Lycian Way
Turkey
Discover the beauty of Turkey’s historic and coastal Lycian Way, following the footsteps of ancient Greeks and Romans.
Trip duration:
8 days
Challenge duration:
5 days
Challenge grade:
3/5
Departure months:
March-May, September - November
Accomodation:
Twin-share in hotels and guest houses
Hiking the Lycian Way
Over one challenging week, wrap yourself in the history and beauty of the Lycian Way trail.
Starting in Fethiye, explore ancient ruins and tombs, learning about the layered history of civilisations from long ago. As you head south, navigate undulating, coastal terrain, all the while exploring small villages and beaches, and gazing out to the clear Mediterranean Sea.
Best of all, explore a new place while trekking alongside a group of passionate people making a difference, creating memories and friendships to last a lifetime.
Why you'll love this adventure
- Spend an unforgettable week hiking along the Lycian Way, a path once used by ancient Greeks and Romans, learning the historical importance along the way.
- Admire the ancient wonders of Fethiye, from the Lycian city of Telmessos and the Greek rock-hewn Tomb of Amyntas to the ruins of a 6,000-seat Roman theatre.
- Trek along the spectacular Turquoise Coast, named for its vibrant waters and stunning coastlines.
- Raise funds for a cause close to your heart and meet other big-hearted adventurers.
Trip notes
Day 1: Fethiye
Welcome to Turkey! Our adventure kicks off in Fethiye – the gateway to the Lycian Way trail. A welcome briefing will take place this evening, where we’ll meet our guide and fellow teammates. After our briefing, our guide will lead us around the ancient Lycian city of Telmessos and share stories of its history, then take a walk up to the ancient Greek rock-hewn Tomb of Amyntas, impressively carved into limestone cliffs. We descend to the Roman Theatre and take some time to admire this 6,000-seat wonder, followed by a leisurely stroll back through the city and along the Mediterranean foreshore.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: None
Day 2: Fethiye to Faralya
Today we have an early wake up and a short drive to the ‘ghost town’ of Kayakoy (Levissi). Our hike today begins from the official start of the Lycian Way trail, but before we get going, our guide will show us around this eerie village. Greeks and Turks co-existed peacefully here for decades before the Turkish Greek Population Exchange in the 1920s saw over 1 million Greek Orthodox Christians deported to Greece, and later earthquakes devastated the village. The hundreds of ruined Greek-style houses and abandoned churches that remain are a sombre but fascinating insight into a different time.
From here, hit the trail and hike beside the rugged coastline, leading us down a steep and rocky path through forest, emerging to incredible views of the bright waters of the Blue Lagoon and the spectacular Oludeniz Beach. We continue through the dramatic hills and follow the coastline before descending to Faralya. Perched on the steep cliffs above Butterfly Valley and its sandy beach, the views are remarkable – the perfect place to unwind after a good day’s hiking.
Accommodation: Hotel
Trekking distance: 14km
Meals: B L D
Day 3: Faralya to Gey Village
We continue our journey along the historic Lycian Way today, starting the day with a 6km downhill stretch from Faralya to the little-known beach at Kabak. Surrounded by hilly forest, this tiny cove is an ideal place to take our first break.
From here, we trek back up to the high path in the hills that leads to the small village of Alinca, offering amazing views of the Mediterranean Sea and its rocky coastline. As we follow an undulating path south, we reach our final destination for today, Gey Village. We experience a taste of local life as we spend the night in a traditional Turkish village house.
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Trekking distance: 15km
Meals: B
Day 4: Gey Village to Patara
This morning, we leave the high country behind and follow a downhill trek towards more dazzling coastlines and the renowned Patara Beach region. Believed to be the birthplace of Saint Nicholas (Santa Claus), Patara is now best known for its magnificent sandy beach – with a stretch of 17 kilometres, which is Turkey’s longest beach. Nearby Roman ruins and protected loggerhead turtle hatcheries have kept developers away from the beach, making it a peaceful place for us to relax after a long day of trekking.
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Trekking distance: 12km
Meals: B
Day 5: Patara
Today we take a break from hiking the trail and enjoy our choice of exciting activities. A visit to the Patara Archaeological Site is a must for anyone interested in taking a deeper dive into the history of the region. Impressive Lycian and Roman ruins are strewn along the road to the beach, telling the stories of long-gone civilisations. Nearby, we will also find the ancient UNESCO-listed city of Xanthos, former capital of Lycia, and the Roman Aqueduct at Delikkemer – both well worth a visit. We can also make the most of our privileged location and relax on the wide, untouched beach, taking dips in the warm Mediterranean water.
