Black Sea & Kaçkar Mountains Hiking Tour | Eastern Turkey

Description

Black Sea Hiking Tour – Mountains, Villages & Living Landscapes

Our Black Sea hiking tour explores one of the most distinctive mountain regions of Turkey, travelling from Trabzon and Gümüşhane through the Kaçkar Mountains to Artvin and Macahel. This is a journey shaped by mountains, forests, high plateaus, old settlements and communities that have developed their own ways of living within this demanding landscape.

The programme combines day walks, historical routes and a multi-day mountain section with local accommodation, regional food and time in villages. Rather than moving quickly between famous viewpoints, we use walking to understand the geography and the people who live within it.

Why Explore the Black Sea on Foot?

The Eastern Black Sea changes dramatically over relatively short distances. Deep valleys rise towards high plateaus, forests give way to alpine landscapes, and villages appear on slopes that have connected the coast with the interior for centuries.

Walking allows us to explore places that are difficult to understand from a vehicle alone. Santa and Krom reveal different layers of settlement history, while the Kaçkar Mountains introduce a much higher and more demanding landscape. Further east, Macahel brings us into a humid forest ecosystem close to the Georgian border.

A Flexible & Tailor-Made Black Sea Journey

The itinerary shown on this page is a draft programme and planning framework, not a fixed route that every traveller must follow. We use it to show what can be combined across the Eastern Black Sea, from historic valleys and mountain villages to the Kaçkar Mountains and Macahel.

Your journey can be shortened, extended or reorganised according to your available number of days, travel dates, interests and preferred walking level. You may focus on cultural landscapes and shorter walks, include a multi-day Kaçkar trekking section, spend more time exploring the region’s flora, or combine these elements in one journey.

Tell us how many days you have and what you would most like to experience. We can then design a private, tailor-made Black Sea programme around your time and interests rather than asking you to adapt your journey to the example itinerary.

Black Sea Hiking Tour from Istanbul

For international travellers, Istanbul is a natural starting point for this journey. The standard programme can begin with time in Istanbul before flying to Trabzon and entering the mountains.

If you would like to explore the city in greater depth before travelling east, you can combine this programme with our Istanbul tours and experiences. This creates a strong contrast between one of the world’s great historic cities and the mountain landscapes of the Eastern Black Sea.

Trabzon, Sümela & the Mountains Behind the Coast

Trabzon provides the gateway into the Eastern Black Sea. From here, the journey moves inland towards the mountain valleys and Sümela Monastery before continuing into the highlands.

Sümela occupies a dramatic position above the Altındere Valley. The surviving monastery complex reflects centuries of religious and regional history, particularly from the medieval Empire of Trebizond and later Ottoman periods.

Santa & Krom – Walking Through Black Sea History

The mountain settlements of Santa and Krom form one of the most unusual cultural sections of the journey.

Santa developed as a Greek settlement divided into seven historic neighbourhoods. Stone houses, churches and other structures remain within a high mountain landscape that changed profoundly following the population movements of the early twentieth century.

Krom Valley adds another layer. Historical sources record variations of its name including Krom, Kromni, Korom, Gorom and Kurum. The valley was associated with mining and supported settlements containing churches, stone houses and other structures that still reveal the scale of earlier mountain communities.

Walking in the Footsteps of Xenophon

One of the most intriguing historical themes of the region is the route described by Xenophon in the Anabasis. Xenophon recounts the journey of the Ten Thousand towards the Black Sea and their famous cry of “Thalatta! Thalatta!” when the sea finally came into view.

The precise identification of Xenophon’s route and the location of Mount Theches continue to be discussed. Our walk therefore does not present a modern trail as a proven archaeological route. Instead, we explore landscapes associated with possible interpretations of the journey, combining the ancient text with local geography and historical discussion.

Kaçkar Mountains Trekking – The Mountain Heart of the Journey

The Kaçkar Mountains form the most physically demanding section of this Black Sea hiking tour. Here the character of the programme changes from cultural day walks to a genuine multi-day mountain journey.

Depending on the final itinerary, conditions and participant experience, the programme can include a Trans-Kaçkar section linking high valleys, mountain camps and settlements on different sides of the range.

Participants should not treat this section as an ordinary sightseeing walk. Consecutive trekking days, mountain terrain, changing weather and camping require appropriate fitness, equipment and preparation.

