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Overview

Ancient Mysteries of Turkey I
İstanbul, Türkiye
Sep 8 - 17, 2026
Saba Tours image
Saba Tours
$6,300
Deposit: $2,000

About your trip

Just as Mike has been leading StarGate tours with Mohamed and Saba Tours in Egypt for the past four years, we have decided to extend our explorations beyond Egypt. This is why we created this special journey to Turkey in September 2026, to expand your knowledge, connect with other civilizations, and explore places that relate deeply to what we began together through the StarGates concept.


Saba Tours is different from all other companies, whether in Egypt or abroad, and this journey is designed to reflect that difference in every detail.

Therefore, we, Mohamed, Noha, Kate, and Mike , are honored to invite you to join us on a unique and enriching journey in Turkey. It will be a tour full of discovery, insight, and exclusive visits to special sites you would not experience with any other company.


Deposit

The paid deposit ($2000) is non-refundable.

What's included

Hotel 1

02 NTS at Grand Hyatt Hotel in Istanbul

Hotel 2

02 NTS at Cappadocia Cave Resort hotel

Hotel 3

01 NTS at Konya Grand Hotel 5* (B.B)

Hotel 4

02 NTS at Urfa Hilton Double Tree hotel

Hotel 5

01 NTS at Adiyaman, Ramada hotel

Hotel 6

01 NTS at Grand Hyatt hotel in Istanbul

Meals

Meals mentioned in the itinerary (10 breakfast, 7 Lunches & 9 Dinners)

Domestic flight

- 03 Domestic flights (Istanbul/Cappadocia- Ankara/Urfa – Adiyaman/ Istanbul)

Transportation

- Transportations to the mentioned sites by AC Bus

Tour Guide

English speaking tour guide

Tickets

Entry tickets to the mentioned site in the itinerary

What's not included

Visa

Entry Visa to Turkey ($$$ in cash)

Insurance

You shall buy your Insurance

Laundry Service

The hotel will charge you for Laundry Service

Tipping

$200 Tipping for the team of workers

Beverages, drinks, water

Beverages, drinks, and water at hotels, and restaurants are not included the tour you will pay for.

Extras

Any other service or tour not mentioned in the itinerary

Meet & assist

Meet & assist at the airport are not included the tour upon arrival and departure this service doesn't offer in Turkey.

International flights

International flights are not included the tour

Dinners

Dinners are not included the tour

Hot air ballon

Hot air balloon price is not included into program. Indicative : 290 USD per person

Day 01 (Sep 08, 2026)

Day 01 (Sep 08, 2026) image

Arrival Istanbul (Istanbul airport)

The Staff will wait for you in front of “Exit Gate 14” with Saba Tour sign board in

Istanbul Airport –

Meet at the airport and transfer to your hotel. You will be given your room key and the rest of

the day is yours.

Overnight: Istanbul

Included Meals: None

 

 

Day 02 (Sep 09, 2026)

Day 02 (Sep 09, 2026) image

Old City Istanbul

- Breakfast

*Start your adventure in the historic Hippodrome, a former chariot-racing arena that witnessed

countless events in its storied past. Here, you'll discover the Obelisk of Theodosius and the

Serpent Column, both cherished remnants of Byzantine history. Stand in awe of the stunning

Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque. Its impressive domes, intricate

tilework, and towering minarets create a truly mesmerizing sight that defines Istanbul's skyline.

Savour the flavours of authentic Turkish cuisine at a carefully selected restaurant. Our lunch

stop provides a delightful opportunity to sample regional dishes and recharge for the rest of

your adventure.

Next, venture into the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia built in the 6th century, a masterpiece of

architectural ingenuity and a symbol of Istanbul's enduring legacy. Marvel at its intricate

mosaics, soaring dome, and the palpable sense of history within its walls. Then, descend into

the subterranean world of the Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground reservoir. Delve into

the mysterious atmosphere as you stroll among the submerged columns and illuminated

pathways, feeling as though you've stepped back in time.

