How do you want to travel?

MOTORCYCLE TOURS
OFFROAD TOURS
SAFARI
Three motorcyclists riding a dirt track through a green forested mountain valley

MOTORCYCLE-TRIPS · TURKEY 

Motorcycle trip East Anatolia along the Turkish Silk Road

Experience an unforgettable motorcycle trip through Eastern Anatolia, from Antalya to Mesopotamia. Discover the rugged Black Sea coast, ancient archaeological sites, steep gorges, and endless steppes away from mass tourism.

How long? 15 Days
When? Jul 16, 2027
Price € 4,529 / Person

The Journey

Discover the hidden treasures of Turkey on two wheels

A motorcycle trip awaits you that recalls Karl May stories. Trabzon, on the Black Sea coast of Turkey, is our starting point. The rugged, spectacular Black Sea coast strewn with remnants of cultures and empires, dizzying curves, many different landscapes, rugged gorges, and endless steppes - offers everything one needs for a diverse motorcycle tour, far from mass tourism.

Motorcyclist riding a paved mountain road above a blue lake in arid highlands Enduro motorcyclist on a rocky ridge trail overlooking island-studded coastal waters Hot air balloons above the fairy chimney rock formations of Cappadocia Motorcyclists on a mountain pass road with a snow capped volcanic peak beyond A river canyon cutting through green highland plateau with rounded hills Motorcycle trip East Anatolia along the Turkish Silk Road
Key Highlights of the Trip

Key Highlights of the Trip

01 Adventures on the Black Sea Coast
01
Adventures on the Black Sea Coast
Explore the rugged Black Sea coast, which is popular among motorcyclists.
02 Discover Sümela Monastery
02
Discover Sümela Monastery
Visit the impressive Sümela Monastery, an architectural masterpiece in the mountains.
03 Explore the Euphrates River
03
Explore the Euphrates River
Drive along the Euphrates, one of the oldest rivers in the world, and enjoy the view.
04 Nemrut Mountain - Cultural Highlight
04
Nemrut Mountain - Cultural Highlight
Climb the impressive Nemrut Dagi and experience the monumental stone heads of ancient times.
05 Cultural encounters in Mardin
05
Cultural encounters in Mardin
In Mardin and Midyat, you dive into the fascinating mix of Oriental culture and history. Stroll through the old town and explore the traditional bazaar. Get to know the local cuisine and enjoy locally produced delicacies in a charming restaurant. This journey takes you through the breathtaking steppe landscapes and gives you a deep insight into the regional culture and the heritage of ancient civilizations.
Motorcycle Tours
Days 1-15
Enduro motorcyclist on a rocky ridge trail overlooking island-studded coastal waters
Arrival in Trabzon

Arrival in Trabzon

Warm welcome - Welcome Upon arrival at the airport of the provincial capital Trabzon, you will be personally greeted by us. The drive to the hotel takes about 20 minutes, where the motorcycles are already waiting. We will use the rest of the day to explore Trabzon with historical places that tell a 3000-year history. During a cozy dinner, we will discuss the program.

Enduro motorcyclist on a rocky ridge trail overlooking island-studded coastal waters
Trabzon - Erzincan (approx. 250km)

Trabzon - Erzincan (approx. 250km)

To start this motorcycle trip, there is a cozy ride where you can get used to the motorcycle, heading to the Sümela Monastery (a Greek Orthodox monastery with historical architecture. We continue with a short ride on a highway, before we reach the green forests of the mountain world on the Black Sea coast, which offers us an almost tropical vegetation. Riding a motorcycle in the mountains is really fun, as we go through one curve after another on a little-traveled road. At 2050 meters above sea level, there is delicious Turkish lamb chop for lunch. The landscape increasingly transforms into a hilly steppe and we reach the city of Erzincan in the Anatolian highlands.

