The Wonders of Mystical Turkey
Western Turkey October 21 to November 4
Eastern Turkey November 4 to November 14

Embark on a transformational journey through the rich cultural and spiritual landscapes of western Turkey, celebrating history, mystery, and renewal. From the iconic city of Istanbul—where East meets West—to the mystical valleys of Cappadocia, this immersive experience traces ancient paths through some of the most sacred and storied sites of antiquity.

Explore legendary places like Troy, Pergamon, Ephesus, and the surreal terraces of Pamukkale, as well as lesser-known gems like Catalhoyuk, Sultanhani Caravansary, and Konya, the resting place of the great mystic poet Rumi. Cross over to the Greek island of Samos for a visit to the caves where Pythagoras lived and taught. Enjoy a full-day 12-island boat cruise, wander through vibrant historical towns, and take part in reflective practices designed to harmonize all aspects of ourselves. With expert local guides, carefully selected accommodations, and insights from the Rosicrucian teachings presented by Grand Master Julie Scott, this tour is a living experience of cultural discovery and personal transformation.

You will have the option of continuing your journey through Eastern Turkey, where ancient history, sacred landscapes, and living traditions intertwine. This Eastern Turkey Extension explores the region’s lesser-known yet profoundly significant heritage sites, including Neolithic temples, Biblical mountains, Silk Road cities, and Armenian cathedrals.

Begin with a breathtaking sunset atop Mount Nemrut, where colossal stone heads guard the tomb-sanctuary of an ancient king. Continue to Sanliurfa, home to the Pool of Abraham and the world-changing archaeological site of Göbekli Tepe, the oldest known temple complex on Earth. Journey on to Mardin and Midyat, where you’ll explore historic bazaars and the ancient Saffron Monastery, built on the site of an ancient sun temple.

Travel across dramatic mountain passes through Batman and Bitlis to Tatvan and Lake Van, where you’ll visit the magnificent Akdamar Island Church and explore the Urartian and Seljuk legacies in the region. Witness the grandeur of Ishak Pasha Palace, nestled beneath Mount Ararat, and stand in awe at Ani, the ruined Armenian capital, once a city of unmatched medieval splendor, concluding your adventure in Kars.

Together we will experience a profound immersion into Turkey’s ancient eastern soul—perfect for seekers, scholars, and anyone captivated by the origins of civilization and sacred heritage. We will journey back in time, through myth, and the spirit of humanity’s earliest stories.

Here is the itinerary:

Western Turkey October 21 November 4, 2025

Day 1: Arrival in Istanbul October 21, 2025

Welcome to Turkey! Upon your arrival in Istanbul, you’ll be greeted and transferred to our hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax or explore the vibrant city at your leisure.
Overnight in Istanbul.

 

Day 2: Classic Istanbul Tour October 22, 2025

This morning we will explore the only city that spans two continents on a fully guided tour of Istanbul. Highlights will include the Blue Mosque, St. Sophia Museum, Topkapi Palace (with Hagia Irene and the Harem), the Hippodrome all UNESCO World Heritage Sites - as well as the Basilica Cistern.
Overnight in Istanbul. (B, L)

 

Day 3: Troy & Troy Museum October 23, 2025

Today we will step back in time by exploring Troy, the legendary city of the Iliad, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We’ll also visit the new award-winning Troya Museum, showcasing thousands of years of Anatolian history.
Overnight in Canakkale. (B, L, D)

 

Day 4: Pergamon & Asklepion October 24, 2025

We will depart early for Pergamon, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, where we will explore the remarkable Acropolis, with its impressive views, and the Asklepion, the ancient healing center dedicated to Asclepius, where we will have a special healing meditation.
Overnight in Kusadasi. (B, L, D)

 

Day 5: Ephesus & Sirince October 25, 2025

Today we will walk through the ancient city of Ephesus, which was important in Hellenistic, Roman, and early Christian times, with its stunning Library of Celsus, Temple of Artemis, and Grand Amphitheater. Then we will visit a traditional carpet-weaving village, before continuing  on to the quaint village of Sirince.
Overnight in Kusadasi. (B, L, D)

 

