Guided Sapanca Lake Mahmudiye and Masukiye Tour with Cable Car

Explore the Beauty of Istanbul’s Outskirts with the Guided Sapanca Lake Tour

The Guided Sapanca Lake Mahmudiye and Masukiye Tour offers a full day of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences just outside Istanbul, Turkey. Priced at $17.20 per person and lasting approximately 13 hours, this tour provides a well-rounded visit to some of the region’s most scenic spots. The tour departs at 9:00 am with pickup options available, making it convenient for visitors staying in the city.

What makes this tour stand out are the diverse stops: from wildlife in the Faruk Yalcin Zoo to thrilling extreme activities in Masukiye, combined with stunning views of Sapanca Lake and Mahmudiye village. While there are optional activities like cable car rides and ziplining, the tour remains flexible, offering opportunities for relaxation and adventure alike. The guiding service and air-conditioned transport contribute to a comfortable day, although some stops involve additional costs or tickets.

This tour is perfect for those seeking nature, fun activities, and a taste of local life, all in a manageable one-day package. Keep in mind that the zoo visit is not included in the ticket price, and some activities like ziplining or the cable car require extra fees. It’s an engaging choice for families, adventure lovers, and nature enthusiasts.

Key Points

• Affordable Day Trip: Priced at $17.20, with a 13-hour schedule starting at 9:00 am.
• Variety of Stops: Visits include Faruk Yalcin Zoo, Mahmudiye village, Masukiye activity area, Sapanca Lake, and optional cable car.
• Wildlife and Nature: Experience a zoo with over 200 species, waterfalls, rivers, and lush green scenery.
• Adventures for All: Activities like ziplining, ATV safaris, and gigantic swings are available, with some costs extra.
• Family-Friendly: The zoo and nature parks make this a good choice for families with children.
• Comfort and Guidance: The tour provides air-conditioned transport and guiding service, ensuring smooth coordination.

Visiting Faruk Yalcin Zoo: An Animal Enthusiast’s Stop

The tour begins with a visit to Faruk Yalcin Zoo, which houses over 200 animal species. Visitors can see endangered species like the spectacled penguin and Indian python, with animals kept in spacious, naturalistic enclosures. The zoo’s beautiful landscaping and diverse animal collection make it a highlight, especially for those interested in wildlife.

Admission to the zoo is not included in the tour price, so plan for an extra fee if you wish to enter. Beyond the animals, the zoo features a botanical garden with over 8,000 plants from more than 400 species. The garden is divided into zones representing different parts of the world, such as South America, Australia, Madagascar, and Africa, offering a peaceful walk amidst lush greenery.

The zoo’s well-kept grounds and the opportunity to see rare animals make it a worthwhile stop, especially for visitors traveling with children. However, since admission is separate, it’s worth budgeting for the extra cost if you want to explore the zoo thoroughly.

Enjoy the Charm of Mahmudiye Village and Riverside Lunch

Next, the tour takes you to Mahmudiye, a small, tranquil village famous for its river and waterfalls. This stop offers a glimpse into rural life and the natural beauty of the Turkish countryside. Visitors have around one hour to wander the village, take photos, or simply enjoy the peaceful village atmosphere.

A highlight at Mahmudiye is the lunch at a traditional restaurant, where you can sample local cuisine amid scenic surroundings. The meal is included in the tour price, featuring a soft drink and a variety of grilled foods with salad. This casual stop provides a chance to relax and appreciate the natural setting away from busy city life.

The village setting, combined with a tasty meal, makes this a memorable part of the day. Since the lunch is included, it offers good value, allowing guests to enjoy a genuine taste of Turkish hospitality amid picturesque scenery.

Thrill and View at Sopeli Zipline Extrem Park

For those seeking adventure, the tour includes a 30-minute break at Sopeli Zipline Extrem Park. The zipline activity offers spectacular waterfall views and a rush of adrenaline, making it one of the more exciting highlights of the day.

The zipline costs 350 TL per person and is not included in the tour price, so participants need to budget separately for this activity. The zipline is set against a backdrop of waterfalls, giving an excellent opportunity for nature photography and thrilling moments.

The park is designed to provide a safe yet exhilarating experience, suitable for teenagers and adventure enthusiasts alike. The brief stop allows for a quick but memorable adrenaline rush, complemented by scenic vistas of the cascading waterfalls.

