Iconic Black Sea Highlands and Batumi Tour | 4-Night Stay, Departing from Afyonkarahisar
Enjoy a comfortable and full experience while staying immersed in nature on lush meadows, breathing the cool mountain air, exploring unique landscapes, discovering Batumi's colorful streets, and uncovering the Black Sea's hidden gems all in one tour.
Gümüşhane - Giresun - Trabzon - Rize - Artvin - Batumi - Makhunseti 4 Nights Accommodation Round Trip | BusNight Bus Journey
After picking up our valued guests from the designated starting point, we begin our night journey.
Afyon Bus Terminal 22:00
Blue Lake – Göksu Travertines – Kümbet Plateau – Tamzara Neighborhood – Tomara Waterfall – Gümüşhane
A Journey Through Highlands, Waterfalls, and History from Giresun to Gümüşhane
On the first day of our tour, we begin an unforgettable journey alongside the lush green nature of the Black Sea region, its cool highlands, and the deep-rooted Anatolian culture.
After taking our breakfast (extra) with guests who wish to enjoy local flavors, we set off towards the highland area via Dereli district in Giresun. Our first stop is Mavi Lake, which welcomes us as one of the hidden gems of the Black Sea with its turquoise color. Then, we visit Göksu Travertines, where nature has created a cotton-like appearance; we take a photo break amidst the unique landscapes.
Next, we reach Kümbet Highland, one of the finest examples of Black Sea highland culture. In the free time provided on this highland, known for its lush greenery and clean air, you can taste the local pine resin milk pudding; guests who wish may also experience delicacies prepared at local butcher shops.
After our highland tour, we cross Eğribel Pass and arrive at Tamzara Village, a historic settlement under Şebinkarahisar. Located at approximately 2,050 meters above sea level, this old Greek settlement has managed to preserve its historical character until today. Stone houses, narrow streets, and traces of traditional life welcome us here. There, we have the opportunity to drink from Akıl Suyu, believed by the local people to have healing properties.
After viewing Alucra panoramically along our route, we enter the borders of Gümüşhane. We visit Tomara Waterfall, one of the most impressive natural beauties of the region (entrance fee extra). Within the national park area, while admiring the mesmerizing view of the waterfall from the glass terrace, we feel the peaceful atmosphere of nature.
After this beautiful day intertwined with nature, history, and local culture, we check into our hotel in Gümüşhane. Dinner and overnight stay will be at our hotel.
Food and Beverage Information:
Breakfast: Will be taken at a suitable restaurant in Ordu (Extra/Optional)
Lunch: Will be taken during free time at Kümbet Highland (Extra/Optional)
Dinner: Will be served at the hotel as a set menu or buffet (Included in the tour price)
Accommodation: Çimenler Hotel, Gümüş Hotel, Ramada Gümüşhane Hotel, Bayrak Grand Hotel, Sümela Holiday Hotel, and similar hotels in Gümüşhane / Trabzon.
Gümüşhane – Karaca Cave – Zigana Pass – Hamsiköy – Sumela Monastery – Telkâri and Kazaziye crafts – Uzungöl
From Nature's Underground Art Gallery to the Unique Valleys of the Black Sea
On the second day of our tour, after enjoying breakfast at our hotel, we begin an unforgettable day accompanied by the lush green nature, historical heritage, and impressive plateau landscapes of the Black Sea. Our first stop is Karaca Cave, one of the most impressive caves not only in Turkey but also in the world.
Recognized as "one of the caves with the richest stalactite formations in the world," Karaca Cave resembles a natural underground art gallery with its stalactites, stalagmites, columns, curtain travertines, and dripstone pools formed over thousands of years. Guided by our tour guide's explanations, we learn about the cave's formation process and enjoy a pleasant exploration thanks to its high oxygen levels and refreshing atmosphere.
Important Note: Karaca Cave may be closed to visitors due to seasonal maintenance and renovation works. If the cave is closed, our program will be conducted alternatively with a visit to Torul Glass Terrace.
