Sapanca and Masukiye Tour

Your Sapanca and Masukiye Tour begins with pickup from selected centrally located hotels in Istanbul.

Pickup times vary according to hotel location, with the main departure scheduled for approximately 8:30 AM.

Meet your professional guide and travel east from Istanbul in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle.

As the city gradually disappears behind you, the landscape changes toward the greener surroundings of the Marmara region.

Continue toward the Sapanca region, located between the Gulf of Izmit and the green landscapes of Sakarya.

The journey normally takes around two hours or more depending on Istanbul traffic.

Your guide provides information about the region and the day's itinerary during the drive.

Sapanca and Masukiye are well-established nature destinations, known for forests, waterfalls, lakeside scenery and local food.

Arrive at Sapanca Lake, one of the main natural landmarks of the region.

Take time to walk beside the lake, enjoy the scenery and photograph the surrounding hills reflected across the water.

The atmosphere offers a noticeable contrast with central Istanbul.

Depending on the day's program, you will have free time to stroll along the waterfront, sit beside the lake or enjoy tea or coffee from local businesses.

Leave Sapanca Lake and continue toward Masukiye, located among the forested foothills of Kartepe.

The area is known for streams, waterfalls, greenery and restaurants built around the natural landscape.

The Turkish name “Masukiye” is often associated with the idea of love, and the village has long been a popular weekend escape for visitors from Istanbul and nearby cities.

Explore the natural surroundings of Masukiye with your guide.

Depending on the route and seasonal conditions, stop near streams, waterfalls and forest areas where you can walk, take photographs and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

Masukiye provides one of the day's best opportunities simply to slow down and enjoy the landscape.

Take a break for an included lunch at a local restaurant.

Restaurants around Masukiye are known for their forest and waterside settings, making lunch part of the nature experience rather than simply a sightseeing break.

The exact menu may vary according to the operating restaurant and season.

Please advise us in advance if you require a vegetarian meal or have specific dietary requirements.

Drinks are not included unless specifically stated in your reservation.

After lunch, continue toward the Kartepe mountain region.

The road climbs through increasingly forested surroundings, providing a different view of the Sapanca and Masukiye landscape.

Kartepe changes considerably throughout the year.

During spring and summer, the mountain is characterized by forests and green scenery. Autumn brings seasonal colors, while the higher areas can become a popular snow destination during winter.

The exact mountain route is subject to weather and road conditions.

Depending on the day's program and available time, guests may have the opportunity to experience the Kartepe Cable Car.

The modern cable car runs from Derbent toward Kuzuyayla Nature Park and covers approximately 4.7 kilometers, with the journey taking around 14 minutes.

The cable car is an optional activity and the ticket is not included in the standard tour price unless specifically stated in your booking.

Operation is also subject to weather, maintenance and the cable car's current schedule.

Masukiye and Kartepe have developed into popular areas for outdoor and adventure activities.

Depending on the operating location, optional activities may include:

• ATV or quad-bike rides
• Zipline
• Giant swing
• Nature activities
• Other locally operated attractions

These activities are optional and are paid separately.

Guests who prefer not to participate can use the available time to relax, walk or enjoy the surrounding scenery.

After completing the Sapanca, Masukiye and Kartepe program, meet your guide and begin the return journey to Istanbul.

Use the drive to relax after a full day in the countryside.

Arrive back in Istanbul during the evening.

Guests using the scheduled transfer service will be returned to selected centrally located hotel areas.

Because the journey crosses busy Istanbul approach roads, the exact return time can vary considerably according to traffic, weather and seasonal conditions.

The complete Sapanca and Masukiye Tour generally requires a full day of approximately 12–14 hours including transportation.