From Istanbul: Sapanca & Maukiye Full-Day Tour with Lunch

This comprehensive review explores the Sapanca & Maukiye full-day tour offered by Terra Luna Travel, designed to give travelers a taste of Turkey’s scenic countryside just a short drive from Istanbul. While we haven’t personally experienced it, the detailed feedback and itinerary paint a picture of a diverse, activity-packed day perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those craving a break from city life.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the balance of outdoor adventures and relaxing moments, the opportunity to try local Turkish delights, and the chance to see some of Turkey’s most beautiful natural landscapes. Plus, the inclusion of activities like ziplining, ATV safaris, and visits to wildlife and water spots adds real excitement.

One point to consider is that some activities, such as zoo visits, cable cars, and ziplining, are not included in the price and require extra payment. This means you’ll want to budget accordingly if you’re keen on participating in all the fun.

This trip seems well-suited for those who want a full-day outdoor adventure, enjoy a mix of physical activities and scenic stops, and appreciate local food. It’s perfect for families, groups of friends, or anyone looking to explore beyond Istanbul’s urban charm.

Good To Know

• Diverse activities keep the day engaging, from wildlife visits to adrenaline-filled ziplining.
• Flexible options allow participants to choose what they want to do, making it suitable for different interests.
• Scenic landscapes around Sapanca and Masukiye offer memorable photo opportunities.
• Authentic Turkish food is a highlight, with a traditional lunch served near a waterfall.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with friendly service and local insights.
• Extra costs for activities like zoo visits, cable cars, and ziplining mean planning ahead is helpful.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Day Full of Nature and Adventure: What to Expect

Starting early from Istanbul, this tour covers a wide array of experiences spread across approximately 12 hours. You’ll be picked up from your hotel, whisked away from the city’s hustle, and into the Turkish countryside. The journey itself is smooth, with spacious transportation and a friendly guide ready to share local tips along the way.

Flexible Activities – Your Day, Your Choice

One of the greatest perks is the freedom to choose which activities to participate in on the spot. Whether you’re in the mood for wildlife, adventure, or relaxation, you can tailor your experience, which adds a personalized touch to the day. The guide will give you options — from visiting Darica Zoo or taking a scenic cruise to the Lion Park and Aquarium, to exploring the Turkish Delight Factory.

Darica Zoo and Scenic Cruises

Depending on the season and your interests, you might visit Darica Zoo, home to a variety of animals, or opt for a cruise that takes you to Lion Park and Aquarium. The reviews mention that the zoo visit can be a highlight, especially if you’re traveling with kids or animal lovers. Travelers like Mariam appreciated the lively guide who shared fun facts and kept the group entertained, making these moments more engaging.

Turkish Delight Factory

A visit to a Turkish Delight Factory offers a sweet insight into one of Turkey’s most famous treats. We loved that the guide explained the process and history behind this iconic dessert, adding an educational element to the day. Reviewers appreciated the chance to taste and purchase local delights, although some suggested that future tours might replace this stop with a larger supermarket for more snack options.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Thrilling Adventures at Mahmudiye Village

Next comes the heart-racing zipline experience, a definite highlight for adrenaline junkies. Set in Mahmudiye Village, the zipline offers sweeping views of the lush landscape as you soar above. Reviewers like Nabeel and Abdullah praised the activity, noting it’s a fantastic way to get your blood pumping and enjoy panoramic vistas. Keep in mind the zipline costs extra, so budget accordingly.

Following the zipline, water activities and a cable car ride further enhance the sense of adventure. The cable car offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and forests, making it a great photo opportunity, as confirmed by those who participated.

Lunch at a Traditional Restaurant

After all the activities, a hearty Turkish lunch awaits. The restaurant is situated near a roaring waterfall, creating a peaceful and atmospheric dining experience. Reviewers raved about the delicious and satisfying meals, with one noting the food was both tasty and ample. It’s an excellent chance to relax, refuel, and enjoy authentic Turkish cuisine, which adds great value to the tour considering the included meal and drink.

Masukiye and Sapanca Lake

Post-lunch, the journey continues to Masukiye for an ATV safari adventure. This adds a fun, off-road element to your day, allowing for a different kind of exploration. Reviewers like Mujtaba appreciated the variety, describing it as a fun activity suitable for families and groups.

Finally, the day wraps up at Sapanca Lake, where you’ll have free time for a leisurely walk or a quick swim. The tranquil lake setting is perfect for unwinding after a busy day, with plenty of photo-worthy views. Mariam and others loved the calm atmosphere and the chance to simply relax by the water.

Transport, Timing, and Practical Details

The tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, which makes logistics straightforward. It runs for about 12 hours, with actual start times varying based on availability—so check ahead to plan your day. The group size tends to be moderate, allowing for a more personal experience, and the guide speaks fluent English, providing local insights and safety tips.

While the price of $21 per person sounds very reasonable, it’s important to note that some activities, including zoo visits, ziplining, cable cars, and the aquarium, are not included in the base price and require extra payment. Reviews suggest that budget-conscious travelers should factor these costs in advance.

The tour includes a guide, lunch, and entry to natural parks, which makes it a good value for a full day of varied experiences. However, you should bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, water, and a daypack to carry essentials during activities.

What Reviewers Say

Feedback from past travelers highlights the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, with Abu and Nasir receiving praise for their patience and effort to make every stop enjoyable. Many reviewers felt the activities were well-organized, and the scenic stops, especially around Sapanca Lake, left lasting impressions.

Some noted that extra costs for activities like the zipline and zoo could add up, so plan your budget accordingly. One reviewer suggested replacing the Turkish Delight Factory with a larger supermarket stop, which might appeal to those wanting quick snack and restroom breaks.

Despite some minor suggestions, overall reviewers found the trip well-paced and fun, with the mix of outdoor activities, scenic beauty, and authentic cuisine creating a memorable day.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This full-day tour from Istanbul offers a well-rounded experience blending adventure, nature, and local flavors. It’s ideal for travelers who want more than just city sightseeing, seeking a day in the fresh air with opportunities for both relaxation and excitement. The flexible activity options, combined with the scenic landscapes around Sapanca and Masukiye, make it a great choice for families, couples, or groups of friends.

The value is notable, especially with included transportation, lunch, and park entries — though you should budget for optional activities. If you’re after a lively, diverse adventure that showcases Turkey’s natural beauty, this tour has plenty to offer.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to join without extra hassle.

How long does the tour last? Expect around 12 hours from start to finish, so prepare for a full day of exploration.

Are all activities included in the price? No, activities like zoo visits, ziplining, cable cars, and the aquarium are extra and paid on-site.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, water, and a small daypack are recommended for activities and strolling.

Can I choose which activities to do? Yes, on the day of the tour, you can decide which activities you want to participate in based on your interests.

Is the tour suitable for children? Many activities like the zoo and lake walks are family-friendly, but check activity-specific details for suitability.

How much does the lunch cost? The tour includes a traditional Turkish lunch with one drink, offering good value for a full meal.

Is this tour good for photography? Absolutely. The scenic spots and panoramic views, especially from the cable car and lakeside, are very photogenic.

What is the guide like? Reviewers praise guides like Abu, Nasir, and Ali for their friendliness, knowledge, and effort to make the trip enjoyable.

This tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic taste of Turkey’s countryside. With plenty of flexible options and stunning scenery, it appeals to travelers eager to escape Istanbul’s hustle for a day of memorable experiences.

You can check if your dates are available here: