Trabzon Airport to Caykara
Distance: 79 kmTravel time: 1 hr 10 minsNearest metro: None
Overview
Trabzon Airport to Caykara covers around 79 kilometres and a little over an hour, climbing inland as the coast gives way to forested hills leading toward Uzungöl lake. A name-board driver who has already checked your flight status meets you at arrivals, then takes the climb in a V-Class or Sprinter priced as a single figure agreed on WhatsApp ahead of the trip. Çaykara itself is best known as the route into Uzungöl, one of the region's most photographed alpine lakes, with mountain plateaus and waterfalls filling out the district beyond the lakeshore. It suits travellers planning to base themselves near the lake rather than on the coast, trading a longer drive for cooler mountain air and quieter surroundings.
Highlights
- Around 79 kilometres and a little over an hour to Çaykara
- District serves as the main gateway into Uzungöl lake
- Forested hills replace coastline for most of the climb
- Sultan Murat plateau lies within reach of the main road
- Small tea gardens line the roadside as you climb higher
- One fixed fare for the group confirmed ahead of travel
- Waterfalls dot the district beyond the well-known lakeshore
- Cooler mountain air awaits after the coastal airport pickup
Route details
About the destination
Çaykara is a scenic mountainous district in Trabzon Province, famous as the gateway to the picturesque alpine lake of Uzungöl and lush natural landscapes.
Hotels nearby
- Royal Uzungöl Hotel Spa & Restaurant
- Inanlar Garden Hotel & Bungalow
- Kilpa Hotel
Landmarks nearby
- Uzungöl Lake
- Uzungöl Seyir Terası
- Sultan Murat Plateau
- Ataköy Waterfalls
Restaurants nearby
- İnanlar Garden Restaurant
- Uzungöl Ada Restaurant
- Sakam Cafe Restaurant
- Doğa Restaurant
Nearest metro
None
Good to know
- Fill up on snacks and water at the airport before the hour-long climb inland.
- Pack a warmer layer, as temperatures near the lake area drop below coastal levels.
- Mountain roads to Çaykara wind through forest, so an early departure allows more daylight for photos.
- Keep your accommodation's exact location noted, since some lakeside addresses are hard to pin down by name alone.
- A light rain jacket is worth having, given how quickly weather can change in the highlands.
- Ask your driver about timing if you want to reach the Uzungöl area before midday crowds.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the drive from Trabzon Airport to Çaykara take?
The distance is around 79 kilometres, and the transfer usually takes about an hour and ten minutes as the road climbs inland from the coast toward the district.
Is Çaykara the same as booking a transfer to Uzungöl lake?
Çaykara is the district that contains the route to Uzungöl, so a transfer here typically means heading toward the lake itself or a nearby plateau within it.
Where do we meet our driver at Trabzon Airport?
A board bearing your surname is held near the exit from customs, and whoever holds it has already checked the day's flight status, so the climb toward Çaykara starts without delay.
Are child seats available for the ride up to the lake area?
A seat suited to your child's age can be added with no added fee once you mention it while finalising the Çaykara booking, which is worth doing given the mountain bends ahead.
Does the price change based on where exactly in Çaykara we are staying?
The fare is set once you share your exact drop-off point, group size and vehicle preference, then confirmed in writing on WhatsApp before you travel.
What if our flight into Trabzon is delayed before this drive?
Your flight number is logged ahead of time, so the driver's start shifts to match a delay on its own, leaving your planned hours by the lake untouched.
Is the mountain road up to Çaykara comfortable for a full family?
The V-Class and Sprinter both offer proper seating and legroom for the climb, and the road, while winding, is well used by regular local traffic.
Can the driver stop at the Sultan Murat plateau on the way?
If a stop at the plateau interests you, mention it when booking and the driver can factor it into the route where timing allows it.
Is the vehicle shared with other passengers heading toward the lake?
No, the car runs a single route for your party alone, from the terminal straight to your address inside Çaykara district without stopping to add anyone else.
How do we arrange payment for this transfer?
Payment is confirmed through the same WhatsApp thread used for your booking, agreed well before travel so nothing needs settling once you finally reach Çaykara.
