About Us
Meet Archaeologist Aykut — your expert private Turkey tour guide with a degree in Archaeology and extensive field experience bringing Turkey's ancient history to life.
Archaeologist & Turkey Tour Guide
Welcome! My name is Aykut Altınışık. I hold a degree in Archaeology and Ancient History from the University of Ankara and have participated in numerous archaeological excavations throughout Turkey. Over the years, I have both studied and lectured extensively on the ancient history of this remarkable country, sharing my passion and expertise with students and travelers alike.
Each year, I lead study trips to ancient cities and significant Biblical sites across Turkey. My private Turkey tours are carefully crafted to highlight the fascinating intersections of history, archaeology, and local culture. I have traveled tens of thousands of miles, visiting nearly every site featured on our itineraries.
Each trip includes authentic experiences and meaningful interactions with local people. My itineraries allow ample time to discover both iconic landmarks and hidden gems rarely visited by standard tours.
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Years of Experience
A Traveler Through Time
I invite you to see Turkey not just as a tourist, but as a traveler through time. With a background in professional archaeology and a passion for my homeland's deep heritage, I specialize in crafting immersive journeys that bridge the gap between ancient ruins and modern wonders.
Whether we are walking the marble streets of Ephesus, exploring the "fairy chimneys" of Cappadocia, or sailing the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean on a private gulet, my mission is to provide you with the archaeological context and local insights that turn a vacation into a life-changing discovery. I provide my guests with the most current archaeological theories and the historical "why" behind every site we visit.
Reflecting on past tours, I am filled with good memories that continue to bring a smile to my face. Each journey has been a delightful blend of adventure, laughter, and shared experiences that have deepened the bonds among travelers. These cherished moments have become lasting stories, reminding me of the joy we discovered together on the road.
Turkey Archaeology Tours
Unearth the "Cradle of Civilization" with our expert-led Turkey archaeology tours, where 12,000 years of history are brought to life by professional archaeologists. Moving beyond the standard tourist path, our expeditions offer exclusive access to world-defining sites — from the Neolithic mysteries of Göbeklitepe to the Greco-Roman grandeur of Ephesus and Aphrodisias.
Whether you are exploring active excavations or navigating world-class museums, our scholarly approach ensures a deep, immersive understanding of the empires that shaped Anatolia.
Experience the wonders of Anatolia with a private Turkey tour designed exclusively for you. Moving beyond the limitations of large group schedules, our private departures offer the ultimate in flexibility, luxury, and cultural depth. From the sacred sites of the Seven Churches to the hidden gems of Anatolia, we curate private journeys designed around your interests, pace, and faith.
What Makes Touring with Aykut Different
The difference between a good trip and a life-changing one is who guides you through it.
Academic Background
A degree in Archaeology & Ancient History from the University of Ankara, with hands-on experience at real excavation sites across Turkey.
Personal Approach
By day two, guests say Aykut feels like family. His warmth, humor, and genuine passion for Turkey create bonds that last well beyond the trip.
Beyond the Guidebook
Aykut shares the latest archaeological theories and the historical "why" behind each site — turning ancient stones into vivid, living stories.
Tailored Itineraries
Every tour is crafted around your interests, pace, and curiosity. Aykut has visited nearly every site on the itinerary — most of them dozens of times.
"Turkey is a bridge between the past and the present. My goal is to help you cross that bridge. Whether we are standing in the world's oldest temple or sailing past a sunken Roman bath, I want you to feel the pulse of the civilizations that came before us."
Aykut Altınışık
Lead Archaeologist & Founder
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Years Experience
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What Our Guests Say
Real experiences from travelers who explored Turkey with Archaeologist Aykut.
"We spent 12 days touring Western Turkey with Aykut, and it was world-class. Having an archaeologist as a guide changes everything—you aren't just looking at old rocks; you're watching history come back to life. Aykut is incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and has a gift for storytelling that keeps you engaged from start to finish."
Dr. Anish K.
Singapore
"We've taken private tours all over Europe, but Aykut is in a league of his own. Having a guide who is also a professional archaeologist meant we weren't just looking at old stones in Ephesus and Troy; we were watching history be rebuilt before our eyes. He has a gift for storytelling that kept our whole group engaged for days. Truly world-class expertise."
The Miller Family
USA
"We spent a week with Aykut and by day two, he felt like part of the family. He is brilliant, charming, and has a fantastic sense of humor. He clearly loves his country, and that passion is infectious. He didn't just show us the sights; he gave us a deep, heartwarming connection to Turkish culture."
Leisha W.
Australia
"My wife and I recently undertook a 13 day tour of southern Türkiye with Aykut. Our bonus with Aykut was his tremendous knowledge and enthusiasm which opened up the experience for us. Accommodation was always clean, small boutique style hotels offering great Turkish breakfasts. I have no hesitation in recommending Aykut to anyone who wants a great, independent and very informative trip."
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