After visiting Karaca Cave, we continue our journey under the enchanting views of the Zigana Mountains. The Zigana Pass, which has hosted caravan routes, military crossings, and trade routes throughout history, is one of the most important natural passages connecting Eastern Anatolia with the Black Sea. Along the way, in this unique geography where rugged mountain silhouettes give way to lush green forests, we have the opportunity to observe nature's changing face.
Our next stop is Hamsiköy, whose appearance amidst the mist resembles postcards. This charming village located at the foothills of the Zigana Mountains is particularly famous for its Hamsiköy rice pudding (sütlacı), known throughout Turkey. During our break here, guests who wish can taste the famous rice pudding (extra) and take photos against the backdrop of the stunning mountain views.
After our visit to Hamsiköy, we head towards Maçka and reach Altındere National Park, one of the most important natural conservation areas of the Black Sea. After traveling by minibuses along the Coşandere Valley (extra), we complete approximately a 350-meter hiking trail and arrive at Sumela Monastery, built like an eagle's nest on the steep cliffs of Mount Karadağ.
Dating back to the fourth century, this magnificent structure holds great significance both for Christian history and for Black Sea culture. Guided by our tour guide, we explore the accessible parts of the monastery, having the opportunity to photograph its historical frescoes, rock architecture, and the breathtaking view overlooking the valley.
After our visit to Sumela Monastery, we proceed to our restaurant to try Akçaabat Köftesi, one of the most famous delicacies of Black Sea cuisine. Guests who wish can have their lunch here as an extra option.
After our meal break, we follow the Of – Çaykara route and move towards Uzungöl, which has become a symbol of the Black Sea. On the way, we make a shopping stop where we can closely discover traditional handicrafts specific to Trabzon. We take a short shopping break at a shop where you can see and purchase traditional handmade products such as Trabzon matting, filigree, and Kazaziye.
Upon reaching Uzungöl, we are greeted by dense forests surrounding the lake, wooden plateau houses, suspension bridges, and the peaceful atmosphere of nature. During the free time provided here, you can walk around the lake, enjoy the scenery, and feel the unique nature of the Black Sea up close.
For guests who wish, there is an option to join the Lustra and Karaster Plateaus Tour organized as an extra activity. As we ascend to an altitude of approximately 2400 meters by minibus, we take photo stops at viewpoints and make short walks on plateau roads, giving us the chance to view Uzungöl from above. Guests not participating in the extra tour can spend their free time in Uzungöl.
At the end of the day, we depart from Uzungöl and head to our hotel. Dinner and overnight stay at our hotel.
Food & Drink Information:
Morning Breakfast: Will be served at the hotel as Set Menu or Buffet (Included in Tour Price)
Lunch: Will be taken at a suitable restaurant in Trabzon (Extra/Optional)
Dinner: Will be served at the hotel as Set Menu or Buffet (Included in Tour Price)
Accommodation: Trabzon / Golden Inn Hotel, Çaykara Park Hotel, Grand Çaykaram Hotel, Royal Comfort Hotel, Arsen Hotel, Bayrak Grand Hotel, Grand 464 Hotel, Rhisos Gold Hotel, and similar hotels.
Cecova Tea Gardens – Fırtına Deresi – Camlıhemşin – Cinçiva (Şenyuva Village) – Zilkalesi – Palovit Waterfall – Ayder Plateau
From Storm Valley to Cloud Sea in the Heart of the Black Sea
We begin our third day with breakfast at our hotel. In the morning hours, we first visit the Rize Cloth Workshop, one of the important symbols of Black Sea culture. Here, we learn about the region's unique weaving culture and have the opportunity to closely observe the production stages of Rize cloth. Guests who wish may also purchase local products.
Next, we head to Ayder Plateau, one of the first places that come to mind when mentioning the Black Sea. Located at an altitude of approximately 1350 meters, Ayder Plateau is one of the most special regions of the Black Sea with its lush green nature, thermal springs, and unique atmosphere. Here, we visit Gelintulu Waterfall and Horon Field, and we are given free time to enjoy the plateau atmosphere.
