Travel

To learn more about this tour, call Sarah Wangsgard at Morris Murdock Tours.

Contact:

Sarah Wangsgard, Tour Manager
Tel: (801) 483-6473
Email Sarah

Join directors Scot and Maurine Proctor for an unforgettable journey through Turkey, a land where ancient history and faith intersect in remarkable ways. Walk in the footsteps of the Apostle Paul, exploring the very places where he preached, wrote, and changed the course of Christianity. As you travel through this breathtaking country, you’ll witness the grandeur of Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia, the ruins of Ephesus, and the surreal landscapes of Cappadocia, all while gaining deeper insight into the powerful events that shaped early Christianity.

Immerse yourself in Turkey’s vibrant culture, from the bustling bazaars to the majestic mosques and temples that have stood for centuries. Under the expert guidance of Scot, Maurine, and local scholars, you’ll delve into the historical and spiritual significance of these sacred sites, discovering their connection to the Apostle Paul’s missionary journeys. Along the way, savor authentic Turkish cuisine, cruise the turquoise waters of the Aegean, and marvel at the architectural wonders that bridge East and West.

More than just a tour, this is a pilgrimage of faith and discovery. Whether standing in the ancient amphitheater of Ephesus, reflecting on the teachings of Paul, or exploring the hidden cave churches of Cappadocia, you’ll find moments of inspiration that will stay with you forever. Join us on this extraordinary adventure and experience Turkey in a way that will ignite your spirit, deepen your faith, and leave you with lifelong memories.

Flying into Istanbul is a thrill.

Day 1: Tuesday, October 6, 2026 — Depart for the Land of Prophets and Apostles

Your adventure begins with an overnight flight from our various USA cities to one of the most spiritually rich and historically vibrant countries in the world—Turkey or Türkiye as they now prefer to be called, the ancient gateway between East and West and a land deeply touched by the ministry of the Apostle Paul. The Istanbul Airport, opened in 2018, is a vast, state-of-the-art global hub—home to one of the world’s largest terminals and designed to handle up to 200 million passengers annually. More than just an airport, it serves as a modern gateway between continents, connecting hundreds of destinations while reflecting the scale, ambition, and cultural richness of Istanbul itself.

Meals: In-flight

Montage illustration of the beautiful city of Istanbul at sunset.

Day 2: Wednesday, October 7 — Welcome to Istanbul

Arrive in Istanbul, where ancient empires once ruled and the gospel later flourished. You’ll be greeted and taken to your hotel for a restful evening. Enjoy your first taste of Turkish hospitality over dinner, as we gather and prepare for the sacred sites ahead. Few cities on earth carry the weight—and wonder—of Istanbul. Straddling two continents, it is the only great metropolis that quite literally stands in both Europe and Asia, divided and united by the shimmering waters of the Bosphorus. For over two millennia, this city has been the beating heart of empires—first as Byzantium, then Constantinople, and now Istanbul—each layer adding richness to its story. Here, the past is not buried—it rises all around you. Istanbul is one of the most unique cities in the world with a population of more than 15 million containing 18% of the population of the country. Istanbul sits on the Bosphorus Strait, a natural and very narrow waterway that connects the mysterious Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara. Only 19 miles long, the Bosphorus is a vital, strategic international shipping route.

Meals: Dinner

Mausoleum complex of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk in Ankara, Turkey

Day 3: Thursday, October 8 — Ankara: Tracing Foundations Old and New

After a short flight to Ankara, we’ll visit the Mausoleum of Atatürk, the founding father of modern Turkey, and reflect on how spiritual and political revolutions have shaped this land. Then, immerse yourself in the breathtaking Museum of Anatolian Civilizations—a perfect prologue to the biblical past we’ll uncover. Scot Proctor lived in this city for two of his growing up years and came to love Ankara very much.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 4: Friday, October 9 — Into the Heart of Cappadocia
Ankara-Cappadocia

Travel through the sun-drenched plains of inner Anatolia to arrive in the surreal wonderland of Cappadocia. Marvel at God’s artistry in the “fairy chimneys,” natural volcanic tufts that have sheltered early Christians for centuries. These natural chimneys have been carved into homes, churches, monasteries and underground cities by ancient civilizations–especially by the early Christians seeking refuge from persecution. As the sun sets over Kızılçukur Valley, let the majesty of the moment wash over you. In the evening, we will witness the mystic Whirling Dervishes ceremony—an unforgettable spiritual expression of worship.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5: Saturday, October 10 — Underground Faith and Sacred Heights

This early morning don’t miss the opportunity for the optional sunrise hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia’s dreamlike landscape. This area is one of the most beautiful in the world to fly over in your hot air balloon. Later, descend into the astonishing Kaymaklı underground city where early persecuted Christians hid and worshipped. This remarkable underground city features a maze of tunnels, stables, kitchens, churches and storage rooms carved into the soft volcanic rock.  At the Göreme Open Air Museum, you will walk among ancient cave churches adorned with frescoes. A masterclass in Turkish rugs will round out your day with beauty, culture, and tradition.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 6: Sunday, October 11 — Sabbath Reflections in Stunning Cappadocia

