Sumela Monastery, Zigana and Hamsiköy Village Tour

If you’re planning a trip to the Black Sea region of Turkey, chances are you’ll want to see some of its most iconic sites without the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads yourself. That’s exactly what this small-group guided tour offers—an easy, comfortable way to enjoy Trabzon’s top attractions with expert commentary and a relaxed pace. It’s perfect if you don’t have your own vehicle, want to avoid logistical stress, or simply prefer exploring with a knowledgeable local guiding your way.

What immediately caught our attention is the high praise from previous travelers—a consistent 5-star rating and glowing reviews on service, scenery, and overall value. Two things that stand out are the expert guides who bring history and stories to life, and the breathtaking views at each stop, especially the Sumela Monastery and Zigana Pass. One possible consideration is the physical effort involved in reaching the monastery, since there are stairs and uneven terrain. But if you’re comfortable with moderate activity, this tour suits most travelers looking for a mix of nature, history, and local flavor.

This experience is especially well-suited for those wanting a well-organized day without the hassle of planning each piece separately. Whether you’re traveling solo, a couple, or even with family, you’ll find the itinerary rewarding. If you’re after a balanced, honest look at what this tour provides, keep reading—there’s plenty of detail to help you decide if it’s a fit.

Key Points

• Convenient all-in-one day trip covering Trabzon’s most famous sites
• Expert guides enhance storytelling and cultural insights
• Stunning scenery at Sumela Monastery, Zigana Pass, and Hamsiköy Village
• Good value for around $57, especially with included transport and guiding
• Moderate physical activity involved, with stairs and uneven paths
• Ideal for travelers wanting a stress-free, guided experience

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Sumela Monastery: A Clifftop Wonder

The tour kicks off early in the morning, with pickup from your hotel and a scenic drive taking roughly 90 minutes to reach this historic monastery. Set within Altındere National Park, the Sumela Monastery looks like something straight out of a fairy tale—perched on a cliff face and surrounded by lush greenery. As you approach, you’ll walk about 300 meters along a forest trail—a manageable walk that adds to the sense of adventure. For those concerned about walking, note that the path involves some uneven terrain, but the views and surroundings make it worthwhile.

Before entering the main complex, you’ll have a chance to admire the St. Barbara Chapel, which offers fantastic viewpoints of the monastery in its natural setting. Once inside, you’ll see the rock church, chapels, library, and other sections like the holy spring, all bursting with history. Many reviews mention the breathtaking architecture and the sense of stepping back in time—one traveler called it a “gorgeous” site you can’t fully grasp until you see it in person.

The guided commentary makes the experience richer, explaining the monastery’s significance and history. Expect to spend about 1.5 hours exploring, with plenty of opportunities for photos or just soaking in the atmosphere.

Zigana Pass: A Historic Mountain Crossing

On the way back from Sumela, you’ll visit the famous Zigana Pass—an important route from the Silk Road era. Sitting at 2050 meters above sea level, this pass offers sweeping views of the mountains and forested landscapes. Many travelers, including those quoting Marco Polo, have historically traversed this route, and now you get to stand where they once did.

Here, the focus is on the scenery and the sense of history. It’s a quick stop—about an hour—but with the added bonus that it’s free to visit, so no extra cost or tickets are involved. The pass is a great photo opportunity and a moment of tranquility amid nature.

Hamsiköy Village: A Charming Mountain Retreat

Lastly, the tour makes a lunch stop in Hamsiköy, a village renowned for its natural beauty and rice pudding. This is a favorite among previous travelers, who loved the chance to taste local dishes like Kuymak and Manti—both hearty, flavorful comfort foods. The village’s rustic charm and scenic views make it an ideal spot for a meal and a relaxed stroll.

This segment lasts about an hour, giving you enough time to enjoy the food, take photos, and browse local shops. Many reviews highlight the delicious food and the beautiful mountain scenery, making it a memorable end to the day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Guided expertise is a recurring theme in reviews—guides like Amil and Shamil aren’t just knowledgeable but also friendly and engaging, making the experience more meaningful. Travelers frequently mention how their guides brought the sites to life with stories and background info, which adds depth beyond just sightseeing.