Conclude the day at the Grand Bazaar, the largest and oldest covered market of the world.

Overnight: Istanbul

Included Meals: Breakfast,Lunch

 

 

Day 03 (Sep 10, 2026)

Day 03 (Sep 10, 2026) image

Flight to Cappadocia & Cappadocia

- Early weak up

Today morning, take an early domestic flight to Cappadocia. (The hotel will prepare a

breakfast box for you).

05:45 AM - Transfer to Airport from hotel.

08:45 AM - TK2002 IST - NAV 10:05 AM. by Turkish Airlines. (economy class 15 kg check

in 8 kg cabin baggage allowance)

Upon arrival, meet at the airport then, start the tour.

Marvel at the fascinating rock formations of Pasabag, also known as Monk's Valley. These

whimsical fairy chimneys and unusual geological wonders create an otherworldly atmosphere

that's perfect for exploration and photography. Traverse the captivating Dervent Valley, often

referred to as "Imagination Valley" for its bizarre rock formations that resemble animals and

other whimsical shapes. Let your imagination run wild as you wander through this natural

wonderland.

After lunch, gaze upon the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia, a surreal mosaic of fairy

chimneys, cave dwellings, and rolling hills. Delve into the rich history of Cappadocia at the

Goreme Open Air Museum. Explore the ancient cave churches adorned with intricate

frescoes, providing a glimpse into the spiritual life of early Christian communities.

Overnight: Cappadocia

Included Meals: Breakfast,Lunch

 

Day 04 (Sep 11, 2026)

Day 04 (Sep 11, 2026) image

Cappadocia

- Breakfast

*Start your day by exploring the Kaymakli Underground City, one of Cappadocia’s most

fascinating subterranean complexes. Wander through its narrow tunnels, storage rooms, stables,

and living quarters, and discover how ancient communities used these hidden spaces for

protection during times of invasion.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Cappadocian dishes and

regional specialties.

After lunch, visit a hand-woven carpets production place and witness the artistry behind

Cappadocia’s famous carpets. Learn about the traditional weaving techniques, vibrant patterns,

and cultural significance of these beautiful handmade works of art.

Immerse yourself in the artistry of Avanos, a town known for its pottery craftsmanship. Visit a

local pottery workshop and witness skilled artisans at work, creating exquisite ceramics using

techniques passed down through generations. Marvel at the "Three Beauties," a trio of

prominent fairy chimneys that have become an iconic symbol of Cappadocia's natural wonders.

Overnight: Cappadocia

Included Meals: Breakfast,Lunch

 

 

Day 05 (Sep 12, 2026)

Day 05 (Sep 12, 2026) image

Konya

After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Konya (approx. 3 hours). Start your day by visiting one

of Konya’s most significant archaeological sites, Çatalhöyük. Explore the remains of this

Neolithic settlement, including ancient houses, wall paintings, and traces of daily life. With the

guidance of a local expert, learn about the lifestyle and belief systems of one of the earliest

farming communities in human history.

After the Çatalhöyük tour, return to the city center and visit the Mevlana Museum. Discover

the tomb of Mevlana Celaleddin Rumi, historical buildings, and exhibits related to the

Whirling Dervish ceremonies, experiencing the depth of Mevlevi culture. Inside the museum,

you can soak in the mystical atmosphere of the Mevlevi order and admire Ottoman-era artifacts

and manuscripts. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk in the museum gardens, reflecting

on Mevlana’s teachings.

Overnight: Konya

Included Meals: Breakfast,Lunch

 

Day 06 (Sep 13, 2026)

Day 06 (Sep 13, 2026) image

Drive to Ankara & Flight to Sanliurfa

After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Ankara (approx. 3 hours) and visit the Anatolian

Civilizations Museum, one of Turkey’s most important museums. Explore its rich collection

of artifacts from the HittitePhrygianUrartian, and other ancient Anatolian civilizations,

offering a fascinating insight into the region’s history.

