5 Day Private Tour in Rize Trabzon with Bungalow Accommodation

Experience the beauty of Turkey’s Black Sea coast on this 5-day private tour of Rize and Trabzon, staying in charming bungalows. For $2,540 per person, you’ll explore lush landscapes, ancient monasteries, and dramatic waterfalls, all while enjoying the comforts of cozy accommodations right in nature. Guided by friendly experts, this tour offers a balanced mix of cultural sights and stunning scenery, perfect for those seeking an authentic taste of Turkey’s northern region. We particularly love how the bungalow stays provide a peaceful retreat with mountain or sea vistas, and how the guides bring history and natural beauty alive with their local knowledge.

One thing to consider is that some entrance fees, like Sumela Monastery ($15) and Zilkale (15 TL), are extra — so packing a bit of local currency is wise. This tour suits travelers who enjoy gentle hikes, scenic drives, and cultural insights, especially if you value expert guides and unique accommodations. It’s ideal for adventurous families, couples, or friends wanting a comprehensive, immersive experience of the Black Sea’s highlights.

Key Points

• Authentic ambiance: Stay in charming bungalows offering serene views and a true nature experience.
• Cultural highlights: Visit historical sites like Sumela Monastery and Zilkale with expert-guided commentary.
• Spectacular scenery: Enjoy Uzungöl, Ayder Yaylasi, waterfalls, and lush valleys—perfect for photography and peaceful reflection.
• Active options: Zipline activities at Firtina Deresi appeal to adventure-seekers.
• Convenient logistics: Private transportation and all park fees included streamline your journey.
• Flexible itinerary: Free time at Camlihemsin offers a chance to relax or explore more on your own.

A Detailed Look at the 5-Day Black Sea Journey

Day 1: Discovering the Monastic and Natural Marvels

Your adventure begins with a visit to the Sumela Monastery, perched high on the cliffs of Macka National Park. Built in the 4th century, this Greek Orthodox monastery carved into the steep rock face offers a fascinating glimpse of religious architecture amid verdant forests. As guides often highlight, the frescoes inside are remarkable, and the panoramic views make it a photographer’s paradise. Admission is $15, but the cultural and scenic payoff makes it worthwhile.

Next, it’s off to Uzungöl, a picture-perfect lake surrounded by pine forests and towering mountains. This artificial yet natural-looking lake was formed by an ancient landslide, and you’ll love how its calm waters reflect the lush greenery—spotting kayaks or just soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. The two-hour stop is free, giving you time to stroll along the lakeside promenade, enjoy local food, or just marvel at the postcard scene.

What we appreciate: The guides are knowledgeable, revealing stories behind these sites, and the scenery is breathtaking. A minor consideration is that transport to and from these sites is included, but you’ll want comfortable shoes for walking and exploring.

Day 2: Exploring Valleys and Highland Hotspots

Today takes you into Firtina Deresi (Storm Valley), a wild stretch of natural beauty with rushing rivers, steep cliffs, and dense forests. For adrenaline lovers, ziplining over the river adds an exhilarating touch, while everyone will appreciate the lush landscapes. The 2-hour visit includes an entrance fee, but the stunning scenery and fresh mountain air make it a highlight.

From there, you’re whisked to Ayder Yaylasi, a popular highland retreat at over 1,350 meters altitude. This plateau is famous for its hot springs, lush meadows, and streams. The guides often mention the natural springs as a major draw—perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. The scenery here is soothing, with abundant green and the chance to sample local tea or enjoy a gentle walk.

The visit to Gelin Tulu Waterfall caps the day, offering dramatic views of cascading water with the backdrop of Ayder. The waterfall is free and offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially when the water is flowing at its fullest.

Travel tip: The highlights of today are very scenic; pack layers for the mountain climate and your camera for picture-perfect views.

Day 3: Rest and Relaxation in Camlihemsin

The third day is reserved for rest, giving you a break from the busy sightseeing. You can relax in the bungalow, enjoy the natural surroundings, or explore Camlihemsin at your own pace. This flexible free day is perfect for soaking in the tranquility or taking small hikes nearby.