Day 6: Excursion to Samos October 26, 2025

This morning we will board a ferry to the Greek island of Samos the birthplace of Pythagoras where we will visit the Cave of Pythagoras for a special meditation honoring this philosopher who so greatly influenced the Rosicrucian teachings. We’ll also enjoy free time in town before returning to Kusadasi by ferry.
Overnight in Kusadasi. (B, L, D)

 

Day 7: Aphrodisias October 27, 2025

Today we will visit Aphrodisias, the ancient city dedicated to the goddess of love and beauty, Aphrodite. It was also renowned for its sculpture school. Here we will tour the stadium, Tetrapylon (the monumental entrance to the sanctuary of Aphrodite), temple, theater, and museum. We will then continue on to Pamukkale.
Overnight in Pamukkale. (B, L, D)

 

Day 8: Hierapolis & Salda Lake October 28, 2025

This morning we will explore the magnificent white calcium terraces, known as travertines, in Pamukkale. We will also visit the ruins of Hierapolis the ancient Roman spa city founded around 190 BCE. Here we can take a dip in the hot springs that were used in Roman times for their therapeutic powers. Then, we will visit the pristine mountain lake called Salda Lake, before heading south.
Overnight in Fethiye. (B,L)

 

Day 9: 12-Island Boat Tour October 29, 2025

Today we will enjoy a full-day cruise in the turquoise waters around the stunning bays and islands off the coast of Fethiye. We can relax on deck, enjoying the views and keeping an eye out for dolphins and sea turtles.
Overnight in Fethiye. (B, L)

 

Day 10: Antalya & Drive to Konya October 30, 2025

Early this morning we will depart Fethiye to head to Antalya for a seaside lunch and a stroll through Kaleiçi, the old town. We will then continue our journey to Konya, a city rich in spiritual and historical significance.
Overnight in Konya. (B, L, D)

 

Day 11: Konya & Sille October 31, 2025

Today we will visit the mausoleum of the beloved Sufi poet, Rumi (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and its accompanying Mevlana Museum. Then we will continue along the ancient Silk Road visiting the former Greek village of Sille. In the evening, we will attend a Whirling Dervish Ceremony at the Konya Culture Center.
Overnight in Konya. (B, L, D)

 

Day 12: Catalhoyuk November 1, 2025

This morning we will drive to the Neolithic site of Çatalhöyük, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where we will discover ancient dwellings, murals, and artifacts revealing one of the world’s earliest urban settlements. We will return to Konya in the afternoon, allowing time to relax or to enjoy Konya’s local culture.
Overnight in Konya. (B, L, D)

 

Day 13: Cappadocia, Caravansary, & Underground City November 2, 2025

Today we will travel to Cappadocia, stopping on the way at the Sultanhani Caravansary, an ancient Silk Road stop for merchants and traders. This afternoon we will explore some of the many levels of Cappadocia’s famous underground city. This evening we will visit a traditional Turkish home for dinner.
Overnight in Cappadocia. (B, L, D)

 

Day 14: Goreme & Valleys of Cappadocia November 3, 2025

This morning we will visit the Goreme Open-Air Museum (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) with its rock-cut Byzantine churches, chapels, and monastery, as well as the fairy chimneys. Then we will visit Pigeon Valley and Red Valley, followed by a stop in the village of Cavusin, where Christian hermits carved out places where they could pray and live, beginning in the third century. We will end the day in Avanos, learning about traditional pottery-making.

Overnight in Cappadocia. (B, L, D)


November 4, 2025 - For those not continuing on to Eastern Turkey, we wish you safe travels home!

Tour Includes:

Airport transfer upon arrival, motorcoach transportation, professional guide, 14 nights’ accommodation, 13 breakfasts, 13 lunches, 10 dinners, all entrance fees, ferry tickets to and from Samos, and a full-day Fethiye boat cruise.

Hotels:

Istanbul - Port Bosphorous Hotel

Canakkale - Parion Hotel

Kusadasi - Grand Belish Hotel

Pamukkale - Adempira Thermal Hotel

Fethiye - Alesta Yacht Hotel

Konya - Bayir Diamond Hotel

Cappadocia - Melekler Evi Cave Hotel

Tour Excludes:

International flights to and from Turkey, domestic flight from Cappadocia (this part of the tour ends in Cappadocia), optional activities, tips, passport, visa, and travel insurance, which is required.

