Ankara Car Rental Guide for Plateau and Nature Tours

Ankara is one of Turkey’s richest cities in terms of surrounding plateaus and nature routes. For city dwellers sweltering in the summer heat, Ankara plateau and nature tour routes are a breath of fresh air with their cool climate and unique landscapes. However, reaching these routes can often be difficult due to limited public transport options. That’s exactly where Ankara car rental services come in. Setting off on a plateau tour at your own pace, on your own route, and in a comfortable vehicle offers an experience free from public transport constraints.

In this guide, you’ll find the most popular routes for Ankara-based plateau and nature tours, vehicle selection tips, road safety advice, and details to consider during the rental process. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended summer holiday, we’ll explore step by step how the right car rental decision shapes the enjoyment of your tour.

Why You Should Rent a Car for Ankara Plateau Tours

Ankara’s plateaus are generally located 80 to 250 kilometers from the city center. This distance creates a significant transportation barrier for those without a personal vehicle. Public transport lines only reach the plateaus with seasonal and limited services, making flexible tour planning nearly impossible.

Limitations of Public Transport on Plateau Tours

Although minibus and bus services to plateau areas generally increase in summer, the necessity of waking up early and the rigidity of return times seriously limit the enjoyment of the tour. Additionally, desires such as moving between plateaus, stopping at different points, or watching the sunrise cannot be fulfilled with public transport.

Advantages of a Plateau Experience with a Private Vehicle

Setting off on a plateau tour with your own vehicle or a rental car offers the following advantages:

• Flexibility: You can change your route instantly, stop wherever you want, and move between different plateaus.
• Time savings: You avoid waiting and transfer times; you reach your destination directly.
• Comfort: Plateau roads can be rocky and bumpy; a comfortable vehicle minimizes these challenges.
• Luggage space: You’ll have enough room for picnic supplies, camping equipment, and photography gear.
• Safety: You have the freedom to move with your own vehicle during night returns or emergencies.

Most Popular Plateau and Nature Routes Near Ankara

There are dozens of plateau and nature routes around Ankara. Here are the most remarkable routes you can easily reach by renting a car:

1. Elmadağ Plateaus

One of the closest plateau alternatives to Ankara, Elmadağ is about 45 kilometers from the city center. With its cool air and wide meadows in summer, it’s an ideal escape for a picnic. Road conditions are generally good; you can easily reach it even with sedan and hatchback vehicles. The sunset view from the higher parts of Elmadağ is a separate experience.

2. Çamlıdere and Güvenç Plateau

Located northwest of Ankara, Güvenç Plateau in the Çamlıdere district is a perfect choice for those seeking an authentic plateau experience. The distance of about 100 kilometers takes 1.5 hours by car. The plateau’s vast pastures, traditional plateau houses, and clean air take you away from the city’s stress. Reaching here by rental car is ideal, especially for weekend getaways.

3. Kızılcahamam – Karagöl and Şahinler Plateau

Karagöl and Şahinler Plateau in the Kızılcahamam district is a great route for those who want both hiking and spending time by the lake. It’s about 90 kilometers from Ankara. The last 15-20 kilometers of the road can be rocky and narrow; therefore, choosing an SUV or high-clearance vehicle makes sense. The forest hiking trails and picnic areas around Karagöl offer enough activities for day trips.

4. Beypazarı – İnözü Valley

Beypazarı attracts nature enthusiasts not only with its historic houses but also with İnözü Valley. The trekking trails, cave entrances, and valley walks offer a nature experience easily accessible by rental car. This route, 100 kilometers from Beypazarı, is also appealing for those who want to explore the city’s historical texture.

5. Nallıhan – Adatürk Plateau and Bird Sanctuary

Nallıhan is a unique region for both plateaus and bird watching. The tranquil atmosphere of Adatürk Plateau, the rich biodiversity of the adjacent Nallıhan Bird Sanctuary, and the valley views make it an indispensable route for photography enthusiasts. Reaching this area, about 160 kilometers from Ankara, by rental car is almost impossible with public transport.

