If you have limited time in Turkey but want to explore key Mesopotamian destinations, our "Express Tour to Nemrut Mountain, Göbeklitepe, and Urfa" is perfect for you. Witness the sunset atop Nemrut Mountain—a must-do experience in your lifetime—and feel the ancient energy of Göbeklitepe, the world’s oldest temple. This tour promises a unique and unforgettable journey through history.
DAY 1: Cappadocia to Kahta via Karatayhan, Cendere Bridge, and Arsemia Ruins – Sunset on Nemrut Mountain
- 08:30 am: Pickup from your hotel in Cappadocia, or from Nevşehir or Kayseri Airport. We begin our journey to Karatayhan Caravanserai, following the historic Silk Road.
- 10:00 am: Arrive at Karatayhan Caravanserai, constructed in 1240 by the renowned Seljuk Vizier Celaleddin Karatay. This impressive structure was a crucial stop for traders, offering safety, accommodation, and sustenance. It features remarkable stone carvings and intricate workmanship on its entrance gate. Enjoy approximately 30 minutes to explore this monumental site.
- 12:30 pm: Travel through Tekir Valley, connecting Central Anatolia with Mesopotamia. Witness herds of sheep, goats, and cows grazing on the legendary Taurus Mountains. Lunch includes a delightful organic meal, ending with a treat of handmade Turkish ice cream made from goat’s milk, considered among the finest in the world.
- 14:00 pm: Depart from Kahramanmaraş to Cendere Bridge.
- 17:00 pm: Arrive at Cendere Bridge, an ancient Roman bridge built between 193-211 AD by Emperor Septimius Severus. This architectural marvel features two arches and is constructed from massive cut stones.
- 17:30 pm: Proceed to Arsemia Ruins.
- 17:45 pm: Explore Arsemia Ruins, the summer capital and administrative center of the Commagene Kingdom, founded in the 2nd century BC. View the Mithras relief stele, the Antiochos-Herakles handshake stele, and the extensive Greek inscription. Discover the tunnel and rock corridors, and the tomb temple and palace of Mithridates Callinichos.
- 18:15 pm: Head to the summit of Mount Nemrut to explore the Tumulus of Antiochus I, built in 62 BC, and the statues of Western (Hellenic) and Eastern (Persian) gods. Experience a breathtaking sunset at this ancient site.
- 21:30 pm: Dinner and overnight stay in Kahta.
DAY 2: Atatürk Dam – Göbeklitepe – Cave of Prophet Abraham – Holy Lake – Covered Bazaar of Urfa
- 08:30 am: After breakfast, depart for the Atatürk Dam, the largest dam in the Middle East.
- 09:30 am: Enjoy a 30-minute break to view the dam and savor delicious regional Turkish coffee and rosehip tea.
- 11:00 am: Arrive at Göbeklitepe, the oldest known temple, discovered by German archaeologist Klaus Schmidt. This site, dating back approximately 12,000 years, is recognized as the cradle of civilization and offers profound historical insights.
- 12:30 pm: Lunch near the covered bazaar in Urfa. Taste the renowned liver kebab or opt for chicken or vegetarian options.
- 13:30 pm: Stroll through the Historical Covered Bazaar of Urfa, where you’ll find a rich array of spices, Turkish delights, and copper items.
- 14:30 pm: Visit the Cave of Prophet Abraham, believed to be his birthplace and residence until age seven. The cave is significant for Jewish, Christian, and Muslim pilgrims.
- 15:30 pm: Explore the Holy Lake (Balıklıgöl), where it is believed Prophet Abraham was thrown into a fire. Legends suggest that the lake was an ancient temple for the goddess Atargatis, with sacred fish that are not to be touched or eaten in Israel, Lebanon, and Syria.
- 16:30 pm: After visiting the Holy Lake, return to Cappadocia. For those not returning to Cappadocia, we offer a drop-off at Şanlıurfa Airport for flights to Istanbul or İzmir (for Ephesus).
- 22:30 pm: Drop-off at your hotel or Kayseri Airport.
Group Discounts:
- 1 pax = €400
- 2 pax = €550
- 3 pax = €650
- 4 pax = €750
- 5 pax = €850
- 6 pax = €950
Contact us for a coupon code to receive a group discount.
What is Included:
- English-speaking licensed guide
- Transportation by comfortable A/C minibus
- Lunches and dinners on the first and second day
- 1 night accommodation with breakfast at a boutique hotel in Kahta
- Entrance fees to historical sites and museums
- Pickup and drop-off at Cappadocia hotels, Kayseri, Nevşehir, and Şanlıurfa Airports
What is Excluded:
- Drinks during lunches and dinners
- Tips for the driver and guide
- Domestic flight tickets