Please note: This itinerary is subject to change and any changes made will be to enhance your experience!

 

Eastern Turkey November 4 14, 2025 

Day 15 November 4, 2025: Adiyaman & Mount Nemrut

Departing early from Cappadocia, we will travel through the landscapes of Kahramanmaraş en route to Adiyaman. In the evening, we will ascend the summit of Mount Nemrut (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), one of the most awe-inspiring archaeological sites in Turkey. At sunset, we will marvel at the colossal stone heads and the Tumulus of Antiochos, a royal tomb sanctuary of the Commagene Kingdom, which had been concealed in time for almost two millennia.
Overnight in Adiyaman (B, L, D)

 

Day 16 November 5, 2025: Harran & Sanliurfa

After breakfast, we will journey to Sanliurfa, passing the impressive Ataturk Dam and Harran, a city known for its unique beehive-shaped mudbrick houses and ancient city walls. In Sanliurfa, we will visit the revered Holy Pools of Abraham and the sacred cave believed to be the birthplace of the Prophet Abraham.
Overnight in Sanliurfa (B, L, D)

 

Day 17 November 6, 2025: Göbekli Tepe & Sanliurfa Museums

Today we will explore the most significant archaeological site of our time  Göbekli Tepe (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the oldest known temple complex in the world, dating back 11,000–13,000 years, predating human advancements like pottery and writing and the Great Pyramid and Stonehenge. This groundbreaking site is reshaping our understanding of early human civilization. In the afternoon, we will visit the Haleplibahce Mosaic Museum, Kızılkoyun Necropolis, and the Sanliurfa Archaeology Museum, offering deep insight into the region’s ancient past.
Overnight in Sanliurfa (B, L, D)

 

Day 18 November 7, 2025: Zerzevan Castle, Saffron Monastery & Dara

This morning we will visit Zerzevan Castle with its 1,900 year old Mithraic Temple one of the best preserved Mithraeums in the world and only discovered in 2017. Then we will visit Ceir Al-Zafaran (Saffron Monastery), a spiritual site that once served as the center of the Syriac Christian Patriarchate, built atop a pre-Christian sun temple from 1000 BCE. We will also visit Dara, which was an important fortress, located in northern Mesopotamia.
Overnight in Mardin (B, L, D)

 

Day 19 November 8, 2025: Midyat & Diyarbakir

This morning we will travel to Midyat to explore its famous Silver Bazaar. Then we will visit the beautiful Kasimiye Medrese, a historic religious school with remarkable architecture. Next we will travel to Diyarbakir where we will visit the Ten Arches (Dicle) Bridge spanning the majestic Tigris River. Completed in the year 1065, this historical bridge stands as a testament to ancient engineering.
Overnight in Diyarbakir (B, L, D)

 

Day 20 November 9, 2025: Bitlis & Tatvan

We will start our day exploring Diyarbakir, beginning with a visit to the Ulu Cami, with both a mosque and a church. Then our journey takes us through the picturesque Bitlis Gorge on the way to Tatvan, a lakeside town on the shores of Lake Van.
Overnight in Tatvan (B, L, D)

 

Day 21 November 10, 2025: Tatvan & Van

This morning we will visit the Seljuk monuments of Ahlat, one of the most important historical cemeteries in Turkey, offering insights into medieval Turkic architecture and burial traditions. Then we will continue to Van, where we will shift to explore Eastern Anatolia’s Armenian and Urartian legacy.
Overnight in Van (B, L)

 

Day 22 November 11, 2025: Akdamar Island & Van

After breakfast, we will take a ferry across Lake Van to visit Akdamar Island, home to a stunning tenth-century Armenian church. In the afternoon, we will tour the Urartu Museum, the world’s largest collection dedicated to the Urartian civilization. The Urartians were a powerful civilization that thrived in this area from the ninth to eighth centuries BCE, known for their highly developed architecture and organized government. Then we will visit the Van Cat House, where we’ll meet the rare and beloved “swimming cats” of Van.
Overnight in Van (B, L)