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals: None
Day 6: Patara to Kas
This morning we depart Patara after breakfast and take a short but scenic transfer, ascending to the Mount Felen plateau and the small village of Gokceoren. Today’s hike begins here, staying high above the coastline as we savour incomparable views of the higher mountains inland and the blue waters of the coast below. To save our knees on the long descent, we will take a vehicle down to the seaside town of Kas, one of the most beautiful ports on the Turkish Riviera.
With restaurants spilling out onto cobbled streets and charming cafes serving up fresh pomegranate juice, there’s much here to rejuvenate us after a day’s walking. We’ll have an orientation walk to discover an inviting waterfront and intriguing network of tiny back-alleys, then enjoy the evening at leisure.
Accommodation: Hotel
Trekking distance: 20km
Meals: B
Day 7: Aperlai to Simena
We will lace up our hiking boots one last time for our final day on the Lycian Way. We start off with a drive from Kas to the ancient Roman port of Aperlai, where the crumbling city walls meet the sea. While little remains today, this was once a hugely important city in the Lycian Confederation, dating back to the 4th century BC. We then begin the undulating walk across the sandy peninsula to the castle-topped village of Simena – the views from the castle over nearby Kekova island will stop us in our tracks. This tiny seaside village is simply spectacular and a fantastic place to wrap up a week of walking, pausing to reflect on all we have seen and done.
The return journey is no less scenic as we enjoy a boat ride over crystal-clear water, skirting around little islets and stopping off for a spot of snorkelling. We will arrive in the coastal town of Kekova and then take the vehicle back to Kas. This evening, share a final dinner with the group in one of the many excellent cafes and restaurants that dot this beautiful destination - celebrating our many achievements over the prior days.
Accommodation: Hotel
Trekking distance: 9km
Meals: B
Day 8: Kas
This morning you are free to further explore Kas or relax until your return home. We’ll say a final goodbye to our fellow adventurers and new friends - all of us having completed a hard earned challenge and making a big impact to a shared cause.
Meals: None
Day 1: Fethiye
Welcome to Turkey! Our adventure kicks off in Fethiye – the gateway to the Lycian Way trail. A welcome briefing will take place this evening, where we’ll meet our guide and fellow teammates. After our briefing, our guide will lead us around the ancient Lycian city of Telmessos and share stories of its history, then take a walk up to the ancient Greek rock-hewn Tomb of Amyntas, impressively carved into limestone cliffs. We descend to the Roman Theatre and take some time to admire this 6,000-seat wonder, followed by a leisurely stroll back through the city and along the Mediterranean foreshore.
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: None
Day 2: Fethiye to Faralya
Today we have an early wake up and a short drive to the ‘ghost town’ of Kayakoy (Levissi). Our hike today begins from the official start of the Lycian Way trail, but before we get going, our guide will show us around this eerie village. Greeks and Turks co-existed peacefully here for decades before the Turkish Greek Population Exchange in the 1920s saw over 1 million Greek Orthodox Christians deported to Greece, and later earthquakes devastated the village. The hundreds of ruined Greek-style houses and abandoned churches that remain are a sombre but fascinating insight into a different time.
From here, hit the trail and hike beside the rugged coastline, leading us down a steep and rocky path through forest, emerging to incredible views of the bright waters of the Blue Lagoon and the spectacular Oludeniz Beach. We continue through the dramatic hills and follow the coastline before descending to Faralya. Perched on the steep cliffs above Butterfly Valley and its sandy beach, the views are remarkable – the perfect place to unwind after a good day’s hiking.
Accommodation: Hotel
Trekking distance: 14km
Meals: B L D
Day 3: Faralya to Gey Village
We continue our journey along the historic Lycian Way today, starting the day with a 6km downhill stretch from Faralya to the little-known beach at Kabak. Surrounded by hilly forest, this tiny cove is an ideal place to take our first break.
From here, we trek back up to the high path in the hills that leads to the small village of Alinca, offering amazing views of the Mediterranean Sea and its rocky coastline. As we follow an undulating path south, we reach our final destination for today, Gey Village. We experience a taste of local life as we spend the night in a traditional Turkish village house.