What makes this day valuable: It balances the itinerary, preventing travel fatigue and letting you savor the peaceful mountain environment.

Day 4: Medieval Fortresses and Verdant Forests

Today is packed with history and nature. First, the Zilkale fortress dominates the skyline with its medieval stone walls perched high above the Firtina Valley. The views from the castle are spectacular, and the structure offers a tangible sense of history. Entrance fee is 15 TL, and guides often share stories about its strategic importance.

Next, visit Palovit Selalesi, the Black Sea’s most powerful waterfall by flow rate. Its thunderous cascade is great for photography or just listening to the roar of nature.

The afternoon includes Enyuva Village, famous for its TV series filming locations, a romantic “love tree,” and a charming love bridge. It’s a favorite spot for couples and fans of Turkish dramas.

Finally, stroll through the Boxwood Forests, which showcase ancient trees fighting to survive. The tranquility of old-growth trees is calming, and the scenery is lush and vibrant.

Insight: The historical layers combined with the natural beauty make this day especially engaging.

Day 5: Tea and Farewell

Your trip wraps up with a taste of Turkey’s beloved tea culture. Start at the Ziraat Tea Garden in Rize, where you can enjoy a tea tasting and learn about the local tea production. Then, visit the Tea Bazaar for a quick glimpse into the area’s most famous crop, often featured in movies or stories.

The included breakfast at the tea garden provides a lovely, local start to your day before heading to Trabzon Airport. The logistical convenience of private transport and included park fees makes departure smooth.

What you’ll take away: Beautiful scenery, cultural insights, and a deeper appreciation of Turkey’s Black Sea region.

The Value for Travelers

This tour offers good value through its all-inclusive approach—private transportation, four nights in cozy bungalow accommodations, and guided visits to key sites. While entrance fees like Sumela Monastery and Zilkale are extra, the overall experience provides a comprehensive look at the region’s natural and cultural treasures. We found that the guides’ knowledge enhances the experience, making history and scenery come alive, especially at sites like Sumela and Zilkale.

The scenery, from Uzungöl’s tranquil waters to Ayder’s lush plateau, is genuinely stunning and often feels like stepping into a postcard. The accommodations add a charming, authentic touch—waking up to mountain or sea views, hearing birds or water, truly immerses you in nature. The balance of sightseeing, free time, and cultural insights makes this tour suitable for travelers who enjoy gentle hiking, scenic drives, and historical sites.

Pricing is reasonable considering the personalized private format and the diversity of experiences. For those who value knowledgeable guides and peaceful, picturesque stays, this tour delivers memorable moments without the rush.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect if you’re looking for a well-rounded experience combining nature, history, and culture in Turkey’s Black Sea region. It suits travelers who appreciate guided insights into local sites, enjoy scenic landscapes, and prefer staying in cozy, natural settings rather than large hotels. Families, couples, and friends who want a mix of activity and relaxation will find this tour appealing. It’s also a good fit if you’re interested in authentic experiences—such as tea tasting and local village visits—rather than just sightseeing from a bus.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, private transportation is provided, making it easy to move comfortably between sites.

Are entrance fees included? No, some sites like Sumela Monastery and Zilkale have separate entrance fees, which are payable on-site.

How many people are on this tour? This is a private tour, so only your group will participate.

What kind of accommodations will I stay in? You’ll stay in charming bungalow accommodations nestled in nature, offering serene mountain or sea views.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers? Yes, most travelers can participate, but consider the walking involved, especially at sites like Sumela and Zilkale.

How long are the sightseeing stops? Each stop ranges from 30 minutes to a few hours, depending on the site and activity.

Can I do ziplining at Firtina Deresi? Yes, ziplining is available and included as an activity if you’re interested.

What is the best time to take this tour? The tour can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and early autumn offer the best weather for outdoor activities and scenery.

To sum it up, this 5-day private tour of Rize and Trabzon offers a thoughtful blend of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and comfortable lodging. The guides’ local expertise and the picturesque bungalow stays create a memorable, authentic experience. It’s an excellent choice for those eager to explore Turkey’s northern coast without rushing or sacrificing comfort — especially for nature lovers and history buffs alike.