A hidden paradise of nature, adventure, and history
Stretching 18 kilometers through the Taurus Mountains, one of Türkiye’s most majestic canyons invites visitors to explore its hidden treasures through laid-back hikes, heart-pumping tours, and time-bending excursions.
A hidden city
Just 50 kilometers from the popular seaside resort of Fethiye lies one of the deepest canyons in the world: the Saklıkent Canyon. With a name that translates to “hidden city”, it is a testament to the mysteries that await travelers in Türkiye.
Open to the public all year round, the canyon is best enjoyed in the summer, when the snow from the surrounding Taurus Mountains has melted and passed through the gorge. During this time, travelers can take a break from the sun, while exploring the shady canyon or bathing in its refreshing waters.
Under the towering stone walls, travelers can feel truly immersed in this oasis of small waterfalls, natural springs, and mineral-rich mud baths. With these natural wonders marking their route, they can embark on a journey of discovery—feeling closed off from the outside world.
Peaceful exploration
The Saklıkent Canyon is ideal for solo travelers, groups, and families, owing to its diverse range of leisure activities, including fishing, horseback riding, and camping. Hiking is preferred by many as it is a chance to face the rugged terrain, navigating rocky boulders, narrow passages, and knee-length waters. To maximize the experience, rent a pair of waterproof shoes that will allow you to cross slippery ground safely.
The varied scenery presents many opportunities for photographers. Whether unaccompanied or on a guided tour, time it right for sunset to capture the landscape as it is blanketed in an unforgettable orange glow.
Another great spot to enjoy this spectacle is from the canyon’s riverside restaurant, where booths overhang the water. Watch the sun disappear over the horizon, listen to the sound of rushing rapids, and taste traditional Turkish flavors through delicacies, such as gözleme (stuffed Turkish flatbread), grilled köfte, and freshly caught trout.
The Saklıkent Canyon is ideal for solo travelers, groups, and families, owing to its diverse range of leisure activities, including fishing, horseback riding, and camping. Hiking is preferred by many as it is a chance to face the rugged terrain, navigating rocky boulders, narrow passages, and knee-length waters. To maximize the experience, rent a pair of waterproof shoes that will allow you to cross slippery ground safely.
The varied scenery presents many opportunities for photographers. Whether unaccompanied or on a guided tour, time it right for sunset to capture the landscape as it is blanketed in an unforgettable orange glow.
Another great spot to enjoy this spectacle is from the canyon’s riverside restaurant, where booths overhang the water. Watch the sun disappear over the horizon, listen to the sound of rushing rapids, and taste traditional Turkish flavors through delicacies, such as gözleme (stuffed Turkish flatbread), grilled köfte, and freshly caught trout.
Jeep safari tours are a perfect way to explore the canyon off the beaten track. As travelers accelerate into the heart of nature, they are granted a journey up steep mountain passes, over bumpy mud tracks, and across free-flowing streams.
Travelers can continue adventuring on a guided rafting tour, which includes all the necessary equipment and safety instructions. There are several white-water rapids to choose from, each one allowing visitors to experience the power of the canyon’s water against a backdrop of impressive rock formations.
Thrilling adventure
The Saklıkent Canyon offers various adrenaline-boosting activities. From gravity-defying bungee jumps and paragliding to high-octane off-roading, every traveler can experience the area in their own way.
Jeep safari tours are a perfect way to explore the canyon off the beaten track. As travelers accelerate into the heart of nature, they are granted a journey up steep mountain passes, over bumpy mud tracks, and across free-flowing streams.
Travelers can continue adventuring on a guided rafting tour, which includes all the necessary equipment and safety instructions. There are several white-water rapids to choose from, each one allowing visitors to experience the power of the canyon’s water against a backdrop of impressive rock formations.
Tlos is renowned for being one of the largest and most important Lycian settlements, dating back to 500 BCE. However, there is evidence the area has been occupied from the Bronze Age (3300-1200 BCE) to the early 19th century. For visitors, that means over 5,000 years of activity to appreciate.
Across the archaeological site, rocky structures share ground with lush trees, delicate wildflowers, and pomegranate orchards. As nature takes its hold, visitors can observe the impressive architecture of an ancient theater, an Ottoman castle, and a temple dedicated to the mythological hero Bellerephon. But it is the imposing acropolis that really catches the eye. Seemingly cut into the mountain slope, it is an ideal viewpoint to take in the extent of Türkiye’s natural beauty.
Ancient wonders
In Türkiye, rocks are the tellers of the country’s storied past and those around Saklıkent are no different, including the stone ruins of Tlos. Set into the foothills of the Akdağlar mountains, the remains of this ancient city are reachable via a short drive from the canyon—offering visitors an insight into its complex history.
Tlos is renowned for being one of the largest and most important Lycian settlements, dating back to 500 BCE. However, there is evidence the area has been occupied from the Bronze Age (3300-1200 BCE) to the early 19th century. For visitors, that means over 5,000 years of activity to appreciate.
Across the archaeological site, rocky structures share ground with lush trees, delicate wildflowers, and pomegranate orchards. As nature takes its hold, visitors can observe the impressive architecture of an ancient theater, an Ottoman castle, and a temple dedicated to the mythological hero Bellerephon. But it is the imposing acropolis that really catches the eye. Seemingly cut into the mountain slope, it is an ideal viewpoint to take in the extent of Türkiye’s natural beauty.
The Saklıkent Canyon provides a perfect off-the-beaten-path escape. Carved over millennia, every imprint contributes to its unique charm, creating an unforgettable experience for all who venture here.
