Sapanca and Masukiye from Istanbul with Lunch and Hotel pickup

Exploring beyond Istanbul’s bustling streets, the Sapanca and Masukiye tour offers a full-day escape filled with natural beauty, cultural insights, and fun activities. Priced at just $29 per person, this 10-hour trip is a practical choice for those seeking a mix of serene landscapes and lively rural life, all with hotel pickup and drop-off included. The tour features visits to Sapanca Lake, the charming Mahmudiye Village, Ormanya Wildlife Park, and a cable car adventure, making it ideal for families, adventure seekers, and nature lovers.

The tour’s small group size of up to 15 people ensures a more personalized experience, while optional add-ons like a ski lift ride or ATV tour provide opportunities for extra thrills. With free cancellation policy, travelers can book confidently, knowing they can change plans if needed. The all-inclusive experience with lunch and a professional guide makes it a well-rounded day trip from Istanbul.

Key Points

• Affordable full-day trip at $29 with hotel pickup from Istanbul
• Visit Sapanca Lake, Mahmudiye Village, Ormanya Wildlife Park, and Kartepe with a small group
• Includes open-air lunch, cable car ride, and optional ATV or ski lift add-ons
• Travel in comfort with air-conditioned transport and professional guide
• Serene scenery, cultural insights, and fun outdoor activities
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour

Departure and Pickup: Starting the Day in Istanbul

The tour begins early, with hotel pickup between 8:00 and 8:30 AM from centrally located Istanbul hotels. This ensures a comfortable start, avoiding the hassle of figuring out transportation on your own. The professional team handles the logistics, allowing you to relax and prepare for an engaging day ahead.

Once onboard, the air-conditioned vehicle transports the group smoothly through scenic routes toward the first stop, setting the tone for a well-organized day. The small group limit of 15 travelers keeps the experience intimate and engaging, with plenty of opportunity for questions and personalized attention from the tour guide.

Visiting Darica Zoo or LION PARK AND AQUARIUM

The first notable stop is the Darica Zoo, home to 255 animal species. This option is available only during summer, and it offers a chance to see a variety of animals in a vibrant setting. Alternatively, travelers can opt for a sea route to LION PARK AND AQUARIUM, adding an element of maritime scenery to the zoo experience.

This stop lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, giving ample time to explore the zoo or aquarium, take photos, and appreciate the diversity of wildlife and marine life. The admission ticket to the zoo itself costs $10, and is not included in the tour price.

Exploring Sapanca Lake’s Tranquil Shores

Next, the tour moves to Sapanca Lake, Turkey’s second-largest lake in the Marmara region. Formed during the Earth’s crust deformation, the lake offers a peaceful setting perfect for strolling or simply appreciating the view. The 1 hour and 30 minutes spent here allows for relaxing by the water, with optional activities like boating available nearby.

The scenic beauty of Sapanca Lake, combined with its calm waters, makes it an ideal spot for photography and reflection. The tour guide provides insights into the lake’s geological formation, enriching your understanding of this natural gem.

Mahmudiye Village and Its Rural Charm

A highlight of the tour is the visit to Mahmudiye, a quaint rural village where visitors witness traditional Turkish village life. Here, visitors can enjoy ziplining and water activities, adding an adventurous touch to the trip.

Spending about 1 hour in Mahmudiye offers a glimpse into local customs and the chance to try some outdoor thrills. The village’s friendly atmosphere and scenic surroundings make it a memorable stop for both families and adventure lovers alike.

Lunch in the Heart of Nature at Masukiye Şelale

A delicious open-air lunch in Masukiye, surrounded by mountain waterfalls, is a major highlight. The 1 hour and 30 minutes allocated for this meal provides a chance to taste local cuisine amid lush scenery. The lunch includes a soft drink, and the setting’s natural beauty enhances the dining experience.

The cascading waterfalls and mountain backdrop create a perfect environment for unwinding and enjoying regional flavors. This meal offers a break from sightseeing and an opportunity to connect with nature.

Cable Car Ride at Kartepe: Breathtaking Views

After lunch, the tour includes a cable car journey to Kartepe, offering panoramic views of Sapanca and the Kartepe Mountains. The round-trip ride lasts about 1 hour and is a highlight for those wanting to see the landscape from above.

The cable car provides a visual feast, with vistas that make the ascent worthwhile. It’s an easy activity suitable for all ages, and adds a touch of elevation to the sightseeing itinerary.

Shopping for Local Products in Sapanca

The tour closes with a visit to a local shop where regional products such as Turkish Delight, herbal soaps, honey, jams, and nuts are available for purchase. This stop lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving visitors a chance to pick up souvenirs and sample local delicacies.

Shopping here supports regional artisans and allows for a tangible memory of the day’s experiences. The variety of regional goods makes this a convenient ending before heading back to Istanbul.

Return to Istanbul and Hotel Drop-off

The group departs Sapanca around 4:30 PM for the return journey. The bus heads back through scenic routes, arriving at central Istanbul hotels by 9:00 PM. This timely return makes it easy to plan your evening or prepare for the next day.

The drop-off service completes the smooth logistics of this well-organized day trip, leaving visitors with no transportation worries.

Special Add-Ons for Extra Excitement

For those interested in more adventure, optional add-ons are available. During winter, a ski lift ride can be included, offering snowy mountain views. An ATV tour is also available for a more energetic experience, adding a layer of excitement to the day.

These options can be booked in advance or on-site, providing flexibility for travelers seeking a more personalized adventure.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Day Trip from Istanbul

The Sapanca and Masukiye tour delivers a balanced mix of scenic landscapes, cultural insights, and outdoor activities for a very accessible price. The small group size, professional guide, and all-inclusive setup make it a convenient choice for many visitors.

While the zoo visit might be seasonal and optional, the lake views, mountain cable car, and rural village experiences truly stand out. The lunch in nature adds a relaxing element, making the day feel both adventurous and peaceful.

This tour is best suited for families, nature lovers, and those wanting to escape Istanbul’s city buzz for a day. It offers a solid value, a range of activities, and the chance to see some of Turkey’s most beautiful countryside without needing to plan logistics. Overall, it promises a pleasant, well-organized day that captures the essence of rural Turkey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off from centrally located Istanbul hotels.

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $29 per person, including lunch and guide services.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately 10 hours, from around 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time.

What are the main stops?
Stops include Darica Zoo or LION PARK AND AQUARIUM, Sapanca Lake, Mahmudiye Village, Masukiye for lunch, Kartepe cable car, and a local product shop.

Are there optional activities?
Yes, you can enhance your experience with ski lift rides during winter or an ATV tour.

Is lunch included?
Yes, lunch with a soft drink is part of the tour.

How many people are in the group?
The group size is capped at 15 travelers for a more personalized experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities and weather conditions is recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour suits families with children, especially given the variety of outdoor activities and scenic stops.