 

Day 23 November 12, 2025: Ishak Pasha Palace & Mount Ararat

Today we will depart for Doğubayazıt, stopping at Bendimahi Falls and Muradiye. In Doğubayazıt , we will visit the breathtaking Ishak Pasha Palace (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), a fusion of Ottoman, Seljuk, Persian, and Armenian architecture. Then we will continue our journey along the western edge of Mount Ararat, one of the region’s most iconic natural landmarks, often associated with the Biblical story of Noah’s Ark.
Overnight in Kars (B, L)



Day 24 - November 13, 2025: Ani & Kars

This morning we will explore the hauntingly beautiful ruins of Ani, the former capital of the Armenian kingdom, once a bustling metropolis known as “the city of 1,001 churches.” We will visit the Cathedral of Ani, Church of St. Gregory, the citadel, and remnants of ancient frescoes. In the afternoon, we will return to Kars to visit the Church of the Twelve Apostles and Kars Castle. Tonight we will enjoy our farewell dinner together, where we will say “until we meet again” to friends, old and new. Our tour concludes this evening.
Overnight in Kars (B, L, D)

November 14, 2025: Wishing you a wonderful travel day home!

 

Tour Includes:

Motorcoach transportation, professional guide, 10 nights’ accommodation, 10 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 8 dinners, and all entrance fees.

Hotels:

Adiyaman - Nemrut Euphrat Hotel

Sanliurfa - Tessera Hotel

Mardin - Midyat Royal Hotel

Diyarbakir - New Garden Hotel

Tatvan - Hotel Kardelen

Van - Ramada Van

Kars - Katerina Sarayi

Tour Excludes:

International flights to and from Turkey and domestic flight from Kars (the tour ends in Kars), optional activities, tips, passport, visa, and travel insurance, which is required.

Please note: This itinerary is subject to change and any changes made will be to enhance your experience!


COST AND LOGISTICS

Western and Eastern Turkey (October 21 to November 14):
$7,500 per person double occupancy 
Single Supplement - $1,700

Western Turkey Only (October 21 to November 4):
$4,000 per person double occupancy 
Single Supplement - $1,000
 
Eastern Turkey Only (November 4 to November 14)
$3,500 per person double occupancy  
Single Supplement $700

$1,500 per person non-refundable deposit confirms registration.

Last Day to Register is June 1, 2025


Final payment is due on August 15, 2025
 
CANCELLATION POLICY 

The $1,500 deposit is non-refundable, although it is transferable.

Cancellations received by August 15, 2025 will be refunded less the $1,500 deposit. 

Cancellations received after August 15, 2025 cannot be refunded.  
 
  • Per Person Double Occupancy

  • Single Occupancy

  • Per Person Double Occupancy

  • Single Occupancy

  • Per Person Double Occupancy

  • Single Occupancy


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I, being 18 years of age or older, do hereby release, forever discharge and agree to hold harmless the Grand Lodge of the English Language Jurisdiction of the AMORC and the Supreme Grand Lodge of AMORC and the directors, officers, employees and agents thereof from any and all liability, claims or demands for personal injury, sickness or death, as well as property damages and expenses, of any nature whatsoever which may be incurred by the undersigned that occur while participating in the above described trip or activity.

Furthermore, I hereby assume all risk of personal injury, sickness, death, damage and expense as a result of participation in any and all activities involved therein.

Further, authorization and permission is given to said trip and travel organizers to furnish and hereby release liability of transportation, food and lodging for this participant.

The undersigned further hereby agrees to hold harmless and indemnify said organization(s), its directors, officers, employees and agents, for any liability sustained by them as the result of negligent, willful or intentional acts of the undersigned participant, including expenses incurred attendant thereto.

Further, should it become necessary for the undersigned participant to return home due to medical reasons, disciplinary action or otherwise, the undersigned participant hereby assumes all transportation costs.

I have read the above and understand the rules of conduct applicable to the trip, and will fully abide by them, as well as all additional instructions of the leadership of this trip, and activity directors.


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