Saklikent Canyon Safari Tour From Kas and Kalkan

If you’re looking for a day packed with adventure, stunning scenery, and authentic Turkish village charm, the Saklikent Canyon Safari Tour might just be your perfect day out. This all-in-one experience combines breathtaking nature, cultural stops, and adrenaline-pumping activities, making it ideal for those wanting a taste of everything Turkey’s Turquoise Coast has to offer.

What really shines about this tour is the seamless blend of sightseeing, active fun, and delicious food. The guide, Mustafa, along with the driver, keeps things lively and informative, ensuring you get the most out of each stop. But, with so many activities packed into one day, it can feel a little rushed—something to keep in mind if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

This tour suits travelers eager for adventure and culture, especially those who don’t mind a full schedule and want to maximize their time exploring the natural and historic sites around Kas and Kalkan. For families, groups, or solo travelers craving varied experiences at excellent value, this could be your go-to trip.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Includes canyon walks, visits to Turkish villages, water activities, and a beach stop.
• Value for Money: For around $52.70, you get breakfast, lunch, entrance fees, and guided sightseeing—making it a well-rounded deal.
• Active & Fun: Water fights, canyon trekking, swimming, ziplining, and rafting keep the energy high.
• Authentic Local Touch: Stops in Üzümlü village and at local sites provide genuine Turkish flavor.
• Well-Organized: Pickups, transfers, and timings are smooth, with most travelers feeling they got their money’s worth.
• A Little Tightly Scheduled: The pace can be busy, so if you prefer slow mornings, this may feel a bit rushed.

A Deep Dive into the Saklikent Canyon Safari Experience

Starting Point and First Impressions

The adventure kicks off early at 9:00 am from Kas or Kalkan, with a friendly pickup courtesy of Tatil Sihirbaz Travel. The group size is usually capped at 29 travelers, which helps keep the atmosphere lively but manageable. The journey begins with a scenic drive through the region, building anticipation for the natural wonders ahead.

Üzümlü Village: A Grape-Laden Welcome

Our first stop is Üzümlü village—meaning “grape” in Turkish—and it truly lives up to its name. The setting is charming, with vineyards and traditional village houses. Here, travelers enjoy a simple yet delightful pancake and tea break on a local village house porch. One reviewer praised this stop, calling it a “great start” to the day, highlighting the authentic village atmosphere.

Also, this stop is perfect for some playful water fights between safari vehicles, adding a slightly mischievous touch to the morning. While the stop is brief—about 45 minutes—it offers a taste of rural life, and the relaxed pace here helps set the tone for the rest of the day.

Gizlikent Waterfall and Canyon

Next up is the Gizlikent Canyon and Waterfall, a stunning natural highlight. You’ll hike roughly 600 meters through the canyon, guided by Mustafa, whose insights and friendly demeanor are frequently appreciated in reviews. The highlight is reaching the waterfall, where you can snap photos beneath the cascading waters—an opportunity to cool off and marvel at nature’s power.

This stop lasts about an hour, and the included entrance fee makes it even better value. Guests often remark on the beautiful scenery and the refreshing water, though some note the water can be quite cold—expect that in summer!

The Longest Canyon in Turkey: Saklikent

The core of the tour is the walk through Saklikent Canyon, Turkey’s longest canyon, carved over centuries by the river. The walk takes about 45 minutes, during which you’ll pass the spring water source at the canyon’s start. You’ll need sea shoes, which can be rented on the tour—an essential for walking comfortably in the water and avoiding slips.

The canyon walk is both scenic and invigorating. Reviewers consistently love the gorge’s towering walls and the thrill of walking through water. Mustafa, our guide, is praised for his explanations and attentiveness, often walking alongside the group. Expect to get wet—this is part of the fun.

Lunch at Saklikent and Relaxation Time

After the canyon walk, a hearty lunch at the park provides a well-earned break. The meal is generally described as tasty and filling, with some reviews mentioning how delicious the food was, adding to the overall value.

Post-lunch, there’s a chance to indulge in some fun activities like ziplining or rafting—both available for an extra fee (around 300 lira each). Many travelers find these options worthwhile, especially since they add an adrenaline rush to the day.

Mad Bath and Ancient Xanthos

Following the canyon explorations, the tour heads to the Mad Bath Pool for a unique experience: a Mad Bath (or mud bath). Guests enjoy cleaning the mud off and having fun, which reviewers describe as a “great laugh” and a “fun, playful stop”. It’s a chance to relax and cool down before heading to the historical site of Xanthos, an ancient Lycian city.

