Full Day Sapanca and Masukiye Tour with lunch

Exploring Istanbul’s surroundings has never been more appealing than on this full-day tour that takes you beyond the city’s hustle and bustle into the natural beauty of Turkey’s lush landscapes. For $70 per person, you’ll spend about 10 hours visiting Sapanca Lake, Masukiye, Kartepe, and Mahmudiye with transportation, a guide, and a traditional lunch included.

What makes this trip stand out is the chance to paddle boat on Sapanca Lake, offering a serene water-level view of the area’s breathtaking scenery. Plus, the ATV safari in Kartepe lets you experience mountain terrain up close—an adventure perfect for thrill-seekers or those wanting a more active day. We also love the authentic shopping stops where you can visit Turkish delight, organic products, and honey manufacturers—adding a genuine local touch.

However, a point to consider is the length of the day—it’s a full 10 hours, so it’s not ideal if you’re short on time or prefer a more relaxed pace. Also, activities like ATV riding and paddle boating are optional and may incur extra costs, so it’s worth planning for those if you want to participate.

This tour suits travelers who want a well-rounded, immersive experience outside Istanbul—those interested in nature, local crafts, and a little adventure. It’s particularly good for visitors with a day free, eager to explore Turkey’s scenic spots without the hassle of organizing transport or guides themselves.

Key Points

• Includes transportation, guide, and lunch, providing good value for a full-day outing
• Visit four distinct locations: Sapanca Lake, Masukiye, Kartepe, Mahmudiye
• Activities include paddle boating, shopping, and ATV safaris (optional)
• Ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers with an interest in local crafts
• Duration of about 10 hours makes it a full day out, so plan accordingly
• Tour operates year-round, but activities like Kartepe’s snow hill are seasonal

Discovering the Natural Beauty of Turkey’s Countryside

If you’re based in Istanbul and craving a change of scenery, this tour offers a comprehensive look at some of the most scenic spots just a short drive away. For around $70, you get a full-day adventure that balances outdoor activities, cultural stops, and a delicious meal—an excellent way to spend a day enjoying Turkey’s diverse landscapes.

The day begins with pickup from your hotel, making logistics straightforward. Once on the bus, you’ll be whisked out of the city to Sapanca Lake, famed for its tranquil waters and stunning mountain backdrop. Here, we loved the paddle boat activity, which allows you to glide across the lake, soaking in views that are even better from the water. One traveler, Hector, summed it up perfectly, calling it “a day outside the city — totally worth it.” The boat ride, at about an hour and a half, is a peaceful way to connect with nature and see the landscape from a different perspective.

Next, the tour moves to Masukiye, a place renowned for its lush rivers, waterfalls, and romantic atmosphere—hence its name, meaning “love” in Arabic. Besides taking in the sweeping natural views, you’ll have free time to explore local shops producing Turkish delight and honey. Tourists often appreciate these stops for their authenticity, with one reviewer noting, “Visit of Masukiye is famous for its incredible nature and river.” It’s a perfect spot to purchase handcrafted souvenirs, organic products, and enjoy a glimpse into local life.

The Kartepe Snow Hill, which is seasonal, is the next highlight if visiting during winter. Here, you can enjoy ATV safaris, a thrilling 60-minute self-driving experience with a guide to help navigate the mountain terrain. This part of the tour appeals strongly to adventure lovers, and those keen on mountain views and a bit of adrenaline. The guide has the authority to change the program based on weather or crowd, which shows the flexible, responsive nature of the tour.

Finally, the trip concludes with a lunch near waterfalls in Mahmudiye, set in a scenic area surrounded by lush greenery and cascading water. It’s a relaxing end to a busy day, offering a chance to recharge before heading back to Istanbul.

Transport and Group Size

The tour uses air-conditioned buses for comfortable travel, and groups are kept small—about 20 travelers—allowing for a more intimate experience. Pickup is available from central hotels in Istanbul, making it convenient, especially if you’re staying in Sultanahmet or nearby. You should reconfirm your pickup time at least 48 hours prior, which helps ensure smooth coordination.

What to Expect from the Activities

Paddle boat at Sapanca Lake is included, giving you the opportunity to enjoy the views from the water. Many find it peaceful and photogenic—perfect for capturing memories. If you’re interested in ATV safaris, these are optional and can be rented separately, but the included 60-minute ride is a highlight for thrill-seekers. The ride takes you through mountainous terrains up to the lake point, with a guide to keep you safe and informed.

Shopping stops at Turkish delight and honey factories are free and offer authentic, locally made products. These are genuine opportunities to bring home edible souvenirs or simply enjoy a taste of Turkish craftsmanship. The lunch is described as a “standard lunch,” with a soft drink included, served near waterfalls—a setting that adds a scenic touch to your meal.

The Authentic Experience

One of the most praised aspects, according to reviews, is good value for money. For $70, you gain access to beautiful landscapes, engaging activities, and local culture—a package that’s hard to beat compared to organizing similar trips independently. Travelers have also enjoyed the opportunity to sample Turkish cuisine in a picturesque setting, making the entire day feel like a mini escape from city life.

The tour’s flexible itinerary allows the guide to adapt based on weather and crowd conditions, which is helpful in ensuring a smooth experience. The small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere where questions and personal interaction are encouraged.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts who want a structured day out with activities like paddle boating and ATV safaris. It’s also suited for those interested in local crafts and authentic shopping, as stops include Turkish delight and honey manufacturing. Travelers who prefer a full-day itinerary with minimal planning** will appreciate the convenience of transportation and guided commentary.

However, it might not suit visitors looking for a luxury or very relaxed experience, as the schedule is packed and the day long. Those afraid of heights or rough terrain should consider this before signing up, especially for the ATV portion.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of outdoor adventure, culture, and scenic beauty. The inclusion of activities like paddle boating and ATV safaris adds a fun, active element that elevates the experience beyond a simple sightseeing trip. The value for money is notable, especially considering the transportation, guide, and meal included.

For travelers who want to step outside Istanbul’s urban fabric and connect with Turkey’s natural and rural charm, this trip provides a comprehensive and memorable day. It’s especially good for those wanting to see diverse landscapes without the hassle of planning each detail.

If you’re after a full-day escape with authentic local flavors and outdoor fun, this tour is a solid choice. Just be prepared for a long day, and don’t forget your camera and comfortable shoes!

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, roundtrip transportation from central Istanbul hotels is included in the price, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery en route.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 8:30 am and returning at the end of the day. It’s a full-day commitment.

Are activities like ATV safaris and paddle boating free?
Paddle boating is included in the tour, but ATV safaris are optional and may incur extra costs if you choose to rent or participate outside the provided experience.

What should I wear?
Smart casual is recommended. During winter, bring warm clothes as some activities, especially in Kartepe, involve mountain outdoor settings.

Can children participate?
Yes, most travelers can join. Children under 3 are free of charge, but be mindful of the physical aspects of activities like ATV riding.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather, especially for outdoor activities like ATV safaris and mountain visits. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour balances scenic beauty, local culture, and a touch of adventure, making it a fantastic way to spend a day outside Istanbul. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful boat ride, a taste of mountain adventure, or a cultural shopping experience, you’ll find it here.