Iconic Black Sea Highlands and Batumi Tour | 4-Night Stay, Departing from Ankara
Enjoy a comfortable and fulfilling experience while staying close to nature in lush highlands, breathing in the cool mountain air, and exploring Batumi’s colorful streets and the Black Sea’s hidden paradises amid unique landscapes—all in a single tour.
Gümüşhane - Giresun - Trabzon - Rize - Artvin - Batumi - Makhunseti 4 Nights Accommodation Round Trip | BusGiresun – Blue Lake – Göksu Travertines – Kümbet Plateau – Tamzara Neighborhood – Tomara Waterfall – Gümüşhane
After picking up our valued guests from the designated departure point, we begin our overnight journey toward the Black Sea.
Ankara Aşti Bus Terminal 22:00
Blue Lake – Göksu Travertines – Kümbet Plateau – Tamzara Neighborhood – Tomara Waterfall – Gümüşhane
A Journey from Giresun to Gümüşhane Surrounded by Plateaus, Waterfalls and History
On the first day of our tour, we begin an unforgettable journey accompanied by the lush nature of the Black Sea, its cool plateaus and deep-rooted Anatolian culture.
After enjoying a breakfast consisting of local delicacies with our guests who wish to do so (extra), we depart toward the plateau region via Dereli district of Giresun. One of our first stops, Mavi Göl, welcomes us as one of the Black Sea’s hidden beauties with its turquoise color. Afterwards, we visit the Göksu Travertines, formed by nature in an almost cotton-like appearance, and take a photo break accompanied by unique views.
We then arrive at Kümbet Plateau, one of the finest examples of Black Sea plateau culture. During our free time at the plateau, which stands out with its lush nature and fresh air, guests can taste the region’s special rice pudding with pine resin; those who wish may also try delicacies prepared at local butcher shops.
After our plateau excursion, we cross Eğribel Pass and arrive at the historic Tamzara Neighborhood, affiliated with Şebinkarahisar. In this old Greek settlement, located at an altitude of approximately 2,050 meters and successfully preserving its historical texture to the present day, stone houses, narrow streets and traces of traditional life welcome us. Here, we have the opportunity to drink Akıl Water, which is believed by local people to have healing properties.
After seeing Alucra panoramically along our route, we enter the borders of Gümüşhane. We visit Tomara Waterfall, one of the region’s most impressive natural beauties (entrance fee extra). In this natural wonder located within the national park, we feel the peaceful atmosphere of nature while watching the waterfall’s breathtaking view from the glass terrace.
After this beautiful day spent surrounded by nature, history and local culture, we settle into our hotel in Gümüşhane. Dinner and overnight stay at our hotel.
Dining Information:
Breakfast: Will Be Served at a Suitable Restaurant in Ordu (Extra/Optional)
Lunch: Will Be Taken During Free Time at Kümbet Plateau (Extra/Optional)
Dinner: Will Be Served at the Hotel as a Set Menu or Open Buffet (Included in the Tour Price)
Accommodation: Gümüşhane / Trabzon Hotels: Çimenler Hotel, Gümüş Hotel, Ramada Gümüşhane Hotel, Bayrak Grand Hotel, Sümela Holiday Hotel and similar hotels.
Gümüşhane – Karaca Cave – Zigana Pass – Hamsiköy – Sumela Monastery – Filigree and Kazaziye – Uzungöl
From Nature’s Underground Art Gallery to the Unique Valleys of the Black Sea
On the second day of our tour, after having breakfast at our hotel, we begin an unforgettable day accompanied by the lush green nature, historical heritage and impressive highland views of the Black Sea. Our first stop is Karaca Cave, considered one of the most impressive caves not only in Türkiye but also in the world.
Regarded as “one of the caves with the richest dripstone 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. Accompanied by our guide’s explanations, we learn about the cave’s formation process while enjoying a pleasant exploration thanks to its high oxygen level and refreshing atmosphere.
Important Note: Karaca Cave may occasionally be closed to visitors due to maintenance and renovation works. If the cave is closed, our program will alternatively include a visit to Torul Glass Terrace.
Following our visit to Karaca Cave, we continue our journey accompanied by the captivating views of the Zigana Mountains. Having hosted caravan routes, military passages and trade routes throughout history, Zigana Pass is one of the most important natural passes connecting Eastern Anatolia with the Black Sea. In this unique geography, where the rugged mountain silhouettes give way to lush green forests along the way, we have the opportunity to observe the changing face of nature.
