Things To Do
in Şenkaya

Şenkaya is a quaint district located in the eastern part of Turkey, known for its beautiful landscapes and traditional rural life. Surrounded by majestic mountains, it offers a serene environment that attracts nature lovers and adventurers alike. The area is rich in cultural heritage, with local customs and traditions deeply rooted in the community.

Visitors can explore historical sites, enjoy local cuisine, and immerse themselves in the stunning natural surroundings.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Şenkaya Castle, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the region. After that, stroll through the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and pick up some handcrafted souvenirs.

afternoon
:

Head to a nearby village for a traditional Turkish lunch, followed by a guided tour of the local farms to learn about the agricultural practices in the area.

evening
:

Enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional dishes, and finish your day with a quiet walk under the stars in the picturesque countryside.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike along the scenic trails of the Munzur Mountains, where you can appreciate the natural beauty and perhaps spot some local wildlife.

afternoon
:

After your hike, unwind at a local tea house, enjoying traditional Turkish tea and snacks while mingling with locals.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a traditional Turkish bath experience in a local hamam, followed by dinner at a cozy café known for its authentic atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🍕Street food snack$3
🏨Night in a hotel$30
🚌Local transport fare$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes
  • Rich cultural heritage and traditions
  • Affordable local cuisine
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Public transport may be infrequent
  • Language barrier in rural areas
  • "Merhaba" - Hello
  • "Teşekkür ederim" - Thank you
  • "Lütfen" - Please
  • "Yardım eder misiniz?" - Can you help me?
  • "Nasılsınız?" - How are you?

Places to Visit in Şenkaya

Visit one of these nice places.

Şenkaya Castle

This historical site offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, perfect for landscape photography.

Munzur Mountains

Known for its stunning natural beauty, the mountains provide numerous spots for capturing the essence of the region.

Local Villages

Quaint villages with traditional architecture and friendly locals make for great cultural and portrait photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Şenkaya

Şenkaya is a culinary delight, offering a variety of traditional Turkish dishes that reflect the region's rich agricultural heritage.

Şenkaya Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kebap

A traditional grilled meat dish, often made with lamb or chicken, served with rice and yogurt.

Must-Try!

Dolma

Stuffed grape leaves filled with rice, pine nuts, and spices, usually served as a side dish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Şenkaya Market

A bustling local market where you can find fresh produce, cheeses, and homemade preserves.

Climate Guide

Weather

Şenkaya experiences a continental climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. Spring and autumn are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures can drop to -10°C (14°F), especially in the mountains. Precipitation is higher in the spring and autumn months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Tradition

Always show respect for local customs and traditions, especially during religious events.

Dress Modestly

When visiting rural areas or religious sites, dress modestly to respect local norms.

Greetings

A firm handshake is common, and it is polite to greet everyone present when entering a room.

Safety Guide

Safety

Şenkaya is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, it is advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Traveling in rural areas may require caution due to uneven terrain. Ensure your belongings are secure, especially in markets and public transport.

Tipping in Şenkaya

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave a 10% tip in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but many establishments also accept credit and debit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, making it ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer can be warm, so early morning or late afternoon hikes are recommended to avoid heat. It's also a great time for cultural festivals.

Autumn

Autumn offers stunning fall foliage and cooler temperatures, perfect for photography and exploring the countryside.

Winter

Winter can be cold with snowfall in the mountains, attracting winter sports enthusiasts and offering a unique landscape for photography.

Nightlife Guide

Şenkaya at Night

The nightlife in Şenkaya is relatively low-key compared to major cities. Most locals enjoy gathering in tea houses or cafés, where they socialize over tea and traditional snacks. Occasionally, local festivals or events may feature live music or dance performances, providing a glimpse into the region's cultural practices.

Hiking in Şenkaya

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Munzur Valley National Park

A stunning park with diverse flora and fauna, offering numerous trails for hiking and exploration.

Karaçay Trail

This trail features beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and is suitable for both novice and experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Şenkaya by plane.

Erzurum Airport

Located about 90 km from Şenkaya, Erzurum Airport offers domestic flights and some international connections, making it the nearest major airport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Şenkaya is a walkable area, particularly in the town center where most attractions, shops, and restaurants are located within walking distance. However, due to the hilly terrain, some areas may require moderate physical effort. Nearby hiking trails provide additional opportunities for exploration on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Kurdish Community

The Kurdish population is significant in Şenkaya, contributing to the local culture and traditions.

Turkish Farmers

Many residents engage in agriculture, reflecting the region's rich agricultural practices and rural lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in Şenkaya, with local teams often playing in community leagues.

Wrestling

Traditional Turkish wrestling is celebrated in the region, and local festivals may feature wrestling matches.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Şenkaya is generally light, especially in comparison to larger urban centers. Public transportation is available, but schedules may not be frequent, so it's advisable to check timetables in advance. Walking or using local taxis are common methods for getting around town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Şenkaya.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many dishes can be adapted for vegetarians, with options like stuffed peppers and lentil soups.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Şenkaya are basic, with a few local clinics and pharmacies available. For more advanced medical services, it is recommended to travel to larger cities like Erzurum. Travelers should ensure they have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Turkey

Read more in our Turkey 2025 Travel Guide.

Turkey Travel Guide