Nature & Culture Hikes – Active Outdoors

This experience is strictly focused on “Leave No Trace” principles to protect Istanbul’s most fragile endemic species. Our goal is to foster ecological awareness while ensuring the survival of rare flora.

To help make the visit sustainable, please:

• Stay on Marked Paths: Never step off the trail; the soil around Aydos Hill hides delicate bulbs that are easily crushed.
• Look, Don’t Touch: Collecting seeds, bulbs, or flowers is strictly prohibited to prevent habitat degradation.
• Non-Invasive Photography: Capture the beauty of the snowdrops without physical contact.
• Small Group Supervision: We limit participant numbers to minimize soil compaction and disturbance to local wildlife.
• Respect Natural Silence: Keep noise levels low to maintain the sanctuary-like atmosphere of the forest.

• Terrain and Elevation: This tour involves a steady uphill climb to a 537-meter summit. Paths are unpaved forest trails which can be muddy, slippery, or uneven.
• Physical Requirement: A moderate level of fitness is required for the ascent.
• Weather Exposure: As a winter tour, participants will be exposed to cold, wind, and potential dampness for several hours.
• Restrooms: Facilities are limited once inside the deeper forest areas; please plan accordingly at the start point.

• Meet at 09:00 AM in Karaköy and get ready for a winter nature adventure.
• Drive 1 hour by minivan to Aydos Forest , leaving the busy city behind while your guide introduces the unique biodiversity of Istanbul’s highest hill.
• Arrive at the forest trailhead and begin a scenic hike through peaceful winter woods. (The hike is total 10 KM / 6 miles round trip)
• Walk along quiet forest paths, searching for the delicate Istanbul snowdrop (Galanthus plicatus subsp. byzantinus) and Istanbul crocus (Crocus istanbulensis) blooming along the forest floor.
• Continue the climb toward the summit of Aydos Hill (537 m), the highest point in Istanbul.
• Enjoy spectacular views over the Marmara region, and on clear days, spot the historic peninsula or the snow-capped mountains of the western Black Sea.
• Take time for photos and nature observation before beginning the descent.
• Finish the adventure with a warm bowl of soup at a local restaurant, the perfect ending to a refreshing winter hike.

This experience introduces travelers to a lesser-known natural landscape on the edge of Istanbul while highlighting the delicate relationship between biodiversity and conservation. The walk focuses on the Aydos snowdrop (Galanthus plicatus subsp. byzantinus), a rare and locally significant plant that blooms in early spring.

Discovering Istanbul’s hidden nature

Only a short distance from the city, Aydos Forest reveals a very different side of Istanbul — quiet woodland trails, seasonal flora, and a landscape rarely visited by any tourists.

This tour is exclusively available in January & February (depending on the snow fall), as this is the only time the endemic Istanbul snowdrop (Galanthus plicatus subsp. byzantinus), and Crocus istanbulensis are in bloom. The cold winter air provides the necessary conditions for these rare flowers to emerge, making this a truly seasonal and fleeting natural event.

This walk is ideal for nature enthusiasts, botanists, solo travelers, and couples who prefer quiet, contemplative outdoor experiences. If you are passionate about biodiversity, conservation, or macro-photography, this specialized journey into Istanbul’s “green lungs” will be a highlight of your winter.

• Sturdy hiking boots: Waterproof boots with good grip for muddy forest trails.

• Walking poles: Helpful on steep sections and uneven terrain.

• Warm layered clothing: Thermal layer, fleece, and a windproof jacket for cooler summit conditions.

• Rain jacket: Winter weather can change quickly in the forest.

• Water and a light snack: To stay hydrated and energized during the hike.

• Camera or macro lens: Great for photographing the delicate snowdrops and small forest plants.

We will meet at 09:00 AM in front of Karaköy Ferry Terminal, and transfer 1 hour by minivan. Please find your guide carrying the Hike’n Sail sign.