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Trekking distance: 15km
Meals: B
Day 4: Gey Village to Patara
This morning, we leave the high country behind and follow a downhill trek towards more dazzling coastlines and the renowned Patara Beach region. Believed to be the birthplace of Saint Nicholas (Santa Claus), Patara is now best known for its magnificent sandy beach – with a stretch of 17 kilometres, which is Turkey’s longest beach. Nearby Roman ruins and protected loggerhead turtle hatcheries have kept developers away from the beach, making it a peaceful place for us to relax after a long day of trekking.
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Trekking distance: 12km
Meals: B
Day 5: Patara
Today we take a break from hiking the trail and enjoy our choice of exciting activities. A visit to the Patara Archaeological Site is a must for anyone interested in taking a deeper dive into the history of the region. Impressive Lycian and Roman ruins are strewn along the road to the beach, telling the stories of long-gone civilisations. Nearby, we will also find the ancient UNESCO-listed city of Xanthos, former capital of Lycia, and the Roman Aqueduct at Delikkemer – both well worth a visit. We can also make the most of our privileged location and relax on the wide, untouched beach, taking dips in the warm Mediterranean water.
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals: None
Day 6: Patara to Kas
This morning we depart Patara after breakfast and take a short but scenic transfer, ascending to the Mount Felen plateau and the small village of Gokceoren. Today’s hike begins here, staying high above the coastline as we savour incomparable views of the higher mountains inland and the blue waters of the coast below. To save our knees on the long descent, we will take a vehicle down to the seaside town of Kas, one of the most beautiful ports on the Turkish Riviera.
With restaurants spilling out onto cobbled streets and charming cafes serving up fresh pomegranate juice, there’s much here to rejuvenate us after a day’s walking. We’ll have an orientation walk to discover an inviting waterfront and intriguing network of tiny back-alleys, then enjoy the evening at leisure.
Accommodation: Hotel
Trekking distance: 20km
Meals: B
Day 7: Aperlai to Simena
We will lace up our hiking boots one last time for our final day on the Lycian Way. We start off with a drive from Kas to the ancient Roman port of Aperlai, where the crumbling city walls meet the sea. While little remains today, this was once a hugely important city in the Lycian Confederation, dating back to the 4th century BC. We then begin the undulating walk across the sandy peninsula to the castle-topped village of Simena – the views from the castle over nearby Kekova island will stop us in our tracks. This tiny seaside village is simply spectacular and a fantastic place to wrap up a week of walking, pausing to reflect on all we have seen and done.
The return journey is no less scenic as we enjoy a boat ride over crystal-clear water, skirting around little islets and stopping off for a spot of snorkelling. We will arrive in the coastal town of Kekova and then take the vehicle back to Kas. This evening, share a final dinner with the group in one of the many excellent cafes and restaurants that dot this beautiful destination - celebrating our many achievements over the prior days.
Accommodation: Hotel
Trekking distance: 9km
Meals: B
Day 8: Kas
This morning you are free to further explore Kas or relax until your return home. We’ll say a final goodbye to our fellow adventurers and new friends - all of us having completed a hard earned challenge and making a big impact to a shared cause.
Meals: None
Frequently asked questions
Can't find the answer to your question? Get in touch via email (info@inspiredadventure.com.au
ABOUT THE ADVENTURE
How challenging is this adventure?
This adventure is ranked 3/5. While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train. This trek is a physical challenge, and the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience.
This is a hiking trip with daily hikes of up to 20 kilometres/8 hours per day on rocky ground, steep terrain, and (in the summer months) hot weather.
Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?
Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.
Who will I be travelling with?
Our average group size at Inspired Adventures ranges from 10 to 20 people. You can be sure that you have all come together with the shared purpose of making a difference to others and having the adventure of a lifetime.
The group will be led by a local tour guide with expert knowledge of the region. Many groups will also be accompanied by an Inspired Adventures team leader or doctor to support and motivate the team.
Where applicable, a charity representative may also join the team. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about your chosen charity and their work.
What is the general age range of participants?
The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–80+ take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.
FITNESS AND TRAINING
How do I train for this adventure?
We will provide you with basic information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. We recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.
