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7 Available Tour Excursions in Van
Take an all-inclusive, private, guided tour of the historical city of Van. Enjoy a huge breakfast, two Urartian castles, 7 churches Armenian village, a tour around the largest lake in Turkey, a waterfall, a cemetery and countless moments! There is so much natural beauty here and incredible history, including several ancient church sites. On Day 1, see Hosap Castle, Cavustepe Castle, and the 7 Churches Armenian Village. On Day 2, take a full 360-degree tour around beautiful Van Lake, see the Muradiye Waterfall, see the cemetery of Ahlat, and visit the Cat Museum of Van. On Day 3, see Van Museum, see the Castle of Van, take a boat tour on Van Lake to Akdamar Island, and see The Church of the Holy Cross.
Price: $1,713.34
Duration: 72 hours
MOUNT ARARAT EXPEDITION 8 days – 7 night trekking and climbing. The southern route spreads the climb over three days up and one day down, using two campsites at 3200m and 4200 meters, and mules to carry supplies to the first camp. It starts from Eliköyü, an abandoned village in the foothills and sticks to a ridge for much of the way, thus avoiding the Ulker glacier which careers down the face into deep and jumbled gorges below. The path, though rocky, is clearly marked. Above 5000m are permanent ice fields, so crampons, ice axes and ropes are required. The summit is reached via a long ridge and is no more than a rounded hump marked by cairns
Price: $10,472.17
Duration: 192 hours
Relish less stress with this convenient and private Van arrival transfer. We have a wide range of vehicles in our fleet to accommodate all type of travellers. For individual transfer, we offer saloon type vehicles. For your group transfer, we offer Minivans and Minibuses. Once you arrive at the airport, a member of our team will be waiting at the arrivals hall. Then, you will take a leisurely ride directly to your Van hotel avoiding any hassles. Available from Van Airport to surrounding area’s. Stress-free meet-and-greet arrival in Van. Private door-door transfer between Van Airport and your centrally located Van hotel. Comfortable seats with generous leg room, air conditioning, and luggage storage. Enjoy smooth, friendly and hassle-free transfer service Meet and greet by a professional staff and drivers. Private transfers operate 24 hours, 7 days a week.
Price: $110.54
Duration: 0-0 hours
Think you have what it takes to scale one of the largest mountains in the world? Try your skill with an all-inclusive, private, guided tour of the historic Mount Ararat, the largest mountain in Turkey and the supposed landing place of Noah's Ark. This beautiful and historically important mountain actually has two peaks and is on the border with Turkey, Armenia, and Iran. Climb the largest of the two, ascending from 2000 meters (6562 feet) to the summit of 5137 meters (16,854 feet) over 5 days.
Price: $1,635.14
Duration: 168 hours
Mount Ararat is a standard four day trek, although some people manage to climb to the top in three. All measurements are estimates because distance and elevation markers do not exist. We arrange all equipment for the climb including tents, sleeping bags, pickaxe, hand lamp, mountaineering clothing and shoes. You will have a professional and certified local guide who will prepare three meals a day for you, and, of course, tea. We will also obtain all required official permissions from the state and local authorities for you. This is an arduous trip and is not for everybody. Pre climb training is recommended and if you are starting from a reasonably good fitness base we can advise you on a fitness program that would cover the period required for your permit to be approved.Your luggage and all camping gear is packed on horses and mules for the trek; all you need to carry will be what you require for your immediate personal need
Price: $1,454.47
Duration: 168 hours
Mount Ararat is 5137m (16854 ft), and you will need a special permit to climb the mountain which your guides will organise. However, this can take a couple of months to process. We have an acclimatisation process as altitude sickness can be a problem with some climbers. This is something our professional guides are familiar with and are happy to direct you to good sources of information. For those who wish to experience the impressive, beautiful scenery of this region without the trek to the summit, we are happy to arrange treks on foot or horseback. We arrange all equipment for the climb including tents, sleeping bags, pickaxe, hand lamp, mountaineering clothing and shoes and you will have a professional and certified local guide who will prepare three meals a day for you, and, of course, tea.
Price: $5,352.44
Duration: 144 hours
Highlights of Eastern Turkey A specious private tour of Remote Turkey A world away from Turkey’s popular resorts, this exciting new eastern borderlands tour offers adventure, scenery and cultural interest on a grand scale. Our journey begins in Van dominates the Iranian border and Lake Van, vast and mountain encircled, feeds the plains of Mezapotamia. Mount Nemrut houses 2200 years old giant statues of God and Goddess. With its broad vistas and dramatic scenery, fascinating history and culture, this trip gives a truly varied insight into a part of Turkey rarely seen by foreign visitors. HIGHLIGHTS: • The markets and architecture of Mardin & Urfa • Fantastic sunset by the majestic heads of Mt. Nemrut • Eastern Turkey cousine influenced from borderline cousines.
