Çaykara
,Çaykara is a picturesque town located in the Trabzon province of northeastern Turkey. Known for its stunning natural beauty, Çaykara is surrounded by lush green forests, rolling hills, and towering mountains. The town is famous for its tea plantations, producing high-quality tea that is exported around the world.
With its charming traditional houses, friendly locals, and peaceful atmosphere, Çaykara is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- "Merhaba" - Hello
- "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
- "Lütfen" - Please
- "Evet" - Yes
- "Hayır" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore aykara
morning
:Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast at a local café. Enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.
afternoon
:Visit the famous Uzungöl Lake and take a leisurely walk around its picturesque shores. Explore the variety of shops selling local crafts and souvenirs.
evening
:Dine at a lakeside restaurant and savor regional dishes while watching the sunset. Take a stroll by the water to conclude your day.
Nature Adventures
morning
:Embark on a hike in the nearby mountains, breathing in the fresh air and delighting in the natural beauty. Look out for diverse wildlife along the trails.
afternoon
:Paddle a kayak on Uzungöl Lake, taking in the serene surroundings from the water. Have a packed lunch by the lakeside to recharge for more exploration.
evening
:Head back to your accommodation and relax. Enjoy a quiet evening with a book or local music in the background.
Highlights
Good
- Stunning natural beauty, including lush landscapes and proximity to Uzungöl Lake.
- Rich cultural heritage with traditional villages and local crafts.
- Peaceful and serene environment ideal for relaxation and nature enthusiasts.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and bird watching.
Bad
- Limited access to modern amenities and urban infrastructure.
- Can experience harsh winter weather, which may deter some visitors.
- Transportation options may be limited, making it harder to explore the region.
- Economic opportunities may be fewer compared to larger cities in Turkey.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in Uzungöl
Explore the scenic trails around Uzungöl, a beautiful lake surrounded by mountains and lush forests, offering stunning views and a chance to experience local flora and fauna.
Fishing at Uzungöl Lake
Try your luck at fishing in Uzungöl, where you can enjoy a peaceful day on the water, surrounded by magnificent landscapes.
Paragliding
Experience the thrill of paragliding over the breathtaking vistas of Çaykara, where you can soar above the mountains and enjoy panoramic views of the region.
Camping in the Mountains
Set up camp in the picturesque mountains around Çaykara, where you can enjoy stargazing, bonfires, and the tranquility of nature.
Exploring Sera Lake
Visit Sera Lake, a hidden gem located near Çaykara, where you can walk along its shores, enjoy a picnic, or simply relax in the serene environment.
Visiting Traditional Villages
Take a tour of the traditional villages in the Çaykara region, where you can learn about local culture, architecture, and enjoy homemade Turkish cuisine.
Bird Watching
Engage in bird watching in the lush forests and wetlands surrounding Çaykara, a great opportunity to observe various bird species in their natural habitat.
Horse Riding
Experience horseback riding through the scenic trails and rich landscapes of Çaykara, suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Çaykara with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Uzungol Lake
A stunning lake surrounded by lush greenery and mountains, offering breathtaking views and great photo opportunities.
Sultan Murat Plateau
A highland area with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, perfect for capturing the beauty of the natural landscape.
Haldizen Dagi
A picturesque mountain peak providing magnificent views of the area, ideal for photography enthusiasts seeking stunning vistas.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Mıhlama
A hearty dish made with cornmeal, butter, and local cheeses, often served with freshly baked bread. Can be found at traditional Turkish restaurants in Çaykara.
Must-Try!
Hamsiköy Pidesi
A boat-shaped bread filled with a mixture of local cheeses, eggs, and butter. Best enjoyed at local bakeries and cafes in Hamsiköy, a nearby village.
Karalahana Çorbası
A nutritious soup made with local kale, corn, and other seasonal vegetables, seasoned with traditional spices. Available at family-run eateries and local restaurants.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Çaykara better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Çaykara Friday Market
A bustling market offering an array of fresh produce, dairy products, and locally sourced honey. Visitors can also indulge in street food such as grilled corn on the cob and freshly made gözleme (savory filled flatbread).
Pazar Yeri Süt Ürünleri
A dairy market where one can find an assortment of artisanal cheeses, yogurts, and butters, perfect for a picnic or to savor with local bread.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings
When meeting someone in Çaykara, a warm handshake and maintaining eye contact is a common practice. It is also polite to greet elders first and use respectful terms such as 'Abla' (sister) or 'Ağabey' (brother) when addressing others.
