From the vibrant streets of Istanbul to the dreamlike landscapes of Cappadocia and the turquoise shores of the Mediterranean, this immersive photography journey explores some of Turkey’s most captivating regions. Along the way, we’ll photograph iconic cultural landmarks, ancient civilizations, dramatic natural landscapes, colorful markets, traditional villages, and daily life in one of the world’s most fascinating crossroads of civilizations.

Designed for photographers seeking both inspiring imagery and authentic cultural experiences, this tour offers exceptional opportunities to create powerful visual stories. Highlights include sunrise sessions among Cappadocia’s famous hot-air balloons, encounters with semi-wild Yılkı horses, intimate visits to rural villages, ancient rock-cut cities, Mediterranean harbors, and unforgettable moments in the historic heart of Istanbul.

Designed specifically for photographers, this journey offers extraordinary opportunities for storytelling, street photography, landscapes, architecture, culture, and intimate human moments, all while traveling alongside one of the world’s most celebrated photographic artists.

Tour Highlights

• Photograph Istanbul’s iconic skyline, historic mosques, bustling bazaars, and vibrant street life
• Capture hundreds of hot-air balloons floating above the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia at sunrise
• Experience authentic village life and cultural traditions in rural Anatolia
• Photograph the legendary Yılkı horses in the golden light of dawn
• Explore ancient underground cities, rock-cut churches, and historic Silk Road caravanserais
• Visit Konya, the spiritual home of Rumi and the Whirling Dervishes
• Cruise along the Mediterranean coast to photograph Kekova’s famous Sunken City
• Capture spectacular sunsets at Antalya Harbor, Kaputaş Beach, and Pamukkale’s dazzling travertine terraces
• Enjoy a private Bosphorus cruise between Europe and Asia
• Travel with Art Wolfe through one of the world’s most diverse and photogenic destinations

Led by Art Wolfe

Assisted by Gavriel Jecan

Limited to 10 participants

Transportation and Accommodation

All meals, lodging, and transportation specified on the itinerary are included. You will be responsible for your flight to and from Istanbul. You are encouraged to arrive one day prior to the workshop so that there is no worry of flight delays causing any problems.

Itinerary

*This tour is just being finalized now, the itinerary will be adjusted with additional information when it becomes available.

April 27 Arrive in Istanbul (D)

Welcome to Turkey, where East and West meet at the crossroads of history, culture, and commerce. Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred privately to your hotel in the heart of the city’s historic district.

Your hotel is ideally situated within walking distance of Sultanahmet Square, allowing you to begin exploring at your own pace. As evening falls, you may wish to photograph some of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks, including the magnificent Blue Mosque, the Hagia Sophia, and the beautifully illuminated monuments of the Old City.

There will be a welcome dinner this evening so everyone can introduce themselves and Art can outline the plan for the days ahead.

Overnight in Istanbul

April 28 Istanbul Walking Tour (B)

Before dawn, we head to Galata Bridge to photograph the city awakening to the first light of day. As fishermen cast their lines and ferries cross the Bosphorus, we’ll capture classic views of Istanbul’s skyline silhouetted against the rising sun.

From there, we explore the vibrant Spice Bazaar, where colorful displays of spices, teas, and sweets create endless photographic possibilities. Nearby, we visit the elegant Rüstem Pasha Mosque, renowned for its exquisite Iznik tilework and intimate atmosphere.

After returning to the hotel for breakfast and a short break, we continue our exploration of Istanbul’s historic center. Highlights include the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, the magnificent Blue Mosque, and the labyrinthine Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets.

In the evening, we travel to Ortaköy, one of Istanbul’s most picturesque waterfront neighborhoods. Framed by the Bosphorus and the elegant Bosphorus Bridge, Ortaköy offers outstanding opportunities for sunset photography as the city glows in the warm light of dusk.

Overnight: Istanbul

April 29 Istanbul – Cappadocia (B)

Our day begins with sunrise photography from Pierre Loti Hill, where sweeping views overlook the Golden Horn and the rooftops of historic Istanbul. In the soft morning light, we’ll capture one of the city’s most celebrated panoramas.

