# Grand GAP and Eastern Anatolia Tour by Air | School Holiday Special

- URL: https://guventravel.com/en/ucakli-buyuk-gap-ve-dogu-anadolu-turu-ara-tatil-ozel-erzurum-gaziantep-t44124
- Category: GAP and Eastern Anatolia Tours
- Duration: 6 Nights, 7 Days
- Next available date: 16 November 2026 – 22 November 2026
- Starting Price: 32,999 ₺ / Per Person
- Getting Around: Flight

## Tour Detail

✈️ AUTUMN BREAK SPECIAL: A CULTURAL FEAST FROM EASTERN ANATOLIA TO MESOPOTAMIA

Are you ready to turn the November midterm break into an unforgettable journey of discovery? An amazing route awaits you, starting in Erzurum and ending in Gaziantep, taking you from the cool and majestic highlands of Eastern Anatolia to the warm and mystical lands of Mesopotamia!

Kars’s historic atmosphere, Akdamar in the blue waters of Lake Van, the stone streets of Midyat and Mardin, the zero point of history at Göbeklitepe, the legendary Mount Nemrut, and Gaziantep’s unique flavors... And all of this with the comfort of “flight-based” transportation, so you can travel without getting tired and make the most of your time!

Day-by-Day Tour Program

Day 1: From the Land of Dadaş to the Border City (Izmir - Erzurum - Kars)
We meet at 03:40 in the morning in front of the SunExpress counter at the Domestic Terminal of Adnan Menderes Airport and depart for Erzurum on the 05:40 flight. Upon arrival, we begin our Erzurum city tour; we visit the Çifte Minareli Medrese, Yakutiye Medrese, Ulu Mosque, and the famous Taşhan (Rüstem Paşa Caravanserai). Then we travel via Sarıkamış to Kars and explore the UNESCO World Heritage site Ani Ruins with our guide. At the end of the day, we check in to our hotel in Kars. Those who wish may join the evening traditional Kafkas Night (extra). Dinner and overnight stay at our hotel.

Day 2: Pearls and Palaces of the East (Kars - Tuzluca - Ishak Pasha - Muradiye - Van)
After breakfast, we visit Tuzluca Cave, Eastern Turkey’s hidden paradise in Iğdır. After photographing the legendary and imposing Mount Ararat, we visit the Ishak Pasha Palace in Doğubayazıt, which stands like an eagle’s nest overlooking the plain. Crossing the Çaldıran Plain, we stop for photos at the Muradiye Waterfall, with its suspension bridge and soothing sound. At the end of the day, we arrive in Van and check in to our hotel. Dinner and overnight stay at our hotel in Van.

Day 3: From Lake Views to Stone Mansions (Van - Akdamar - Tatvan - Midyat)
After breakfast, we head to Gevaş and take boats (extra) to Akdamar Island, the pearl of Lake Van. After visiting the historic Akdamar Church, famous for its legendary stone craftsmanship, we continue through Tatvan and Bitlis and head toward Midyat, renowned for its stone mansions. We visit the famous Midyat Guest House (Sıla Mansion), where popular TV series were filmed, and walk through the narrow streets of the Syriac and Muslim neighborhoods. After free time for shopping for famous filigree silverwork, Syriac wine, and almond paste, we head to our hotel. Dinner and overnight stay at our hotel in Midyat.

Day 4: The Heart of Mesopotamia (Mardin - Hasankeyf - Diyarbakır)
After breakfast, we explore the dream city streets of Mardin step by step. After discovering Kasımiye Madrasa, Ulu Mosque, Zinciriye Madrasa, and the historic Mardin Bazaar, we continue to Hasankeyf. We see the Zeynel Bey Tomb and the El Rızk Mosque, rescued from being submerged, and then arrive in Diyarbakır. We visit the Ten-Eyed Bridge, Hevsel Gardens, the historic Diyarbakır Walls, Ulu Mosque, Cahit Sıtkı Tarancı House, Four-Legged Minaret, and Sülüklü Han before checking in to our hotel. Dinner and overnight stay at our hotel in Diyarbakır.

Day 5: Kings and Prophets (Mount Nemrut - Göbeklitepe - Şanlıurfa)
After breakfast, we ascend the “City of Kings,” Mount Nemrut (by minibuses - extra). We experience a breathtaking visit to the Karakuş Tumulus, Cendere Bridge, and the giant god statues at 2,150 meters. Then we visit Göbeklitepe, regarded as the zero point of human history and a UNESCO World Heritage site. We continue to the “City of Prophets,” Şanlıurfa, where we visit Balıklıgöl, Ayn-ı Zeliha Lake, Rızvaniye Mosque, and the cave where Prophet Abraham was born. In the evening, those who wish may join Urfa’s indispensable dinner and traditional Sıra Night (extra). Overnight stay at our hotel in Şanlıurfa. (Note: Guests who do not attend the Sıra Night will have dinner on their own; accommodation for this night is bed and breakfast.)