It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek. As part of your training, we recommend making use of your weekends to complete a full day hike and if possible, an overnight hike. You should aim to walk in hilly terrain for 6-8 hours and get up to do it again the following day comfortably. Conventional exercise routines which build strength, fitness and stamina, such as aerobics and light weight training can be beneficial, particularly if your fitness level is less than ideal.
ACCOMMODATION
What is the accommodation like?
You will be hosted in a combination of Turkish hotels and guesthouses in most destinations. These locally-owned hotels are chosen for their location, character, cleanliness and comfort. We will also stay in a traditional Turkish village guesthouse for a unique insight into local life.
Will I be sharing accommodation?
Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin share. When in twin share, you will be paired with a teammate(s) of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group.
A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes days in the guesthouse where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability.
I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?
If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and where possible, we will pair you together.
WHAT TO EXPECT
I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?
Of course, we will do our best to arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. Please note in the rural parts of this itinerary, there may be limited choices for those with dietary requirements.
How will you manage the risk of COVID-19?
See the COVID-19 section of our website for full details.
Will I have mobile phone reception?
If you have worldwide coverage, you can bring your own mobile phone and use it to make domestic or international calls. Please check with your mobile service provider prior to departure regarding international roaming and associated costs. Alternatively, you may wish to purchase a local SIM card. Please ensure your phone is unlocked prior to departure.
Mobile phone reception will be limited during the trek, but generally fine in the cities. There will be free Wi-Fi available at the hotels.
Will I have access to electricity?
Yes, you will have access to electricity and the ability to recharge items daily.
What do I need to pack?
You will be sent a comprehensive packing list after you register for the adventure with everything you need to consider.
You need to bring your main piece of luggage as well as a small to medium daypack for hiking walks (20-25 litres). Your main luggage/bag will be transferred for you to the next destination while you are hiking.
You will need to pack good walking shoes, a hat, some sunscreen, and a daypack. We strongly recommend bringing a pair of walking poles. Please note, these cannot be obtained locally.
What happens if there is a medical emergency?
Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record.
All Inspired Adventures guides and Team Leaders are first aid trained. Our guides carry a satellite phone to be used if further assistance is required.
COSTS AND PAYMENTS
What’s included in the travel cost?
Package inclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details.
Generally, the travel cost includes:
- Transfers as per itinerary
- Accommodation
- Meals as per itinerary
- Activities as per itinerary
What’s not included in the travel cost?
Package exclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details.
Generally, the travel cost does not include:
- Airfares
- Airport transfers
- Travel insurance (compulsory
- Visa
- Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
Is the travel cost guaranteed?
We will do our best to keep the travel costs as quoted. However, please bear in mind they can change due to group size, currency fluctuations or factors out of our control. If absolutely necessary, Inspired Travel may have to add on an additional supplement fee should the current social distancing measures continue. This fee would be required if our operator needs to add on additional vehicles, equipment and/or staff.
How much spending money do I need?
The official currency of Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Most goods and services can be paid for using the local currency. The EUR is also acceptable as is the USD. For the supply of everyday services like meals and general shopping we recommend the local currency. We recommend about $20-30 AUD a day for meals not included. A combination of cash and credit cards is also recommended.
Is it customary to tip?
It is customary to tip in Turkey, while not compulsory, if you’re happy with the service provided by waiters, drivers and other service workers, leaving a small tip is a good way to show your appreciation.
Rounding up the bill and leaving spare change at restaurants and cafes is appropriate, for nicer restaurants we recommend between 5-10% of the bill. For local guides, we recommend $5-7 AUD per day as standard.
Your Team Leader and guide will give you advice on customary tipping amounts and coordinate a tipping kitty to assist you and the team with the process.
TRAVEL INSURANCE AND VISAS
Do I need to have travel insurance?
Travel insurance is compulsory for all our international adventures. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.
Do I need a visa to travel to Turkey?
Most nationalities require a visa to enter Turkey. Visas must be obtained through the e-Visa system. For the most up to date information, please view the Smarttraveller page here - https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/turkiye
ABOUT TURKEY
Is it safe to travel to Turkey?
While in Turkey, we advise that you remain aware of your surroundings at all times. Never leave your belongings unattended, always keep an eye or a firm grip on cameras and shoulder bags, and avoid travelling alone, especially at night. Caution should be adopted in larger cities. When staying in hotels, secure all valuables and documents in a safe. A neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of your passport, flight tickets, cash and other valuable items is strongly recommended. Leave your jewellery at home. These are the same safety precautions we recommend when travelling to any destination.