After our visit to Ayder, we proceed towards Ardeşen and reach our facility located by the Fırtına Valley. During the free time provided here, guests who wish can optionally purchase lunch meals consisting of regional specialties. You may also have the opportunity to try Laz böreği, one of the indispensable flavors of Black Sea cuisine.
After our meal break, fun activities begin for adrenaline and nature lovers. The extra zipline activity conducted on the Fırtına River offers thrilling moments with a course of approximately 10 meters in height and 400 meters in length. Guests who wish can join the extra rafting activity, lasting approximately 1.5 hours under the guidance of expert instructors, and experience an unforgettable adventure in the turbulent waters of the Black Sea. Additionally, we have the opportunity to make our day even more colorful with extra organized giant swing and ATV safari activities.
After these fun moments, we arrive in Çamlıhemşin. In this area, which is one of the most special natural points of the Black Sea, along with guests who wish, we transfer to our minibuses for additional plateau tours. Under conditions of favorable weather and sufficient participation, guests will have the opportunity to explore the purest and most impressive nature of the Black Sea during the plateau tours.
1. Plateau Tour Package
Çinçiva Village (Şenyuva) – Palovit Waterfall – Zilkale – Boxwood Forests – Elevit Plateau
In this tour, we visit Şenyuva (Çinçiva) Village, one of the most iconic points of the Fırtına Valley. In the area known for its stone arch bridges, wooden houses, and authentic village atmosphere, we enjoy pleasant walks and take exquisite photos. Next, we see Palovit Waterfall, one of the strongest waterfalls in the Black Sea. Afterwards, we view the historic Zilkale, which stands out with its commanding position over the valley, in panoramic views; passing through the Şimşir Forests, considered one of the world's most special ecosystems, we reach Elevit Plateau. We take enjoyable breaks to fully experience the plateau atmosphere.
2. Plateau Tour Package
Çinçiva Village (Şenyuva) – Zilkale – Pokut Plateau – Sal Plateau
In our alternative plateau tour, we again start with Şenyuva Village, then visit the historic Zilkale. Afterwards, we ascend to Pokut Plateau, which boasts one of the most impressive landscapes of the Black Sea. On this plateau famous for its sea of clouds, we feel the enchanting atmosphere of nature and take exquisite photos. Our tour continues with a visit to Sal Plateau, which preserves its natural texture and stands out with its postcard-like scenery.
Guests who do not wish to participate in the extra plateau tours can spend their free time in Çamlıhemşin. We particularly recommend the plateau tours to guests who want to see the nature of the Black Sea in its most impressive form.
After this beautiful day filled with nature, adventure, and Black Sea culture, we move to our hotel. Dinner and accommodation will be at our hotel.
Dining Information:
Morning Breakfast: Will be served as Set Menu or Buffet at the Hotel (Included in Tour Price)
Lunch: Will be taken at the facility in Fırtına Valley (Extra/Optional)
Dinner: Will be served as Set Menu or Buffet at the Hotel (Included in Tour Price)
Accommodation: Rize / Patulya Hotel, Oris Green Hotel, Çay Boutique Hotel, Huzur Konak Hotel, Zafran Hotel, Ceymakçur Zafran Hotel, Doğra Resort Hotel, Oris Hotel, Natura Hotel, and similar hotels.
Borcka Karagöl – Sarp Border Crossing – Batumi – Georgian Night
From the Black Sea to the Caucasus: The Colorful World of Batumi
We begin the fourth day of our tour with breakfast at our hotel. Today's program features a special route where we will experience both the unique nature of the Black Sea and the modern face of Caucasian culture.
In the morning, along with interested guests, we head towards Borçka Karagöl for an extra tour. Located within the borders of Borçka district in Artvin, Karagöl is known as a "hidden paradise" due to its natural beauty. After transferring to minibuses in Borçka, we set off for the Karagöl visit. Formed as a landslide-dammed lake, Karagöl offers visitors a natural wonder where time seems to stand still, surrounded by dense forests, silence, and a peaceful atmosphere. Guests who do not wish to join this extra tour can spend free time in central Borçka. After visiting Karagöl, we return to Borçka by minibus and board our vehicle.
