The foothills of the Taurus mountains have been a region of travel and trade for millennia. On this National Geographic tour, you'll embrace the region's ancient traditions that are still thriving today and immerse yourself in the nomadic lifestyle by visiting a Yörük family.
Head over to the Seljuk bridge at Aspendos with your guide who will reveal alluring facts about the site. Built around the 4th century on the banks of Köprüçay, this architectural marvel is renowned for its distinctive zigzag design, a testament to its intriguing history.
Continue your voyage and head over to an ancient caravanserai, where much of the original layout remains remarkably intact. Step back in time as you wander through the inn's chambers, guardian's quarters, bathhouse, and prayer hall alongside your guide. This is a place that radiates history, where countless travelers sought refuge and replenishment.
The Yörük people have perfected their nomadic lifestyle for centuries. Every spring, communities migrate with their herds from the gentle coastal plains to the mountainous summer pastures. Spend time with a Yörük family and learn about their sustainable ways of life.
Tuck into a tasty meal with eye-catching views of the Taurus mountains. Nearby, you'll find a spot to purchase locally-made goods like soaps, teas, oils, and more. Proceeds support communities affected by recent earthquakes or forest fires.
Finally, Explore Ormana, an Ottoman village famous for its ingeniously crafted 'button houses'.
Nat Geo Day Tour: Exploring Antalya's Nomadic Culture
- Embark on a special tour curated by National Geographic, offering a fresh itinerary and the exclusive chance to meet nomadic families and learn about their lifestyles.
- Discover significant cultural landmarks like the Seljuk bridge, an ancient caravanserai, and the 'button houses' of Ormana each telling their own piece of history.
- Immerse yourself in the Yörük's nomadic community and embrace their ancient lifestyle. Connect with locals who embody the spirit of Turkey's earliest settlers, tracing back to the 11th century.
Guide
-
Transport
-
Lunch
-
Glass of local ayran (yogurt drink) or çay (Turkish tea)
Guide
- Bring suitable footwear
- Bring money for extras or gratuities
- Please note that all times are approximate and subject to change
What people say about this experience
Based on 16 reviews from verified customers
schön
From Germany - March 2025Travelled with family
Excellent
Overall rated5/5
Der Urlaub war schön, das Wasser vom Hallenbad hätte für März beheizt werden müssen, so konnte man nicht schwimmen gehen.
Nicole
From United States of America - January 2025Travelled as a couple
25 - 34 years old
Excellent
Overall rated4/5
Luise 70
From United States of America - January 2025Travelled as a couple
45 - 54 years old
Excellent
Overall rated4/5
Das ethnologische Museum war geschlossen, der Guide hat das erst kurz vor Ankunft erfahren. Hat aber eine Alternative gefunden. Der Eintritt ins Mus ...
Inese
From United States of America - January 2025Travelled with family
25 - 34 years old
Excellent
Overall rated4/5
Alle "zwingen" nach Trinkgeld- das hat mir so einem Stress gemacht! Wusste nicht- wieviel usw
M.
From United States of America - November 2024Solo traveller
25 - 34 years old
Excellent
Overall rated5/5
Erhan als Reiseführer war super! Er hat ein so umfangreiches Wissen und erklärt alles so toll, das hat den Ausflug zusätzlich ganz besonders gemacht! ...
Sk
From Germany - November 2024Travelled as a couple
45 - 54 years old
Excellent
Overall rated5/5
You might also like
The Land of Legends Theme Park Ticket for Antalya
Just like something out of a storybook, The Land of Legends theme park has all the twists and turns you'd expect from tales that make the imagination run wild. You'll have access to a whole day's worth of family fun including rollercoasters, electrifying rides and endless thrills.
Nat Geo Day Tour: Women of Antalya, Past to Present
Nearly two millennia ago, Plancia Magna blazed a trail by making an impressive impact on the city of Perge despite the usual passive role of women at that time. She was born into a wealthy, powerful family, but instead of an easy life, she used her privilege to benefit her city. Her courage, independence and character was celebrated long after her time, and inspired women through the ages to seek influential roles in society. Your National Geographic-trained guide will reveal the ancient city of Perge with a focus on the life and legacy of Plancia Magna, an inspirational figure even today. Perhaps Plancia was a source of inspiration for Hatice Adıgüzel, whose workshop you will visit next. Discover the skills and artistry involved in creating lamps and garden ornaments from gourds, and learn from Hatice herself what sets her business apart - her leadership in a male-dominated workforce, her commitment to empowering local women and her choice of sustainable materials. During a hands-on workshop, you will have the opportunity to create your own decorative gourd and learn more about Hatice's work with the local women's community. She pays her success forward by employing women to grow and decorate the gourds from their own homes for the business. They also make the snacks you'll enjoy during the workshop. Hatice's aim is to help women who are unable to work in regular employment due to childcare commitments or similar restrictions by giving them a convenient way to earn.
de, en
Nat Geo Day Tour: Exploring Antalya's Nomadic Culture
The foothills of the Taurus mountains have been a region of travel and trade for millennia. On this National Geographic tour, you'll embrace the region's ancient traditions that are still thriving today and immerse yourself in the nomadic lifestyle by visiting a Yörük family. Head over to the Seljuk bridge at Aspendos with your guide who will reveal alluring facts about the site. Built around the 4th century on the banks of Köprüçay, this architectural marvel is renowned for its distinctive zigzag design, a testament to its intriguing history. Continue your voyage and head over to an ancient caravanserai, where much of the original layout remains remarkably intact. Step back in time as you wander through the inn's chambers, guardian's quarters, bathhouse, and prayer hall alongside your guide. This is a place that radiates history, where countless travelers sought refuge and replenishment. The Yörük people have perfected their nomadic lifestyle for centuries. Every spring, communities migrate with their herds from the gentle coastal plains to the mountainous summer pastures. Spend time with a Yörük family and learn about their sustainable ways of life. Tuck into a tasty meal with eye-catching views of the Taurus mountains. Nearby, you'll find a spot to purchase locally-made goods like soaps, teas, oils, and more. Proceeds support communities affected by recent earthquakes or forest fires. Finally, Explore Ormana, an Ottoman village famous for its ingeniously crafted 'button houses'.