What weather can I expect?
Turkey is a large country split into seven regions. As a rule of thumb the Marmara, Aegean and Mediterranean coasts have typical Mediterranean climates with hot summers and mild, wet winters. In the east it is more mountainous with warm summers and very cold, snowy winters. Central Turkey (Cappadocia), has low rainfall, very dry, hot summers and very cold winters. Istanbul and coastal centres can experience very high humidity.
Weather in July and August can be very hot. We will endeavour to hike in early mornings and through shaded areas to minimise the sun's effect. Please consider the seasons when planning your trip to determine if you will need additional cold weather or hot weather gear.
Can I drink the water in Turkey?
Generally speaking, it's probably best to drink filtered or bottled water when travelling in Turkey. Many hotels and lodges provide safe drinking water, while bottled water is another alternative. Water consumption should be about two litres a day. Rehydration salts, motion sickness tablets, and diarrhoea blockers are available from many pharmacies.
Are credit cards widely accepted in Turkey?
Major credit cards are accepted by most large shops, hotels and restaurants, although smaller vendors and market stalls often only accept cash.
Do I require any vaccinations to travel to Turkey?
Approximately two months prior to departure, you should consult your GP for up-to-date medical travel and vaccination information.
The most common vaccinations for Turkey include:
- Hepatitis A
- Typhoid
- Rabies
How challenging is this adventure?
This adventure is ranked 3/5. While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train. This trek is a physical challenge, and the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience.
This is a hiking trip with daily hikes of up to 20 kilometres/8 hours per day on rocky ground, steep terrain, and (in the summer months) hot weather.
Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?
Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.
Who will I be travelling with?
Our average group size at Inspired Adventures ranges from 10 to 20 people. You can be sure that you have all come together with the shared purpose of making a difference to others and having the adventure of a lifetime.
The group will be led by a local tour guide with expert knowledge of the region. Many groups will also be accompanied by an Inspired Adventures team leader or doctor to support and motivate the team.
Where applicable, a charity representative may also join the team. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about your chosen charity and their work.
What is the general age range of participants?
The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–80+ take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.
How do I train for this adventure?
We will provide you with basic information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. We recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.
It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek. As part of your training, we recommend making use of your weekends to complete a full day hike and if possible, an overnight hike. You should aim to walk in hilly terrain for 6-8 hours and get up to do it again the following day comfortably. Conventional exercise routines which build strength, fitness and stamina, such as aerobics and light weight training can be beneficial, particularly if your fitness level is less than ideal.
What is the accommodation like?
You will be hosted in a combination of Turkish hotels and guesthouses in most destinations. These locally-owned hotels are chosen for their location, character, cleanliness and comfort. We will also stay in a traditional Turkish village guesthouse for a unique insight into local life.
Will I be sharing accommodation?
Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin share. When in twin share, you will be paired with a teammate(s) of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group.
A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes days in the guesthouse where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability.
I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?
If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and where possible, we will pair you together.
I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?
Of course, we will do our best to arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. Please note in the rural parts of this itinerary, there may be limited choices for those with dietary requirements.
How will you manage the risk of COVID-19?
See the COVID-19 section of our website for full details.
Will I have mobile phone reception?
If you have worldwide coverage, you can bring your own mobile phone and use it to make domestic or international calls. Please check with your mobile service provider prior to departure regarding international roaming and associated costs. Alternatively, you may wish to purchase a local SIM card. Please ensure your phone is unlocked prior to departure.
Mobile phone reception will be limited during the trek, but generally fine in the cities. There will be free Wi-Fi available at the hotels.
Will I have access to electricity?
Yes, you will have access to electricity and the ability to recharge items daily.
What do I need to pack?
You will be sent a comprehensive packing list after you register for the adventure with everything you need to consider.
You need to bring your main piece of luggage as well as a small to medium daypack for hiking walks (20-25 litres). Your main luggage/bag will be transferred for you to the next destination while you are hiking.
You will need to pack good walking shoes, a hat, some sunscreen, and a daypack. We strongly recommend bringing a pair of walking poles. Please note, these cannot be obtained locally.
What happens if there is a medical emergency?
Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record.
