Horseback Riding Turkey • Invitation Only

Private Invitation

Istanbul–Dalyan Private Horseback Journey

A first-edition private journey personally guided by Ercihan Dilari, beginning in Istanbul and continuing to the riding landscapes of Dalyan — created for a small circle connected by trust, experience and personal reference.

21–31 January 2027 Limited to 12 Riders €4,750 per Rider

Private Invitation

Istanbul → Dalyan • 21–31 January 2027

Dear Friends,

You are personally invited to join the first edition of a very special journey from Istanbul to Dalyan. This invitation is reserved for riders who have previously ridden with Ercihan Dilari and are part of the trusted circle built through shared time in the saddle.

Each year, Ercihan plans to introduce a new major riding project — a new route, a new landscape and a new experience to discover together. When a new journey is created, a small group of riders will be invited to experience it first, with Ercihan personally guiding the route.

This is not a public departure.
The journey is limited to 12 invited riders. Participation is by personal invitation and reference. Invited riders may also recommend a trusted friend or riding companion; their participation will remain connected to your personal reference.

This inaugural journey begins with the cultural atmosphere of Istanbul before continuing south to Dalyan, where riding days unfold through forests, lakes, lagoons and Mediterranean landscapes. It brings together culture, travel and riding as one private experience.

For any questions or further details, please contact Tülin Dilari at mail@horsebackridingturkey.com.

We would be delighted to welcome you as part of this very first group.

Ercihan Dilari Founder & Guide • Horseback Riding Turkey

The Invitation

A journey created for a small circle.

A private first-edition journey connecting Istanbul and Dalyan, created around experienced riding, personal connection and the opportunity to discover a new route together.

Dates 21–31 January 2027

11 days / 10 nights, beginning in Istanbul and continuing to Dalyan.

Access Invitation Only

For previous riders of Ercihan Dilari and trusted personal references.

Group Maximum 12 Riders

A deliberately small group for a more personal riding experience.

Invitation Price €4,750

Per rider. Contact Tülin Dilari for private invitation details.

Your Response

Will you join us from Istanbul to Dalyan?

Please share your current intention below. Your answer is not treated as a final booking commitment; it simply helps us plan this private Istanbul–Dalyan group. For further details, please contact Tülin Dilari at mail@horsebackridingturkey.com.

Istanbul–Dalyan Private Horseback Journey Private RSVP • 21–31 January 2027

Thank You

Your response has been received.

We are delighted to hear from you and will be in touch as this private group takes shape.

For any further details, please contact Tülin Dilari at mail@horsebackridingturkey.com.

Istanbul Dalyan private horseback journey

The Istanbul–Dalyan Journey

Two destinations. One private journey.

The experience begins in Istanbul, bringing together the city’s cultural character and time on the Bosphorus, before continuing south to Dalyan for five days of riding through forests, lakeside routes, lagoons and Mediterranean landscapes. The journey is personally guided by Ercihan Dilari and designed for a small invited group.

01
Istanbul — culture, the Bosphorus and the beginning of the journey
02
Dalyan — five riding days through forests, lakes, lagoons and coastal landscapes
03
Well-trained endurance horses, a private group and personal guidance by Ercihan Dilari

By Personal Reference

You are invited because there is already a shared riding story.

This journey is designed around a community of riders who already know Ercihan, his horses and his approach to long-distance riding. It is not intended to be an open booking tour.

As an invited rider, you may introduce a trusted friend or riding companion whom you believe would be a good fit for the group. Their participation will be considered through your personal reference.

“Each new route begins with people we trust — and becomes part of a story we continue together.”

The Full Journey

Istanbul to Dalyan Horse Ride Experience

This multi-day horseback riding tour is designed for intermediate and experienced riders who are confident at trot, canter and gallop. Riders travel as part of a private guided group, following long trail routes and open canter tracks. Horses are well-mannered, energetic and suitable for endurance-style riding. Accommodation is arranged in boutique hotels, and all meals are included with one non-alcoholic drink per meal.

Participants should be physically fit and experienced in trail riding. Riders are encouraged to bring their own helmets and boots, although helmets can be provided upon request. For horse welfare, the maximum rider weight is 85 kg; riders above this limit may participate using two horses with an additional fee.

Rider LevelIntermediate & Experienced

Rider WeightMaximum 85 kg

FormatPrivate Guided Group

Day by Day

From Istanbul to the Mediterranean coast.