de, en, pl
Half-day guided tour of Side with Temple of Apollo visit
Ancient Side has hardly changed since its days as a getaway for legendary lovers Antony and Cleopatra. Uncover one of southern Turkey's best-kept secrets with this tour. You'll get to snap photos by the Temple of Apollo, discover the huge Roman theatre and explore modern Side, too. As Muzaffer, one of our guides, says, ‘You'll walk all over history. On the way to the Temple of Apollo, there are glass walkways over ancient Roman streets.'Side's location on a compact little headland is as romantic as it gets. Our expert local guide will give you the lowdown on the long history of this once-busy Roman port. You'll see the marketplace where slaves were traded, the Byzantine hospital and the Vespasian Gate. Then you'll head inside either the ancient theatre, which is a sight to behold – it seated up to 20,000 spectators – or the former bathhouse, which is now a museum with a small but impressive collection of the artefacts dug up here.But one of the most-photographed spots is the Temple of Apollo. Legend says that this second-century seafront shrine was a gift from Antony to Cleopatra. And just beside it is the Temple of Athena – zoom in on the frieze of Medusa heads. Once you've explored the ruins, there'll be free time in modern Side to buy a sizzling kebab at one of the street stalls, or haggle for bargains in the backstreet bazaars. What's more, for your convenience, this is a small group tour to help you follow the guide better and avoid agglomerations.
de, en, fr, nl
Antalya family outdoor adventure experience in Aladdin's Canyon
An experience in the Anatolian wilds awaits with a day of canyoning, swimming, diving, jumping and enjoying the best of nature in the Taurus Mountains. You'll head deep into the countryside to Ahmetler Canyon for an action-packed adventure.
de, en
Pirate Boat Cruise from Manavgat
All aboard this Manavgat river cruise for a family-friendly day out on the waves. Pirate-themed games, swimming and the chance to get up close to the Apollo Temple – both kids and grown-ups are in for an action-packed day. Isra, one of our expert local guides, says, “there's something for the whole family on this cruise – kids will love the pirate-themed activities, and the adults have time to relax and enjoy the views of the Apollo Temple ruins from the deck of the ship.”The fun begins the moment you step on the boat. All dark wood and sturdy sails, it's every bit the authentic pirate ship. Accompanied by a crew of Jack Sparrow-style sailors, we'll cast off down the River Manavgat. The kids will be busy learning pirate language and having their faces painted by the entertainment team, while adults can sit back and sip on a refreshing drink from the bar. We'll anchor for a spot of swimming, before tucking into a tasty lunch served on board.After lunch, the route sees us venturing into the Mediterranean. Here, you'll get to admire the spectacular Apollo Temple ruins, dating back to 150 AD. The temple was dedicated to Apollo, the Greek god of music, poetry, prophecy, and healing – you'll be able to recognise it easily from the ship's deck because of its tall columns. To round the day off, we'll continue to our final swim stop location. Cool off in the fresh waters while the kids have fun hunting for a treasure chest buried on the shore. It's a family day out like no other.
de, en
Green Canyon boat cruise with lunch and shopping
The star attractions of this full day excursion are shopping, riverside dining and a beautiful, wild canyon. You'll take a canyon boat trip and stop for a swim at Oymapinar Dam Lake. Narin, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘Oymapinar Dam Lake is one of the largest reservoirs in Turkey, covering an area of approximately 19 square kilometres. The lake is fed by the Manavgat River, which flows south from the Taurus Mountains and eventually empties into the Mediterranean Sea at Side.' Your tour starts with a spot of shopping at Dickman Textile Centre. If fashion is your thing, then you're in luck as you can enjoy a stress-free browse for clothing and accessories from leading brands. Next, we'll head to a riverside restaurant for a freshly prepared meal made with locally sourced ingredients. Afterwards it's all aboard, ready for a cruise down the canyon waterway. Spectacularly rugged rock formations tower around you and the river, in shades of turquoise and green, snakes away into the distance. It's a tranquil slice of Turkish natural beauty and the colour of the water is spellbinding. You'll cruise the canyon, admiring the views, before the boat slows - you'll be able to swim in these wild surroundings once the boat reaches the Oymapinar Lake.
de, en, pl
Antalya Airport VIP lounge and service from Antalya area
A more relaxed way to round off your holiday. Booking the VIP airport service and lounge ensures that you'll be greeted at the airport and then fast-tracked through check-in, hand luggage security and passport control.
Full-day tour of Phaselis and Tahtali Mountain from Antalya
If you'd like an insight into Antalya's past and present, then this day tour will tick all the boxes. You've got history at the ancient ruins of Phaselis and panoramic views with a ride on the Olympos Aerial Tram. What's more, there's time to visit one of Antalya's best beaches and enjoy lunch at the top of Mt Tahtali.
de, en, fr, nl, pl
Small-group tour of Ormana and the Altrinbesik Caves in Antalya
Uncover the secrets of Ormana village and its surrounds. Visit mysterious caves and the ruins of an ancient caravanserai, and have the opportunity to see the famous Ormana wild horses.
de, nl