All Inspired Adventures guides and Team Leaders are first aid trained. Our guides carry a satellite phone to be used if further assistance is required.
What’s included in the travel cost?
Package inclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details.
Generally, the travel cost includes:
- Transfers as per itinerary
- Accommodation
- Meals as per itinerary
- Activities as per itinerary
What’s not included in the travel cost?
Package exclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details.
Generally, the travel cost does not include:
- Airfares
- Airport transfers
- Travel insurance (compulsory
- Visa
- Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
Is the travel cost guaranteed?
We will do our best to keep the travel costs as quoted. However, please bear in mind they can change due to group size, currency fluctuations or factors out of our control. If absolutely necessary, Inspired Travel may have to add on an additional supplement fee should the current social distancing measures continue. This fee would be required if our operator needs to add on additional vehicles, equipment and/or staff.
How much spending money do I need?
The official currency of Turkey is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Most goods and services can be paid for using the local currency. The EUR is also acceptable as is the USD. For the supply of everyday services like meals and general shopping we recommend the local currency. We recommend about $20-30 AUD a day for meals not included. A combination of cash and credit cards is also recommended.
Is it customary to tip?
It is customary to tip in Turkey, while not compulsory, if you’re happy with the service provided by waiters, drivers and other service workers, leaving a small tip is a good way to show your appreciation.
Rounding up the bill and leaving spare change at restaurants and cafes is appropriate, for nicer restaurants we recommend between 5-10% of the bill. For local guides, we recommend $5-7 AUD per day as standard.
Your Team Leader and guide will give you advice on customary tipping amounts and coordinate a tipping kitty to assist you and the team with the process.
Do I need to have travel insurance?
Travel insurance is compulsory for all our international adventures. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.
Do I need a visa to travel to Turkey?
Most nationalities require a visa to enter Turkey. Visas must be obtained through the e-Visa system. For the most up to date information, please view the Smarttraveller page here - https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/turkiye
Is it safe to travel to Turkey?
While in Turkey, we advise that you remain aware of your surroundings at all times. Never leave your belongings unattended, always keep an eye or a firm grip on cameras and shoulder bags, and avoid travelling alone, especially at night. Caution should be adopted in larger cities. When staying in hotels, secure all valuables and documents in a safe. A neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of your passport, flight tickets, cash and other valuable items is strongly recommended. Leave your jewellery at home. These are the same safety precautions we recommend when travelling to any destination.
What weather can I expect?
Turkey is a large country split into seven regions. As a rule of thumb the Marmara, Aegean and Mediterranean coasts have typical Mediterranean climates with hot summers and mild, wet winters. In the east it is more mountainous with warm summers and very cold, snowy winters. Central Turkey (Cappadocia), has low rainfall, very dry, hot summers and very cold winters. Istanbul and coastal centres can experience very high humidity.
Weather in July and August can be very hot. We will endeavour to hike in early mornings and through shaded areas to minimise the sun's effect. Please consider the seasons when planning your trip to determine if you will need additional cold weather or hot weather gear.
Can I drink the water in Turkey?
Generally speaking, it's probably best to drink filtered or bottled water when travelling in Turkey. Many hotels and lodges provide safe drinking water, while bottled water is another alternative. Water consumption should be about two litres a day. Rehydration salts, motion sickness tablets, and diarrhoea blockers are available from many pharmacies.
Are credit cards widely accepted in Turkey?
Major credit cards are accepted by most large shops, hotels and restaurants, although smaller vendors and market stalls often only accept cash.
Do I require any vaccinations to travel to Turkey?
Approximately two months prior to departure, you should consult your GP for up-to-date medical travel and vaccination information.
The most common vaccinations for Turkey include:
- Hepatitis A
- Typhoid
- Rabies
All information is subject to change and will be confirmed upon your registration.
Responsible travel
Caring for our adventurers, the communities we visit and the wellbeing of the planet is the heart of everything we do. This adventure is no exception.
Meaningful connections: Hear from Aranda Elders who will tell us about the history of the area.
Environment: We offset the emissions from this trip through carbon credit programs in partnership with Carbon Neutral.
Treading lightly: Trekking is a great, low-impact way to explore.
Small group travel: Our teams consist of a maximum of 25 people. Better for you, and better for the planet.
Responsible business: We’re a certified B-Corp, committed to using business as a force for good
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