After lunch, visit Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of

modern Turkey. Explore its grand architecture, ceremonial halls, and the museum to learn about

Atatürk’s life and the Turkish War of Independence.

Afterward, transfer to the airport for your flight to Şanlıurfa.

19:50 PM – VF4180 ESB - GNY 21:05 PM by Ajet Airlines. (economy class 15 kg check in

8 kg cabin baggage allowance)

Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel in Sanliurfa.

Overnight: Şanliurfa

Included Meals: Breakfast,Lunch

 

Day 07 (Sep 14, 2026)

Day 07 (Sep 14, 2026) image

Sanliurfa

- Breakfast

*Begin your day with a visit to Göbeklitepe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site over 11,000 years

old, featuring massive T-shaped stone pillars carved with animal motifs—predating

Stonehenge and reshaping our understanding of early human history.

Next, continue to Karahantepe, another important Neolithic site in the region, where similar

monumental stone pillars and carvings offer further insight into ancient civilizations.

In the afternoon, explore Balıklıgöl (Pool of Abraham), a sacred site where Prophet Abraham

was miraculously saved from fire. Visit the cave believed to be his birthplace and enjoy a stroll

through the surrounding park and bazaar, rich in spiritual and cultural atmosphere.

End your day with a visit to the Şanlıurfa Archaeology Museum, which houses a rich

collection of artifacts from Göbeklitepe and the wider region, providing deeper context to your

exploration of ancient history.

Overnight: Şanlıurfa

Included Meals: Breakfast,Lunch

 

 

Day 08 (Sep 15, 2026)

Day 08 (Sep 15, 2026) image

Adıyaman & Nemrut Mountain

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, followed by check-out.Drive to Nemrut Mountain,

(apps. 3.5 hours’ drive).

There is a temple complex consisting of colossal statues and monumental structures built by

King Antiochus I from the Kingdom of Commagene, which ruled in the 1st century BCE.

Antiochus I constructed a monumental tomb where he elevated his own statue to a divine10 

status, symbolically sharing the space with the gods. This complex is now included in the

UNESCO World Heritage List.

After the sunset, drive to your hotel in Adiyaman, check-in, and relax.

Overnight: Adıyaman

Included Meals: Breakfast,Lunch

 

Day 09 (Sep 16, 2024)

Day 09 (Sep 16, 2024) image

Flight to Istanbul

Breakfast the hotel.Today, take a domestic flight to Istanbul.

11:30 AM - Transfer to Airport from hotel.

13:50 PM - TK2215 ADF - IST 15:45 PM. by Turkish Airlines. (economy class 15 kg check

in 8 kg cabin baggage allowance)

Upon arrival, meet at the airport and transfer to your hotel. You will be given your room key

and the rest of the day is yours.

Overnight: Istanbul

Included Meals: Breakfast

 

Day 10 (Sep 17, 2024)

Day 10 (Sep 17, 2024) image

Departure

Breakfast at the hotel.There are no activities planned for today. You’ll be transferred to airport

for your return flight.

Overnight: None

Included Meals: Breakfast

 

Location

Loading Map…

1. İstanbul, Türkiye

İstanbul, Türkiye

About your organizer

ST
Saba Tours

Saba Tours is a boutique Destination Management Company (DMC) and tour operator specializing in high-quality, tailor-made journeys in Egypt and selected destinations across the Eastern Mediterranean, including Turkey, Jordan, and Lebanon.

Saba Tours is licensed by Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and a proud IATA member, has over 20 years of experience delivering exceptional travel experiences. Led by CEO Noha Mohamed Hassan and founded by Egyptologist Mohamed Ibrahim El Bassiouny, author of Egypt Before The Written History, we offer unique tours blending history, mystery, and discovery—revealing Egypt’s ancient wisdom, lost technologies, esoteric knowledge of Egypt, stargates of ancient Egypt, timeless wonders and more.

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