CAPPADOCIA & IDYLLIC ANTEP

23rd – 29th June 2024
We begin this tour by travelling through Cappadocia, a region of stunning natural beauty located in the centre of Turkey. A tapestry of wonders, from the hidden gems to the time-worn allure of cave cities, forgotten churches, and age-old historic towns, will unfold before you as you travel through this remarkable region. The adventure, however, continues on. I’ve expanded this tour to include the magnificent city of Gaziantep, a short distance to the south. Here, we’ll delve into the mysteries of this historically significant city and use our cameras to uncover its undiscovered gems.

about the destination

Exploring Cappadocia’s off-the-beaten-track beauty will uncover lesser-known gems that are often as impressive as the main sights but without the accompanying crowds. On this trip, we dive deeper into a stunning area, picking out a few of these off-the-beaten-path gems, such as cave churches and monasteries, and mix them with an array of derelict locations – using these as our canvas for photography for the first five days of our adventure.

But there’s an exciting addition to this already mesmerizing tour! I’ve extended our expedition to include the charming city of Gaziantep. Situated just a few hours’ journey to the south, Gaziantep stands as a testament to centuries of history and cultural heritage. During our next three nights, we shall delve into the essence of this city. The city will reveal its hidden treasures, monumental architecture, and vibrant street scenes. The historical ambiance that permeates the city’s winding alleys and bustling bazaars will transport you back in time, offering a unique perspective for any photography.

This is a small group adventure tour with accommodation provided throughout, internal flights in and out of both regions are included – and of course, a Turkish breakfast is provided every day throughout the tour – as is a room to yourself! The deposit will be £249 – this will secure your space, with the final balance due 10 weeks prior.  

DURATION

7 days

PRICE

£1,375

FROM

23/06/24

UNTIL

29/06/24

Out of stock

Trip

Features

Access to locations

Our group gets access to a selection of abandoned locations, including many disused Greek or Armenian Churches, and we visit historical sites across the region of Cappadocia (full info in the welcome pack).

Group Size

The group size will be five (plus myself and a driver). This means I can spend time with everyone and it means we get more time on location - especially when photographing architecture.

ACCOMMODATION

I provide 7 nights of accommodation on this photo tour from the arrival day in Cappadocia to the final Sunday in Gaziantep (the day we depart to Istanbul). No single supplements - you get a bedroom to yourself.

Transfers

In this package, I also provide internal flight costs from Istanbul to Cappadocia (and return from Antep), this ensures our group arrives together and can start the tour on time.

Transfers Istanbul

Our meeting spot for this tour is in Istanbul, from here we travel together to either Istanbul or Sabiha Gokcen Airport (transport provided). We take an internal flight.

Food & Drink

Breakfast each morning is included in this tour package. Some refreshments are provided throughout, I also provide water throughout. All evening meals are at recommended spots!

Relaxed Pace

There is a photography focus to my trips - but there is no threshold with ability, I have had a mix of people on my trips from seasoned pros to iPhone snappers!

Transportation

We provide the wheels, the fuel, and the driver throughout your stay in Türkiye, who also doubles up as a translator and they will always be on hand throughout the trip.

Post Processing

I host a Q&A about post-processing techniques over a spot of lunch on this tour. There is also the option to do an editing session with me 1v1 back in Istanbul should you wish.

A wide variety of photography styles will be visible on this combination tour. From frescos and undiscovered cave churches and ruins in Cappadocia to the undiscovered treasures buried in the historical city of Antep! We will be looking for somewhat new and fantastic photo opportunities in addition to the iconic locations that I have researched or have already visited and photographed in the past, we look for a variety of interiors and architectural styles throughout this new experience.

This itinerary’s every component has been designed to give you a rich and fulfilling experience but with variety. This journey promises to be an unforgettable fusion of history, culture, and visual splendour, with hidden architectural wonders that beg to be photographed, ancient ruins that whisper stories of the past, and breathtaking landscapes that frame these sites. A real variety!

Here are a few of the possible examples of our location choices – but of course, a comprehensive guide shall be sent in the welcome pack upon booking:

An Underground Cave City*

At least four disused/derelict churches from the Greek era

Cave Monasteries & Churches

Selime Cathedral*

A beautiful and historical town – which is packed full of beautiful architecture and mansions.

A once Byzantine monastery complex, home to almost 200 monks, boasts a well-preserved labyrinth of tunnels carved out of volcanic rock and even the remains of an ancient winery. Greek alphabet symbols stand out against blackened walls, while intricate religious frescoes also remain. And lots more hidden architecture and gems of the region.

The ancient markets of Gaziantep.

A stunning hidden hammam/turned storage facility.

Gaziantep old town – complete with Turkish tea and photography inside a historical mansion.

Note: The itinerary in Türkiye is not set in stone and can change depending on a number of factors, such as weather and available access timings to locations. 

*There is a paid ticket entry to some of our historical sites – paid locally, please allow a budget of around 40 Euros for these entrance fees. These fees are not included in the trip cost.

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Cappadocia

A surreal landscape that appears to have come straight out of a fantasy world is created by unusual rock formations known as “fairy chimneys” that rise from the earth. These whimsical pillars, sculpted by wind and water, offer an otherworldly setting that has served as a blank canvas for artistic expression for ages. We explore off the beaten path – ducking away from tourists to capture the best of the best here!