Dress Modestly
In Çaykara, traditional values are upheld, so it's advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or local homes. Women should consider wearing long skirts or dresses, and men should avoid wearing shorts in formal settings.
Offering Food and Drink
When invited to someone's home, it is customary to accept food or drink offered by the hosts as a sign of respect. If you are unable to partake, politely declining is acceptable, but it is considerate to express appreciation for the offer.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Çaykara with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Çaykara, Turkey, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is common to leave a small percentage of the bill in restaurants, usually around 5-10%. In cafes and bars, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is also a common practice. Tipping taxi drivers is not obligatory, but it is considered a nice gesture to round up the fare.
Payment
Payment methods in Çaykara include cash and credit card options. While many establishments accept credit cards, it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller shops or rural areas where card payments may not be accepted. The Turkish Lira (TRY) is the local currency, and travelers can find ATMs in the town for cash withdrawals.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Çaykara.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
The best time to visit Çaykara is in the spring (April to June) when the weather is mild and the surrounding nature is in full bloom. Expect blooming flowers, lush greenery, and mild temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and enjoying the natural beauty.
Summer
During the summer (July to September), Çaykara experiences warmer temperatures, perfect for exploring the area's rivers, waterfalls, and scenic landscapes. Visitors can also enjoy various outdoor activities such as rafting and swimming in the cool mountain streams.
Autumn
Autumn (October to November) brings cooler temperatures and the stunning colors of fall foliage. This is a great time to witness the beautiful transformation of the landscape and partake in activities such as photography, birdwatching, and enjoying local festivals.
Winter
In winter (December to February), Çaykara becomes a winter wonderland with snow-covered landscapes, making it a perfect destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, while also experiencing the unique beauty of the region in wintertime.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Uzungöl
A stunning lake surrounded by lush mountains, Uzungöl offers a variety of hiking trails suitable for all skill levels, with beautiful views of nature.
Sultan Murat Plateau
Located to the east of Çaykara, this plateau features picturesque landscapes, traditional wooden houses, and a network of hiking trails through vast green meadows.
Kümbet Plateau
Known for its stunning views and rich flora, Kümbet Plateau has several hiking paths that let you explore the scenic beauty of the region.
Karaca Cave
While primarily known for the cave itself, the area surrounding Karaca Cave provides beautiful hiking trails in a serene environment.
Çaykara High Plateaus
The high plateaus around Çaykara are ideal for adventurous hikers who are looking to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Çaykara through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Çaykara by plane.
Trabzon Airport (TZX)
Located approximately 60 kilometers from Çaykara, Trabzon Airport serves as the main international airport in the region.
Samsun-Çarşamba Airport (SZF)
About 150 kilometers from Çaykara, this airport serves the city of Samsun and offers international flights.
Ordu-Giresun Airport (OGU)
Located around 120 kilometers from Çaykara, this airport is the first in Turkey built on the sea and offers a limited number of international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Turkish
The predominant ethnic group in Çaykara, with the majority identifying as Turkish.
Kurdish
A significant minority in the region, with some Kurdish communities present in Çaykara.
Laz
An indigenous group primarily found in the Black Sea region, including parts of Çaykara.
Other ethnic groups
Includes smaller numbers of Circassians, Armenians and other minority communities.
The Soul of Çaykara
Discover the essence of Çaykara through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football is the most popular sport in Çaykara, with local teams and a strong fan base.
Basketball
Basketball is also widely played, especially among the youth, with local courts available for practice.
Volleyball
Volleyball enjoys popularity in schools and community events, fostering both competition and recreation.
Hiking
With its scenic landscapes, hiking is a popular outdoor activity for both locals and tourists.
Traditional Sports
Çaykara also embraces traditional Turkish sports, such as oil wrestling, which reflect the region's cultural heritage.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Most local eateries are adept at serving vegetarian dishes like fresh salads, vegetable stews, and borek (pastries filled with spinach or cheese). Additionally, some restaurants offer vegan variations of traditional dishes upon request.
Gluten-free Options
While traditional Turkish cuisine heavily features bread, there are gluten-free alternatives available, such as rice-based dishes, grilled meats, and seafood. It is recommended to communicate dietary requirements to the restaurant staff in advance for a tailor-made dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Çaykara with these cultural adventures.