Black Sea Flora – From Colchic Forests to Alpine Landscapes

The botanical diversity of the Eastern Black Sea is one of the strongest reasons to travel slowly through the region. Elevation, rainfall and the transition between coastal, forest, subalpine and alpine environments create very different plant communities during a single journey.

The eastern part of the programme reaches the Colchic landscapes around Artvin and Macahel. Forests, mountain meadows, wetlands and high-elevation habitats make this region particularly interesting for travellers with an interest in botany and natural history.

If plants and habitats are a primary reason for travelling, this journey can also be combined with our Eastern Anatolia Botanical Tour, where the emphasis shifts towards specialist botanical observation across the very different landscapes of Eastern Anatolia.

Macahel & Camili Biosphere Reserve

Macahel, also known as the Camili basin, lies in the far northeast of Turkey near the Georgian border. Its forests, valleys and mountain ecosystems create a very different environment from the drier landscapes found further inland.

Camili has been part of UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves since 2005. The reserve lies within the Colchic sub-region of the Euro-Siberian phytogeographic area and includes the valleys and forests beneath the Karçal Mountains.

Our time here is not only about biodiversity. Walking between villages, forests, waterfalls and old mills also provides an opportunity to meet local people and understand how settlement, agriculture and traditional livelihoods continue within this landscape.

From the Kaçkar Mountains to Mount Ararat

Travellers interested in mountains can extend the journey far beyond the Black Sea. The green and humid Kaçkar landscape provides a remarkable contrast with the high-altitude environment of Mount Ararat in Eastern Anatolia.

For experienced and physically prepared travellers looking for a high-altitude objective, consider continuing with our Mount Ararat Summit Expedition. At 5,137 metres, Mount Ararat requires a different level of preparation, acclimatisation and mountain equipment, so it should be considered a separate expedition rather than simply an additional walking day.

Who Is This Black Sea Hiking Tour For?

This programme is designed for travellers who want more than a conventional regional tour. It works particularly well for people interested in hiking, mountain landscapes, local communities, history, botany and the cultural geography of the Eastern Black Sea.

The complete itinerary includes both moderate walking days and a more demanding multi-day Kaçkar section. We therefore discuss previous hiking experience, fitness and preferred activity level before confirming the final programme.

If you prefer cultural walks and shorter hikes without the full Trans-Kaçkar section, we can redesign the itinerary accordingly.

Best Season for a Black Sea Hiking Tour

Summer is the main season for the complete programme, particularly when the itinerary includes higher sections of the Kaçkar Mountains. However, mountain weather can change quickly and conditions vary according to elevation, route and year.

We do not assume that summer guarantees stable weather. The final walking programme may change according to rain, visibility, snow conditions at higher elevations and local circumstances.

Private & Tailor-Made Black Sea Hiking Tours

The published itinerary provides a framework rather than a fixed package that every traveller must follow. We can adjust the number of days, walking level and regional emphasis according to your interests and available time.

Some travellers may want more mountain trekking. Others may prefer additional time for history, botany, photography, food or village life. We can also discuss shorter versions that concentrate on Trabzon and Gümüşhane, the Kaçkar Mountains or Artvin and Macahel.

Combine the Black Sea with Other Regions of Turkey

The Black Sea works particularly well as part of a longer journey through Turkey. You can begin with Istanbul, continue east through the Black Sea, or extend your journey into Eastern Anatolia.

Mountain travellers can combine the journey with our Mount Ararat Summit Expedition, while travellers interested in plants and natural history can continue with the Eastern Anatolia Botanical Tour.

Accommodation & Local Food on the Black Sea Tour

Accommodation varies according to the section of the journey. We use suitable local hotels, pensions and guesthouses where available, while the multi-day mountain section may require camping.

Food is an important part of travelling through the region. We prefer local meals and regional cooking where practical rather than separating the walking programme from the places and communities through which we travel.

What We Offer on Our Black Sea Hiking Tour

• Professional guiding: Guided walking and cultural interpretation according to the confirmed itinerary.
• Tailor-made planning: The number of days and walking level can be adapted to your group.
• Mountain logistics: Transfers, luggage arrangements and camp logistics according to the confirmed programme.
• Local accommodation: Hotels, pensions and guesthouses selected according to the route.
• Regional food: Local meals and picnic lunches according to the confirmed itinerary.
• History and culture: Sümela, Santa, Krom and other cultural landscapes according to the final route.
• Nature and botany: Forest, highland and alpine environments across the Eastern Black Sea.

