Rize: Ayder Tour & Kaçkar Mountans & Frtna Valley

This Rize: Ayder Tour & Kaçkar Mountains & Frtna Valley offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, adventure activities, and cultural sights for just $53 per person. The tour lasts about 9 hours, making it a comprehensive day trip ideal for those eager to see the highlights of Turkey’s lush Black Sea region. From exploring the stunning Kaçkar Mountains National Park to enjoying rafting, zip-line, and a huge swing, this experience combines relaxation with adrenaline-pumping moments.

While the itinerary is packed with memorable stops, there is a notable review mentioning a guide’s less-than-friendly attitude, which could impact the overall experience. This tour suits travelers who appreciate a mix of scenic views and outdoor activities but should be prepared for weather variability and activity fees.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $53, this 9-hour tour offers a full day of sights and activities.
• Activities Included: Activities such as rafting, zip-line, and a large swing are available in the Frtna Valley.
• Main Stops: Highlights include Eskitolu Waterfall, Storm Valley, Ayder Plateau, and Kale-i Hala Bridge.
• Guided Experience: A tour guide leads you through each site, with transfers from your accommodation.
• Weather Flexibility: The tour runs rain, shine, or snow, with possible extra time for rafting depending on weather conditions.
• Review Consideration: Some guests mention issues with guide behavior, so clear communication or expectations should be maintained.

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Discovering the Natural Beauty of Kaçkar Mountains

The tour begins with a pickup from your accommodation, then heads towards Eskitolu Waterfall, which pours down in two stages from 80 meters high. This impressive cascade is just before entering Rize city, where you get a brief glimpse of the bustling town only 500 meters from the sea. The scenic transition from mountain to coast makes this a striking start to the day.

After the waterfall, the tour passes through Rize’s city center, giving a quick look at local life before heading to the Storm Valley. Here, natural scenery dominates, offering a peaceful setting for outdoor activities. The Frtna Stream in the Frtna Valley serves as the hub for adventure sports, including rafting, zip-line, and a giant swing in a setting surrounded by greenery.

Exciting Water Adventures in Frtna Valley

In the Frtna Valley, the activities are the main attraction. The rafting experience takes place on the Frtna Stream, offering an adrenaline rush in a beautiful natural environment. The zip-line and huge swing provide thrilling moments that add a fun outdoor element to the trip. Visitors have the opportunity to participate in these activities while surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of flowing water.

The activity area is conveniently located next to the stream, making it easy to enjoy the scenic surroundings. Participants should be prepared with change of clothes and cash for activity fees, which are not included in the tour price.

Exploring the Ayder Plateau and Local Cuisine

Following the outdoor activities, the tour travels into the Kaçkar Mountains National Park. The highlight here is the Ayder Plateau, a popular spot known for its green landscapes and mountain vistas. The tour includes about 2 hours of free time at Ayder, offering options for lunch at a local restaurant and sightseeing.

Visitors can relax at the plateau, take in the mountain views, or explore nearby spots at their own pace. This stop provides a good balance of relaxation and sightseeing before the journey continues.

Visiting the Historic Kale-i Hala Bridge

On the return route, the Kale-i Hala stone bridge, built in the 18th century, stands out as a significant historical site. The 10-minute photo stop offers a chance to admire this ancient structure and learn a bit about its past. It’s a brief but scenic glimpse into the region’s history, providing a cultural touchpoint to conclude the day.

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Shopping and Local Crafts at Zaimolu Rize Bezleri

The stop at Zaimolu Rize Bezleri offers 25 minutes for shopping, where visitors can purchase local Rize weaving products. This is a great chance to pick up souvenirs or gifts, supporting local artisans. The shop is conveniently located near the main route, making it an efficient addition to the itinerary.

Logistics: Pickup, Transfers, and Stops

The tour departs from 11 pickup locations around Trabzon, including major hotels like DoubleTree, Radisson Blu, and Novotel, as well as popular service points like Shell and Burger King. After the day’s activities, guests are dropped off at the same or nearby locations.

Included in the tour is hotel pickup and drop-off, a tour guide, and the National Park bus entrance fee. However, food, drinks, and activity fees (for zip-line, swing, and rafting) are not included, so travelers should prepare accordingly.

Practical Tips for the Tour

Participants should bring comfortable shoes, a change of clothes, and cash for extra expenses. The tour runs rain, shine, or snow, so packing for weather variability is advised. Depending on the weather, there might be additional time for rafting, which could extend the day slightly.

The tour is led by guides speaking Arabic, English, and Turkish, ensuring clear communication for most visitors. Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the option to reserve now and pay later.

The Experience with ZANOS TOURS INTERNATIONAL

While the tour offers a robust itinerary with plenty of outdoor adventures and cultural sights, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention guide conduct issues. One reviewer describes a guide as rude and unhelpful, which highlights the importance of managing expectations or communicating any concerns during the trip.

The tour provides a balanced day of natural exploration and adventure activities at a reasonable price. It suits travelers who want a full-day experience with outdoor fun and scenic stops, but those sensitive to guide interaction should consider this aspect.

Rize: Ayder Tour & Kaçkar Mountains & Frtna Valley — Final Thoughts

This tour offers a combination of scenic landscapes, outdoor activities, and cultural sights within a 9-hour window. The adventure options like rafting and zip-line are major draws, set against the stunning backdrop of the Kaçkar Mountains.

The main limitations are the activity fees not included in the initial price and the potential for guide-related issues. The stops at Eskitolu Waterfall, Storm Valley, and Ayder Plateau provide excellent photo opportunities and sightseeing moments, while the historical Kale-i Hala Bridge adds a touch of culture.

This experience is well-suited for active travelers and outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy exploring diverse landscapes and engaging in adventure sports. It offers good value for the price, with enough flexibility for sightseeing and relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $53 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, with starting times depending on availability.

What activities are included?
You can participate in rafting, zip-line, and a large swing at the Frtna Valley.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there is free time at Ayder Plateau for lunch.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the tour runs rain, shine, or snow, though weather may affect activities like rafting.

What are the pickup and drop-off points?
The tour departs from 11 locations in Trabzon, including major hotels and service points, with drop-offs at the same or nearby locations.

Do I need to pay activity fees separately?
Yes, zip-line, swing, and rafting fees are not included in the tour price.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Is there a guide during the tour?
Yes, guides speak Arabic, English, and Turkish.

What should I bring?
Participants should bring comfortable shoes, a change of clothes, and cash for extras.

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