Gobeklitepe Tour From Istanbul

Key Points

• All-inclusive day trip from Istanbul featuring flight arrangements, private transportation, and expert local guides
• Visit Gobeklitepe, the world’s oldest known temple, with over 200 obelisks and T-shaped columns
• Includes stops at Sanliurfa Archaeological Museum, Abraham Pool, and Sacred Fish Lake
• Tour duration of approximately 12 hours, with a 7-hour city tour and 5 hours of travel
• Rated 5.0 based on 3 reviews, highlighting the knowledgeable guides and engaging explanations
• Cost of $715.59 per person, with flexible cancellation options and a private group experience

Discover the Oldest Known Temple in Human History

The Gobeklitepe Tour from Istanbul offers an in-depth look at the world’s earliest known religious site, dating back between 9000 BC and 10500 BC. Priced at $715.59 per person, this full-day adventure combines a 7-hour city tour with air travel to the southeastern region of Turkey. The tour departs early in the morning, with a pickup from your Istanbul hotel, ensuring a smooth start to this immersive experience.

This tour is perfect for those interested in archaeology, ancient civilizations, and historical mysteries. It involves moderate physical activity and requires comfortable footwear. The private guide, knowledgeable about the region’s history, enhances the experience with detailed explanations and storytelling. Although the day is packed, the exclusive nature of the tour allows for a personalized and enriching visit to one of the most important archaeological sites in the world.

Key Points

• All-inclusive package with flights, private transport, and guided tours
• Visits to Gobeklitepe, Sanliurfa Museum, and scenic spots like Abraham Pool and Fish Lake
• Tour length around 12 hours, with early morning pickup and return to Istanbul
• Highly rated, with 5-star reviews praising the guides’ expertise and local insights
• Suitable for moderate physical fitness levels, with logistics handled for convenience
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour

Starting with Istanbul: Early Morning Pickup and Flight

The adventure begins in Istanbul at 5:30 am, when a private vehicle picks you up from your hotel. From there, you head to the airport for a 2-hour flight to Sanliurfa, historically known as Edessa, an ancient city famous for its religious significance. The early start ensures you make the most of the day, allowing ample time for exploration before returning to Istanbul in the evening.

This flight-inclusive arrangement offers a comfortable and efficient transfer, saving hours of travel time compared to a day-long drive. The tour is tailored for those who prefer a seamless experience that combines air travel with guided sightseeing, making it ideal for visitors with a limited amount of time in Turkey.

Exploring Gobeklitepe’s Archaeological Marvels

The central highlight of this tour is a visit to Gobeklitepe, recognized as the world’s oldest temple and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2018. The site features approximately 15 structures and over 200 T-shaped columns and obelisks, with heights ranging from 3 to 6 meters. These columns are believed to be stylized human figures, and the site contains a 3D lion relief, adding to its intrigue.

What makes Gobeklitepe particularly fascinating is the soil layer that covers the structures, indicating they were deliberately buried by humans centuries ago. This discovery rewrites the timeline of human civilization, showcasing complex architectural skills much earlier than previously thought. The site’s incredible age and design make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and archaeology buffs.

In-Depth Tour of Sanliurfa Museum and Artifacts

After exploring Gobeklitepe, the tour continues with a visit to the Sanliurfa Archaeological Museum, which hosts approximately 10,000 artifacts. Here, visitors can view the oldest statue in the world, along with exhibits related to the Nevali Çori Temple and original artifacts from Gobeklitepe.

The museum also offers displays of aesthetic mosaics and animations depicting ancient history, providing context for the archaeological findings. The engaging exhibits deepen understanding of regional history, making this museum a valuable complement to the site visit.

Scenic Spot: The Cave of Prophet Abraham and Abraham Pool

A key stop includes the Cave of Prophet Abraham, believed to be his birthplace, and the Balki Göl (Fish Lake), known as the Pool of Abraham. The scenic views include the Abraham Pool, famous in Jewish and Islamic legends, where it is said Nimrod threw Abraham into a fire.

The Cave of Abraham holds religious significance as a pilgrimage site, where visitors can observe the praying area built inside the cave. This location offers a blend of spiritual history and natural beauty, making it a highlight for those interested in religious heritage.

Visiting Balikligol: The Sacred Fish Lake

The tour dedicates 3 hours to exploring Balikligol, called the Sacred Fish Lake. This picturesque site draws thousands annually due to its religious importance and tranquil setting. The lake features many fish, which are considered sacred, and the area is a popular spot for prayer and reflection.

Balikligol’s serene environment offers a contrast to the archaeological sites, providing a peaceful break and a chance to appreciate local spiritual traditions. The site is free to visit, making it an accessible highlight of this tour.

Practicalities: Included Meals and Transportation

Throughout the day, the tour provides breakfast and lunch, both of which are included in the package. The transportation is private and air-conditioned, ensuring comfort as you travel between the various stops. The professional English-speaking guide enhances the experience with detailed narration and answers to questions.

Since the tour is private, it allows for flexibility in pacing and focus areas, giving a personalized touch that group tours often lack. The overall logistics are designed for convenience, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, making the entire day smooth and hassle-free.

The Experience from Start to Finish

The 12-hour itinerary balances archaeological exploration, culture, and scenic stops. The early start means you’ll need to be prepared for a long, active day, but the personalized service and expert guidance make it worthwhile.

Attention to detail is evident, especially in the explanations about Gobeklitepe’s architectural features and historical significance. The guide’s storytelling and local insights elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing, making the ancient sites come alive.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This tour suits history lovers, archaeology enthusiasts, and those interested in religious heritage. It’s ideal for moderate physical fitness levels due to the walking involved at the sites. The private nature of the tour provides flexibility and an intimate learning environment, perfect for travelers seeking a well-organized day without the hassle of coordinating logistics themselves.

The cost of $715.59 per person reflects the comprehensive arrangement, including flights and private transport. It’s best suited for those who want a luxurious, hassle-free trip with knowledgeable guides and significant sites covered efficiently.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Deep Dive into Ancient History

The Gobeklitepe Tour from Istanbul offers a thorough exploration of one of the most important archaeological discoveries in recent history. The expert guides and carefully curated itinerary allow visitors to appreciate the mystery and significance of Gobeklitepe, alongside other culturally and spiritually important sites in Sanliurfa.

While the day is intensive and involves some early hours, the value of seeing Gobeklitepe firsthand along with the complementary stops makes it a memorable experience. The high ratings and positive reviews highlight the quality of the guides and the overall organization.

This tour is especially suitable for those eager to understand human history’s earliest religious practices and who prefer a luxury, private experience. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with Turkey’s ancient past in a way that is both educational and inspiring.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of $715.59?
The price covers flights from Istanbul to Sanliurfa, private transportation, meals (breakfast and lunch), and the guided tour.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 12 hours, including 7 hours of sightseeing and 5 hours of travel.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast and lunch are included as part of the tour package.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour requires moderate physical activity, mainly walking at archaeological sites and scenic locations.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
The major highlights include Gobeklitepe, Sanliurfa Archaeological Museum, Abraham Pool, and Fish Lake.

Do I need to arrange my own transportation to Istanbul airport?
No, the hotel pickup is included, and transportation to the airport is part of the package.

What is the guide’s role during the tour?
The professional English-speaking guide provides historical explanations and local insights at each stop, making the experience engaging and informative.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is a private experience, with only your group participating.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of air travel, private transport, and expert guidance to the world’s oldest temple offers a convenient and comprehensive way to discover Gobeklitepe from Istanbul.