Offered Inclusions

Your final proposal will confirm the exact services included. Depending on the itinerary, these may include:

• Accommodation according to the confirmed programme
• Breakfast and dinner where specified
• Picnic or local lunches on walking days where specified
• Main transfers during the programme
• Luggage transfers where applicable
• Professional guiding services
• Mountain camp logistics where required
• Airport transfers included in the confirmed itinerary

Exclusions

Unless specifically included in your confirmed proposal:

• International and domestic flights
• Museum and archaeological site entrance fees
• Transfers requested outside the confirmed itinerary
• Personal trekking and camping equipment unless specifically stated
• Personal expenses, snacks and beverages not included in the programme
• Optional activities and additional services

Equipment for the Black Sea & Kaçkar Mountains

Equipment requirements depend on the version of the programme. Travellers joining cultural walks and day hikes require suitable walking footwear, weather protection and a daypack.

The multi-day Kaçkar section requires additional mountain and camping equipment. We provide a detailed mandatory and recommended equipment list according to the confirmed route and season.

Tell Us About Your Black Sea Travel Plans

Before requesting a tailor-made programme, please send us your proposed travel dates, number of days, number of participants, previous hiking experience and general fitness level. It is also helpful to tell us whether your main interests are hiking, mountains, botany, history, photography, food or local culture.

We can then recommend whether the complete itinerary, a shorter regional journey or a more demanding mountain-focused programme is the best structure for your group.

Professional Guiding & Travel Organisation

Professional guides lead our guided Black Sea programmes. Globe Outdoors Travel, a TÜRSAB-certified travel agency (Document No. A-17542), organises the applicable accommodation, transfers and travel logistics.

Black Sea & Kaçkar Mountains – 14-Day Programme

This is our standard framework for the Black Sea hiking tour. The number of days, walking level and regional focus can be adjusted according to your interests, fitness and available travel dates.

For a tailor-made version, please send us your proposed dates, number of days, number of participants and previous hiking experience.

Day 1 – Arrival in Istanbul

Arrival in Istanbul and transfer to your hotel. Depending on your flight time, the remainder of the day is free for rest or a short introductory walk.

Istanbul provides a natural starting point for the journey before we leave the city and travel towards the mountains of the Eastern Black Sea.

Day 2 – Istanbul: Historic Peninsula, Grand Bazaar & Pera

We spend the day exploring selected parts of Istanbul, beginning in the Historic Peninsula. The programme may include Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and the Grand Bazaar before continuing towards Pera.

Travellers who would like more time in the city can add additional days from our Istanbul tours and experiences before continuing to Trabzon.

Day 3 – Flight to Trabzon, Sümela Monastery & Sarıtaş Plateau

We transfer to Istanbul Airport for the morning flight to Trabzon. After arrival, we continue inland towards the mountains.

On the way, we visit Sümela Monastery, dramatically positioned above the Altındere Valley. After the visit, we continue to Sarıtaş Plateau at approximately 1,700 metres and check into our guesthouse.

Depending on arrival time, weather and participant energy, an optional short walk towards Karakaban Hill may be possible before dinner. Those who prefer can remain at the guesthouse and rest.

Day 4 – Santa Valley & Historic Mountain Settlements

After a short transfer, we begin walking through the Santa landscape. The historic settlement consists of seven neighbourhoods containing stone houses, churches and other structures within a high mountain environment.

The walk combines natural landscape with the social history of the Eastern Black Sea. We stop for lunch during the day and return to our guesthouse in Sarıtaş for dinner and overnight accommodation.

Day 5 – Krom Valley, Historic Settlements & Imera

Today we explore the Krom Valley, an archaeological and cultural landscape associated with historic mining communities and former Greek settlements.

Different historical sources record the area under names including Krom, Kromni, Korom, Gorom and Kurum. Churches, stone houses and other structures survive across the valley and provide evidence of its former settlement pattern.

Our walk explores selected parts of the valley before continuing towards Imera and the surrounding historical landscape.

Day 6 – In the Landscape of Xenophon’s Anabasis

We begin from the highlands around Kovlagöz and explore a route associated with interpretations of Xenophon’s Anabasis and the journey of the Ten Thousand towards the Black Sea.

