galata district close to the pedestrian promenade of Istiklal Caddesi where you can walk through the lively neighborhood of Beyoglu up to Taksim Square offering an abundance of restaurants, bars, clubs, and shops in close proximity. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax, explore, and reflect on your experience in Turkey. Enjoy farewell dinner at a traditional restaurant. Stay overnight in the Galata District at Adahan Hotel. [BD]

DAY 13: DEPART Transfer to the Istanbul airport for your international departure. [B]

END OF SERVICES Actual routes and activities may vary. Local trip coordinators reserve the right to change accommodations to similar quality alternatives.

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2015 PRICING: For current pricing please click here: Pricing For scheduled departure dates please click here: Dates Single Supplement: $450 for hotels only. Guaranteed private gulet cabin on request based on availability at additional $1100, otherwise there is no charge if you are in a single cabin by default. Rates based on Cevri II gulet charter; if Cevri II is not available we will charter another gulet at a supplement.

*Shoulder Season is May, June, September and October. High Season is July and August. Contact us for high season rates for a private charter. **Airfare is subject to change until purchased.

Private charters are available upon request.

INCLUDED SERVICES         

Accommodations on double-occupancy, bed and breakfast basis as listed, inclusive of taxes Airport transfers to/from accommodation; land and sea transportation Private air-conditioned vehicles with driver Guided tours and excursions with entrance fees Meals according to itinerary [B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner] Turkish gulet with private facilities in each cabin Port fees in Turkey Complimentary soft drinks and 2 glasses of wine or bottles of beer a day per passenger on board the gulet. Wildland Adventures travel consultation and pre-departure services.

SERVICES NOT INCLUDED       

International airfare and local flights in Turkey (priced separately) E-Visa for Turkey, payable online before departure ($20 USD) Tips and gratuities Drinks, alcoholic beverages, and meals other than included as listed above. Additional alcoholic beverages can be provisioned for the boat on request. Extra costs for optional excursions like hot air balloon Travel insurance, medical costs, hospitalization and evacuation Extra costs due to unanticipated changes in your itinerary for reasons beyond our control

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Accommodations HOTEL ARCADIA BLUE, ISTANBUL Hotel Arcadia Blue is located on a central but calm street in the Sultanahmet district, the cultural heart of Istanbul. Most of the hotel’s 54 rooms enjoy spectacular views over the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Bosphorus, and the Marmara Sea. Rooms are elegantly furnished and are equipped with the modern conveniences of A/C, mini-bar, satellite TV, free wireless internet access, and a safe. Enjoy delicious meals at one of the four on-site restaurants, each with unique cuisines and presentations. Take advantage of the on-site fitness center and spa which includes a Turkish bath, sauna, Jacuzzi, and massage room. TASKONAKLAR, UCHISAR Taskonkalar Hotel was built to reflect the nature and history of Uchisar, the small Cappadocian village it is built in. Every stone, arch, and old chimney was preserved while Taskonaklar was created. Each comfortable room has its own character and is simply decorated with antique furniture, carpets, and accessories. Room amenities include flat-screen TV, free wireless internet, mini-bar, fireplaces, and spacious bathrooms. The hotel features fresh, classical Turkish cuisine which you can enjoy in the garden or inside. Relax in one of the lounge chairs looking out over the rocky valleys.

NISANYAN EVLERI, ŞIRINCE VILLAGE Experience authentic village life of Turkey! Mujde and Sevan Nisanyan have preserved several small homes in the historic village of Şirince located in the coastal hills above the ancient city of Ephesus. The inn has five guest rooms, with plenty of common area, a lounge, and sky lit restaurant. The 150-year old renovated homes, clustered along cobble-stoned lanes in the village are converted into comfortable, self-contained guest accommodations with modern conveniences and antique charm. Each home sleeps two to five people featuring a fireplace, private bathroom with hair dryer, kitchen, and a CD player with classical and Turkish mood music. Fresh breakfast is delivered to your porch.