Action-Packed Masukiye Selale Activity Area

In Masukiye, the tour offers two hours of activities at the Selale area, an outdoor adventure zone. Visitors can drive ATV safaris, try ziplining, or enjoy a gigantic swing — all set amidst lush greenery and natural waterfalls.

Many of these activities are free to enjoy, though some, like the ATV safari, are about $25, and others like the gigantic swing are included. The area is perfect for adventurers who want to feel the thrill amidst natural surroundings.

Masukiye’s outdoor activity zone is designed to cater to all ages and levels of experience, making it ideal for families and adventure seekers alike. The combination of nature and action makes for a lively and engaging stop.

Optional Ride on Sapanca Teleferik for Panoramic Views

The Sapanca Teleferik, or cable car, is an optional activity available during the tour. It takes approximately 25 minutes for a round trip, offering 20 minutes of free time at the top for photos and enjoying panoramic views of Sapanca Lake and the surrounding nature.

The ticket costs 500 TL per person and is not included in the tour price, so you will need to purchase it separately if interested. The cable car ride provides a bird’s-eye perspective of the lush landscape, making it a favorite for photography enthusiasts.

Guests seeking photo opportunities and a peaceful moment amid nature may find this activity especially appealing. It’s a short but visually rewarding addition to the day.

Discovering Sapanca Lake: A Natural Gem

The highlight of the trip is Sapanca Lake, the second largest freshwater lake in the Marmara region, known for its tectonic formation. The tour allows about 45 minutes here, with one hour allocated for the full round-trip visit.

The lake’s serene waters, framed by green hills, provide excellent photo opportunities and a chance to relax. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views, walk along the shore, or simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

Since the admission to Sapanca Lake is free, this stop offers a calming contrast to the more energetic activities. It’s a great spot for nature lovers and those wanting a quiet moment of reflection.

Tasting Local Flavors at Safranbolu Lokumcusu

The final stop on the tour is Safranbolu Lokumcusu, where visitors can taste and try local Turkish products, especially Lokum (Turkish delight) and other regional treats. This 30-minute stop offers a sweet end to the day, with opportunities to purchase souvenirs.

The tasting is complimentary, and it’s an authentic way to experience Turkish flavors before the tour concludes. It also provides a chance to bring home some delicious local products as souvenirs, making it a popular shopping spot.

Tour Logistics and Additional Details

The tour begins at 9:00 am with pickup options, and the vehicle is air-conditioned for comfort. The group size is limited to 25 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience. The guiding service is noted for being professional and helpful, as highlighted in positive reviews.

Some stops, like ziplining and cable car rides, involve extra costs, so travelers should be prepared for additional expenses. The zoo visit also requires an admission ticket not included in the tour fee. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with confirmation received at booking and most participants capable of joining.

The cancelation policy allows for full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for changing plans. The tour is run by Travel with Nehir, whose contact details include a phone number and email for inquiries.

The Perfect Choice for Nature and Adventure in One Day

The Guided Sapanca Lake Mahmudiye and Masukiye Tour offers a balanced mix of wildlife, water, adventure, and local culture, all in a manageable schedule. The value for money is evident, especially considering the included lunch and guided service.

While some activities, like the zipline or cable car, come at extra costs, the overall experience delivers beautiful scenery, adventure, and relaxation. It’s particularly well-suited for families, adventure lovers, and anyone interested in experiencing the natural diversity around Istanbul.

Though some reviews mention disappointments related to guides’ attitude or timing, the majority praise the well-organized, professional guidance, and spectacular views. This tour remains a solid choice for those wanting a full-day escape into nature, with enough flexibility and highlights to satisfy most visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour features family-friendly stops like the zoo and nature parks, making it suitable for children.

Are activities like ziplining and the cable car included in the price?
No, these optional activities involve additional fees, such as 350 TL for ziplining and 500 TL for the cable car.

What should I bring for the outdoor activities?
Comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes for walking, and any personal items needed for outdoor activities are recommended. Remember to budget for optional activities.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
The zoo entrance is not included in the tour fee. The other stops, like Sapanca Lake and Mahmudiye village, are free.

How long is the boat/cable car ride?
The Sapanca Teleferik (cable car) takes about 25 minutes round trip, with 20 minutes of free time for photos.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the start. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

This tour combines nature, wildlife, adventure, and local flavors, making it an engaging day trip from Istanbul that offers great value for those eager to explore Turkey’s scenic outskirts.