Today it is okay to pinch yourself multiple time as we delve durther into the wonders of Cappadocia, starting with visits to Zleve adn Pasabag. At lunchtime we will participate in a cooking class and enjoy a delicious meal in a local home. In the afternoon we will explore sacred valleys, cave sanctuaries, and the village of Uçhisar, all soaked in stories of faith. We will also visit Avanos for a pottery demonstration and see the skilled artisans at work. For the adventurous, an optional ATV ride through Cappadocia’s moonscape terrain will be available this evening.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7: Monday, October 12 — On the Road to Iconium (Konya)

We did farewell to Cappadocia and make our journey to ancient, biblical Iconium, or Konya today a place known the world over for its famous whirling dervishes. Here the Apostle Paul boldly preached despite opposition (see Acts chapter 14). Visit the Mausoleum of Rumi, where spiritual poetry and sacred silence speak volumes. Encounter remnants of the Roman and Seljuk empires that once intersected with the spreading gospel here in this city. We will overnight here in Konya.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Tuesday, October 13 — Laodicea and the Cotton Castle

Today we travel west to ancient Pamukkale–translates to ‘cotton castle,’ where the brilliant white travertine terraces shimmer like a natural fortress. Here we will explore the ancient city of Laodicea, the church John called “lukewarm” in Revelation, and reflect on the call to spiritual vitality. We will visit Pamukkale National Park and explore the fascinating ruins of Hierapolis, a healing center for souls in antiquity, and bathe in its spiritual legacy. We will enjoy dinner and spend the night in Pamukkale.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 9: Wednesday, October 14 — Antioch in Pisidia: Paul’s Trail
Pamukkale – Yalvac

Here you will have the opportunity for another optional hot air balloon ride at dawn (price to be announced). Then we travel to Yalvaç, the ancient Pisidian Antioch, where Paul gave one of his earliest recorded sermons (see Acts chapter 13). Walk the Roman roads he once tread, stand in the synagogue where he spoke, and let scripture come alive in stone and sky. We will conclude our day with a lovely dinner and and overnight stay in Yalvaç.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 10: Thursday, October 15 — To the Coast: Antalya and Aspendos

We descend toward the Mediterranean to Antalya (biblical Attalia), where Paul ended his first missionary journey (Acts 14:25). See the remarkably preserved Roman theater in Aspendos, and explore Perge, where Paul and Barnabas boldly proclaimed the gospel. Being in these places will help the Acts of the apostles and the Epistles of Paul come alive for you as never before.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 11: Friday, October 16— Sunken Cities and Sacred Legends
Antalya – Kas

A day of wonder awaits. We’ll visit Demre (ancient Myra), home of the original Santa Claus (St. Nicholas) and an early Christian bishop, then we will take a boat over the sunken city of Kekova. Leisure time to Swim in turquoise waters and sail past submerged ruins that whisper of civilizations past. We arrive at our hotel and spend the night in the quaint seaside town of Kaş.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 12: Saturday, October 17 — Seaside Serenity in Marmaris

Travel to Marmaris, a one of the crown jewels of the Aegean coast. The afternoon is yours to rest, relax, recharge, or roam the stunning, sun-drenched shoreline. Walk the beach, explore the markets, or simply watch the waves—reflecting on Paul’s maritime journeys through these very nearby waters. We stay the night right here in Marmaris.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 13: Sunday, October 18 — Ephesus Beckons

We make our way north to Kuşadası. Our first stop will be a visit to the traditional house of Mary, the Mother of Jesus, a peaceful hillside sanctuary. Pause at the Basilica of St. John and feel the weight of history in this place where apostles walked and prophets prayed. Prepare your heart for tomorrow’s spiritual summit: the remarkably preserved ancient city of Ephesus!

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 14: Monday, October 19 — Ephesus: The Crown Jewel of Asia Minor

Today promises to be a highlight of journey as we step into the ancient city where Paul lived for over two years (Acts 19), taught in the theater, and confronted idol worship with gospel truth–Ephesus! One of the most remarkably-preserved ancient sites, we will explore the terrace houses—homes of Ephesus’ elite—then pause to imagine John, Mary, and Paul shaping the soul of early Christianity in these very streets. The day will be filled with exploration, discovery and lots of photographs.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 15: Tuesday, October 20 — The Two Continents of Istanbul

Fly to Istanbul and enter the world’s only city that straddles two continents. Tour the ancient Hippodrome, marvel at the Blue Mosque, then glide along the Bosphorus on a private boat ride past Ottoman palaces and modern wonders. Wander the fragrant Spice Market and drink in the colors of the East. The setting of Istanbul between Europe and Asia is one of the most beautiful cityscapes in the world. Istanbul is vibrant, cosmopolitan, delightful and rich in its splendor.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 16: Wednesday, October 21 — Legacy and Farewell

Begin the day at Topkapi Palace, once home to many sultans. Built in the mid-1400’s following the conquest of Istanbul, many sultans have since built more buildings and annexes to create the remarkable palance complex that we will see today. Then stand in awe at the Hagia Sophia—a Christian cathedral, then a mosque, and now a museum echoing centuries of worship. Cap off your journey with a unforgettable visit to the bustling Grand Bazaar one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets spanning 61 streets with over 4,000 shops! Tonigh we have our farewell dinner rich in flavor and gratitude.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 17: Thursday, October 22 — Return Home Transformed

With hearts full and eyes opened, we bid farewell to Türkiye–one of your new favorite places in the world. You’ll return home not just with souvenirs, but with stories, scripture, and a spirit stirred by walking in the footsteps of apostles and saints.

Meals: In-flight

Call Sarah to book your places on this most amazing tour! 801-483-6473.