Cappadocia: A Photography Adventure Among Fairy Chimneys & Balloons

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International Photo Workshop

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Description

Summary

Tour starts

İstanbul, Türkiye

Available:

May

Minimum age:

None

Description

Step into a land where history and nature merge to create a landscape like no other. Cappadocia, with its otherworldly rock formations, ancient cave dwellings, and storybook scenery, is both a photographer’s dream and a traveler’s delight. Sculpted by volcanic activity and centuries of erosion, this breathtaking region boasts towering fairy chimneys, hidden valleys, and sunsets that set the sky ablaze with golden and crimson hues.

From the spellbinding sight of sunrise over a horizon dotted with hot air balloons to the timeless allure of rock-hewn churches and underground cities, Cappadocia is a place where magic lingers in every moment. Whether you're capturing the shifting light across the valleys or delving into the rich cultural tapestry of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, this journey promises an unforgettable experience.

Join us as we explore the wonders of Cappadocia, where history whispers through ancient stones, and every landscape holds a story waiting to be told.

Included

All transfers

All meals

Lodging

Activities

Photo Tours

Photo Workshop

Daily itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 - Arrival in Istanbul - May 10

After checking into our hotel in the heart of the historic city center, we’ll embark on a scenic photo walk, capturing the city's charm as the sun sets. In the evening, we'll indulge in a delicious Turkish dinner together. Overnight in Istanbul.

Day 2

Day 2 -

We will take a 1 p.m. flight from Istanbul to Kayseri, with airport transfer included. Upon arrival at Kayseri Erkilet Airport, we’ll transfer for lunch before setting out to the Anatolian plains to photograph the Yılkı horses—semi-wild horses roaming freely in their natural habitat. This is a rare opportunity to capture their untamed beauty against the stunning backdrop of the setting sun. If time or weather conditions are unfavorable, we will head directly to the hotel for a brief tour introduction. Later, we’ll visit a scenic viewpoint to capture the enchanting evening light.

Day 3

Day 3 -

Start the day with an early morning photography session, capturing the breathtaking sight of hot air balloons floating over Cappadocia’s otherworldly landscapes. From a carefully chosen vantage point, witness the sky come alive with vibrant colors as the balloons ascend. After breakfast at the hotel, visit the workshop of a master pottery artist and document the intricate craftsmanship of traditional pottery-making as the artist brings clay to life. In the afternoon, explore the charming town of Göreme and its surroundings. Depending on the group’s interests, you may visit the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rock-carved churches and stunning Byzantine frescoes. Conclude the day with a golden-hour photography session at one of Cappadocia’s iconic natural fortresses—Uçhisar or Ortahisar—where you’ll capture the dramatic landscape bathed in the warm hues of sunset.

Day 4

Day 4 -

Begin the day with an optional hot air balloon flight, offering a breathtaking aerial perspective of Cappadocia’s surreal landscapes. Weather permitting, this experience provides an incredible opportunity to capture the region’s unique terrain from above. After breakfast, set out to explore some of Cappadocia’s most photogenic locations, focusing on its iconic fairy chimneys, rugged valleys, and striking rock formations. In the afternoon, venture to lesser-known spots for fresh and unique compositions. If the opportunity to photograph the Yılkı horses was missed on the first day, return to the Anatolian plains to capture these majestic semi-wild horses roaming freely in their natural habitat.

Day 5

Day 5 -

Dedicate the day to discovering Cappadocia’s hidden gems and lesser-visited sites, capturing its otherworldly landscapes, ancient cave dwellings, and charming villages. Immerse yourself in local culture by visiting bustling markets or artisan workshops, where you can photograph traditional crafts and daily life. In the evening, witness and document a captivating Dervish dance performance—a spiritual Sufi ritual featuring hypnotic whirling movements set to soulful music. This mesmerizing display offers a unique opportunity to capture the fluidity and emotion of the dancers in motion. Conclude the day with a final photography session at a scenic overlook, making the most of the golden hour’s warm, dramatic light.

Day 6

Day 6 - Departure - May 15

Begin your final day with a sunrise photography session, capturing the soft, golden light as it illuminates Cappadocia’s breathtaking landscapes. Watch as the fairy chimneys and valleys transform with the warm hues of dawn, creating a truly magical scene. After this unforgettable experience, return to the hotel for a leisurely breakfast. Depending on your flight schedule, take some time to relax or explore the town before transferring to Kayseri Erkilet Airport for your 15:20 flight to Istanbul. Depart with cherished memories and a collection of stunning photographs, preserving the beauty and magic of Cappadocia forever.

Daniel Kordan

English, Russian

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Renowned landscape photographer, Daniel Kordan, is an explorer at heart. Having realized his passion for photography and traveling at a young age, he now spends his time sharing his vision and the many wonders of the world with people all around him.

Armand Sarlangue

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Armand Sarlangue is a full-time photographer for the past 16 years. Son of a pro photographer, visual arts have always been a passion since childhood and he always had a camera in hands since young age.

He started working as a reportage and studio photographer in 2005.

In 2018, he finally decided to focus on what he loves the most, nature photography.

He’s now photography educator and workshop leader, as well as NFT artist.

Being in the most remote places and capturing the artistic expression of the natural world is what motivates him, and he believes that photography can be one of the best ways to raise awareness on nature conservation, by helping others to connect with the secret beauty of nature.

Photography is also a way for him to tell his own inner stories about our world, using nature’s shapes and colors as words.

His images have been awarded tens of times, and exhibited internationally by institutions like the California Academy of Sciences, Exposure Photography Festival, Sienna Photography Festival, and others. He recently won the grand prize of the biggest international Aerial photography awards, The Siena Drone Awards, with his signature image « Big Bang ».

His work can be seen in several photo books, and have been featured by medias such as Natgeo, Geo Magazine, M6 TV, France TV, The Guardian, Paris Match, Vanity Fair, Australian Photography Magazine, BBC News, and many others.