The scenery is consistently praised—particularly the views from Zigana Pass and the picturesque streets of Hamsiköy. Many reviewers mention the breathtaking nature and how the scenery makes the effort worthwhile.

Value for money is another big plus. At around $57 per person, the tour includes all specified transportation, guiding, and hotel pickup/drop-off, making it a hassle-free way to see major sites comfortably. Some reviews note the modern, air-conditioned vehicles and a small group size (maximum 15 travelers), which enhances the personal feel.

The Practical Side

The tour doesn’t include entrance fees to the monastery or food and drinks, so budget accordingly if you want to explore the sites thoroughly or indulge in local treats. Entrance tickets are not included, but the reviews suggest the visit is worthwhile despite this. The tour starts at 9:00 am, and the entire day lasts roughly 6 hours, giving you plenty of time without feeling rushed.

For travelers with moderate physical fitness, the walk to Sumela might be challenging due to stairs and uneven terrain, but many previous visitors found it manageable and rewarding. The van and transportation are described as in excellent condition, and the driver’s safe driving is well-appreciated.

Authentic Experiences Backed by Reviews

Reviews are full of praise for the knowledgeable guides who shared stories, history, and even local tips. One traveler said, “The guide was excellent with great time management skills,” highlighting the professionalism that keeps the tour running smoothly.

Many travelers also appreciated the personalized attention, with some mentioning that even when they were the only guests, the trip was not canceled—showing the tour company’s commitment to customer experience. The scenery and cultural insights made the trip stand out for many, with one reviewer calling it an “incredible journey” and another highlighting the beautiful viewpoints.

Food and Local Flavor

While not part of the official package, the lunch in Hamsiköy was a highlight for many. Tasting regional dishes like rice pudding, Kuymak, and Manti adds a delicious touch to the day—many reviewers mention how good the food was and how it made the experience even more special.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a stress-free way to explore some of Trabzon’s most iconic sites, this tour ticks all the boxes. The combination of beautiful scenery, expert guides, and good value makes it a great option for those who prefer organized trips over DIY adventures. It’s especially suited for travelers who are comfortable with some walking and stairs, as the Sumela Monastery involves uneven terrain.

The tour’s small group size and modern transportation add to the comfort and intimacy of the experience. Given the glowing reviews, you can expect a well-organized day with memorable sights and plenty of local insights. The price is reasonable for the coverage you get, making it a worthwhile investment if you want to see the highlights without the hassle.

However, if you’re seeking a tour with included entrance fees or more free time for shopping, you might want to consider other options. But overall, if you’re looking for a visually stunning, historically enriching day trip in Trabzon, this tour deserves serious consideration.

FAQs About the Sumela Monastery, Zigana, and Hamsiköy Village Tour

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel, making the day convenient and seamless.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, from morning pickup to late afternoon drop-off.

What’s the group size?
The maximum is 15 travelers, which helps keep the experience personal and engaging.

Are entrance fees included?
No, visits to the monastery and other sites do not include entrance tickets, which are paid separately if you choose to go inside.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking, and sturdy shoes for uneven terrain and stairs are recommended.

Can I do this tour if I have mobility issues?
There are stairs and some uneven paths involved, so it might be challenging for those with limited mobility.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While not specifically designed for children, most kids comfortable with moderate walking should enjoy it. Always consider your children’s stamina and mobility.

Are there any meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but there is a recommended stop in Hamsiköy for lunch.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

How do I book?
You can book online in advance—it’s usually booked around 27 days ahead—and the tour starts at 9:00 am in Ortahisar, Trabzon.

This guided tour offers a really well-rounded taste of Trabzon’s beauty and history, with the added bonus of expert guidance and hassle-free logistics. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a memorable, scenic, and culturally enriching day without the fuss of planning every detail themselves.