2012 ANZAC Day - Budget Tours
'ANZAC Fez Bus - Turkey Trooper'
13 - Day itinerary

Istanbul to Gallipoli

Mid morning departure to the WW1 battlefields of Gallipoli stopping along the way to stock up on supplies and rations. Once we arrive at the Gallipoli peninsula we head straight to Anzac Cove to secure a good spot on the grass for the long night ahead. Overnight ANZAC Cove (Please note: no accommodation is available on this night as you will sleep under the stars as the ANZAC's did 97 years before)

ANZAC Day at Gallipoli     

Awake before sunrise to the Anzac Dawn service and commemorate our fallen forefathers on this special day. The Gallipoli battlefields are well sign posted so you can walk amidst various cemeteries, trenches and memorials on your way to Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair to attend the Australian, Turkish and New Zealand memorial services. Late afternoon you will meet up with the Fez Bus again to head to the small town of Ayvalik for some well deserved sleep. Overnight Ayvalik (D)

Pergamum to Kusadasi

This morning, you head south along the Aegean Coast, stopping at the ancient city of Pergamum for a guided tour. Turkey produces some of the finest leather goods in the world and many are made here before branding in Italy. We finish the day with a leather goods presentation before travelling onto the resort town of Kusadasi. Overnight Kusadasi (B, D)

Kusadasi

Absorb yourself in history this morning with an optional tour of one of the seven ancient wonders of the world, the Temple of Artemis and the former capital of Roman Asia and best-preserved ancient city in Turkey, Ephesus or spend the day relaxing on an Aegean Beach. Overnight Kusadasi (B, D)

Kusadasi to Koycegiz

This morning we check out some local Turkish handicrafts before heading the magnificent white calcium formations of Pamukkale then drive to Koycegiz where you have the option of taking a late night boat cruise on Lake Koycegiz and experience the therapeutic properties of the mud and thermal baths. Overnight Koycegiz (B)

Fethiye via Saklikent Gorge  

After a short drive this morning, you will have the chance to see how Turkish carpets are made by hand and find out what determines their value. Then experience one of Turkey's highlights as we trek up Saklikent Gorge or go tubing on the slightly chilly current of water rushing out of it. Overnight Fethiye (B)

Fethiye    

Today you have the option to relax on a day cruise around the 12 Islands of Fethiye, go paragliding or maybe chill out on a nearby beach, the choice is yours. Overnight Fethiye (B)
*If you choose the Shoestring option with Gulet, then today you will board your traditional handmade Gulet and cruise your way through to Day 10 in Olympos.

Kas to Olympos Tree Houses  

We drive along the Turquoise coast today, stopping for a swim at the spectacular Kaputas beach and then a lunch stop in Kas, traditionally a small Turkish fishing village. Take a stroll around the town before heading to the world famous tree houses of Olympos. Overnight Olympos (B, D)

Olympos  

Time for some relaxation, you can do nothing but chill out and meet new people or you could try a host of adventure activities on offer - rock climbing, diving and canyoning just to name a few. Don't miss out on your chance to see the natural phenomenon of the mythical flames of Chimera. Overnight Olympos (B, D)

Olympos  

Another day for choices, with so many options you will be wishing you could stay for a week. Overnight Olympos (B, D)

Silk Road to Cappadocia

Early morning we head out to follow an ancient silk trade route across the Anatolian Plain, on the way you will have the opportunity to visit the Mevlana Museum in Konya and then the Sultanhani Caravansary just as the ancient traders did. Overnight Cappadocia (B)

Cappadocia      

This morning you have the option of taking a hot-air balloon ride in a region famed for being one of the best places in the world for ballooning. You will be back in plenty of time for an optional tour to check out the carved cave villages, underground cities and spectacular fairy chimney formations. Tonight, do not miss the optional Turkish Folklore evening, including all the food and drink you can handle! Overnight Cappadocia (B)

Cappadocia  

Early morning start today as we head back to Istanbul, via Ankara, the nation’s Capital. You will have time to visit the Mausoleum of the famed Mustafa Kemal Ataturk and discover what happened to the Turkish nation after the ANZAC's left. Upon arrival in Istanbul your tour concludes and sadly it is time to say good bye to new friends. (B)

(B – Breakfast, L – Lunch, D – Dinner)

Tour includes

• English speaking Tour Leader on the bus giving you a wealth of super interesting and useful info
• Transportation in a fully air-conditioned, non-smoking bus
• Guided tour of Pergamum. (Entrance fees not included)
• Commemorative gift
• Tips except driver and guide
• 11 nights - ANZAC Budget & Tree House accommodation in total.
  • - 1 night in Ayvalik
  • - 2 nights in Cappadocia
  • - 2 nights in Fethiye
  • - 1 night in Koycegiz
  • - 2 nights in Kusadasi
  • - 3 nights in Olympos
• 11 Breakfasts, 6 Dinners

Tour does not include

• Suggested optional activities and sightseeing
• Tips – driver and guide
• Entrance fees