Day 6: The Hidden Paradise of the Euphrates (Şanlıurfa - Halfeti - Gaziantep)
After breakfast, we head to Halfeti, the hidden paradise of Southeast Anatolia. In Halfeti, which was submerged by the Birecik Dam and has taken on a mystical atmosphere, we take a boat tour (extra) and see the famous submerged minaret and Savaşan Village up close. After the tour, we continue to the land of flavors, Gaziantep. At the end of the day, we check in to our hotel in Gaziantep. Dinner and overnight stay at our hotel.

Day 7: The Gastronomy Capital and Return (Gaziantep City Tour - Izmir)
After breakfast, we visit the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, one of the world’s largest mosaic museums, and see the captivating “Gypsy Girl” mosaic. To feel the city’s historic atmosphere, we visit Zincirli Bedesten, Almacı Bazaar, and Bakırcılar Bazaar, and take a break from the day’s excitement at the historic Tahmis Coffee House. We give you free time for local shopping (baklava, pistachios, spices) and to taste famous delicacies such as Katmer and Beyran. After a full 7 days, we head to Gaziantep Airport and return to Izmir on the 22:45 flight.

✈️ Flight Information (SunExpress Airlines)

- Outbound Flight: Izmir (ADB) – Erzurum (ERZ) | Departure: 05:40

- Return Flight: Gaziantep (GZT) – Izmir (ADB) | Departure: 22:45

## Tour Program

### Day 1: From the Land of Dadaşs to the Frontier City (Izmir – Erzurum – Kars)

We meet at 03:40 in the Domestic Terminal of Adnan Menderes Airport and depart for Erzurum on the 05:40 flight. On our Erzurum city tour, we visit the Çifte Minareli Medrese, Yakutiye Medrese, Ulu Camii, and the famous Taşhan (Rüstem Paşa Caravanserai). Then, we travel to Kars via Sarıkamış and, accompanied by our guide, explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ani Ruins on the Armenian border. At the end of the day, we check in to our hotel in Kars. Guests who wish may join the local Caucasian Night entertainment in the evening (extra).

✈️ Transportation: 05:40 SunExpress Izmir (ADB) - Erzurum (ERZ) Flight.
🌙 Evening Entertainment: Local Caucasian Night (Extra).
🍽️ Dinner: Will be served at our hotel (Included in the price). (Guests joining the Caucasian Night may have their dinner at the event.)
🏨 Accommodation: At our hotel in Kars.

### Day 2: Pearls of the East and Palaces (Kars – Tuzluca – Ishak Pasha – Muradiye – Van)

After breakfast, we visit Tuzluca Cave, the hidden paradise of Iğdır. After taking photos of the majestic Mount Ararat, which is the subject of legends, we tour Ishak Pasha Palace in Doğubayazıt, which commands the plain like an eagle’s nest. Crossing the Çaldıran Plain, we stop for a photo break at Muradiye Waterfall, with its suspension bridge and soothing sound. At the end of the day, we arrive in Van and check into our hotel.

🍽️ Dinner: Will be served at our hotel (Included in the price).
🏨 Accommodation: At our hotel in Van.

### Day 3: From Lake Views to Stone Mansions (Van – Akdamar – Tatvan – Midyat)

After breakfast, we head to Gevaş and reach Akdamar Island, the pearl of Lake Van, by boat (optional). After visiting the historic Akdamar Church, we continue our route via Tatvan and Bitlis to Midyat, famous for its stone mansions. We visit the Midyat Guesthouse (Sıla Konağı), where famous TV series were filmed, and walk through the narrow streets of the Syriac and Muslim neighborhoods. After some free time for shopping for the famous filigree silver craftsmanship, Syriac wine, and almond sweets, we proceed to our hotel.

🍽️ Dinner: Will be served at our hotel (included in the price).
🏨 Accommodation: At our hotel in Midyat.

### Day 4: Heart of Mesopotamia (Mardin – Hasankeyf – Diyarbakır)

After breakfast, we explore the streets of the dream city of Mardin step by step. After discovering Kasımiye Madrasa, Ulu Mosque, Zinciriye Madrasa, and the historic Mardin Bazaar, we proceed to Hasankeyf. Seeing the Zeynel Bey Tomb and El Rizk Mosque, which were rescued from being submerged, we arrive in Diyarbakır. We visit the On Gözlü Bridge, the Hevsel Gardens, the historic Diyarbakır City Walls, Ulu Mosque, Cahit Sıtkı Tarancı House, Four-Legged Minaret, and Sülüklü Han, then settle into our hotel.

