Sapanca Lake and Masukiye Tour

The Sapanca Lake and Masukiye Tour offers a full-day escape from the hustle of Istanbul for just $40.80 per person. With a 12-hour duration, this guided trip takes travelers through four stunning locations in the Turkish countryside, including a visit to Sapanca Lake, the Masukiye Waterfalls, and Kartepe Hill. The tour features hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics straightforward, and includes lunch and guide services.

While some previous feedback points to lengthy waits during pickup and mixed reviews about meal quality, the tour’s core appeal lies in its scenic stops and natural beauty. This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy leisurely sightseeing, panoramic views, and outdoor activities like short mountain hikes and village strolls. The optional chair-lift upgrade to the summit at Kartepe adds an extra thrill for those wanting a panoramic view of the area.

Key Points

• Full-day guided excursion from Istanbul with hotel pickup
• Stops at four scenic locations including Sapanca Lake and Masukiye Waterfalls
• Includes a lakeside Turkish picnic near a waterfall
• Optional chair-lift ride at Kartepe Hill for panoramic views
• Transportation is by modern, air-conditioned coach with a maximum group size of 15
• Some reviews mention long wait times for pickup and dissatisfaction with lunch options

Exploring Sapanca Lake: The First Stop

The tour begins with a visit to Sapanca Lake, a highlight for its tranquil waters and picturesque surroundings. Travelers spend approximately 2 hours here, enjoying the scenic views and a chance to relax by the water. Admission to the lake is included, but note that additional fees apply if you wish to explore nearby animal conservation centers or nature reserves.

While the lake itself offers a peaceful setting perfect for photos and strolling, some reviews mention arriving late in the day, which might limit the time to fully appreciate the scenery. Still, the view of the lake at dusk remains a memorable aspect of this stop.

The Glass Terrace at Ayr Gezegen Cam Teras Restorant

Next, the tour takes you to Ayr Gezegen Cam Teras Restorant, where you can step onto the first glass terrace in the Marmara region. The terrace is set on a platform offering free admission and stunning nature views. This stop lasts about an hour, providing opportunities for sightseeing and taking photos from a unique vantage point.

This location is particularly praised for its breathtaking perspectives of the surrounding forests and hills. It’s a great spot for a quick break and some memorable snapshots during the tour.

Trekking and Skiing at Kartepe Hill

Kartepe Hill offers two main activities depending on the season: spring trekking or winter skiing. During the warmer months, visitors can enjoy short mountain hikes with views over the landscape. In winter, skiing becomes available, making Kartepe a popular seasonal destination.

This part of the tour is free to access, but some reviews express that the time allocated may be too short to fully enjoy all the options. The upgraded chair-lift to the summit is available as an optional additional cost, giving travelers an elevated view of the region.

Visiting Masukiye Waterfalls and Village

The Masukiye Waterfalls are a short 30-minute stop, offering a chance to see the natural beauty of the cascading water. Though brief, this stop provides a peaceful setting perfect for photos and a quick walk along the waterfall trails.

Following the waterfalls, the tour includes a 2-hour visit to the village of Masukiye. Here, travelers can enjoy a Turkish lakeside picnic, often described as authentic and charming. The village is also known for its animal petting zoo and conservation center, where visitors can observe various animal species (entrance fees are not included).

Animal Conservation and Petting Zoo at Masukiye

A notable feature of this tour is the animal conservation center and petting zoo at Masukiye. Visitors are encouraged to meet and observe over 200 animal species, providing an educational and engaging experience. While entrance fees are not included, the center offers insights into local flora and fauna, appealing to nature enthusiasts.

Some reviews highlight the friendly guide team who are knowledgeable about the animals and the local environment. This stop balances leisure with a bit of nature education, making it appealing to families or anyone interested in wildlife.

Lunch with Local Flavors by the Lake

A key part of the day is the lakeside Turkish picnic near Masukiye Waterfalls. The included lunch features traditional Turkish dishes served outdoors, creating a relaxed, authentic atmosphere.

However, some feedback mentions that the lunch options were less than satisfactory, with critics describing the meal as poor quality and the choice of restaurant as shady. The tour does not cover the costs of additional meals, and travelers should consider bringing snacks if they have specific dietary preferences.

Kartepe’s Panoramic Views and Optional Chair-Lift

At Kartepe, the tour offers panoramic views from the hilltop, which are especially stunning during spring and winter. While the free access allows for brief sightseeing, many choose to upgrade to a chair-lift ride to reach the summit. The lift provides a spectacular vantage point over the surrounding landscape and is a worthwhile optional upgrade for view-seekers.

Previous guests appreciate the opportunity to take in expansive vistas from the top, though some mention the short duration at this stop limits the experience.

Transportation, Group Size, and Pacing

The tour uses a modern, non-smoking, air-conditioned coach to move between stops, with a maximum group size of 15. Pickup and drop-off are arranged directly at your Istanbul hotel, simplifying logistics.

While the overall pacing is steady, reviews indicate that long wait times for pickup—sometimes exceeding 2 hours—can impact the day’s flow. The total duration might feel long for some, especially with multiple stops and optional activities.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Participants should be prepared for a full day of outdoor exploration, including some walking at the waterfalls and the mountain. Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, especially during spring and winter activities.

Note that additional costs apply for activities like ATV safaris, cable cars, and ziplining, although these are optional and not included in the base price. The glass terrace and zoo entrance fees are also extra.

Final Thoughts on the Sapanca Lake and Masukiye Tour

This tour delivers a beautiful glimpse of Turkey’s countryside, with standout moments at Sapanca Lake, Masukiye Waterfalls, and Kartepe Hill. The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the experience more engaging despite some organizational hiccups.

The lakeside picnic and the chance to see wildlife add authentic touches, though meals and optional activities can vary in quality and value. The price point of $40.80 makes it a reasonable option for a full-day outdoor adventure, especially for those who appreciate scenic views and nature-focused stops.

Travelers who are flexible and enjoy outdoor activities will most appreciate this trip, while those seeking a more relaxed or highly curated experience may find some aspects less satisfying. Be mindful of the potential for long waits and mixed lunch quality, and consider arriving early to maximize your time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the Sapanca Lake and Masukiye Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, starting at 9:30 am and ending in the late afternoon or early evening.

Is pickup included in the price?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off with transportation by a modern, air-conditioned coach.

How many stops are included, and what are they?
There are five main stops: Sapanca Lake, Ayr Gezegen Cam Teras, Kartepe Hill, Masukiye Waterfalls, and Masukiye village.

Are entrance fees included?
Entrance to Sapanca Lake and Masukiye Waterfalls is included, but additional fees may apply for activities like animal conservation, cable cars, ziplining, or ATV safaris.

Can I upgrade the tour?
Yes, the chair-lift ride at Kartepe is available as an optional upgrade to enjoy panoramic views from the summit.

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and snacks if you prefer. Be prepared for outdoor walking and variable weather conditions.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should be aware of walking requirements at waterfalls and on mountain slopes.

What do reviews say about the tour?
Reviews mention friendly guides and stunning views, but some criticize long waits during pickup and lunch quality. Some feel the timing at certain stops is too short.

Is the tour good value for money?
Considering the price of $40.80 and the inclusion of transport, guide, and some meals, the tour offers a reasonable balance of cost and experience, especially for outdoor lovers.

How do I book this tour?
It’s recommended to book 13 days in advance, with confirmation provided at the time of booking through the tour provider.