We then explore the bustling energy of İstiklal Street and Taksim Square, photographing the rhythm of daily life as the city comes to life. Following breakfast, we return to the hotel to check out before crossing the Bosphorus by local ferry from Eminönü to Kadıköy, experiencing Istanbul as locals do while traveling between Europe and Asia.

The afternoon is spent exploring Kadıköy’s lively fish market and bazaar, a vibrant neighborhood rich with authentic street life, colorful market scenes, and excellent opportunities for candid photography.

Later, we transfer to the airport for our flight to Cappadocia. Upon arrival, we head directly to Esentepe Hill, one of the region’s finest viewpoints, where we’ll photograph the extraordinary landscape of Cappadocia bathed in the warm colors of sunset.

Overnight: Cappadocia

April 30 Cappadocia (B)

Before sunrise, we venture into the heart of Cappadocia to photograph one of the world’s most iconic spectacles: hundreds of hot-air balloons ascending above a landscape of fairy chimneys, rock formations, and deep valleys. The combination of soft morning light and colorful balloons creates an unforgettable photographic experience.

Later, we visit Uçhisar Castle, the highest point in Cappadocia, offering panoramic views across this remarkable volcanic landscape. After breakfast and time to relax, we continue to the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where ancient rock-cut churches preserve remarkable Byzantine frescoes carved into the soft volcanic stone.

In the afternoon, we explore Kaymaklı Underground City, an extraordinary subterranean settlement that once sheltered entire communities beneath the earth.

Our day concludes with a traditional Whirling Dervish ceremony, offering insight into one of Turkey’s most profound spiritual traditions. While photography is not permitted during the performance itself, there will be opportunities to photograph the venue and participants before or after the ceremony.

Overnight: Cappadocia

May 1 Yılkı Horses Photography and Cappadocia Turkish Village Life & Culinary Tour (B,L)

Before dawn, we travel into the rolling highlands to photograph Turkey’s iconic Yılkı horses as the first light of day spreads across the landscape. These semi-wild horses roam freely across the open plains, often gathering in small herds that create striking photographic opportunities against the soft colors of sunrise.

As the morning mist lingers and the sun rises above the horizon, we’ll position ourselves to capture the horses moving through the grasslands, backlit by golden light and framed by the dramatic Anatolian scenery. This session offers the chance to create both intimate wildlife portraits and sweeping environmental images, while observing one of Turkey’s most enduring symbols of freedom and wilderness.

The early hours provide the most beautiful light and the greatest horse activity, making this one of the tour’s most memorable photographic experiences.

Following our sunrise photography session, we’ll experience daily life in rural Cappadocia with a visit to Ayvali Village. Depending on the day and season, we may explore the local market, stroll through fruit orchards, visit traditional cave storages, and wander the village’s narrow streets. Along the way, we’ll meet local residents, enjoy Turkish tea and coffee, learn about village customs, and gain insight into traditional agricultural practices.

A highlight of the day is a home-hosted lunch with a local family, where we’ll help gather fresh ingredients and participate in preparing a traditional Turkish meal before dining together.

In the afternoon, we’ll enjoy a walk through a hidden valley near the village and visit a cave winery to learn about the production of Cappadocia’s renowned wines. Time permitting, there may also be an optional visit to a local arts and handicrafts center before returning to the hotel.

Overnight: Cappadocia

May 2 Cappadocia – Konya (B)

An early morning departure takes us to the spectacular Ihlara Valley, where we’ll photograph the dramatic canyon landscape in the soft light of sunrise. As the first rays of sunlight illuminate the valley walls, we’ll explore the entrance area, seeking compositions that capture the scale, textures, and beauty of this remarkable landscape.

