FROM - TO
KUSADASI - TURKEY
ISTANBUL - TURKEYDURATION
3 DAYS
PRICE
FROM $3,999 *
Gliding silently over the fairy chimneys and rock-face churches of Cappadocia in a hot-air balloon as the sun rises is one of Europe's top bucket-list experiences, and this excursion gives you the chance to do just that. Not a fan of heights? Go deep instead, traversing the network of caves beneath this extraordinary landscape.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Optional hot-air-balloon ride over Cappadocia
- Explore the intricate network of tunnels of Kaymakli Underground City
- Enjoy lunch with a local family in their home for an authentic cultural experience
- Try your hand at the potter's wheel in an artisan's studio
DAY
1
KUSADASI TO CAPPADOCIA- CAVES OF GOD
CAPPADOCIA, TURKEY
Begin your adventure with a flight to Nevsehir via Istanbul and a short transfer to Cappadocia. Explore Pasabag (Monks Valley), famous for its "fairy chimneys" – unique rock formations formed by volcanic upheaval, many of which have mushroom-shaped caps. The name Monks Valley comes from the hermit monks who once lived in these formations and carved out cells and small chapels within the rock. Check in to Argos, a luxury four-star hotel in the heart of Cappadocia with rooms hewn from the stone. Dine at the hotel.
DAY
2
CAPPADOCIA: NATURE'S MYSTICISM
CAPPADOCIA, TURKEY
A hot-air-balloon ride over Cappadocia's ethereal landscape is the incredible way you will begin the day for those who wish to take up this optional opportunity – it's a memory that will stay with you forever. Visit Goreme Open Air Museum and explore the unique rock-cut churches and caves up close, and Ortahisar Weavers Association to watch artisans create traditional Turkish carpets. Lunch will be served in the garden of a local family’s house for an authentic taste of life here. In the afternoon, adventurous explorers can crawl through Kaymakli's intricate network of underground caves or go trekking in Onion Valley. Other possibilities include visiting Sinassos, an ancient Greek village, for tea and shopping, or just relaxing at the hotel – the outdoor swimming pool is a lovely spot. Dine at the hotel.
DAY
3
CAPPADOCIA AND ISTANBUL TRANSFER
CAPPADOCIA, TURKEY
If weather conditions were unfavorable yesterday, today offers another chance for an early morning hot-air-balloon ride before breakfast. Then, choose one of two activities: hiking in the surreal and beautiful Red Valley with a local expert guide, or visiting Avanos to meet local artists and try your hand at the potter's wheel. Afterwards, you will be provided with a packed lunch of pideh, a stuffed Turkish flatbread, for the transfer to Nevsehir Airport. From here you will transfer to the port to rejoin the ship.
* Prices are per person, double occupancy for the itinerary as published, and subject to availability. Supplements may apply during high season and holiday periods, festivals, special events and due to high demand. Internal and international air excluded.