Our next stop is Hamsiköy, which resembles a postcard with its appearance among the mists. Located at the foothills of the Zigana Mountains, this charming village is particularly known throughout Türkiye for its famous Hamsiköy rice pudding. During our break here, guests who wish may taste the famous rice pudding (extra) and take photographs accompanied by unique mountain views.
After our visit to Hamsiköy, we turn toward Maçka and arrive at Altındere National Park, one of the most important natural conservation areas of the Black Sea. Following our journey by minibuses through the Coşandere Valley (extra), we complete the approximately 350-meter walking trail and reach Sumela Monastery, built into the steep cliffs of Karadağ like an eagle’s nest.
Dating back to the fourth century, this magnificent structure is of great importance not only in terms of Christian history but also for Black Sea culture. Accompanied by our guide’s explanations, we visit the sections of the monastery open to visitors and have the opportunity to photograph its historical frescoes, rock architecture and breathtaking view overlooking the valley.
After our visit to Sumela Monastery, we proceed to our restaurant to taste Akçaabat Meatballs, one of the most famous delicacies of Black Sea cuisine. Guests who wish may have lunch here at an extra charge.
Following our meal break, we head toward Uzungöl, which has become a symbol of the Black Sea, following the Of–Çaykara route. Along the way, we take a shopping break where we can get acquainted with Trabzon’s distinctive handicrafts. We take a short shopping break at a store where you can see and purchase traditional handcrafted products such as Trabzon meshwork, filigree and kazaziye.
Upon arriving at Uzungöl, we are welcomed by dense forests surrounding the lake, wooden highland houses, suspension bridges and the peaceful atmosphere of nature. During our free time here, you can walk around the lake, enjoy the scenery and experience the unique nature of the Black Sea up close.
Guests who wish may join the Lustra and Karaster Highlands Tour, organized at an extra charge. As we ascend by minibuses to an altitude of approximately 2,400 meters, we take photo breaks at scenic viewpoints and have the opportunity to admire Uzungöl from above by taking short walks along the highland roads. Guests who do not join the extra tour may 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.
Dining Information:
Breakfast: Will be served at the hotel as a set menu or open buffet (included in the tour price)
Lunch: Will be served at a suitable restaurant in Trabzon (extra/optional)
Dinner: Will be served at the hotel as a set menu or open buffet (included in the 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.
Çeçeva Tea Gardens – Fırtına River – Çamlıhemşin – Çinçiva (Şenyuva Village) – Zilkale – Palovit Waterfall – Ayder Plateau
From the Storm Valley to the Sea of Clouds, in the Heart of the Black Sea
We begin the third day of our tour with breakfast at our hotel. In the morning, we first visit the Rize Cloth Workshop, one of the important symbols of Black Sea culture. Here, we receive information about the region's traditional weaving culture and have the opportunity to closely observe the production stages of Rize cloth. Guests who wish may also shop for local products.
We then depart for Ayder Plateau, one of the first places that comes to mind when the Black Sea is mentioned. Located at an altitude of approximately 1,350 meters, Ayder Plateau is one of the Black Sea's most special regions, with its lush nature, thermal springs and unique atmosphere. Here, we see Gelintülü Waterfall and Horon Plain, and have free time to enjoy the plateau atmosphere.
After our visit to Ayder, we continue towards Ardeşen and arrive at our facility located on the banks of Storm Valley. During our free time here, guests who wish may have lunch featuring local delicacies at an additional cost. You may also have the opportunity to try Laz pastry, one of the indispensable flavors of Black Sea cuisine.
Following our meal break, fun-filled activities begin for adrenaline and nature enthusiasts. The zipline activity offered at an additional cost on the Fırtına River provides thrilling moments with its course approximately 10 meters above the ground and 400 meters long. Guests who wish may join the optional rafting activity, lasting approximately 1.5 hours and accompanied by expert instructors, for an unforgettable experience in the rushing waters of the Black Sea. We can also make our day even more colorful with the giant swing and ATV safari activities organized at an additional cost.
After these enjoyable moments, we arrive in Çamlıhemşin. In this region, one of the Black Sea's most special natural destinations, guests who wish join us as we transfer to our minibuses for our optional plateau tours. The plateau tours, which will be carried out subject to weather conditions and sufficient participation, offer the opportunity to discover the Black Sea's purest and most impressive natural landscapes.
