Embrace Winter's Magic: A 14-Day "WHITE ROUTE" Through Istanbul, Cappadocia & Erciyes Ski Resort

from $500

Duration

14 days

Type

Guided, Private, Reading Material

Difficulty

Easy

Small-Group City Tour in Lima: Historical Sites, Nature, and Light Show

This is a unique experience where you will visit the sites that follow the guidelines of the History of Lima City.

Highlights:
Pachacamac, Pre-Inca archaeological Complex
Pantanos de Villa
District of Barranco
Historical Centre of Lima
Convent of San Francisco
Water Circuit Park

Inclusions

Hotel Pick-Up and Drop-Off
Professional Bilingual Guide (English/Spanish)
Lunch of Peruvian Creole food

Exclusions

Gratuities

Tour Plan

Itinerary

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Day 14 14-Day "WHITE ROUTE" Through Istanbul, Cappadocia & Erciyes Ski Resort

Experience the enchanting Turkish winter with a unique 14-day "WHITE ROUTE" itinerary, seamlessly blending the historical grandeur of Istanbul, the snow-dusted fairytales of Cappadocia, and the exhilarating slopes of Erciyes Ski Resort. This tour is perfectly crafted for those who seek cultural immersion alongside thrilling winter sports.

Your adventure begins in the vibrant metropolis of Istanbul, transitions to the mystical landscapes of Cappadocia, and culminates with an adrenaline-fueled ski experience at one of Turkey's premier ski destinations, Mount Erciyes.

Days 1-4: Imperial Istanbul – A Winter's Tale

Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul & Historical Charm. Arrive at Istanbul Airport (IST or SAW), transfer to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, take a leisurely stroll around Sultanahmet Square, soaking in the magical winter atmosphere.
Day 2: Byzantine & Ottoman Grandeur. Explore the iconic Hagia Sophia, the magnificent Blue Mosque, and the ancient Hippodrome. In the afternoon, delve into the opulent history of Topkapi Palace, once the heart of the Ottoman Empire.
Day 3: Bazaars & Bosphorus Whispers. Immerse yourself in the vibrant chaos of the Grand Bazaar and the aromatic wonders of the Spice Market. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic Bosphorus cruise, witnessing snow-dusted palaces and fortresses lining the shores.
Day 4: Palaces & Panoramic Views. Visit the stunning Dolmabahçe Palace, a symbol of Ottoman modernization. Later, ascend Galata Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the city, or explore the trendy Karaköy district. Enjoy a traditional Turkish bath (hammam) experience in the evening.

Days 5-9: Cappadocian Dreams – A Fairytale in Snow

Day 5: Flight to Cappadocia & Uchisar Views. Morning flight from Istanbul to Kayseri (ASR) or Nevşehir (NAV) airport. Transfer to your unique cave hotel in Cappadocia. After settling in, visit Uçhisar Castle, the highest point in Cappadocia, for stunning sunset views over the snow-covered valleys.
Day 6: Hot Air Balloons & Goreme's Treasures. (Optional, weather permitting) Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime hot air balloon ride at sunrise over the surreal, snow-laden fairy chimneys. Later, explore the Goreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient rock-cut churches with fascinating frescoes.
Day 7: Underground Cities & Valleys of Imagination. Delve into the depths of an ancient underground city (Derinkuyu or Kaymaklı), used by early Christians for shelter. In the afternoon, wander through the picturesque Devrent (Imagination) Valley and Pasabag (Monks) Valley, admiring the unique rock formations, possibly blanketed in snow.
Day 8: Avanos Pottery & Local Crafts. Visit Avanos, a town famous for its pottery since Hittite times. Try your hand at making pottery and explore local artisan shops. Consider a gentle horse-riding or ATV tour through the snowy landscapes for a different perspective.
Day 9: Leisure or Optional Activities. Enjoy a leisurely morning, perhaps revisiting a favorite spot or opting for a traditional Turkish cooking class. Prepare for your transfer to Erciyes.