After our enjoyable visit immersed in nature, we reach Sarp Border Gate via Hopa. Once our identification procedures are completed, we enter Georgia and begin our journey towards Batumi, located on the eastern coast of the Black Sea and noted for its modern architecture.
First, we move to the Makhuntseti region near Batumi. Here, we visit an authentic winery (Adjarian Wine House) where we can closely experience one of the most important traditions of Georgian culture: wine production. Interested guests can taste Georgian wines and shop (entrance fee is extra).
Next, we see the historic Makhuntseti Stone Bridge, believed to have been built during the reign of Queen Tamar of Georgia. Afterwards, we take a short walk and photo break at the lush green Makhuntseti Waterfall. We enjoy pleasant moments accompanied by the cool atmosphere of the waterfall and the soothing sounds of nature.
Following our visit to Makhuntseti, we head to Batumi city center to begin our city tour. Along the way, we view Gonio Fortress panoramically, which stands out for its history dating back to the Roman era and is located on the Black Sea coast.
Upon reaching the city center, our first stop is Europe Square. Here, we receive information from our guide about the Medea Statue, one of the important figures in Caucasian mythology. Afterwards, we move to Piazza Square, one of the most enjoyable spots in Batumi. In this square, known for its buildings reminiscent of European architecture, cafes, and lively atmosphere, we allow free time.
Continuing our tour, we visit Saint Nicholas Church, which is still open for worship. Then, at Theater Square, we see the Poseidon Statue, the historic theater building, and the Virgin Mary Cathedral. We also view the Alphabet Tower, one of Batumi's symbols dedicated to the Georgian alphabet, panoramically and take a photo break.
Our next stop is the Ali & Nino Statue, located on Batumi beach and famous for its stories. We take photos in front of this impressive statue, known for its moving structure, and feel the pleasant atmosphere of Batumi Boulevard.
After our city tour, we check into our hotel. Interested guests can participate in an optional evening Georgian Night program with dinner. An unforgettable night awaits us with live music, local folk dances, and special flavors of Georgian cuisine.
Guests who do not wish to join the Georgian Night program can spend their evenings freely in central Batumi. Accommodation is at our hotel in Batumi.
Food & Beverage Information:
Morning Breakfast: Will be served at the hotel as Set Menu or Buffet (Included in Tour Price)
Lunch: Will be taken during free time in Batumi (Extra/Optional)
Dinner: Will be taken at the Georgian Night organized in Batumi (Extra/Optional)
Accommodation: Batumi / La Quinta by Wyndham Batumi, Marina Club Batumi, Euphoria Hotel Batumi, Grand Bellagio Batumi, and similar hotels.
Important Information – Batumi Border Crossing
Under the agreement between Turkey and Georgia, entry to Batumi is only possible with a new chip-enabled photo ID card containing a Turkish Republic identity number or a passport. Transits with other documents such as driver's licenses or institutional ID cards are absolutely not permitted. (Entry to Georgia with old-style population ID cards is not possible.) Guests must carry their new type photo ID cards with them during travel.
If guests under 18 years of age do not travel with both parents, they must present a notarized consent letter. Additionally, all child and infant passengers must have a photo on their ID documents.
The foreign exit fee applicable during Batumi departure procedures will be covered by the guest.
For all Turkish citizens entering Georgia, it has become mandatory to purchase international travel health insurance with a minimum coverage of 30,000 EUR. The insurance certificate can be presented physically or digitally. (INCLUDED IN TOUR PRICE)
Sarp Border Gate - Cheçeva Tea Gardens (Haremtepe Village) – Sürmene Knife Workshop – Tea Factory – Atatürk Mansion – Trabzon
We head to Sarp Border Gate after our morning breakfast at our hotel on the last day of our tour. We provide free time for customs procedures and shopping at the Free Shop, then we enter Turkey. Before saying goodbye to the greenery of the Black Sea, we move to Çayeli district of Rize. We will visit Çeçeva Village (Haremtepe), which has gained fame in recent years with TV series, film, and commercial shoots. This trip, which will be made with regional minibuses, is included in the tour fee. As we proceed among the lush tea gardens that feel endless, we witness one of the most iconic views of the Black Sea. During photo breaks given among the terraced tea fields, we have the opportunity to capture unforgettable moments.
