Turkey 6 Days World Day Combat Desertification Tour

Legacy of the Earth – Eco & Sustainability Tour to Tokat

In Memory of Hayrettin Karaca (Toprak Dede)
Istanbul – Tokat | Special Awareness Program

Tour Overview

“The world is the legacy of the future.”

This meaningful journey is dedicated to the memory of Hayrettin Karaca, affectionately known as Toprak Dede, the founding honorary chairman of TEMA Foundation and a lifelong defender of nature.

Inspired by his philosophy, this special tour has been designed to raise awareness about desertification, drought, ecological balance, and sustainable living. Nature does not need protection through force, but through love, care, and compassion. While nature can exist without humanity, humanity cannot survive without nature.

Our destination, Tokat, is uniquely positioned at the crossroads of the Black Sea, Eastern Anatolia, and Central Anatolia, offering rich ecological diversity, fertile lands, clean water resources, and deep-rooted gastronomy traditions.

As a symbol of responsibility toward future generations, a sapling will be planted in nature on behalf of each participant, ensuring this journey leaves a living legacy behind.

🌱 This is a purpose-driven, limited-edition program with a strong environmental mission.

Tour Highlights

• Eco-conscious travel inspired by Toprak Dede’s legacy

• Visit Topkapı Palace before departing Istanbul

• Discover the natural and cultural beauty of Tokat

• Explore Ballıca Cave, one of the world’s most impressive caves

• Visit Zile Castle with panoramic views of history and nature

• Experience Almus Lake, a serene natural wonder

• Participate in farm and village visits with local gastronomic activities

• Attend a Desertification & Drought Awareness Conference

• Take part in traditional village life experiences

• Enjoy cherry picking and seasonal agricultural activities

• Visit Kaz Lake, an important ecological habitat

• Plant a sapling to support reforestation and sustainability

• Authentic local cuisine prepared with regional ingredients

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Istanbul – Arrival Day | 16 June

Welcome to Turkey.

• Arrival at Istanbul Airport

• Meet & greet service

• Transfer to hotel

• Free time to rest or explore nearby areas

• Overnight in Istanbul

Day 2: Istanbul Half-Day City Tour & Travel to Tokat | 17 June

From imperial heritage to ecological heartlands.

• Breakfast at the hotel

• Half-day guided visit to Topkapı Palace, the historic center of Ottoman administration

• Transfer to airport or overland journey to Tokat

• Arrival in Tokat

• Check-in and dinner

• Overnight in Tokat

Day 3: Tokat City Tour & Sapling Planting Ceremony

Leaving a living legacy.

• Breakfast at the hotel

• Guided Tokat city tour, discovering historical and cultural highlights

• Sapling planting ceremony, symbolizing commitment to nature and future generations

• Free time for reflection and nature walks

• Dinner and overnight in Tokat

Day 4: Desertification & Drought Conference – Village Life & Cherry Picking

Awareness through experience.

• Breakfast at the hotel

• Attendance at a Desertification & Drought Awareness Conference

• Visit to a traditional village, observing sustainable rural life

• Cherry picking activity (seasonal)

• Local gastronomic experiences with villagers

• Overnight in Tokat

Day 5: Ballıca Cave – Kaz Lake – Zile Castle

Nature, biodiversity, and history combined.

• Breakfast at the hotel

• Visit Ballıca Cave, famous for its natural formations and clean air

• Stop at Kaz Lake, an important wetland ecosystem

• Explore Zile Castle, offering historical insights and scenic views

• Return to hotel

• Farewell dinner

• Overnight in Tokat

Day 6: Tokat – End of Tour | 21 June

Journey ends, responsibility continues.

• Breakfast at the hotel

• Transfer to airport / departure point

• End of services

What’s Included

✔️ Accommodation in selected hotels
✔️ Professional licensed guide
✔️ Meals as specified in the program
✔️ All tours, visits, and conferences
✔️ Sapling planting contribution
✔️ All ground transportation
✔️ Farm & village activities

Not Included

❌ Flights
❌ Travel insurance
❌ Personal expenses
❌ Services not mentioned above

Why Choose This Eco Tour?

• Dedicated to environmental awareness and sustainability

• Honors the legacy of Hayrettin Karaca (Toprak Dede)

• Combines education, nature, culture, and gastronomy

• Leaves a positive environmental impact

• Ideal for NGOs, institutions, eco-conscious travelers, and nature lovers

• Purpose-driven travel with emotional and social value

🌍 Travel with meaning.
Plant hope. Protect the future. Leave a living legacy behind.