1. Plateau Tour Package
Çinçiva Village (Şenyuva) – Palovit Waterfall – Zilkale – Boxwood Forests – Elevit Plateau
On this tour, we visit Şenyuva (Çinçiva) Village, one of the most iconic points in Storm Valley. In this area, notable for its stone arch bridges, wooden houses and authentic village atmosphere, we take pleasant walks and capture unique photographs. We then see Palovit Waterfall, one of the Black Sea's most powerful waterfalls. Afterwards, we view the historic Zilkale panoramically, notable for its commanding position over the valley, and reach Elevit Plateau by passing through the Boxwood Forests, considered one of the world's most special ecosystems. We take enjoyable breaks where we can fully experience the plateau atmosphere.
2. Plateau Tour Package
Çinçiva Village (Şenyuva) – Zilkale – Pokut Plateau – Sal Plateau
Our alternative plateau tour also begins with Şenyuva Village, followed by a visit to the historic Zilkale. We then ascend to Pokut Plateau, which boasts one of the Black Sea's most impressive views. On this plateau, famous for its sea-of-clouds scenery, we feel the enchanting atmosphere of nature and capture unique photographs. Our tour continues with a visit to Sal Plateau, which has preserved its natural character and is notable for its postcard-perfect views.
Guests who do not wish to join the optional plateau tours may spend their free time in Çamlıhemşin. We especially recommend the plateau tours to guests who wish to see the Black Sea's nature at its most impressive.
Following this beautiful day filled with nature, adventure and Black Sea culture, we depart for our hotel. Dinner and overnight accommodation are at our hotel.
Dining Information:
Breakfast: Will Be Served at the Hotel as a Set Menu or Open Buffet (Included in the Tour Price)
Lunch: Will Be Served at a Facility in Storm Valley (Extra/Optional)
Dinner: Will Be Served at the Hotel as a Set Menu or Open Buffet (Included in the 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.
Borçka Karagöl – Sarp Border Gate – Batumi – Georgian Night
Batumi’s Colorful World from the Black Sea to the Caucasus
We begin the fourth day of our tour with breakfast at our hotel. Today, a special route awaits us, where we will see the unique nature of the Black Sea and the modern face of Caucasian culture together.
In the morning, together with our guests who wish to join, we depart for our Borçka Karagöl extra tour, heading toward Karagöl, located within the borders of Artvin’s Borçka district and known as a “hidden paradise” for its natural beauty (extra). In Borçka, we will transfer to our minibuses and set off for our visit to Karagöl. Formed as a landslide-dammed lake, Karagöl offers visitors an enchanting natural setting where time seems to stand still, with its dense forest cover, silence, and peaceful atmosphere. Guests who do not wish to join this extra tour can spend their free time in central Borçka. Following our visit to Karagöl, we return to Borçka by minibus and rejoin our vehicle.
After our enjoyable visit surrounded by nature, we reach the Sarp Border Gate via Hopa and enter Georgia after completing our identity procedures. We begin our journey toward Batumi, located on the eastern coast of the Black Sea and renowned for its modern architecture.
First, we head to the Makhuntseti region near Batumi. Here, we visit an authentic wine house, the Adjarian Wine House, where we can become familiar with one of the most important traditions of Georgian culture: wine production. Guests who wish may taste Georgian wines and shop (entrance fee extra).
We then see the historic Makhuntseti Stone Bridge, believed to have been built during the reign of Georgian Queen Tamar. Afterwards, we take a short walk and a photo break at Makhuntseti Waterfall, set amid lush greenery. We enjoy pleasant moments accompanied by the waterfall’s cool atmosphere and the soothing sounds of nature.
After our visit to Makhuntseti, we head to Batumi city center and begin our city tour. On the way, we view Gonio Fortress panoramically, located on the Black Sea coast and notable for its history dating back to the Roman period.
Upon reaching the city center, our first stop is Europe Square. Here, our guide provides information about the Statue of Medea, one of the important figures of Caucasian mythology. We then proceed to Piazza Square, one of Batumi’s most enjoyable spots. Free time is provided in this square, which stands out with its European-style architecture, cafés, and lively atmosphere.
As our tour continues, we visit Saint Nicholas Church, which is still open for worship. Afterwards, at Theatre Square, we see the Statue of Poseidon, the historic theater building, and the Cathedral of the Mother of God. We view the Alphabet Tower, one of Batumi’s symbols and dedicated to the Georgian alphabet, panoramically and take a photo break.
Our next stop is the Ali & Nino Statue, located on the Batumi waterfront and renowned for its story. We take photos in front of this impressive statue, notable for its moving structure, and enjoy the pleasant atmosphere of Batumi Boulevard.
After our city tour, we check in to our hotel. Guests who wish may join the Georgian Night program with dinner, organized as an extra activity in the evening. An unforgettable evening awaits us with live music, traditional folk dances, and special flavors of Georgian cuisine.
