Guided Sapanca Lake Mahmudiye and Masukiye Tour with Cable Car

Our review of the Guided Sapanca Lake Mahmudiye and Masukiye Tour with Cable Car offers a detailed look into a popular full-day excursion from Istanbul. Priced at around $17.20 per person, this 13-hour journey promises a taste of Turkey’s lush landscapes, waterfalls, wildlife parks, and adrenaline-pumping activities—all led by passionate local guides. The tour not only provides a great way to escape the city’s hustle but also packs in enough variety to keep even the most diverse travelers engaged.

What truly stands out in this tour is the attention to natural beauty and interactive experiences. For starters, the visit to Faruk Yalcin Zoo is a highlight, especially noted for its well-maintained, spacious enclosures and a chance to see endangered species like the spectacled penguin or Indian python. Many reviews praise the tour’s professional, English-speaking guides—such as Apo—who are commended for their warm, informative guidance and ability to make the day smooth despite a busy schedule. The scenic cable car ride over Sapanca Lake provides another memorable moment, offering visitors breathtaking views of the second-largest lake in the Marmara region.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the itinerary is tightly packed. If you’re hoping for ample leisure time, particularly at attractions like the teleferik (cable car) or Masukiye waterfalls, the tour’s 45-minute slot might feel somewhat rushed, especially when factoring in the ticket costs not included in the initial price. Plus, some reviews mention that certain activities—like ziplining—are additional costs, which could add up depending on your enthusiasm for adventure sports.

This tour offers excellent value given its price, especially considering the diversity of stops, the quality of guiding, and the scenic nature experiences. It’s a compelling choice for those who want an active, engaging day out and don’t mind a full schedule.

Key Points

• Value-packed experience: At just over $17, this tour combines a variety of sights and activities, making it a budget-friendly option for nature lovers.
• Knowledgeable guides: Many travelers highlight guides like Apo for their friendly, informative assistance, enhancing the overall experience.
• Diverse attractions: From wildlife at Faruk Yalcin Zoo to waterfalls at Mahmudiyie and Masukiye, the itinerary offers a wide shot of the region’s natural beauty.
• Activities with extra costs: Ziplining and cable car rides are not included in the base price and can elevate the cost if you want to participate.
• Packed schedule: The itinerary is quite full, meaning limited time at each stop, which suits active travelers but might frustrate those seeking more relaxation.
• Authentic local food: The traditional lunch in Mahmudiyie is noted as satisfying and adds a genuine touch to the trip.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Tour

Starting Point – Istanbul Pickup and Comfort

The tour begins early at 9:00 am with pickup from central Istanbul, with modern, air-conditioned transportation. The small group size—up to 25 travelers—helps keep the experience intimate, allowing for easy conversation and personalized attention. Reviewers mention that the bus is quite comfortable, and the guides do a good job explaining what to expect.

First Stop – Faruk Yalcin Zoo

Your first encounter is at the Faruk Yalcin Zoo, where the landscape is well-kept, and animals roam in spacious enclosures. Over 200 species are housed here, including rare species like the Indian python and spectacled penguin. Visitors find the zoo to be very well manicured, with lush landscaping, which makes for excellent photos, especially if you’re a nature or animal enthusiast. Admission isn’t included, so be prepared for the entry fee, but many consider it worth it given the quality of the zoo.

Second Stop – Mahmudiyie Village

Next, you’ll visit the charming village of Mahmudiyie, a peaceful spot with a river and waterfalls. Here, you can take in the tranquility and take some beautiful photos. A traditional local restaurant provides a generous lunch featuring mixed grilled meats and fresh salads, often praised for its quality and authenticity. Visitors appreciate that this stop offers a genuine taste of local cuisine and rural life.

Zipline Adventure at Sopeli

After lunch, there’s a 30-minute zipline experience at Sopeli extreme park, with spectacular waterfall views. The zipline costs extra (~350 TL), and while some travelers find it worth the thrill, others note that additional costs can add up quickly. It’s a great option for adventure seekers looking to add some adrenaline to their day.

Masukiye and Waterfalls

The tour then moves to the area of Masukiye, famous for its waterfalls and lush surroundings. Visitors can drive ATV safaris, try the gigantic swing, or simply enjoy the scenery. The stop lasts about two hours, providing enough time for photos, light exploration, or adrenaline-pumping activities—though again, some activities are free, and others require extra tickets.