Abondoned Greek Churches

Cappadocia is also packed with abandoned Greek churches – they stand as sombre reminders of a bygone era and are a hidden treasure trove of history. Ancient shrines, which are dispersed throughout the rough terrain are a testament to a rich tapestry of intercultural interaction and a religious past. We uncover a selection of the very best derelict Greek churches, as keyholders open their doors for us to photograph them!

Gaziantep

The streets of Gaziantep radiate a charming fusion of glitzy modernity and enchanting old-world charm. Its lanes are lined with vibrant mosaics that beckon you to discover their hidden treasures. The city’s bazaars are a whirlwind of activity where traders sell spices, textiles, and trinkets – a sensory explosion that draws you into its vibrant energy. As the sun sets, the city’s atmosphere changes, with warm lights illuminating historic facades.

START TO TAKE PORTFOLIO WORTHY PHOTOGRAPHS

My photography, travel, and adventure tours are aimed at any level of photographer who is looking to improve their photography or just meet like-minded people. From beginners looking to understand the basics, through to advanced photographers searching for great locations to rekindle or feed their enthusiasm and inspiration.

The key aim of our time together is to have fun and enjoy being outdoors, whilst leaving inspired to take photos for your own photography collection. During our adventure, I can help you, should you require this guidance – and talk you through the key elements to producing a great image. Key elements such as composition and subject choice as well as timing and light.

I will also chat with you about the technical aspects of photography, helping you understand your camera and settings whilst keeping it simple. We also discuss understanding light and how it can impact the mood of the image and the key technical elements if needed.

YOU MAY ALSO ASK:

Should you have any other questions please email me on info@jameskerwin.uk

Accommodation

Throughout the trip, I do my best to provide you with amazing accommodation, but what you get might not be 5-star throughout. Particularly during our time in rural areas, some modern luxuries simply won’t be available despite us staying in a nice hotel. However, we can guarantee the essentials you’ll need in order to enjoy your stay: warmth, good food; power plugs for charging batteries; plus a modern, heated bus, and comfortable beds. The wifi will be at least consistent, if not necessarily fast.

Activity Level

Some elements of this trip will require walking and sometimes over rough ground – so be sure to bring proper walking boots or other outdoor footwear. You’ll also need warm outerwear.

  • What Should I Bring With Me?
  •  
  • There could be storms, or it may be raining at points so maybe bring a raincoat.
  • Enough clothes for the entire trip.
  • Solid boots – such as walking boots.
  • Lots of spare batteries (as they will soon run flat) and memory cards.
  • A sturdy tripod – 99% of my work is shot using a tripod (a loan could be arranged if you tell me in advance).
  • Manual for your camera.
  • Laptop for editing during the week (if interested/mentioned in the tour listed).
  • Phone – wifi will be provided at hotels.
  • Power adaptor(s).
  • Check the welcome pack for any additions to this list.

Welcome to…

Once you arrive in the coutry and settle in at our Hotel – we’ll gather for a brief welcome and introduction, this will be mentioned in the WELCOME PACK and on the Whats App group chat (that I will set up prior). The aim here is to get together to chat about travel, cameras, and all the things we’ll see in our time together.

Goodbyes…

We’ll arrange transportation for you back to the relevant airport and from here, head homeward or onto your next destination. If you’d like to extend your time in the destination, I will be happy to offer advice and suggestions of things to do and photograph.

Just make sure to let me know as it might be more convenient to stay in the same start/end hotel or accommodation spot. If this is the case, I will usually offer to book it for you (additional fee due upon check-in). 

All of my destinations are connected – it is key for me when I am choosing tour destinations. In the welcome pack – I will list the start and end destination for your tour. The pack will ALWAYS be sent out 6 months prior to the tour taking place. 

However, since the global pandemic hit us all in Spring 2020 – huge changes have hit the travel industry and multiple airlines/carriers have changed routes/destinations. My best advice is to look on Skyscanner – but also don’t rule out looking on airlines sites directly for flights, such as on Ryanair, Pegasus or Middle Eastern Airlines. Sometimes deals don’t pop up on sites like Skyscanner and things are changing/improving daily – Wizz air for instance had lots of options change in mid-2020 – but have said they are revising routes daily since 2022.

I would also STRONGLY advise booking directly with airlines for the foreseeable future – as should the worst happen, you would stand in a better position to get a refund or to make a claim through your insurance firm. In other words – don’t book with firms that act like agencies (Lastminute.com) etc.

I can highly recommend Turkish Airlines as one example – they have been “photographer friendly” since 2020. But of course this only works if they fly to the tour spot. 

For this trip please check with me if you are ensure which airport to fly into or out of. If unsure, please email me on info@jameskerwin.uk.

Sure you can – just make sure to let me know as it might be more convenient to stay in the same start/end hotel or accommodation spot. If this is the case, I will usually offer to book it for you (additional fee due upon check-in). 

  • Any personal expenses/gifts for friends etc.
  • Alcohol costs – accept where stated in the welcome pack.
  • Travel Insurance.
  • Photography Insurance.
  • Some food might not be included – check welcome pack for details.
  • International air tickets – See “how do I fly” section for more information on flights.
  • Visa fees (if applicable) – but I can offer advice or assistance.
  • Photography equipment, although some hire can be arranged through James in advance.

WITH REGARDS TO MY CANCELLATION POLICY, YOUR PERSONAL INSURANCE, WAIVERS AND MORE , YOU CAN HEAD ON OVER TO THE FAQS BACK ON THE EXPERIENCE PAGE – YOU CAN FIND THEM BY SCROLLING TO THE BOTTOM!