GULET: CEVRI II Voyage in a 12-passenger traditional gulet built with pine or mahogany wood hulls and teak decks. Sails are occasionally raised but mostly the boat cruises by motor. Six cabins are configured with double or twin berths, all with air-conditioning (during day-time at the discretion of captain), private toilet, hand-held shower, and hot water. The vessel is equipped for fun and enjoyment with 1 – 2 kayaks, CD-player and sound system, masks, flippers, sun mattresses and awnings, and indoor/outdoor dining areas. Wildland Adventures | Turquoise Coast Odyssey | www.wildland.com -8-

PUDING MARINA HOTEL, ANTALYA Chic and central, Puding Marina Residences is situated in the heart of Antalya old town. Built by combining and restoring 8 historical mansions, the Puding Marina features deluxe sea view rooms looking over the Mediterranean Sea and mountains. Enjoy the outdoor pool and bar, gym, sauna, Turkish bath, and two restaurants serving international and Turkish cuisine with fresh catch of the day. Walk out the door for shopping and cafes. A five minute stroll leads to Mermerli Beach and the old harbor. Reserve spa and hamam treatments in advance.

ADAHAN HOTEL, ISTANBUL Built in 1874, the Adahan is a charmingly restored grand apartment building in the heart of the Galata district of Istanbul. The 40 rooms are elegantly decorated with wood furniture and floors, marble showers, and natural linens. Some rooms offer views of the Galata Tower or the Golden Horn. All amenities are available including high-speed internet access, flat-screen TVs, safes, and mini-bars. Enjoy breakfast or dinner on the terrace restaurant with city views. The hotel is steps away from the thriving pedestrian street with shops, restaurants, and cafes.

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Booking your Wildland Adventure HOW TO RESERVE A TRIP You can book online using our Reservation Form or by calling 1-800-345-4453. Your space on a trip is confirmed once we receive your reservation form and initial trip deposit. All travelers must sign and submit a Release Form. Deposit requirements are as follows:*  $700 per person for all trips in Central America.  $700 per person for all trips in South America, the Middle East, Asia and the Far East, the Mediterranean and North America.  20% of land cost for all trips in Africa. This deposit is generally non-refundable. *Some trips require additional non-refundable deposits, especially when yachts have been chartered, or if permits

to visit archaeological or wildlife sites have been purchased in advance.

CUSTOM TRAVEL We are happy to design a private custom itinerary to accommodate your travel dates, interests and style of accommodations. Call us at 1-800-345-4453, send an email to [email protected], or use the Ask The Program Director button on the trip itinerary page on our website.

PAYMENTS, CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS Full payment of the trip balance is due 90 days prior to departure. If you must cancel before departure, money will be returned less the cancellation fees charged by WA Inc. plus any additional non-refundable cancellation fees and payments already advanced to airlines, hotels and local operators: Days Prior to Departure: Fee per person 91 or more: $300 61-90 days: Initial deposit amount 31-60 days: 50% of land cost 30 or less: 100% of land cost

PRE-DEPARTURE SERVICES

Upon receipt of your deposit and completed reservation form, we will send you a comprehensive Predeparture Dossier. This contains important information to help you prepare including immunizations, visas, trip insurance, packing checklist, reading list, maps, cross-cultural information, optional trip extensions and more. You will receive a final trip packet including Final Reminders and local contact information in your destination 2-3 weeks prior to departure.

REFERENCES AND QUESTIONS Have any questions or concerns? Call us a 1-800-345-4453 or email [email protected]. We’re here to help and are happy to provide you with references from previous Wildland travelers. TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Wildland Adventures, Inc. has arranged your trip utilizing the travel services of local incountry ground operators who are independent contractors. These local outfitters, lodges, hotels and other suppliers of your travel services will make every effort to conduct this trip as described in the itinerary. It is however possible that due to transportation schedule changes, weather, delays and unforeseeable acts of God, humans or nature, this itinerary may vary from what is described. Participants must assume all risks whether identified in advance or unforeseen. All optional activities are at your own risk. Extra costs due to unexpected changes in your itinerary for reasons beyond our control are not included. We highly recommend purchasing traveler’s insurance for trip delay, trip cancellation, baggage, accident or sickness. Representatives are available for assistance at any time during your trip. If preferred hotels are not available, every attempt will be made to reserve alternative accommodations of similar quality. (If upgrade is necessary, higher rates may apply.) All information and services provided are subject to our Terms and Conditions

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