After our visit to Çeçeva, we will briefly view Rize Castle panoramically and give a short free time for lunch break. Afterwards, we stop at our store where we will learn about the Black Sea's traditional Sürmene knives and can purchase them. Later in the day, we take a short break at a local shopping store where we can find regional products such as butter, honey, kolot cheese, corn flour, etc. Then, we move to a tea production facility to discover the story of tea, an indispensable part of the Black Sea region. Here, we experience tea picking, taste loose and flavored tea varieties, and complete our shopping. After spending time surrounded by local products, we go to our restaurant for an extra meal break.
After our meal break, we head to Trabzon city center. First, we visit Atatürk Mansion. This historical mansion, gifted to Atatürk by the people of Trabzon, stands out with its architecture and details that shed light on the era. Afterwards, guided by our guide's explanations, we listen to the panoramic view of Trabzon Hagia Sophia Museum, getting to know the region's historical and cultural fabric up close.
In the evening hours, we conclude this special tour filled with the unique nature, highland pastures, culture, and unforgettable memories of Eastern Black Sea, and bid farewell to you, hoping to meet again in another organization.
Food & Drink Information:
Morning Breakfast: Will be served as Set Menu or Buffet at the Hotel (Included in Tour Fee)
Lunch: Will be taken during free time in Rize or Trabzon (Extra/Optional)
Dinner: Evening Dinner on Return Day Will Be Arranged According to Preference (Extra/Optional)
Accommodation: No Accommodation on Return Day.
Child Discount and Circular Rules
Child discount is valid for ages 7–12.
The tour circular is valid as of the publication date of 19.01.2026. Subsequent circulars published for the same tour on later dates invalidate previous circulars.
Mandatory additional services are included in the tour price.
Important Information Regarding Flight Tours
- In flight tours, all operations related to flights are subject to the terms of the airline contract.
- Cancellation insurance does not cover air travel.
- A tiered pricing system is applied; advertised prices start from the lowest class.
- Economy class flights are used in flight tour programs.
- Air tickets are issued as round-trip together. If the outbound flight is not used, the return flight also becomes invalid due to airlines' "sequential use" rule. Therefore, participation in only the return flight is not possible.
Museum – Archaeological Site – National Park Entries
All museum, archaeological site, and national park entry fees are borne by the guests. Guests can obtain a Museum Card from sales points before or during the tour to benefit at museums and archaeological sites where the Museum Card is valid.
Packaged Tour Price Coverage
Our packaged tour prices include: hotel accommodation, transportation, and sightseeing tours specified in the program.
Rest Stops
Rest stops are provided at rest facilities along the route. Due to congestion, renovation, or other compelling reasons, rest stop locations may be changed, provided they are equivalent in terms of service quality and location.
Extra Tours and Program Flow
Night tours and extra excursions included in the tour program are organized based on the number of participants and the availability of assigned staff. Extra tours conducted along the route may take place even if not all guests participate. Guests who do not wish to join an extra tour will be directed by our guide to rest areas before city entrances or to city centers. In this case, guests who agree to wait at the rest area are considered to have participated in the tour.
Due to weather conditions, road status, or similar reasons; if the guide deems it necessary, changes may be made to the program sequence (daily visit points or between days).
Go-Turkey cannot be held responsible for points that are part of the program but cannot be visited due to compelling reasons (weather conditions, road status, congestion at visit points, etc.) or because guests fail to adhere to the timing given by the guide.
Health Declaration
Guests must carry reports and information regarding any health issues they may experience during the tour, pregnancy status, or medications they continuously use.
