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Set out from Trabzon to visit the iconic Sümela Monastery, dramatically built into the cliffs of Altındere Valley. Explore the lush landscapes of Altındere National Park, surrounded by forested mountains and fresh mountain air, and enjoy opportunities to capture stunning photographs along the way.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Before the Activity: Our tour departs from the meeting point in Trabzon city center at 9:00 AM. Hotel pickups are arranged according to the operational schedule and may occur before or after the tour’s departure time. Our operations team will inform you about your exact pickup time from your hotel prior to the tour.
Getting to Sumela Monastery: It is mandatory to use the shuttle service to reach the national park parking lot and the beginning of the trail to the monastery. There is a 350-meter forest trail leading to the monastery, which is not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers. Additionally, during the visit to the monastery, you will need to navigate many steps.
Lunch: Lunch will be provided at a local restaurant in Zigana. Please note that the cost of lunch is not included in the tour price. The restaurant accepts credit card payments.
Entrance Fees (per person):
Sumela Monastery: 20 Euro (payable in cash in Turkish Lira or by credit card at the monastery entrance)
Shuttle service fee: 70 TL per person (payable in cash in Turkish Lira)
What to Bring: Bring an ID or passport, comfortable shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing, including a raincoat even in summer.
Important Note: Our guide/agency staff may change the itinerary depending on weather conditions.
We meet in front of the exchange office located next to Burger King, across from McDonald's. Please arrive at the meeting point before the tour's departure time.
Itinerary
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Altindere Vadisi National Park (Pass by)
The first stop is Sümela Monastery, located within Altındere National Park, reached after an enjoyable drive of approximately one hour. Inside the national park, shared minibuses are used, followed by a 300-meter walk along a forest path to reach the monastery. Before entering Sümela Monastery, visit St. Barbara Chapel, which offers one of the best viewpoints to admire the monastery set dramatically against the mountains.
Admission ticket free -
1Sumela Monastery
Upon arrival at Sümela Monastery, historic aqueducts, stone stairways, and visitor facilities welcome you. Before entering, take a short moment to enjoy the surrounding nature and scenic views. After passing through the entrance gate reached by stone steps, the monastery complex opens up before you. During the visit, explore the main rock church, chapels, student rooms, library, guesthouse, and sacred spring, along with other sections of this remarkable site. At the end of the visit, meet with the group leader and return along the same path.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
2Zigana
On the return route, walk back along the forest path and use the national park service to reach the tour vehicle, then continue toward Zigana Pass. Once an important route of the historic Silk Road, Zigana was traveled by many famous explorers, including Marco Polo. After a stop at the pass, located at an altitude of 2,050 meters, continue the journey to Hamsiköy.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
3Hamsikoy
Enjoy a lunch break in Hamsiköy, renowned for its natural scenery and famous rice pudding. After visiting Sümela Monastery, Zigana Pass, and Hamsiköy, return to Trabzon, marking the end of the tour. We look forward to welcoming you on another journey.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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