Turkic & Persian Splendours

Itinerary

Days 1-2 Istanbul

Have your fortune told in the Taksim, bargain up a storm in the Grand Bazaar or admire the imposing Aya Sofya in this fascinating city.

Days 2-6 Goreme

Explore the Enchanted Valley where cones of soft volcanic tuff rock have been carved to create mystical churches and mysterious dwellings.

Days 7-8 Nemrut Dagi

Thought to be the holy seat of the 1st century BC Commagene King Antiochus, the archaeological site of Nemrut Dagi was hidden from the world for thousands of years.

Day 9 Dogubayazit

Nestled at the foot of Turkey's highest peak, Dogubayazit holds a romantic palace-fortress that is fascinating to explore.

Days 10-11 Bush Camp

Begin the Iranian portion of this adventure camping in the wild and discovering the country's mountainous heart.

Days 12-14 Esfahan

With stately bridges, blue-tiled Islamic buildings and a gargantuan city square, Esfahan provides welcome splashes of lush colour after a few days in the dry countryside.

Days 15-16 Shiraz

Explore the magnificent ruins of Persepolis en route to Shiraz. Spend free time in town visiting magnificent mosques and mausoleums or shopping in the fabulous Vakil Bazaar.

Days 17-19 Yazd

Wind through the old city of Yazd - reputedly one of the oldest towns in the world. Sign up for a scrub in a local hamam or sample some tasty Iranian cuisine.

Days 20-21 Tehran

Discover the capital of Iran - sprawling, fascinating and intoxicating. Visit the impressive Golestan Palace or get lost in one of the city's museums.

Days 22-23 Alborz Mountains

Camp amid the splendour of the rugged Alborz Mountains.

Days 24-26 Ashgabat

Say goodbye to Iran and travel into Turkmenistan. Conclude the adventure among the futuristic architecture of Ashgabat.