Guests who do not wish to join the Georgian Night program can spend the evening freely in Batumi city center. Overnight at our hotel in Batumi.
Food and Beverage Information:
Breakfast: Served at the hotel as a set menu or open buffet (Included in the Tour Price)
Lunch: To be taken during free time in Batumi (Extra/Optional)
Dinner: To be served at the Georgian Night to be held 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 Türkiye and Georgia, entry to Batumi is possible only with a new chip-enabled photo identity card containing a Turkish Republic identification number or with a passport. Crossing with other documents, such as a driver’s license or institutional identity card, is strictly impossible. (Entry into Georgia is not possible with old-style identity cards.) Our guests are required to carry their new-style photo Turkish Republic identity cards with them during the journey.
Guests under the age of 18 who are not traveling together with their mother and father must present a notarized parental consent document. In addition, all child and infant passengers must have photographs on their identity cards.
Any international departure fee that may apply when leaving Batumi is the responsibility of the guest.
It has become mandatory for all Turkish Republic citizens entering Georgia to obtain international travel health insurance with minimum coverage of EUR 30,000. The insurance document may be presented physically or digitally. (INCLUDED IN THE TOUR PRICE)
Sarp Border Crossing - Çeçeva Tea Gardens (Haremtepe Village) - Sürmene Knife Workshop - Tea Factory - Atatürk Mansion - Trabzon
On the last day of our tour, after having breakfast at our hotel, we head toward the Sarp Border Gate. We allow free time for customs procedures and shopping at the Free Shop, then enter Türkiye. Before saying goodbye to the Black Sea’s greenery, we travel to the Çayeli district of Rize. We will take a tour of Çeçeva Village (Haremtepe), which has gained fame in recent years through TV series, film, and commercial shoots. This excursion, which we will take using local minibuses, is included in the tour price. As we make our way through lush green tea gardens that seem endless, we witness one of the Black Sea’s most iconic views. During the photo breaks we take among the step-like tea fields, we have the opportunity to capture unforgettable shots.
After our visit to Çeçeva, we will see Rize Castle panoramically and allow a short amount of free time for a lunch break. Afterwards, we stop at our shop, where we will learn about the Sürmene Knives unique to the Black Sea region and have the opportunity to shop for knives. Later in the day, we take a short break at a local shopping store where we can find products such as regional butter, honey, kolot cheese, and corn flour. Afterwards, we head 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-leaf and flavored tea varieties, and complete our shopping. After spending time among local products, we will go to our restaurant for an additional meal break.
After our meal break, we head to Trabzon city center. Here, we first visit Atatürk Mansion. This historic mansion, presented to Atatürk as a gift by the people of Trabzon, draws attention with its architecture and details that shed light on the period. Afterwards, accompanied by our guide’s explanations, we learn about the Trabzon Hagia Sophia Museum panoramically and gain a closer understanding of the region’s historical and cultural fabric.
In the evening, we complete this special tour filled with the unique nature, highlands, culture, and unforgettable memories of the Eastern Black Sea region, and bid farewell to you until we meet again on another occasion.
Food and Beverage Information:
Breakfast: Will be served at the hotel as a set menu or open buffet (Included in the tour price)
Lunch: Will be taken during free time in Rize or Trabzon (Extra/optional)
Dinner: Dinner arrangements on the return day will be made according to preference (Extra/optional)
Accommodation: There is no accommodation on the return day.
Child Discount and Circular Rules
Child discount is valid for the 7–12 age range.
The tour circular is valid as of the date it was published, 19.01.2026. Circulars published at later dates for the same tour invalidate the previous circular.
Mandatory additional services are included in the tour price.
Important Information About Tours with Flights
- For tours with flights, all procedures related to flights are subject to the provisions of the airline contract.
- Cancellation insurance does not cover air transportation.
- A tiered pricing system is applied; the advertised prices are prices starting from the lowest class.
- Economy class flights are used in tour programs with flights.
- Airline tickets are issued as a round trip together. If the outbound flight is not used, the return flight also becomes invalid in accordance with the airlines’ “sequential use” rule. Therefore, participation in only the return flight is not possible.
Museum – Archaeological Site – National Park Entrances
All museum, archaeological site and national park entrance fees belong to our guests. Our guests may obtain a Müzekart from Müzekart sales points before or during the tour in order to benefit from advantages at museums and archaeological sites where the Müzekart is valid.
Package Price Coverage
Our package tour prices include hotel accommodation, transportation and the excursions specified in the program.
