Jump in the saddle for some place extraordinary and join me for a once-in-a-lifetime horse riding and mountain bike journey through the heart of Türkiye, in the ancient kingdom of Cappadocia, as we ride in through the “Land of the Beautiful Horses” ~ October 15th-24th, 2026

The horse riders will partner with beautiful Arabians, a breed famed for its noble, athletic and sensitive nature. The bikers will ride their preferred style of bike that will be waiting for you upon arrival.

Our days will consist of journeying through landscapes steeped in history and wonder, shaped by wind and time. Each group exploring a dreamlike world of sculpted rock formations — caves, churches, and entire underground cities carved by human hands over the centuries. We’ll go our separate ways on the trails and meet up again at lunch and in the evenings to share our stories of adventure.

  • Picture a golden morning, hot air balloons rising in the background as we ride through whimsical rock towers known as “fairy chimneys,” colorful valleys and open plains. Officially recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985, Cappadocia is not just a destination; it’s a dream carved in stone.

  • Imagine riding through lands where every hoofbeat and pedal stroke feel like a step back in time. We’ll ride past ancient flour mills as we ascend Ziyaret Mountain taking time to explore the fascinating archeological site of Özkonak Underground City, built in the 400s BC.

  • Venture into the heart of the country where open air markets have thrived for centuries. Wander through stalls brimming with color and craft, discover a handwoven Turkish rug to send home, and savor a cuisine as rich and diverse as the culture itself — shaped by centuries at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. 

This is more than a ride — it’s an invitation to experience one of the most magical places on earth and to share deep connections with your horse, the people and land of this timeless region

Trip Highlights

  • 8 days and 9 nights exploring the magical realms of Türkiye, with 5 Full Days in the Saddle: traverse miles of off-the-beaten path trails riding through fairy chimneys, colorful valleys and the remains of ancient civilizations, with colorful hot air balloons drifting over the horizon at sunrise. 

  • A Kayseri Welcome: Begin your journey with a night in town to recover from jet lag, explore the city’s charm, and meet your fellow riders for the week ahead

  • Discover Hidden worlds: take a break from your ride and tour through the ancient labyrinths, tunnels and chambers of Özkonak Underground City.

  • Freedom in the Saddle: Feel the exhilaration of some long canters, smooth trots and nice long walks as we connect with nature, history, and our trusty Arabians in a truly unforgettable way.

  • Get off the Ground and Gain a Whole New Perspective: Experience these magical lands from the air as we take a Hot Air Balloon ride to witness the sunrise over the rocky valleys where we’ve been riding.

  • Turkish Bath Rejuvenation: Taking a break from our active adventures, we’ll relax and unwind in a traditional Turkish bathhouse.

  • Visit the Grand Bazaar of Kayseri: Step into history as you wander through this vibrant marketplace dating back to the Ottoman era—where colors, scents, and sounds fill the air. You might just find the perfect handmade Turkish rug to ship home!

  • Travel with Like-Minded Adventurers:  Come as Strangers, Leave as Friends. Share the journey with kindred spirits and relish in genuine connections with local folks — not as tourists, but as welcomed guests.

                                                      

Trip Includes

  • Locally guided horse and bike treks, in-house meals, travel and accommodations while together in Turkiye

  • A intimate group experience as we leave the crowds behind with a trip designed for people who are passionate about horses, biking, natural beauty, wide open spaces and authentic travel

  • Riding guidance, mindfulness activities and complete trip support while together at the barn and on the trail

  • 3 coaching calls prior to our trip to discuss what you hope to discover and gain from the adventure

  • 1 follow up phone call after our trip to continue the process of self-discovery and mindful living

  • 8 full days and 9 nights of pure off-the-beaten path Turkish culture, including an evening to rest upon arrival. I will also be happy to provide my personal guidance on organizing travel plans to and from the country. Once we meet up at the designated time and place, all of your travel needs will be already arranged

                                     

Riding and Fitness Level

Horse skills: intermediate through advanced. You need to be comfortable in walk, trot, canter and gallop and be able to control your horse in all gaits when not in a nose-to-tail line. We will do extended trots, canters and the occasional gallop on the trail as well as a significant amount of climbing/descending, so if you have a weak back or core, it is imperative to start a workout routine several months prior to the trip to strengthen these areas. Also, to make the trip the best possible experience for you, we recommend that you ride at least one to two days per week starting two or more months prior to the trip, just to get your derrière and riding muscles ready to spend some hours in the saddle.

If you haven’t ridden for awhile and are a lower intermediate rider, for maximum enjoyment of the experience, you can still prepare by taking 8 or more riding lessons before joining me on this trip.

Bike skills: intermediate through advanced.  Rides will be a combination of single track and gravel roadways and will be from 35-45 km per day.  E-bikes will be an option for those who prefer.   For more specific details on the biking conditions, please contact me.

***While we all do our best to stick to exact itineraries, sometimes changes are inevitable and flexibility is key.

Cost:

  • Early bird pricing from now until December 31, 2025 – $6200. Regular pricing after January 1st, 2026- $6600

  • $1000 will reserve your spot and payments plans are tailored to individual needs.

  • All prices are based on double occupancy. Single occupancy rates may be available upon request for an additional fee.  Please contact me for pricing and availability. Airfare is not included.

Cancellation policy:

If you have to cancel, costs are fully refundable (less deposit and 3% credit card fees) up to 120 days before the start of the trip. Between 60 and 120 days before the trip, 50% of the costs are refundable, less a 3% credit card fee.  If you have to cancel 0-60 days before the trip, the costs are nonrefundable, but are transferable to another person with appropriate riding skills and/or fitness levels.  The trip deposits are nonrefundable. However, the deposit amount may be transferred to another excursion if your spot can be filled on your previously booked trip and if space is available on an alternate trip.

Our Local Guides

Erchihan and Umut!