Price: $2,327.15
Duration: 240 hours
Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: TRY
- Languages: Turkish, Kurdish, Armenian (historically), English (tourist areas)
- Climate: Continental
- Timezone: Asia/Istanbul
- Population: Approximately 1.1 million
- Best Time to Visit: best time to visit Van is from May to October when the weather is pleasant.
- Visa Requirements Visitors to Van generally require a visa to enter Turkey unless they come from visa-exempt countries. Citizens of the US, EU, and UK can apply for an e-visa online before arrival. Some nationalities may obtain a visa on arrival, but it is recommended to check current regulations before travel. A valid passport and sometimes proof of onward travel or accommodation are typically required.
About Van
Van is a captivating city in eastern Turkey known for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Situated on the eastern shore of Lake Van, the largest soda lake in the world, it offers visitors a unique blend of history, nature, and tradition. The city’s landscape is dominated by the ancient Van Castle, perched dramatically on a rocky peninsula, providing panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Van’s distinctive climate features hot summers and cold winters, making it an ideal destination for those who enjoy seasonal variety. The city is also a cultural crossroads, reflecting a blend of Turkish, Kurdish, and Armenian influences, which is evident in its architecture, language, and cuisine. Tourists are drawn to Van for its serene lake, historic ruins, and vibrant local markets. The city is also a gateway to exploring the nearby natural wonders such as the Akdamar Island with its famous Armenian church. Van’s warm hospitality and unique culinary offerings, including the renowned Van breakfast, make it a memorable destination for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in Turkey.
Van Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of Southeastern Anatolia
- Duration Range: 2 to 10 hours
- Group Size: Flexible group sizes
- Difficulty Level: Mixed Difficulty
- Recommended For: The best time to visit Van is from May to October when the weather is pleasant. Pack layered clothing for variable temperatures, comfortable walking shoes, and sun protection. Respect local customs, dress modestly, and greet locals politely. Stay updated on travel advisories and keep valuables secure. Turkish Lira is the local currency; credit cards are accepted in many places but carrying some cash is advisable. Learning a few basic Turkish phrases can enhance interactions.
Average Tour Price: $80
Lowest Price Tour: $39
Highest Price Tour: $200
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Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Top Attractions
1. Van Castle – A historic fortress dating back to Urartian times, offering stunning views over Lake Van and a glimpse into ancient history. 2. Lake Van – The largest lake in Turkey, known for its striking turquoise waters and unique soda composition, perfect for boating and photography. 3. Akdamar Island – Famous for the 10th-century Armenian Holy Cross Church, a remarkable example of medieval Armenian architecture. 4. Hosap Castle – A well-preserved medieval castle located near Van, showcasing impressive stonework and historical significance. 5. Van Museum – Exhibits artifacts from the Urartian civilization and local history, providing cultural context to the region.
Popular Activities
Visitors to Van can enjoy a variety of activities including hiking around Lake Van’s scenic shores, exploring ancient ruins and castles, and taking boat trips to Akdamar Island. Cultural experiences include visiting local bazaars, sampling traditional foods, and attending regional festivals. Outdoor enthusiasts can engage in bird watching, horseback riding, and photography. The city also offers opportunities to experience Kurdish and Turkish cultural performances and crafts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Van’s cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and unique dishes. The famous Van breakfast is a lavish spread featuring local cheeses, honey, fresh bread, and eggs cooked in various styles. Fish from Lake Van, especially the pearl mullet, is a local specialty often grilled or fried. Other notable dishes include kebabs, stuffed vegetables, and hearty soups. Dining customs emphasize communal eating and hospitality. Recommended restaurants include local family-run establishments and lakeside cafes where fresh fish and traditional dishes are served.
Getting Around
Van can be reached by air via Van Ferit Melen Airport, which connects to major Turkish cities. Buses and minibuses provide regional connections. Within the city, taxis and dolmuş (shared minibuses) are common and affordable. Walking is practical in central areas. Renting a car is an option for exploring the wider region. Transportation costs are generally reasonable, with taxis and public transport being budget-friendly.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit Van is from May to October when the weather is pleasant. Pack layered clothing for variable temperatures, comfortable walking shoes, and sun protection. Respect local customs, dress modestly, and greet locals politely. Stay updated on travel advisories and keep valuables secure. Turkish Lira is the local currency; credit cards are accepted in many places but carrying some cash is advisable. Learning a few basic Turkish phrases can enhance interactions.
Culture & Customs
Van’s culture is a rich tapestry of Turkish, Kurdish, and Armenian influences. Hospitality is highly valued, and guests are often offered tea or food. Social customs include respectful greetings and modest dress, especially in rural areas. Important festivals include Newroz (Kurdish New Year) celebrated in spring with music and dance, and religious holidays such as Ramadan. Visitors should be mindful of conservative norms and avoid public displays of affection.
About The Author
Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.
Likes
Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.
Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..