IST → VAN

Lake Van Panorama

The primary attraction; the right side provides a panoramic view of Turkey's largest lake, known for its unique turquoise color and soda-rich waters.

Mount Nemrut (Bitlis)

Visible on the western edge of the lake, you can see the distinct caldera of this dormant volcano which contains a large crater lake.

Euphrates River System

View the winding paths and massive reservoirs of the Keban and Karakaya dams as you cross the historic heart of Upper Mesopotamia.

Akdamar Island

On very clear, low-altitude approaches, you might spot the small island in Lake Van, home to the historic 10th-century Cathedral of the Holy Cross.

Black Sea Coastline

Shortly after departure from IST, the left side often provides glimpses of the lush, forested coastline where the Anatolian plateau meets the Black Sea.

Pontic Mountains

As the flight progresses east, you will see the rugged, often snow-capped peaks of the North Anatolian mountain ranges.

Mount Süphan

During the final approach into Van, this massive dormant stratovolcano becomes visible on the northern shores of the lake, standing at over 4,000 meters.