🍽️ **Dinner:** Will be served at our hotel (included in the price).
🏨 **Accommodation:** At our hotel in Diyarbakır.

### Day 5: Kings and Prophets (Mount Nemrut – Göbeklitepe – Şanlıurfa & Sıra Night)

After breakfast, we head up to Mount Nemrut, the “City of Kings” (by minibus – extra), for a fascinating experience with the Karakuş Tumulus, Cendere Bridge, and the massive 2,150-meter-high statues of the gods. Then we visit Göbeklitepe, the UNESCO heritage site considered the zero point of human history. Continuing our tour, we explore the “City of Prophets,” Şanlıurfa, including Balıklıgöl, Ayn-ı Zeliha Lake, Rızvaniye Mosque, and the Cave where Prophet Abraham was born. In the evening, those who wish can join the traditional dinner show, the Şanlıurfa Sıra Gecesi (extra), a must-do entertainment in Urfa.

🌙 Evening Entertainment: Dinner-inclusive Şanlıurfa Sıra Gecesi (Extra).
🍽️ Dinner: Not included in the price. (Guests who do not join the sıra gecesi will have dinner on their own.)
🏨 Accommodation: At our hotel in Şanlıurfa.

### Day 6: Euphrates' Hidden Paradise (Şanlıurfa – Halfeti – Gaziantep)

After breakfast, we depart for Halfeti, the hidden paradise of Southeastern Anatolia. In Halfeti, which has taken on a mystical atmosphere after being submerged by the waters of the Birecik Dam, we take an optional boat tour (extra) and see the famous sunken minaret and Savaşan Village up close. After our visit, we head to Gaziantep, the land of flavors. At the end of the day, we check in to our hotel in Gaziantep.

🍽️ Dinner: Will be served at our hotel (included in the price).
🏨 Accommodation: At our hotel in Gaziantep.

### Day 7: Culinary Capital and Return (Gaziantep City Tour – Izmir)

After breakfast, we visit the Zeugma Mosaic Museum, one of the world’s largest mosaic museums, and see the mesmerizing “Gypsy Girl” mosaic. To experience the city’s historical atmosphere, we tour Zincirli Bedesten, Almacı Bazaar, and Bakırcılar Bazaar, then relax at the historic Tahmis Coffee House. We provide free time for local shopping (baklava, pistachios, spices) and for you to taste the city’s famous delicacies. After 7 full days, we head to Gaziantep Airport and return to Izmir on the 22:45 flight.

✈️ Transportation: 22:45 SunExpress Gaziantep (GZT) - Izmir (ADB) return flight.

## What's Included

✅ Flights: SunExpress round-trip flights (Izmir - Erzurum and Gaziantep - Izmir).
✅ Accommodation: A total of 6 nights' accommodation in the region's distinguished 4* and 5* hotels.
✅ Meals: 6 breakfasts and 5 dinners served at our hotels.
✅ Transportation and Sightseeing: All transportation services, sightseeing tours, and onboard refreshments specified in the program, provided with luxury tourist vehicles.
✅ Guiding: Professional guiding services by expert guides throughout the tour.
✅ Insurance: Compulsory professional liability and travel insurance in accordance with Law No. 1618.

## Not Included

Museum and Ruins Entrance Fees: All museum, archaeological site, and national park entrance fees listed in the program (we recommend that guests obtain a Museum Pass before the tour).

Lunches: All lunches to be taken during the tour program.

Extra Excursions: Halfeti boat tour, Nemrut Mountain minibus fee, and Akdamar Island boat transfer fee.

Extra Events: Şanlıurfa Dinner with a Traditional Sıra Night and Kars Caucasian Night entertainment.

Personal Expenses: All extra food and beverage expenses incurred during breaks and at hotels.

## What to bring with you?

🎒 RECOMMENDED ITEMS TO BRING WITH YOU (TRAVEL BAG)

- NEW-GENERATION CHIP ID CARD AND MUSEUM PASS
In order to take your flights, you must definitely have your photo ID with the new-generation chip and T.C. identification number written on it (or a valid passport/driver’s license) with you. In addition, do not forget your Museum Pass (physical or digital version on your phone) so you can avoid waiting in line at the entrance of archaeological sites and benefit from cost savings.