Sapanca Teleferik (Cable Car)

One of the highlights is the Sapanca Teleferik—a 25-minute cable car ride offering sweeping views of the lake and the surrounding forests. The ticket isn’t included in the basic price, costing around 500 TL. Many travelers find this worthwhile, as it provides a different perspective on the stunning landscape, but be aware that the time at the top is limited to about 20 minutes for pictures and enjoying the scenery.

Sapanca Lake

The trip concludes at Sapanca Lake, Turkey’s second-largest freshwater lake in Marmara. The scenic beauty here makes it a perfect spot for photos, with tranquil waters and scenic vistas. Visitors typically spend around 45 minutes enjoying the peaceful environment and capturing memories before heading back.

Local Treats at Safranbolu Lokumcusu

For a sweet finish, the tour stops at Safranbolu Lokumcusu, where you can sample local Turkish delights and other treats. Many find this a delightful way to end the day and indulge in essential Turkish flavors.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for active travelers who enjoy a mix of wildlife, scenic views, and adventure activities. It’s excellent for families, thanks to the zoo and the variety of options for kids, as well as for couples or groups looking to escape the city for a day of natural beauty. The small-group format and professional guidance make it suitable for first-timers and those unfamiliar with the region.

If you’re a person who prefers a more relaxed, unstructured day, or if your main goal is to take your time at each spot, you might find this tour a bit rushed. Also, be prepared for extra costs if you want to partake in ziplining or cable car rides, which can significantly increase your total expense.

Tips for Making the Most of the Tour

• Bring comfortable shoes—there’s a lot of walking and outdoor exploring.
• Plan for extra expenses at zipline or cable car venues if interested.
• Check the weather—good weather means better views and photo opportunities, especially for the cable car and waterfalls.
• Review the itinerary carefully to see if you’re comfortable with the schedule and rush through some stops.

Summary

The Guided Sapanca Lake Mahmudiye and Masukiye Tour offers a balanced blend of nature, wildlife, adventure, and local flavor at a very reasonable price. Many travelers rave that the guides are knowledgeable, and the scenery is stunning, especially the cable car over Sapanca Lake and the waterfalls near Masukiye. The inclusion of a traditional Turkish lunch adds a meaningful cultural touch to the day.

While the itinerary is tight and activity-heavy, this means you get a full experience in a single day. The main caveats are the additional costs for activities like ziplining and cable car rides, which, if you choose to do all, can increase the total expense. That said, for a roughly $17 base price, the value you get—diverse sights, engaging guides, and the chance to see some of Turkey’s most beautiful natural spots—is hard to beat.

For those looking for a fun, active day outside Istanbul, with enough variety to keep everyone interested, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially suited for families, adventure lovers, and anyone eager to glimpse Turkey’s lush countryside without breaking the bank.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a guided service, and a traditional lunch with soft drinks. The main stops are pre-scheduled, and guide assistance helps navigate the day.

Are the activities like ziplining and cable car rides included?
No, these are extra. Ziplining costs approximately 350 TL per person, and the cable car ticket is about 500 TL per person. You can choose to participate or skip these.

What is the pickup and drop-off process?
The tour starts at 9:00 am with pickup from a central meeting point in Istanbul. It ends back at the same point, making logistics straightforward.

How long is each stop?
Most stops range from 30 minutes to 2 hours. The zoo and the waterfalls get about an hour each, while Sapanca Lake and the waterfall area allow for a bit more relaxed exploration.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the zoo and waterfalls can be enjoyable for families. The extreme activities like ziplining are optional and may not be suitable for very young children.

How should I prepare for the day?
Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sun protection or rain gear depending on the weather. Carry some cash for activities or extras not included, and stay hydrated.

Can I take photos during the cable car ride?
Absolutely. The cable car offers fantastic panoramic views that are perfect for photos, so don’t forget your camera or smartphone.

Is entrance fee to the zoo included?
No, the zoo’s entrance fee is not included. Be prepared for the ticket cost if you decide to visit.

What’s the best time of year to do this tour?
Since the sites are beautiful in every season, you might find spring and fall especially pleasant for weather and scenery, but the lakes and waterfalls are enjoyable year-round.

What are the main downsides?
The day’s schedule is quite packed, limiting free time at each stop. Also, additional costs for ziplining and cable car rides can add up if you’re interested in those activities.

In closing, this tour offers a well-rounded slice of Turkey’s natural beauty and outdoor fun, with a good price point, friendly guides, and scenic highlights. It’s perfect for travelers eager to explore beyond Istanbul’s urban borders while enjoying a lively, activity-filled day.