Days 10-13: Erciyes Ski Resort – Conquer the Slopes

Day 10: Transfer to Erciyes & First Slopes. Morning transfer (approx. 1-1.5 hours) to your hotel at Erciyes Ski Resort. After checking in and arranging ski equipment rentals, hit the slopes for your first taste of Erciyes's renowned powder. The resort offers a variety of runs suitable for all levels.
Day 11: Full Day Skiing Adventure. Enjoy a full day of skiing or snowboarding on Mount Erciyes. Explore the extensive network of lifts and pistes, taking in the breathtaking views from the volcanic peak. Ski schools are available for beginners or those looking to refine their skills.
Day 12: More Skiing or Alternative Winter Fun. Dedicate another day to conquering the slopes. Alternatively, if you desire a break from skiing, some areas around Erciyes offer opportunities for snowshoeing or simply enjoying the alpine scenery and cozy mountain cafes.
Day 13: Last Ski Day & Farewell to the Mountains. Enjoy your final day of skiing on Erciyes. In the late afternoon, transfer back to your hotel in Cappadocia or directly to Kayseri for your departure the next day.

Day 14: Departure

Transfer from your hotel in Cappadocia or Kayseri to Kayseri Erkilet Airport (ASR) for your flight back home or to your next destination, filled with unforgettable memories of your Turkish winter adventure.

This "WHITE ROUTE" itinerary offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration and winter sports, allowing you to experience the diverse beauty of Turkey in its magical winter cloak. Enjoy the warmth of Turkish hospitality, the thrill of the slopes, and the awe-inspiring landscapes that await.

Meeting / Pickup

Pick-up only: Customers must be picked up from selected pick-up locations.

Please Note

Health, Physical Requirements, and Accessibility Information

This tour combines cultural sightseeing with an active winter sports component. It is designed for travelers in good general health with a moderate level of physical fitness. Below are specific details regarding health, physical demands, and accessibility.

General Health and Physical Requirements:

Moderate Physical Fitness: This tour is active and requires a reasonable amount of walking and physical stamina.
Istanbul & Cappadocia: You should be comfortable with walking for 2-3 hours at a time, often over uneven surfaces, cobblestones, and up and down hills, especially in Istanbul's historic districts and Cappadocia's valleys.
Skiing at Erciyes: Skiing and snowboarding are physically demanding sports that require good balance, core strength, and cardiovascular endurance. While group lessons for beginners are included, a baseline level of fitness is essential to enjoy the experience and minimize the risk of injury.
Pre-existing Conditions: Travelers with pre-existing medical conditions, particularly heart, back, or respiratory issues, should consult their doctor before booking. Altitude at Erciyes Ski Resort can also affect some individuals.
Vaccinations & Health: No specific vaccinations are required for entry into Turkey, but it is always recommended to be up-to-date on routine vaccines. Please consult your doctor or a travel clinic for personalized health advice.
Dietary Needs: Please advise us of any specific dietary restrictions or allergies at the time of booking so we can make necessary arrangements with hotels and restaurants.

Activity-Specific Requirements:

Hot Air Ballooning (Cappadocia):
Age Limit: Due to regulations from the Turkish Civil Aviation Authority, children under the age of 6 are not permitted to fly.
Health: Pregnant individuals and those with significant mobility issues or a history of major surgery may not be permitted to fly. Passengers must be able to stand for the duration of the flight (approx. 1 hour) and be able to climb in and out of the basket.
Skiing (Erciyes): This activity is suitable for all levels, from complete beginners to advanced skiers. However, it is a strenuous physical activity. Proper physical preparation is recommended.

Accessibility Information:

This tour, as designed, is not wheelchair accessible. The nature of the destinations and activities presents significant challenges for travelers with major mobility impairments.

Wheelchair Accessibility:
Istanbul: While some major sites like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia have made efforts to improve accessibility with ramps and lifts, many areas of the city, including historic streets, the Grand Bazaar, and public transport, are difficult to navigate with a wheelchair.
Cappadocia: The region's unique terrain of caves, rock formations, and unpaved valley paths makes it fundamentally inaccessible for wheelchairs. Most cave hotels have multiple levels and stairs with no elevators.
Erciyes Ski Resort: While some hotel facilities may be accessible, the overall ski resort experience, including accessing lifts and slopes, is designed for able-bodied individuals. Adaptive skiing may be possible but would require specialized arrangements far in advance and is not included in this standard tour package.
Infant Seats:
By law in Turkey, private tour vehicles are generally required to use appropriate child restraint systems. Infant seats can be provided upon request. Please ensure you inform us of the age and weight of your child at the time of booking to guarantee availability.
Please note that standard taxis hailed on the street are often exempt from this law and typically do not carry child seats. All included transfers in this tour will be in pre-booked vehicles where seats can be arranged.

Who is this tour suitable for?

This experience is ideal for active individuals, couples, and families with older children (6+) who enjoy a mix of cultural discovery and physical activity and are comfortable with a significant amount of walking and the demands of a winter sports vacation.