Choosing the Right Vehicle for Plateau Tours

When heading out on plateau routes, vehicle choice directly affects the comfort and safety of the tour. Not all plateau roads are the same; some are paved and smooth, while others are rocky and bumpy. Here are the criteria to consider when selecting your vehicle:

SUV and Crossover Preference

With high ground clearance, wide angles, and robust suspension, SUVs stand out as the most reliable option on plateau roads. Especially on rocky and dirt roads, a high ground clearance value prevents the vehicle’s underbody from scraping or hitting. The spacious interior also provides an advantage for families with children and larger groups.

Is It Possible to Go to the Plateau with a Sedan?

For plateaus close to Ankara and accessible by paved roads (like Elmadağ), a sedan may be sufficient. However, for more distant and rocky routes (Karagöl, Güvenç Plateau), a sedan is not recommended. Choosing a vehicle according to road conditions is important for both safety and comfort.

Plateau Tour with Economy Cars

Budget-friendly car rental options can also be considered for plateau tours. Small hatchbacks or compact sedans offer sufficient performance on nearby plateau routes dominated by paved roads. Fuel savings are also a significant advantage of economy cars. Reducing the cost per liter on long distances helps balance the tour budget.

Road Safety on Plateau and Nature Tours

Plateau roads present conditions very different from city streets. Narrow lanes, sharp curves, sudden inclines, and variable weather conditions directly affect the driving experience. For a safe tour, you need to consider the following points:

Driving on Winding and Bumpy Roads

On plateau roads, strictly following speed limits, entering curves slowly, and increasing following distance are vital. Especially in rainy weather, the road surface can be slippery; it’s important to remember that ABS and ESP systems make a difference. For night driving, checking that the headlight adjustment is adequate, using low beams, and flashing to pass increase safety.

Preparing for Weather Conditions

Weather conditions in plateau regions can change rapidly. A day that starts sunny in the morning can turn into a foggy and rainy atmosphere in the afternoon. Therefore, you should have the vehicle’s tire condition, wipers, and brake system checked before rental. Fores Car Rental delivers its vehicles well-maintained and ready before rental; however, it’s important for the driver to also pay attention to basic checkpoints for safety.

Emergency and Roadside Assistance

On plateau tours, it’s recommended to have a basic first aid kit, spare tire, and water in your vehicle for emergencies. Additionally, learning the scope of the rental company’s roadside assistance service in advance provides a quick solution in case of a breakdown or flat tire. The 24/7 roadside assistance offered by Fores Car Rental allows you to travel with confidence on plateau and nature tours.

Car Rental Process for Ankara Plateau Tours

Renting a car for a plateau tour has some differences from a standard rental process. Here are the points to consider step by step:

The Importance of Early Booking

Car rental demand increases in summer; especially SUV and crossover models sell out quickly. By booking early, you can both expand your vehicle options and save on seasonal prices. Reservations made in May and early June are significantly more advantageous than July and August prices.

Mileage Limit and Route Planning

On plateau tours, the total distance varies between 150-300 kilometers for day trips and 500-800 kilometers for weekend tours. When renting, setting the mileage limit according to your route helps you avoid extra mileage charges. If you’re planning a long distance, it makes sense to consider unlimited or high-mileage packages.

Insurance and Collision Coverage Options

The risk of damage on plateau roads is higher than in the city. Scratches on narrow roads, stone chips, and driving on surfaces close to off-road conditions increase the importance of collision coverage choice. Getting full collision coverage provides financial security in case of damage. Mini collision coverage or narrow-scope insurance may not offer sufficient protection on plateau roads; therefore, comprehensive collision coverage is recommended.

Additional Driver and Age Requirements

On long plateau tours, having a rested driver take the wheel instead of a tired one is important for safety. Considering the additional driver option allows you to take turns driving. Also, verifying age and license duration requirements before rental prevents surprises at the pick-up stage.