Enduro motorcyclist on a rocky ridge trail overlooking island-studded coastal waters
Erzincan - Malatya (approx. 300km)

Erzincan - Malatya (approx. 300km)

It goes briefly through the traffic of the city before we return to the lonely roads of the Anatolian plateau. Today, we pass through changing landscapes to the Euphrates River, one of the most important rivers and the longest river in the Middle East. In the late afternoon, we reach the city of Malatya, which is the apricot capital of Turkey. We explore the city, which offers us an atmosphere of the modern Orient.

Enduro motorcyclist on a rocky ridge trail overlooking island-studded coastal waters
Malatya - Kahta (approx. 250km)

Malatya - Kahta (approx. 250km)

We show the enduros what they were designed for. The day full of culture and nature begins on flat hilly land and the ride continues on a winding, adventurously paved path. The somewhat strenuous stage is rewarded with a fantastic view from the mountain peak at 2150 meters above sea level, of the largest and longest river and reservoir in Turkey. After a short hike, we reach Nemrut Dagi, the largest burial mound in the world and the monster stone heads. Here we see monumental graves and statues, including a statue of Antiochos (a king who ruled this region before Christ) and a statue of the Greek god Zeus. On the way back, we have another opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking panorama while we drive to our hotel in the city of Kahte.

Enduro motorcyclist on a rocky ridge trail overlooking island-studded coastal waters
Kahta - Mardin / Midyat (approx. 260km)

Kahta - Mardin / Midyat (approx. 260km)

We leave the small town and drive again through the mountains, along the Atatürk Dam. This is the reservoir we saw yesterday. We cross the reservoir on a ferry boat and reach the plain of the culture of ancient Mesopotamia. A small tour of the bazaar in Mardin gives us the feeling of being right in the Orient. We get to know the famous cuisine of Mardin in a delicatessen restaurant. We continue through the hilly steppe landscape to the city of Midyat, where we end our drive today in a boutique hotel.

Enduro motorcyclist on a rocky ridge trail overlooking island-studded coastal waters
Mardin / Midyat - Tatvan (approx. 250km)

Mardin / Midyat - Tatvan (approx. 250km)

Today we will ride on motorcycles through wind-swept hilly steppes and rugged rocky landscapes, until we reach the city of Hasankey, which is located in the rocks above the Tigris River and represents a kind of mini-Cappadocia. Part of the route runs along the Tigris and then through a hilly high plateau. In the almost untouched landscape of Lake Van (the largest lake in Turkey) lies the small town of Tatvan, our destination for today.

Enduro motorcyclist on a rocky ridge trail overlooking island-studded coastal waters
Tatvan - Van (approx. 200km)

Tatvan - Van (approx. 200km)

A new day with many impressions dawns. Accompanied by an unforgettable sweet scent from the wild flora of the region, fruits, and vines, we drive on an unpaved road for about 45 km to the crater lake of Nemrut Dag, which lies at an altitude of 3050 meters. Here we have a breathtaking view of a large body of water surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Taking a detour from the lakeside road of Lake Van, we come to the best-preserved Seljuk tombs, where we gain insight into the history of the Crusades, in which this region was also an important battleground. Further along the well-developed coastal road, we reach Akdamar. Here we park the motorcycles and take a boat for about 3 hours to the Holy Cross Church located on an island in the lake. Late in the afternoon, we reach the city of Van, where our hotel for the day is located.

Enduro motorcyclist on a rocky ridge trail overlooking island-studded coastal waters
Van - Igdir (approx. 260km)

Van - Igdir (approx. 260km)

Today the tour starts later, which gives us more time to enjoy Van's famous breakfast. Our route today takes us away from Turkey's largest lake, toward Ararat, the highest mountain in Anatolia. The landscape is nearly untouched and enchanting, and the view of Ararat leads us to a unique complex of castle, palace, and mosque, called Isak-Pasha. We step into religious history, for according to legend, Noah's Ark is located in the Ararat region. To see this region and the panorama, we take a detour of about 7 km on an unpaved road through villages, before we reach the provincial capital Igdir in the evening.

