Just as Mike has been leading StarGate tours with Mohamed and Saba Tours in Egypt for the past four years, we have decided to extend our explorations beyond Egypt. This is why we created this special journey to Turkey in September 2026, to expand your knowledge, connect with other civilizations, and explore places that relate deeply to what we began together through the StarGates concept.
Saba Tours is different from all other companies, whether in Egypt or abroad, and this journey is designed to reflect that difference in every detail.
Therefore, we, Mohamed, Noha, Kate, and Mike , are honored to invite you to join us on a unique and enriching journey in Turkey. It will be a tour full of discovery, insight, and exclusive visits to special sites you would not experience with any other company.
The Staff will wait for you in front of “Exit Gate 14” with Saba Tour sign board in Istanbul Airport
Meet at the airport and transfer to your hotel. You will be given your room key and the rest of the day is yours
Overnight: Istanbul
Included Meals: None
Day 02Old City IstanbulSep 09th 2026
Breakfast
Start your adventure in the historic Hippodrome, a former chariot-racing arena that witnessed countless events in its storied past. Here, you’ll discover the Obelisk of Theodosius and the Serpent Column, both cherished remnants of Byzantine history.
Stand in awe of the stunning Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque. Its impressive domes, intricate tilework, and towering minarets create a truly mesmerizing sight that defines Istanbul’s skyline. Savour the flavours of authentic Turkish cuisine at a carefully selected restaurant. Our lunch stop provides a delightful opportunity to sample regional dishes and recharge for the rest of your adventure.
Next, venture into the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia built in the 6th century, a masterpiece of architectural ingenuity and a symbol of Istanbul’s enduring legacy. Marvel at its intricate mosaics, soaring dome, and the palpable sense of history within its walls. Then, descend into the subterranean world of the Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground reservoir. Delve into the mysterious atmosphere as you stroll among the submerged columns and illuminated pathways, feeling as though you’ve stepped back in time.
Conclude the day at the Grand Bazaar, the largest and oldest covered market of the world.
Overnight: Istanbul
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 03Flight to Cappadocia Sep 10th 2026
Early weak up Today morning, take an early domestic flight to Cappadocia. (The hotel will prepare a breakfast box for you).
05:45 AM – Transfer to Airport from hotel.
08:45 AM – TK2002 IST – NAV 10:05 AM. by Turkish Airlines. (economy class 15 kg check in 8 kg cabin baggage allowance)
Upon arrival, meet at the airport then, start the tour. Marvel at the fascinating rock formations of Pasabag, also known as Monk’s Valley. These whimsical fairy chimneys and unusual geological wonders create an otherworldly atmosphere that’s perfect for exploration and photography. Traverse the captivating Dervent Valley, often referred to as “Imagination Valley” for its bizarre rock formations that resemble animals and other whimsical shapes. Let your imagination run wild as you wander through this natural wonderland.
After lunch, gaze upon the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia, a surreal mosaic of fairy chimneys, cave dwellings, and rolling hills. Delve into the rich history of Cappadocia at the Goreme Open Air Museum. Explore the ancient cave churches adorned with intricate frescoes, providing a glimpse into the spiritual life of early Christian communities.
Overnight: Cappadocia
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 04 Cappadocia Sep 11th 2026
Breakfast
Start your day by exploring the Kaymakli Underground City, one of Cappadocia’s most fascinating subterranean complexes. Wander through its narrow tunnels, storage rooms, stables, and living quarters, and discover how ancient communities used these hidden spaces for protection during times of invasion.
Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Cappadocian dishes and regional specialties
After lunch, visit a hand-woven carpets production place and witness the artistry behind Cappadocia’s famous carpets. Learn about the traditional weaving techniques, vibrant patterns, and cultural significance of these beautiful handmade works of art. Immerse yourself in the artistry of Avanos, a town known for its pottery craftsmanship.
Visit a local pottery workshop and witness skilled artisans at work, creating exquisite ceramics using techniques passed down through generations. Marvel at the “Three Beauties,” a trio of prominent fairy chimneys that have become an iconic symbol of Cappadocia’s natural wonders.
Overnight: Cappadocia
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 05KonyaSep 12th 2026
After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Konya (approx. 3 hours). Start your day by visiting one of Konya’s most significant archaeological sites, Çatalhöyük. Explore the remains of this Neolithic settlement, including ancient houses, wall paintings, and traces of daily life. With the guidance of a local expert, learn about the lifestyle and belief systems of one of the earliest farming communities in human history.
After the Çatalhöyük tour, return to the city center and visit the Mevlana Museum. Discover the tomb of Mevlana Celaleddin Rumi, historical buildings, and exhibits related to the Whirling Dervish ceremonies, experiencing the depth of Mevlevi culture. Inside the museum, you can soak in the mystical atmosphere of the Mevlevi order and admire Ottoman-era artifacts and manuscripts.
Conclude your day with a leisurely walk in the museum gardens, reflecting on Mevlana’s teachings.
Overnight: Konya
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 06Drive to Ankara & Flight to SanliurfaSep 13th 2026
After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Ankara (approx. 3 hours) and visit the Anatolian Civilizations Museum, one of Turkey’s most important museums. Explore its rich collection of artifacts from the Hittite, Phrygian, Urartian, and other ancient Anatolian civilizations, offering a fascinating insight into the region’s history.
After lunch, visit Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey. Explore its grand architecture, ceremonial halls, and the museum to learn about Atatürk’s life and the Turkish War of Independence.