Rest Stops
Breaks are taken at rest facilities along the route. Due to crowding, renovations or similar force majeure reasons, rest stops may be changed provided that 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 depending on the number of participants and the availability of assigned personnel. Extra tours conducted along the route may take place even if not all guests participate. Guests who do not wish to join the extra tour will be directed by our guide to rest areas before the city entrances or to city centers. In this case, guests who agree to wait at the rest area will be considered to have participated in the tour.
Due to weather conditions, road conditions or similar reasons, the guide may make changes to the program sequence (the day’s visiting points or between days) if deemed necessary.
Go-Turkey cannot be held responsible for points that could not be visited despite being included in the program due to force majeure (weather conditions, road conditions, crowding at visiting points, etc.) or because guests did not comply with the timings provided by the guide.
Health Notification
Our guests are required to carry with them reports and information regarding any health problems they may experience during the tour, pregnancy, or medications they regularly use.
Accommodation Information
The hotel names specified in the program are the primary accommodation facilities. Hotels may be changed depending on availability. Upon request, information about the hotel where guests will stay is shared with them no later than 48 hours before the tour departure. If the hotel is changed due to crowding or force majeure reasons, provided that the standards remain the same, our guests will be informed by Go-Turkey representatives.
Important Notes
- On tours with flights, flight delays may occur due to crowding.
- Night tours are extra and are organized depending on participation.
Vehicles Used
Tour vehicles are planned as follows according to the number of participants:
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)
Midibus (17–27 people):
Isuzu Turkuaz
(ABS, ASR, air conditioning, monitor, refrigerator, announcement system)
Minibus (up to 16 people):
VW Volt, VW Volt EL, Mercedes Sprinter, Mercedes Sprinter EL
(Specially designed reclining seats, ABS, ASR, air conditioning, refrigerator, announcement system)
Recommendations
- Clothing and footwear suitable for the geographical characteristics and weather conditions of the tour region should be preferred.
- It is recommended that you bring the necessary charging equipment for taking photographs and videos.
- Regularly used medications should not be forgotten; allergic, chronic or hereditary conditions should be reported to the guide.
- Personal care products, a backpack and personal items that will make the journey more enjoyable should be kept with you.
- For programs including boat tours and swimming breaks, it is recommended that swimwear, towels, sunscreen and similar seaside equipment be brought.
The tour program and explanations above have been originally prepared by Go-Turkey. They may not be copied, reproduced or published without permission. The program has been prepared in accordance with the Consumer Protection Law No. 6502 and must be evaluated as a whole.
GEORGIA (BATUMI – TBILISI) BORDER CROSSING INFORMATION
- Entry into Georgia is possible only with a new-type chip-enabled Republic of Türkiye Identity Card or passport. Old-type identity cards are not valid.
- The chip on identity cards must be intact and not broken, cracked or excessively worn. The chip on the back of the identity cards must be checked.
- All guests, including babies and children, must have new-type identity cards with photographs. The Georgian authorities do not accept identity cards without photographs.
- The tour company is not responsible for border crossing problems that may occur due to deformation, damage or the absence of a photograph on identity cards.
- For guests under the age of 18 to enter Georgia, both their mother and father must be present with them.
- If one of the parents is absent, a notarized consent form must be obtained from the parent who is not present.
- If both parents are absent, a notarized consent form from both parents is mandatory.
- Payment of a duty stamp is mandatory for entry into Georgia. The duty stamp can be obtained at the Sarp Border Gate, and the fee is paid by the guests.
- According to Georgian laws, no medication is permitted to be brought into the country. Legal proceedings may be initiated against persons carrying medication.
- For same-day entries, only one medication required to be used during the day may be carried without its box and wrapped in paper.
- To bring alcohol, cigarettes and similar products from Georgia into Türkiye, it is required to stay in Georgia for at least three days. Bringing these products is not permitted for same-day entries.
- Periodic crowding may occur at the Sarp Border Gate. Therefore, an early departure from the hotel in the morning or a late arrival at the hotel in the evening may take place.
- Foreign guests who entered Türkiye with a passport must have a multiple-entry Turkish visa in order to travel to Georgia and return to Türkiye.
- Entry conditions for Georgia may vary according to the visa agreements made between Georgia and the country to which the passport or identity card belongs.
- Citizens of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus may enter Georgia with a Republic of Türkiye identity card if they entered Türkiye with a Republic of Türkiye identity card.
- Citizens of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus who entered Türkiye with a European Union passport must obtain a multiple-entry visa in order to return to Türkiye.
- All guests must follow the guide’s instructions during border crossings.
- Border crossing procedures are entirely under the control of the official authorities of Georgia and Türkiye, and the tour company cannot be held responsible for any delays that may occur.