Tour expert

Questions about the tour itinerary?

Our tour guide is happy to answer any questions about the day-by-day route, stops, and details.

Enduro motorcyclist on a rocky ridge trail overlooking island-studded coastal waters
Igdir - Kars (approx. 190km)

Igdir - Kars (approx. 190km)

We are heading towards the 5127-meter-high Ararat, while the fascinating views along the well-developed road increase. Parallel to the border with Armenia, the route takes us to the city of Kars.

Enduro motorcyclist on a rocky ridge trail overlooking island-studded coastal waters
Surroundings of Kars (about 110km)

Surroundings of Kars (about 110km)

Today we don't have to change the quarters and are taking a cozy day trip through the surroundings of Kars. We come to the ancient city of Ani through a steppe landscape. The ruins of this magnificent capital of the former Armenian Kingdom of Bagratuni are located on a windy plateau, from where we have a good view of the Arpa Cayi Canyon and the Armenian border. In the afternoon we park our motorcycles and take a city tour through Kars, where we can see the historical influences of the Azeris, Armenians, and Russians. We will also enjoy the delicacies known from Kars, such as honey, yellow cheese, and dried fruits.

Enduro motorcyclist on a rocky ridge trail overlooking island-studded coastal waters
Kars - Artvin (approx. 280km)

Kars - Artvin (approx. 280km)

Today we drive along the bird-rich Cidir Lake, a picturesque lake. The tranquility around the lake creates a wonderful atmosphere. For an incredible view over the lake, we drive to Seytan Kalesi (Devil's Castle). We have lunch in the city of Ardahan, featuring the specialties of the region. After lunch, we drive along a narrow and winding route, the idyllic landscape resembling a painting of rivers, mountains, and forests. In the evening we reach Artvin.

Enduro motorcyclist on a rocky ridge trail overlooking island-studded coastal waters
Artvin - Yusufeli (approx. 250km)

Artvin - Yusufeli (approx. 250km)

Out of Artvin, located on the steep hill, we drive through forests, mountains, and along rushing rivers. The area is a charming Caucasian region. A well-developed, but narrow and winding road takes us through this breathtaking landscape. Today we will spend the night in the modest town of Yusufeli.

Enduro motorcyclist on a rocky ridge trail overlooking island-studded coastal waters
Yusufeli - Anzer Plateau (approx. 170km)

Yusufeli - Anzer Plateau (approx. 170km)

Continuing in the mountains of the Caucasus, we drive to the peaks of Anzer Yaylasi, an agricultural region with agricultural settlements. Mountaineers will find what they are looking for here. A simple local guesthouse is our accommodation for tonight, and dinner is a delicious lamb chop.

Enduro motorcyclist on a rocky ridge trail overlooking island-studded coastal waters
Anzer Yaylasi - Trabzon (about 180km)

Anzer Yaylasi - Trabzon (about 180km)

Our unforgettable motorcycle journey through Eastern Anatolia (eastern Turkey) is coming to an end. After the abundant natural breakfast, as is customary in the Yaylas region, we ride through the idyllic Soganleberge back to the coast. The unique culture of the Black Sea region allows us to taste a few specialties of the local cuisine. Passing by bays, tea plantations, and beaches, we arrive back in Trabzon, where we say goodbye to each other.

Enduro motorcyclist on a rocky ridge trail overlooking island-studded coastal waters
Journey home

Journey home

With the countless memories, consisting of culture and nature in the travel luggage, it's now time to go home. A transfer will take you to Trabzon Airport. We are happy to assist with the organization of accommodation for an extended stay upon request.

Want a detailed description of all tour days?

Our expert will walk you through the full itinerary and answer all your questions.

Verified Reviews

What riders say about Motorcycle-trips in Turkey

5.0

3 reviews

Marc R.

The motorcycle trip through East Anatolia proved to be challenging, especially the demanding routes from Trabzon to Erzincan. The paved roads and gravel tracks...