The exact route followed by Xenophon and the identification of Mount Theches remain subjects of historical discussion. We therefore approach today’s walk as an exploration of a possible historical landscape rather than presenting it as a conclusively identified ancient trail.

Weather and visibility permitting, the high ground also provides extensive views across the surrounding mountains.

Days 7–11 – Trans-Kaçkar Mountain Journey

We transfer from the Trabzon region towards the Kaçkar Mountains and begin the mountain section of the programme.

This part of the journey involves several consecutive trekking days through high valleys, mountain terrain and changing environments. Depending on the confirmed route, accommodation may combine guesthouses with mountain camps.

Main luggage can be transferred separately according to the final itinerary, while participants carry the personal clothing, food, water and equipment required during each trekking stage.

The exact Trans-Kaçkar route, camps and daily distances will be confirmed according to the chosen itinerary, group experience, mountain conditions and season. Participants joining this section require suitable fitness and appropriate trekking and camping equipment.

At the end of the mountain crossing, we continue towards Artvin and the Macahel region.

Days 12–13 – Macahel & Camili Biosphere Reserve

Our final major region is Macahel, or the Camili basin, near the Georgian border in Artvin. Camili has been part of UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves since 2005 and contains an exceptional combination of Colchic forests, mountain valleys and village landscapes.

We explore the region on foot with local hosts where appropriate. Walks may follow forest roads and village paths, passing streams, waterfalls, traditional houses and old mills.

These two days are deliberately different from the high-mountain section. The emphasis shifts towards forests, biodiversity, village life and the relationship between local communities and the landscape.

Day 14 – Macahel to Rize-Artvin Airport & Istanbul

After breakfast, we leave Macahel and transfer towards Rize-Artvin Airport according to the flight schedule.

Depending on timing and the confirmed route, we may stop along the Black Sea coast before continuing to the airport for the flight to Istanbul.

The standard programme ends with the return flight to Istanbul. Additional nights in Istanbul can be arranged according to your international departure schedule.

Extend Your Black Sea Journey

The journey does not have to end at the Black Sea. Travellers interested in high mountains can continue into Eastern Anatolia and consider our Mount Ararat Summit Expedition.

For travellers whose main interest is flora, habitats and natural history, the programme can instead connect with our Eastern Anatolia Botanical Tour.

Important Programme Note

This itinerary is a framework for a private and tailor-made journey. Walking routes, transfers and mountain stages may change according to weather, trail conditions, accommodation availability and participant fitness.

The Trans-Kaçkar section requires a higher level of preparation than the cultural walks during the first part of the programme. We will provide the final route, daily distances, accommodation or camp arrangements and equipment requirements before confirming the journey.

Participation Limitations: To ensure a comfortable and efficient experience, the number of participants is limited. Please consider this when planning your trip.

Pre-Booking Options: Pre-booking is available for participants arriving before or after the program dates to help with accommodation and logistics.

Arrival and Departure Information: We recommend sharing your arrival and departure details (dates and times) with our team in advance. This information is necessary to arrange transfers to the city center or airport.

Optional Transfers: For participants who wish to stop the program at a certain point during the day, optional transfers can be arranged at a suitable location. Please note that this incurs an additional cost to be covered by the participant.

Clothing and Equipment: A detailed list of mandatory and optional clothing and equipment will be provided separately before the program.

Health Conditions: Participants with allergies or chronic conditions are required to inform our team during registration to ensure proper precautions are taken. This activity is not recommended for individuals with conditions such as high blood pressure, asthma, rheumatism, or epilepsy, as it may be difficult to manage emergencies in nature. Please consult with our team in advance if you have concerns.

Route and Weather Conditions: Mandatory route changes may occur due to weather conditions, such as heavy rain, strong winds, or storms. Final decisions will be made by the guide, and participants are expected to comply with these changes, including modifications to boat tours.

Cancellation and Refund Policy: Due to the limited availability of accommodations in local and remote areas. Many of the lodgings we work with are small, family-run businesses with only a few rooms, making it difficult to cancel or rebook. To secure your spot, a deposit is required at the time of booking. This deposit is non-refundable, except in cases of force majeure. However, if the program is cancelled by us, the full pre-payment will be refunded.

All programs are conducted by TUREB-licensed guides and arranged by TÜRSAB-certified agency Globe Outdoors Travel (TÜRSAB Document No. A-17542)