01Day 1 – Arrival in Istanbul

Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport, you will be welcomed by our team and transferred to your hotel. In the evening, you meet your guide and fellow riders for a welcome dinner and a briefing about the journey ahead.(Dinner & accommodation included)

02Day 2 – Historic Istanbul & Kumkapı

After breakfast, a guided city tour begins in the Sultanahmet district, home to some of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. Visits include the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Süleymaniye Mosque and the Basilica Cistern. If time allows, a visit to a traditional hammam is possible for relaxation. In the evening, dinner is served in Kumkapı, accompanied by traditional Turkish music and cuisine.(Breakfast, lunch, dinner & accommodation included)

03Day 3 – Princes’ Islands by Boat

A private boat takes the group on a full-day tour of the Princes’ Islands. After sailing across the Marmara Sea, visits are made to Büyükada, Kınalıada and Burgazada, with time to explore each island. Lunch is served during the day, and the late afternoon brings a return to Istanbul. Dinner is enjoyed at a local restaurant.(Breakfast, lunch, dinner & accommodation included)

04Day 4 – Bosphorus Cruise

The morning offers free time for shopping, with visits to artisan workshops and traditional stores. If possible, the Grand Bazaar is also included. In the evening, a private boat cruise on the Bosphorus provides dinner on board while viewing historic waterfront mansions and illuminated city scenery.(Breakfast, lunch, dinner & accommodation included)

05Day 5 – Transfer to Dalyan

After breakfast, the group checks out and transfers to Dalaman Airport, followed by a transfer to the hotel in the Dalyan region. Dinner is shared with the guide in preparation for the riding days ahead.(Breakfast, dinner & accommodation included)

06Day 6 – Köyceğiz Lake

The first riding day begins with an introduction to horses and equipment. After warming up, the route leads through forest paths, orange groves and olive trees before crossing the Doğuşbelen River. In the afternoon, mountain tracks offer wide views over Köyceğiz Lake.(Breakfast, lunch, dinner & accommodation included)

07Day 7 – Sultaniye & Dalyan Delta

Riding descends through forested slopes toward Sultaniye Thermal Springs, where time is allowed for swimming and relaxation. In the afternoon, the route continues through olive groves toward the Dalyan Lagoon and the Mediterranean coast. Short canters are possible, and riding into the sea is permitted.(Breakfast, lunch, dinner & accommodation included)

08Day 8 – Kaunos Ancient City

A morning ride follows lagoon trails toward the ruins of Kaunos. In the afternoon, the horses rest while guests enjoy a boat trip through the reed-lined channels to the town of Dalyan for a seafood lunch.(Breakfast, lunch, dinner & accommodation included)

09Day 9 – İztuzu Beach

Access to the riding area is by boat across the Dalyan River. The route passes orchards and mountain trails before reaching the famous İztuzu Beach. After lunch and time for swimming, a visit is made to the Caretta Caretta Turtle Conservation Center.(Breakfast, lunch, dinner & accommodation included)

10Day 10 – Sarıgerme Coast

The final riding day descends through forests toward Sarıgerme Beach, crossing the Dalaman River when conditions allow. Lunch is served picnic-style by the sea, followed by a climb through aromatic mountain paths and ancient landscapes before returning to the accommodation.(Breakfast, lunch, dinner & accommodation included)

11Day 11 – Departure

After breakfast, transfer is provided to Dalaman Airport for departure.(Breakfast included)

The Istanbul to Dalyan Horseback Riding Tour offers a rare opportunity to experience Turkey’s landscapes from north to south on horseback. From the historic streets of Istanbul and the Princes’ Islands to the mountains, lagoons and beaches of Dalyan, this journey blends culture, nature and long-distance riding into a single adventure. Designed for experienced riders, this multi-day horseback riding tour in Turkey provides a deep connection between horse, rider and the changing scenery of the country.

Before You Join

Important Notes

Travel insurance is mandatory for all riders.
Accommodation is provided at the designated hotel for the entire tour duration.
Daily routes may be modified based on weather or local conditions.
Meals are traditional with fixed menus. Additional food or drink requests are not included.
Lunches may be served picnic-style.
Guests deviating from the standard program (late arrival or early departure) will cover any extra costs.
Dinners may be served at the hotel or a local restaurant.
For late arrivals on the first day, a sandwich will be provided in the room.
Optional activities are not included in the package and are subject to extra charges.
Transfers for evening entertainment are not included.
Entrance fees to museums, historical sites, ferry rides, or bicycle rentals are not included. Please carry cash for these.
Airport transfers are available between 08:30 – 18:30. Outside these hours, private transfers can be arranged (additional charges apply).
Minimum age: 12 years. Children below this age may join only with parents and prior approval.

Booking Terms

Payment Plan

A 50% deposit is required at the time of booking.
The remaining 50% must be paid no later than 30 days before the tour start date.

Cancellation Conditions

If cancellation notice is given 90 days or more prior to the arrival date, a full refund will be provided.