Translated from German · Show original

Die Motorradreise durch Ost-Anatolien stellte sich als herausfordernd heraus, insbesondere die anspruchsvollen Strecken von Trabzon nach Erzincan. Die gepflasterten Straßen und Schotterpisten erforderten Konzentration und Fahrgeschick. Der Schlenker zum Nemrut Dagi war besonders belastend.

Guest

Philipp K.

The motorcycle journey through East Anatolia places high demands on experienced riders. Especially the leg from Trabzon to Erzincan requires concentration, as t...

Translated from German · Show original

Die Motorradreise durch Ost-Anatolien stellt hohe Anforderungen an erfahrene Fahrer. Besonders die Etappe von Trabzon nach Erzincan erfordert Konzentration, da die streckenführung durch kurvenreiche, bergige Gebiete führt. Die Kombination aus Camping und Apartments bietet eine abwechselungsreiche Unterkunft, doch die teilweise anspruchsvollen Pisten und das wechselhafte Wetter können vor allem im Schwarzmeergebiet eine zusätzliche Belastung darstellen. Die Kultur-Highlights wie das Sümela Kloster sind sehenswerte Zwischenstopps, die den physischen und mentalen Einsatz der Teilnehmer erhöhen.

Guest

Daniel K.

The guidance during the motorcycle trip through East Anatolia was excellent, provided by the German-Turkish tour guide. He led the group with clear daily briefi...

Translated from German · Show original

Die Betreuung während der Motorradreise durch Ost-Anatolien war durch den deutsch-türkischen Tourguide ausgezeichnet. Er führte die Gruppe mit klaren täglichen Briefings zu den Highlights wie dem Sümela Kloster und sorgte gleichzeitig für das notwendige Sicherheitsgefühl bei der anspruchsvollen Route.

Guest
See all reviews for this tour
Offroad adventure

PRICE

from

€ 4,529 / person

Additional Options

Single room surcharge € 389
Upgrade Honda Africa Twin 1000 deductible 1,600 € € 679
Upgrade Yamaha XTZ 700 Ténéré deductible €1,500 € 679
Upgrade Tenere 660 deductible 900 e € 409
Upgrade BMW F850GS deductible €1,800 € 939

Trip includes

  • 15 hotel overnight stays
  • Breakfast & dinner
  • German-Turkish tour guide
  • Rental motorcycle: Yamaha XT660R or Honda CRF250L
  • Motorcycle luggage system (top case - luggage roller)
  • Airport transfers
  • Support vehicle (from 5 participants)
  • Taxes
  • Liability and comprehensive insurance with 700€ deductible

FAQS

  • Who is the tour suitable for?
    This tour is aimed at advanced motorcyclists who have experience riding on winding, mountainous, and partially unpaved roads.
  • How long is the tour?
    The tour lasts a total of 6 days, with about 250-300 km traveled each day.
  • What kind of accommodation is offered?
    Overnight stays are in hotels, boutique hotels, and occasionally in simple accommodations to ensure an authentic experience.
  • What motorcycles are available?
    The tour is conducted with powerful enduros or touring motorcycles suitable for off-road terrain.
  • What equipment should I bring?
    It is recommended to bring your own motorcycle gear such as helmet, protective clothing, and gloves. Additional equipment like bags may be provided.
  • Are meals and drinks included?
    The tour includes meals each day, including typical Turkish dishes. Drinks are not always included and can be purchased additionally.
OVERCROSS note on itinerary
The above travel description is a non-binding online proposal and does not represent a binding travel itinerary. We expressly reserve the right to make changes to the route, schedule, and accommodations (§ 651d BGB in conjunction with Art. 250 EGBGB). The terms and conditions of OVERCROSS apply.
Terms and Conditions of OVERCROSS

Similar Adventures

motorcycle-trips
6 tours
from € 4,529

How did you
hear about us?

Adventure truck Road path Palm tree
Ask a Route Expert