- WINTER AND LAYERED CLOTHING (VERY IMPORTANT!)
Since this tour takes place in November, we will likely encounter intense cold and possibly snow in regions such as Erzurum, Kars, and Van. Therefore, you should definitely have a thick winter coat, beanie, gloves, scarf, and thermal underwear in your bag. However, since daytime temperatures are milder in places like Şanlıurfa and Gaziantep, instead of wearing one very thick layer, choose layered clothing (T-shirt, fleece, cardigan, coat) that you can add or remove depending on the weather.

- WATERPROOF, NON-SLIP WALKING SHOES OR BOOTS
A sturdy pair of walking shoes or comfortable winter boots with non-slip soles and preferably waterproof, which will keep your feet warm on the snowy/icy surfaces of Kars Ani Ruins, the challenging walking path of Mount Nemrut, and the stone streets of Mardin, will be your biggest lifesaver.

- PROTECTION AGAINST COLD WEATHER
To protect your skin against the harsh and cold winds of Eastern Anatolia, do not forget to bring lip balm and a rich moisturizing face cream. Sunglasses will also be very useful against the reflection from snow.

- SCARF OR SHAWL FOR VISITS TO PLACES OF WORSHIP
Since we will visit mosques around Diyarbakır Ulu Mosque, Balıklıgöl, as well as historic churches in Erzurum and Akdamar/Ani, our female guests are required to bring a scarf that they can easily use to cover their heads or shoulders.

- ELECTRONIC DEVICES AND POWER BANK
In cold weather, the batteries of mobile phones and cameras drain much faster than usual. To avoid any charging problems while taking photos of unique snowy landscapes and historical monuments, be sure to bring a fully charged portable charger (power bank).

- SMALL DAILY BACKPACK
A small and lightweight daily backpack or crossbody bag that you can use to carry items you will need frequently, such as water, a scarf, beanie, gloves, and wallet, will be very convenient throughout the tour while traveling by bus or visiting sites.

- CLOTHING FOR LOCAL ENTERTAINMENT
Guests who wish to attend the Şanlıurfa Sıra Gecesi and Kars Caucasian Night entertainment may bring a stylish and comfortable outfit to wear at dinner in the evening.

## General Information

📌 IMPORTANT NOTES TO KNOW BEFORE MAKING A RESERVATION

FLIGHT AND ID INFORMATION (VERY IMPORTANT)

- For our tours with flights, ticketing is made using our guests’ T.C. Identity number, first name, and surname information provided during reservation. It is mandatory that this information matches the ID exactly. Our agency is not responsible for ticket cancellations or being denied boarding due to incorrect or incomplete information.
- In order to fly, you must have with you a new-generation chipped photo ID card with a T.C. Identity number on it (or a valid driver’s license/passport). Flying without ID is not possible.
- The flight times stated in the program are obtained from the airline company. Our agency cannot be held responsible for possible schedule changes, delays, or flight cancellations caused by the airline.

CLIMATE, SEASON, AND PHYSICAL CONDITIONS (MIDTERM BREAK PERIOD)

- Since our tour will take place during the November midterm break period, Eastern Anatolian provinces such as Erzurum, Kars, and Van will likely be very cold and possibly snowy. The Southeast Anatolia (GAP) region, on the other hand, will be milder. Our guests are required to bring winter and thick clothing, taking these two different climate conditions into account.
- Places in our program such as Ani Ruins, Mount Nemrut ascent, and the streets of Mardin require walking, are uneven, or are at high altitude. Guests with difficulty walking are advised to take this into consideration.

ACCOMMODATION AND OPERATIONAL CONDITIONS

- In hotels, especially in triple rooms, the 3rd bed may not be a standard bed; the hotel may provide a foldable/extra bed.
- The exact meeting time, location, and guide information will be sent to you via SMS or WhatsApp at the latest 1 day before the tour departure.
- The type of vehicle to be used on our tours is determined according to the number of participants registered (minibus, midibus, or bus). The vehicle that will come for the tour is not informed to the participant in advance.
- If deemed necessary by our guide (weather conditions, road conditions, crowding at the places to be visited, etc.), they have the right to make any changes to the flow and order of the program, provided that the quality of the tour is maintained. (Especially in November, if it is not possible to ascend Mount Nemrut due to weather conditions, an alternative program may be implemented.)
- The extras and entertainments specified as optional (Sıra Night, Kafkas Night, boat and minibus tours) will be carried out when a minimum participation of 20 people is reached.

MUSEUM PASS INFORMATION

- Many paid museums and archaeological sites affiliated with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism within our tour scope (Göbeklitepe, Zeugma, Ani Ruins, etc.) will be visited. Obtaining a "Museum Pass" from the ticket offices before the tour or on the first day will provide great convenience and cost advantage at the entrances.

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GÜVENTUR · 2327001700 · info@dikiliguventur.com