Accommodation Information
The hotel names specified in the program are priority accommodation facilities. Changes to hotels may be made depending on availability. At the latest 48 hours before the tour departure, upon request, accommodation information will be shared with our guests. In case of hotel changes due to congestion or compelling reasons, provided standards remain the same, guests will be informed by Go-Turkey authorities.
Important Notes
- In flight tours, flight delays may occur due to congestion.
- Night tours are extra and are organized depending on participation.
Vehicles Used
Tour vehicles are planned according to the number of participants as follows:
Bus (28–46 people):
Mercedes Travego / Tourismo, Neoplan Cityliner / Tourliner, Mitsubishi Safir
(ABS, ASR, air conditioning, monitor, refrigerator, kitchen unit, reading lamps, announcement system, CD/DVD)
Minibus (17–27 people):
Isuzu Turkuaz
(ABS, ASR, air conditioning, monitor, refrigerator, announcement system)
Mini-bus (up to 16 people):
VW Volt, VW Volt EL, Mercedes Sprinter, Mercedes Sprinter EL
(Special design reclining seats, ABS, ASR, air conditioning, refrigerator, announcement system)
Suggestions
- Clothing and footwear suitable for the geographical structure and weather conditions of the tour region should be chosen.
- It is recommended that you bring necessary charging equipment for photo and video shooting.
- Do not forget regularly used medications; allergic, chronic, or hereditary conditions should be reported to the guide.
- Personal care products, backpacks, and personal items that will make the journey enjoyable should be carried with you.
- In programs featuring boat tours and swimming breaks; it is recommended to bring swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, and similar sea equipment.
The tour program and explanations above were originally prepared by Go-Turkey. They cannot be copied, reproduced, or published without permission. The program has been arranged in accordance with Law No. 6502 on the Protection of Consumers and should be evaluated as a whole.
GEORGIA (BATUM – TBILISI) BORDER CROSSING INFORMATION
- Transfers to Georgia can only be made with the new type chip-based Republic of Turkey Identity Card or passport. Old-type identity cards are not valid.
- The chip on the identity card must be intact, not broken, cracked, or excessively worn. The chip on the back of the identity cards must be checked.
- Identity cards for all guests, including babies and children, must be of the new type and contain a photograph. Georgian authorities do not accept identity cards without photographs.
- The tour company is not responsible for border crossing problems that may arise due to deformation, damage, or lack of a photograph on the identity cards.
- For guests under 18 years of age to enter Georgia, both parents must be present.
- If one parent is absent, a notarized consent letter from the absent parent is required.
- If both parents are absent, notarized consent letters from both parents are mandatory.
- A stamp duty fee is mandatory for entry into Georgia. The stamp duty can be obtained at Sarp Border Gate and is paid by the guests.
- According to Georgian laws, no medication is allowed to be brought into the country. Legal action may be initiated against individuals found with medication.
- In day trips, only one box of medication, unwrapped and wrapped in paper, intended for use within the day, may be carried.
- When returning from Georgia to Turkey, there is a requirement to have stayed in Georgia for at least three days to bring alcohol, cigarettes, and similar products. Bringing these products is not permitted in day trips.
- Periodic congestion may occur at Sarp Border Gate. Therefore, early departure from the hotel in the morning or late arrival at the hotel in the evening may occur.
- Foreign guests who entered Turkey with a passport must have multiple-entry visas to Turkey in order to go to Georgia and return to Turkey again.
- Entry conditions to Georgia may vary depending on visa agreements between the country of origin of the passport or identity card and Georgia.
- North Cyprus citizens who have entered Turkey with a TC identity card can also enter Georgia with a TC identity card.
- North Cyprus citizens entering Turkey with a European Union passport must obtain a multiple-entry visa to return to Turkey.
- During border crossings, all guests are required to follow the guide's instructions.
- Border crossing procedures are entirely under the control of Georgian and Turkish official authorities, and the tour company cannot be held responsible for any delays that may occur.