Day Trip

Sumela Monastery, Hamsiköy Village and Karaca Cave Tour

Provider:
Discover Sumela Monastery, Hamsiköy, Karaca Cave, and Zigana Pass on this full-day tour from Trabzon. Enjoy a day filled with history, nature, and Black Sea culture. Follow your guide through breathtaking landscapes and taste local delicacies in charming villages.

About this activity

Duration 9 hours

Check availability to see starting times

Free cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Live tour guide

English, Turkish

Instant Confirmation

Pick-up service

Mobile ticketing

Small group

Limited to a maximum of 15 participants

5% off on your 1st booking

Use WELCOME promo code in checkout

Highlights

  • Discover the Sumela Monastery, dating back to the 4th century AD, and witness the breathtaking nature of Altindere National Park.
  • Discover Hamsiköy's traditional Black Sea charm and savor its famous rice pudding with stunning views.
  • Uncover the geological wonders of Karaca Cave and witness a visual feast of underground formations.
  • Follow the ancient Silk Road at Zigana Pass and take in the mesmerizing panoramic views of the Black Sea mountains.

Full description

Get ready for a journey filled with history, nature, and adventure in the mesmerizing landscapes of the Black Sea! This full-day tour from Trabzon invites you to explore both cultural heritage and natural wonders. At 09:00 in the morning, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in Trabzon or from a designated meeting point, depending on your reservation. Our comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle will take you to some of the region’s highlights, including Sumela Monastery, Hamsiköy Village, Karaca Cave, and the Zigana Mountain Pass.

Our first stop is Altındere National Park, reached after a scenic drive of about one hour. From there, a short shuttle ride will take us closer to the Sumela Monastery. As you approach the site, you’ll be greeted by medieval-style architecture, ancient aqueducts, and stone stairways. With your guide, you’ll explore the mystical structure’s inner sections, including the rock church, chapels, student rooms, and guesthouses. This remarkable site blends nature and history, offering a journey into the past. During your free time, you can continue exploring the monastery or relax at the café near the entrance while enjoying the breathtaking view of the valley.

Our next stop is Hamsiköy, known for its lush nature and tranquil atmosphere. Here, we take a break for lunch and enjoy local Black Sea cuisine. After your meal, you’ll have the chance to taste Hamsiköy’s famous rice pudding, one of the region’s signature desserts. You can also take a short walk through the village and observe its traditional architecture and rural life up close.

In the afternoon, we head to Karaca Cave, passing through the impressive 14.5 km-long New Zigana Tunnel, one of Europe’s longest road tunnels. Karaca Cave is like an underground art gallery, featuring striking stalactites, stalagmites, travertines, and unique rock formations. While discovering this natural wonder, your guide will explain its geological background, formed over millions of years. You’ll not only gain insight but also capture unforgettable photos in a surreal atmosphere.

Following our visit to Karaca Cave, we continue our journey towards Zigana Mountain Pass, situated at an altitude of 2,050 meters. A historic stop on the ancient Silk Road, the pass is renowned for its stunning panoramic views. While embracing nature, you’ll also take a journey into history as your guide shares the cultural and historical significance of this legendary region.

This unforgettable tour is the perfect combination of the Black Sea’s history, nature, and local culture. At the end of the day, we return to Trabzon and bid you farewell, until we meet again on another adventure!

Includes

  • Transportation in an air-conditioned, comfortable vehicle
  • All trips specified in the program
  • Guiding service
  • Hotel pick-up service (optional)
  • Museum and Entrance fees
  • Food and drinks
  • National Park shuttle fee

Meeting point

Atatürk Square (Meydan)

We meet in front of the exchange office located next to Burger King, across from McDonald's. Please arrive at the meeting point before the tour's departure time.

Important information

Before the Tour: Departure is at 9:00 AM from the meeting point in Trabzon city center. Hotel pickups follow the operational schedule and may be before or after this time. Exact pickup details will be shared in advance.

Please complete the Participant Information Form linked in your confirmation email.

Getting to Sumela Monastery: Shuttle service is required to reach the national park and trailhead. A 350-meter forest path leads to the monastery, not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers. The visit includes many stairs.

Lunch: Lunch will be at a local restaurant in Zigana or Hamsiköy. Not included in the tour price. Credit cards accepted.

Entrance Fees (per person):

  • Sümela Monastery: 20 Euro (MasterCard, Visa, or Euro in TL)
  • Shuttle: 70 TL
  • Karaca Cave: 100 TL

What to Bring: ID/passport, comfortable walking shoes, and weather-appropriate clothes — including a raincoat, even in summer.

Note: The itinerary may change due to weather.

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