Following our morning photography session, we’ll enjoy breakfast along the banks of the Melendiz River in the village of Belisırma, a peaceful setting nestled beneath the canyon’s towering cliffs. We then continue to Selime, a fascinating village renowned for its rock-cut dwellings, ancient cave structures, and otherworldly scenery that has often been compared to the landscapes of a science fiction film.

Later, we journey across the Anatolian plateau toward Konya, stopping en route at the historic Sultanhanı Caravanserai, one of the finest surviving inns of the Silk Road era. By afternoon, we arrive in Konya, the spiritual heart of Turkey and home of the Mevlevi Order, better known for the mesmerizing tradition of the Whirling Dervishes.

Overnight: Konya

May 3 Konya – Antalya – Cirali (B)

This morning we photograph the Mevlana Museum in Konya, the final resting place of the celebrated poet and mystic Rumi and the spiritual center of the Whirling Dervish tradition. The museum’s elegant architecture, atmospheric courtyards, and rich cultural heritage offer a compelling start to the day.

We then travel south toward the Mediterranean coast, arriving in Antalya to explore its charming Old Town. Narrow cobblestone streets, Ottoman-era architecture, and the picturesque harbor provide abundant photographic opportunities. As evening approaches, we’ll capture the warm light of sunset illuminating the harbor’s fishing boats and historic waterfront.

Continuing along the coast, we arrive in the tranquil village of Çıralı, nestled between the mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. After dinner, we take a short hike to witness one of Turkey’s most remarkable natural phenomena—the eternal flames of the Chimaera, where natural gas vents have burned continuously from the rocky hillside for centuries. The flickering flames against the night sky create a unique and memorable photographic experience.

Overnight: Çıralı

May 4 Olympos – Kekova – Kaş (B,L)

After breakfast, we journey to the beautiful coastline of Kekova, where a private boat excursion offers opportunities to photograph the turquoise waters, hidden coves, and the famous Sunken City. Partially submerged by ancient earthquakes, the ruins visible beneath the clear water create a fascinating blend of history and landscape.

Following lunch aboard the boat, we continue to the picturesque seaside town of Kaş, one of Turkey’s most charming Mediterranean destinations. After settling into our hotel overlooking the sea, we’ll spend the afternoon exploring the harbor and waterfront streets, photographing daily life as fishermen, shopkeepers, and local residents gather along the waterfront.

As the day draws to a close, we’ll head to Kaputaş Beach, renowned for its dramatic cliffs and brilliant blue waters. Here we’ll photograph the spectacular colors of the Mediterranean during sunset.

Overnight: Kaş

May 5 Kaş – Dalyan – Pamukkale (B)

An early departure brings us to Dalyan, where we photograph the remarkable Lycian rock tombs carved high into the cliffs overlooking the river. Dating back more than two thousand years, these monumental facades offer a striking glimpse into the region’s ancient past.

Our journey continues to Saklıkent Gorge, one of Turkey’s most impressive natural wonders. After breakfast beside the river, we’ll have time to explore the dramatic canyon and enjoy the cool waters flowing through its towering limestone walls.

Later, we travel inland to Pamukkale, famed for its dazzling white travertine terraces created by mineral-rich thermal springs. As the sun begins to set, we’ll photograph this extraordinary landscape as the terraces glow with soft evening light and reflect the changing colors of the sky.

Overnight: Pamukkale

May 6 Pamukkale – Istanbul (B)

This morning we transfer to the airport for our flight to Istanbul. Upon arrival, a private transfer brings us to our hotel in the historic heart of the city.

In the afternoon, we’ll enjoy a private cruise along the Bosphorus, the legendary waterway that separates Europe and Asia. From the water, we’ll photograph an ever-changing panorama of elegant Ottoman waterfront mansions, grand palaces, historic fortresses, and vibrant neighborhoods lining both shores. The Bosphorus offers a unique perspective on Istanbul’s rich history and its role as a crossroads between continents.

Overnight: Istanbul

May 7 Istanbul – Departure for home (B)

After breakfast, a private transfer will take you to the airport for your onward flight home, concluding our photographic journey through Turkey.

End of tour