Afterward, transfer to the airport for your flight to Şanlıurfa. 19:50 PM – VF4180 ESB – GNY 21:05 PM by Ajet Airlines. (economy class 15 kg check in 8 kg cabin baggage allowance)
Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel in Sanliurfa.
Overnight: Şanliurfa
Included Meals: Breakfast,Lunch
Day 07SanliurfaSep 14th 2026
Breakfast
Begin your day with a visit to Göbeklitepe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site over 11,000 years old, featuring massive T-shaped stone pillars carved with animal motifs—predating Stonehenge and reshaping our understanding of early human history.
Next, continue to Karahantepe, another important Neolithic site in the region, where similar monumental stone pillars and carvings offer further insight into ancient civilizations.
In the afternoon, explore Balıklıgöl (Pool of Abraham), a sacred site where Prophet Abraham was miraculously saved from fire. Visit the cave believed to be his birthplace and enjoy a stroll through the surrounding park and bazaar, rich in spiritual and cultural atmosphere.
End your day with a visit to the Şanlıurfa Archaeology Museum, which houses a rich collection of artifacts from Göbeklitepe and the wider region, providing deeper context to your exploration of ancient history.
Overnight: Şanliurfa
Included Meals: Breakfast,Lunch
Day 08Adıyaman & Nemrut MountainSep 15th 2026
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, followed by check-out.Drive to Nemrut Mountain, (apps. 3.5 hours’ drive). There is a temple complex consisting of colossal statues and monumental structures built by King Antiochus I from the Kingdom of Commagene, which ruled in the 1st century BCE. Antiochus I constructed a monumental tomb where he elevated his own statue to a divine10 status, symbolically sharing the space with the gods. This complex is now included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
After the sunset, drive to your hotel in Adiyaman, check-in, and relax.
Overnight: Adıyaman
Included Meals: Breakfast,Lunch
Day 09Flight to IstanbulSep 16th 2026
Breakfast the hotel. Today, take a domestic flight to Istanbul.
11:30 AM – Transfer to Airport from hotel.
13:50 PM – TK2215 ADF – IST 15:45 PM. by Turkish Airlines. (economy class 15 kg check in 8 kg cabin baggage allowance)
Upon arrival, meet at the airport and transfer to your hotel. You will be given your room key and the rest of the day is yours.
Overnight: Istanbul
Included Meals: Breakfast
Day 10DeaprtureSep 17th 2026
Breakfast at the hotel. There are no activities planned for today. You’ll be transferred to airport for your return flight.
A non-refundable Deposit of $2000.00 per Person will be required at the time of booking. To ensure your Reservation, final payment will be due 60 days prior to Tour start
Bookings made within 60- and 31-days preceding Tour start will require full and final payment immediately upon booking. Bookings made within 30 days of Tour start, will require a permission from Saba Tours before paying the full and final payment. It is the responsibility of the traveler (or agent) to determine that final payment reaches us on time. No booking will be considered until final deposit is received by the Tour Operator.
Payments are to be made via Bank Transfer. Any fees charged, will be the responsibility of the sender.
Please inquire about this before you make your bank transaction.
Cancellation and Refunds
The moment you pay the deposit, it will be non- refundable.
Due to high preparation costs, Cancellations must be received in writing before 90 days of travel date.
Cancellations received more than 90 days prior to departure will have a penalty of $2000 per Person (the non-refundable deposit).
Cancellations received between 90 days & 60 days prior to departure will have a penalty of 50% of the tour price.
Cancellations received between 60 days & 30 days prior to departure will have a penalty of 75% of the tour price.
Cancellations received 30 days or less before departure will receive NO refund. No refund will be made for transfers, city tours and any other services voluntarily not taken (including meals, accommodations and transportation).
Changes
This Itinerary is subject to changes to adapt to possible alterations in domestic flight times or other unforeseen circumstances. The content will remain the same, barring any unanticipated complications, and will include many delightful “extras” and surprises.
Insurance
We recommend that all participants obtain Travel Insurance. Travel Insured International offers insurance for trip cost, trip cancellation & interruption, and pays for loss due to unforeseen circumstance, death, injury, or illness to you or a member of your family. It also includes coverage for missed connections due to weather, pays for lost deposits due to the financial default of the airline, the tour operator, or cruise line. It pays for baggage delays, travel delays, medical expenses and emergency assistance.
Waiver of Responsibility
By signing up to the Tour you agree to our Terms, Deposit Conditions and Waiver. Guide of Egypt & its agents Saba Tours have worked diligently to make all the arrangements for our journey together in Egypt. However, Guide of Egypt & its agents Saba Tours will not be held liable for delays, theft, damage, injury, or any other irregularities that may occur during the journey. We will not be held liable for any changes or delays in airline schedules or missed connections; injury, loss, or damage to persons or property; additional expenses resulting from changes in exchange rates, tariffs, or itinerary; any transportation issues or problems with vehicles utilized on the tour; additional expenses incurred due to illness, weather conditions, protests, war, terrorism, quarantine, or other causes; and losses due to cancellations not subject to our Terms and Conditions.
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Ancient Mysteries of Turkey I
Tour Overview
Therefore, we, Mohamed, Noha, Kate, and Mike , are honored to invite you to join us on a unique and enriching journey in Turkey. It will be a tour full of discovery, insight, and exclusive visits to special sites you would not experience with any other company.