The drive to Xanthos is scenic, and the short pass-by gives a quick glimpse of Turkey’s archaeological past. Visitors appreciate the guided commentary, with one reviewer noting that the safari vehicle and guide offer a smooth, informative ride.

Kaputas Beach: The Perfect Swim Finish

The day winds down with a visit to Kaputas Beach, one of Turkey’s most famous beaches. After descending 160 steps, you’re greeted by a stunning, natural cove with clear waters—ideal for swimming and relaxing after a day full of activity.

Reviewers highlight the natural beauty and excellent swimming conditions here. The hour-long stop allows for a quick dip, some sunbathing, and soaking in the spectacular views.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Value for Money: At $52.70 per person, including breakfast, lunch, and all entrance fees, this tour offers a lot. With so many activities and sites packed into one day, many guests feel they received excellent value.

Guide Mustafa: Consistently praised for his friendliness, explanations, and attentiveness, Mustafa elevates the experience. Several reviewers specifically mention how much they appreciated his insights and flexibility, making the day both informative and fun.

Activities: From water fights and canyon walking to ziplining and rafting, the tour keeps the adrenaline flowing. The variety ensures that there’s something for all, from nature lovers to thrill-seekers.

Authentic Experiences: Visiting a traditional village, exploring ancient ruins, and walking through Turkey’s longest canyon offer genuine cultural and natural insights.

Organization & Pacing: The smooth pickups, timely transitions, and well-planned stops help maximize the day. While some mention the schedule is a little tight, most agree it’s a well-organized adventure.

Highlights & Authenticity: Reviewers rave about the scenic waterfall, the canyon’s grandeur, and the pristine beaches. The inclusion of local food and traditional stops makes the trip feel authentic rather than tourist-heavy.

Climatic Conditions: Expect the water in the canyon to be cold, especially in summer, which adds to the refreshment but might catch some off guard if they aren’t prepared.

Practical Tips for Future Travelers

• Wear suitable footwear: Sea shoes are recommended for canyon walking to prevent slips and to enjoy the water comfortably.
• Bring towels and swimwear: You’ll want these for the beach and muddy bath stops.
• Prepare for a full day: The schedule is packed, so bring water and snacks if you need extra energy.
• Dress for hot weather: Lightweight, sun-protective clothing is best, especially during the canyon walk and beach stop.
• Consider extra activities: Ziplining and rafting are optional but add a real adrenaline boost. Budget extra if you want to try them.
• Book in advance: This tour is popular and tends to fill about two weeks ahead, so plan early.

The Sum Up

The Saklikent Canyon Safari Tour from Kas and Kalkan offers a lively, inclusive day of natural beauty, history, and adventure for a reasonable price. It’s perfect for travelers who want to pocket a variety of experiences—canyon trekking, cultural visits, beach swimming, and adrenaline-fueled activities—all in one day.

While the schedule can be tight, the guides like Mustafa make it enjoyable and informative, ensuring you get the most out of every stop. The value is undeniable, especially considering the food, entrance fees, and activities included.

This tour is best suited for active travelers, families, or groups seeking a fun, dynamic way to explore the region’s top sights without sacrificing excitement or authenticity. If you love a mix of nature, culture, and adventure, this trip will check all your boxes while providing many memorable moments.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending back at the meeting point, with a busy but well-structured schedule.

What is included in the price?
The price covers breakfast in Üzümlü village, lunch at Saklikent, all entrance fees for the canyons and waterfalls, transportation, and guiding service. Extras like ziplining or rafting are paid separately.

Do I need special shoes for the canyon walk?
Yes, sea shoes are recommended for walking in the canyon. They can be rented on the tour if you don’t have your own.

Is the water cold in the canyon?
Yes, many reviewers note the water is quite cold, especially during summer, but it’s refreshing and part of the fun.

Can children join?
Most travelers of all ages participate, and the activities are generally suitable for children, but check with the tour provider for any age restrictions.

Are there opportunities for swimming?
Absolutely, at Kaputas Beach and after the canyon walk, there’s plenty of time for swimming and relaxing.

What should I bring?
Towels, swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended. If you plan to do activities like ziplining or rafting, bring some extra cash for those.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The canyon walk involves some walking and water, which might not be suitable for those with mobility challenges. The schedule is quite active, so plan accordingly.

This full-day safari tour offers an exciting, well-rounded glimpse of Turkey’s natural and historical treasures—perfect for adventure lovers ready to explore beyond the usual sights.