Plateau Tour Planning: Practical Tips

A successful plateau tour happens with the correct planning of many details, from route to vehicle, from timing to food. Here are practical tips recommended by experienced plateau enthusiasts:

Best Time Frame

The most ideal period for Ankara’s plateau tours is between mid-June and the end of September. During this period, the temperature on the plateaus ranges between 15-25 degrees, while in the city it exceeds 30 degrees. As demand increases in July and August, early booking is especially critical. Plans made at the end of May offer affordable prices and vehicle options for early June.

What You Need to Bring

• Sunscreen and hat: The sun’s effect increases at high altitudes, raising the risk of sunburn.
• Layered clothing: The temperature can change during the day; having a light windbreaker and vest is useful.
• Water and snacks: There are no markets at plateau points; stocking up for the long journey is essential.
• Charger and power bank: Network signal can be weak in plateau areas; charge is critical for navigation and communication.
• First aid kit: Basic supplies for bee stings, allergic reactions, and minor cuts.
• Camera or phone: Plateau landscapes offer Instagram’worthy shots; pay attention to battery life.

Determining the Route in Advance

Navigation apps can sometimes be insufficient in plateau regions. Downloading Google Maps’ offline map in advance and noting alternative route information helps you find your way when you lose connection. Additionally, it’s necessary to research in advance that some plateau roads may be seasonally closed.

Ankara Car Rental Advantages for Plateau and Nature Tour Enthusiasts

As an Ankara-based car rental company, Fores Car Rental offers special advantages for plateau and nature enthusiasts. With pick-up from the city office, 24/7 roadside assistance, and a wide vehicle fleet, there are vehicle options suitable for every type of plateau route.

Advantages of Renting with Fores Car Rental

• Wide vehicle fleet: Options suitable for every budget and every route, from economy sedans to SUV and crossover models.
• Flexible rental periods: Planning according to tour duration with daily, weekend, or weekly rental options.
• City pick-up: Easy vehicle pick-up and return from the Ankara-based office.
• 24/7 roadside assistance: Reliable support with you in case of breakdowns and emergencies on plateau roads.
• Transparent pricing: No hidden fees; mileage and insurance options are presented clearly.

Vehicle Return Process After the Plateau Tour

When your tour is complete, there are a few points to consider when returning the vehicle. The return process, the final stage of the car rental experience, protects you from additional costs when done correctly.

Fuel Policy

Returning the vehicle at the same fuel level as when you picked it up is the easiest way to avoid extra fuel charges. Fores Car Rental’s full-to-full fuel policy requires you to fill the tank at the nearest station before return; this provides a transparent and fair calculation.

Damage Check

Small stone chips and scratches can occur on plateau roads. Checking the vehicle’s exterior before return, photographing and documenting any new damage, prevents future disputes. Comparing the condition at return with the damage report form made at pick-up ensures a transparent process.

Timely Return

Exceeding the rental period incurs additional charges. When planning your tour, taking the return time into account helps you avoid last-minute rushing. In case of delay, informing the office in advance is beneficial for flexibility.

Conclusion: The Right Car Rental Decision for Ankara Plateau Tours

Ankara’s plateaus and nature routes offer a unique escape for those wanting to get away from city life in summer. However, reaching these natural wonders is a serious challenge without the right vehicle. Car rental, on the other hand, is an indispensable part of plateau tours in terms of flexibility, comfort, and safety.

When you plan every detail correctly, from route selection to vehicle type, from early booking to insurance coverage, the plateau tour becomes not just a journey but an unforgettable experience. With Fores Car Rental’s wide vehicle fleet, 24/7 roadside assistance, and flexible rental options, you can enjoy your Ankara plateau tours safely and comfortably.

As the summer season approaches, don’t forget to take advantage of early booking benefits and determine your route now. Cool plateau air, unique landscapes, and a comfortable journey await you.

For more information and reservations, you can visit the Fores Car Rental website or contact us directly. Transforming your Ankara car rental experience into the joy of a plateau tour is possible with the right step.