Exploring Uzungöl with a licensed guide
Why hire a guide in Uzungöl
Uzungöl is famous for its stunning lake formed by a landslide, but the true magic of the region lies in the surrounding plateaus and the unique culture of the Black Sea. A licensed tourist guide helps you navigate the winding mountain roads, introduces you to local tea and hazelnut traditions, and shares the history of the wooden architecture that defines this area.
In Türkiye, professional guiding is regulated under the Tourist Guiding Profession Law (No. 6326). Every guide we work with is licensed by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and registered with a regional guide chamber. In this region, that is the Trabzon Guides Chamber (TRO), where 143 licensed guides are registered. The most common guide languages here are English, German, Georgian, Russian, French, Arabic.
A private guide allows you to escape the crowds. They can take you to lesser-known viewpoints, explain the geography of the Pontic Mountains, and ensure you find the best spots for authentic local cuisine like kuymak.
Beyond the lake
While the lake is the centerpiece, the surrounding highlands are the heart of the region. Your guide can organize trips to plateaus like Demirkapı or Haldizen, where the air is crisp and the lifestyle remains tied to the seasons. These areas offer a glimpse into the traditional transhumance lifestyle, where families move their livestock to higher pastures during the summer months.
Your guide can also connect your Uzungöl visit with other regional highlights. Since Uzungöl is located in the Çaykara district of Trabzon, it serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider Black Sea region, including the historic Sumela Monastery or the coastal cities of Rize and Ordu.
Whether you are interested in photography, hiking, or simply enjoying the mountain air, your guide will tailor the itinerary to your pace, ensuring you spend your time exactly where you want.
When to visit Uzungöl
The best time to visit Uzungöl is from late spring to early autumn. Summer (June to August) offers lush green landscapes and cooler temperatures compared to the rest of Türkiye. Autumn (September and October) brings spectacular fall foliage, turning the forests into a tapestry of gold and red. Winter is beautiful but cold, with heavy snow often covering the valley, which can make some mountain roads difficult to access.
Tips for your visit
The weather in the Black Sea region is unpredictable; even in summer, it is wise to carry a light waterproof jacket. Comfortable walking shoes are essential if you plan to hike the trails around the lake or up to the nearby plateaus. If you are visiting during the peak season, starting your day early will help you avoid the busiest hours and enjoy the tranquility of the lake.
Your guide can assist with navigating local transport options and suggesting the best times to visit popular viewpoints. They can also help you understand the regional customs and ensure you have a respectful and enriching experience.
How booking a guide works
To book, select Uzungöl, your date, the number of days, the guide language and your group size in the search box. You will see the number of available licensed guides and their typical daily rate. Once you send a request, we contact the guides and provide you with their details within 24 hours.
English-speaking guides in the Trabzon region typically start from about €120 per day; rarer languages can cost more. The daily rate covers guiding only; entrance tickets, transport and meals are not included. We do not take payment online, so you pay the guide directly in cash at the start of the tour.
If you need help with logistics, we can arrange a private vehicle with a driver alongside your guide to make your travel through the mountainous terrain comfortable and efficient.