Turkey

Historical and Cultural Heritage

Turkey is home to numerous ancient civilizations, including the Hittites, Phrygians, Urartians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. As a result, the country boasts a wealth of historical sites, such as the ancient cities of Ephesus and Troy, the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, and the rock-cut churches of Cappadocia.

Unique Landscapes

From the stunning beaches along the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts to the otherworldly landscapes of Cappadocia, Turkey offers diverse natural beauty. Pamukkale's terraces, the travertine pools filled with mineral-rich waters, are another natural wonder.

Culinary Delights

Turkish cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and variety. Dishes like kebabs, mezes, baklava, and Turkish delight are popular among locals and visitors alike. Food enthusiasts can enjoy the vibrant street food culture or savor traditional meals in charming restaurants.

Hospitality and Warmth

Turkish people are known for their hospitality and friendliness. Visitors often appreciate the warm welcome they receive and the genuine interest locals show in sharing their culture and traditions.

Modern and Ancient Cities

Istanbul, a city that spans two continents, is a vibrant metropolis that seamlessly blends modernity with its ancient past. Other cities like Ankara, Izmir, and Antalya offer a mix of historical sites, modern amenities, and lively atmospheres.

Shopping and Bazaars

Turkey is famous for its bustling markets and bazaars. The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul is one of the world's largest covered markets, offering a wide array of goods, including carpets, spices, textiles, and traditional crafts.

Outdoor Activities

Adventure seekers can find plenty to do in Turkey, including hot air balloon rides over Cappadocia, hiking in the Taurus Mountains, or enjoying water sports along the coasts.

Religious and Spiritual Sites

Turkey is home to significant religious sites, including the House of the Virgin Mary, the ancient city of Ephesus, and the Blue Mosque in Istanbul. These places attract pilgrims and tourists interested in religious history and architecture.

Festivals and Events

Turkey hosts various cultural and religious festivals throughout the year, offering visitors the chance to experience the country's vibrant traditions and celebrations.

Major Tourist Attractions in Turkey

Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) in Istanbul: Originally a basilica, later a mosque, and now a museum, Hagia Sophia is famous for its massive dome and stunning Byzantine architecture. It's a testament to the historical religious changes in the country.

Cappadocia: Known for its unique moon-like landscape, underground cities, cave churches, and houses carved in the rocks. Hot air balloon rides in Cappadocia offer breathtaking views of the region.

Ephesus: An ancient city located near the modern town of Selçuk. Ephesus is home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Artemis, and contains well-preserved ruins from the Roman period.

Topkapi Palace: Situated in Istanbul, this was the residence of Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. The palace is a major tourist attraction, famous for its architecture, large collections of porcelain, robes, weapons, shields, armor, Ottoman miniatures, Islamic calligraphic manuscripts, and murals.

Pamukkale: Known as "Cotton Castle" in Turkish, Pamukkale is famous for its white travertine terraces filled with mineral-rich thermal waters. It's also home to the ancient ruins of Hierapolis.

Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque): Also in Istanbul, this mosque is famous for its six minarets and striking blue tiles surrounding its interior walls.

Grand Bazaar in Istanbul: One of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, with over 4,000 shops selling everything from jewelry and ceramics to spices and Turkish delights.

Sumela Monastery: Perched on a cliff in the Macka region of Trabzon, this Greek Orthodox monastery is famous for its stunning location and beautiful frescoes.

Mount Nemrut: A high mountain in southeastern Turkey, known for the colossal heads of ancient deities that are scattered around its summit.

The Ancient City of Troy: Famous for the Trojan War of Homer's Iliad, this UNESCO World Heritage site in the northwest of Turkey offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient history.

These are just a few of the many attractions Turkey offers, with each region having its unique history, culture, and natural beauty.

CPN Consultants Ltd is available for tailor made short and long tour to Turkey at affordable rates, simply send an email to info@cpnconsultantsafrica.com or call us now on +256-740852464.

The best time to visit Turkey is during the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is mild and pleasant. These periods offer ideal conditions for exploring the country's rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. The temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it perfect for sightseeing, hiking, and enjoying the beautiful beaches. Additionally, these shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and lower prices, making it an excellent time to visit popular destinations like Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Antalya.

Luxury Hotels

1. Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet: A 5-star hotel located in the heart of Istanbul's historic district.

2. The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul: A 5-star hotel offering stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait.

3. Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul: A 5-star hotel located in a historic building, offering luxurious rooms and a spa.

Mid-Range Hotels 

1. Hotel Empress Zoe: A 4-star hotel located in the heart of Istanbul's historic district.

2. Antalya Inn Hotel: A 4-star hotel located in the heart of Antalya, offering comfortable rooms and a rooftop pool.

3. Cappadocia Cave Suites: A 4-star hotel located in Göreme, Cappadocia, offering unique cave rooms and stunning views.

Budget-Friendly Hotels

1. Istanbul Hostel: A 2-star hostel located in the heart of Istanbul, offering dorms and private rooms.

2. Antalya Hostel: A 2-star hostel located in the heart of Antalya, offering dorms and private rooms.

3. Cappadocia Guest House: A 2-star guesthouse located in Göreme, Cappadocia, offering simple rooms and a warm atmosphere.

Flights

Turkish Airlines: From Entebbe International Airport (EBB) to Istanbul Airport (IST) with a layover in Nairobi (NBO) or Addis Ababa (ADD). Prices start from around $800-$1,200 USD.

Ethiopian Airlines: From Entebbe International Airport (EBB) to Istanbul Airport (IST) with layovers in Addis Ababa (ADD) and Rome (FCO). Prices start from around $900-$1,400 USD.

Qatar Airways: From Entebbe International Airport (EBB) to Istanbul Airport (IST) with layovers in Doha (DOH) and Istanbul (IST). Prices start from around $1,000-$1,600 USD.

Flight Duration

Total Travel Time: The total travel time, including layovers, can range from around 14 to 24 hours, depending on the route and airline.

Turkey is a country with a rich and diverse cultural heritage, influenced by its strategic location between Europe and the Middle East. The country has a unique blend of traditional and modern culture, with a strong emphasis on hospitality, family, and respect for elders. Turkish culture is also known for its vibrant arts scene, including music, dance, and visual arts, with famous traditions like the Whirling Dervishes and Turkish carpets. The country's cuisine is also famous for its rich flavors and aromas, with popular dishes like kebabs, baklava, and Turkish delight. Overall, Turkey's culture is a fascinating blend of East and West, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes visitors feel at home.