Olympos, Cirali, Chimera Night Tour with Dinner at Ulupinar

Olympos, Cirali, Chimera Night Tour with Dinner at Ulupinar: A Practical Guide to an Authentic Turkish Evening

Planning an evening adventure in Turkey that combines natural wonders, cultural charm, and delicious food? This Olympos, Cirali, and Chimera Night Tour offers a fascinating blend of outdoor exploration, mythic sights, and local cuisine. While some travelers might find the journey a bit long or the guide’s attitude variable, this tour is especially appealing for those eager to experience Turkey’s unique landscape and legends in one evening.

What we particularly like about this experience is the chance to swim at a pristine beach, then hike up to see the perpetual flames of Chimera—a site that’s as mythic as it is mesmerising. The dinner at Ulupinar Waterfall Restaurant adds a warm, authentic ending to the night. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that the tour involves some off-road driving and walking on stony paths, so comfortable shoes are a must.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers interested in natural sights and local flavors. If you enjoy combining outdoor activities with cultural stories and don’t mind a longer evening, it could be a memorable highlight of your trip to Antalya Province.

Key Points

• Stunning natural scenery: From a beautiful beach to fiery flames atop Olympos mountain.
• Unique experience: Seeing the everlasting flames of Chimera, which burn all year round due to natural underground gas.
• Cultural insights: The myth of the fire monster adds a fascinating storytelling element.
• Comfortable yet active: Expect some walking on stony paths, so wear suitable shoes.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for those comfortable with a bit of adventure.
• Mixed reviews: While many enjoyed the sights and dinner, some found the guide’s attitude less pleasant.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This 7-hour evening excursion begins with hotel pickups in the Kemer resort area, which is convenient for most travelers staying locally. The tour operates with a live guide available in English and Russian, ensuring a broader accessibility for international visitors. The journey starts around 5:30 PM, but check availability for current start times, as these can vary seasonally.

The Journey by Jeep

Once on board, you’ll drive through Kuzdere, Camyuva, and Tekirova—areas that are mostly scenic, with some rugged off-road sections. The jeep ride itself adds a sense of excitement, especially since it’s the main transport method during this tour. The ride is not just a way to get from A to B but also an adventure in itself, giving you a feeling of exploration.

Swimming at Cirali Beach

The first stop is at Cirali Beach, roughly three kilometers long and renowned for its natural beauty. Here, travelers can enjoy a swim in clear waters—a refreshing break after the drive. The beach’s unspoiled atmosphere and relatively quiet nature make it a highlight, especially if you love a peaceful seaside experience. One reviewer appreciated that the tour included a swimming stop at a beautiful beach, which they found very enjoyable.

Hiking to Chimera (Yanartas)

From the beach, a short drive takes you toward the fire mountain Yanartas, a site famous for its eternal flames fueled by natural underground gas. The ascent involves a walk up a stony path, so comfortable shoes are essential. The guide typically provides a full briefing about the myth of the fire-breathing monster, adding a layer of cultural storytelling.

Once at the top, you’ll have ample time to marvel at the flames flickering in the dark, which are especially dramatic in the evening. The flames are visible all year round, but the darkness of night enhances their visibility, making for a truly mystical sight. Several visitors have commented on how stunning the view is, with one reviewer emphasizing their satisfaction after seeing the flames “in the dark.”

More Great Tours Nearby

The Myth of Chimera

The phenomenon of the flames is explained as a natural underground gas bubbling up, igniting continuously. The myth of the Chimera—a monster with a lion’s head, goat’s body, and snake’s tail—adds a mythic dimension to the experience. For those interested in local legends, this part of the tour offers both natural beauty and cultural storytelling.

Dinner at Ulupinar Waterfall Restaurant

After the hike, the tour continues to Ulupinar Waterfall Restaurant. Here, you’ll enjoy a set dinner featuring fish or chicken, along with starter plates, salads, and seasonal fruits. The restaurant is known for its traditional ambiance and scenic setting, often described as a lovely place to unwind after the outdoor activities. Reviewers have appreciated the delicious food and relaxed atmosphere, making this a satisfying conclusion to the evening.

Return Journey

The tour wraps up around 10:00 PM with the drive back to Kemer, with an approximate arrival time between 11:00 and 11:30 PM. While the timing is flexible, travelers should be prepared for a late night, especially if they have early plans the next day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, the entrance fee to Chimera, and the dinner at Ulupinar. Drinks and personal expenses are not included, so you might want to bring some extra cash for beverages or souvenirs. An entrance fee to Olympos (costing around 10 units) is payable if you choose to explore the ruins separately, but it’s not part of this tour.

Balancing the Experience

While many travelers find this tour a worthwhile way to combine adventure, myth, and scenery, some reviews highlight the importance of managing expectations. For instance, one guest noted that their guide’s attitude was less than friendly, citing a rude demeanor and a lack of explanations. This suggests that guide quality can vary, and it may influence your overall experience.

On the plus side, the stunning views of the flames and the serene beach make this tour stand out. The authentic dinner adds an element of local culture, enhancing the value for those seeking a true taste of Turkish hospitality.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy a combination of outdoor activities and cultural stories. If you’re interested in natural phenomena and mythic legends, Chimera’s everlasting flames are a must-see. Families with older children who can handle some walking and uneven terrain will also find this suitable.

However, those looking for a luxurious, relaxed experience might find some aspects a bit hectic or rough around the edges. It’s also worth noting that if you’re sensitive to cold or late-night hours, you should prepare accordingly.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Olympos, Cirali, Chimera Night Tour offers a solid value for travelers eager to experience a unique blend of natural beauty, mythic storytelling, and local cuisine. The highlights—the beach swim, the glowing flames, and the traditional dinner—are features that are likely to resonate with those craving authentic experiences in Turkey.

The downside is that the guide’s attitude can impact your experience, and some might find the long evening tiring. Still, if you’re prepared for a bit of adventure and want to witness something truly special, this tour could become one of the most memorable parts of your trip.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from hotels in Kemer, making logistics straightforward.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, starting around 5:30 PM and returning around 11:00 PM.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable shoes are a must, especially for the walk up to Chimera. Bringing a bottle of water and warm clothes for the evening is advisable.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the price, so bring extra cash if you want beverages with your dinner.

Can I explore Olympos ruins during this tour?
The tour doesn’t include the ruins, which require a separate entrance fee if you wish to visit.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s most suitable for those comfortable with walking and outdoor activities; younger children might find the walk challenging.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

How scenic is the drive?
The jeep ride through Kuzdere, Camyuva, and Tekirova offers plenty of scenic views, adding to the adventure.

What makes Chimera special?
The flames are natural gas burning continuously due to underground sources, creating an eerie, mesmerizing display.

Is the dinner at Ulupinar a local experience?
Yes, it’s a traditional setting known for its delicious fish and chicken dishes, offering a taste of regional cuisine.

In summary, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural storytelling, and authentic dining. It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate natural wonders, mythic legends, and a relaxed evening under the stars. With some planning and an open mind, it promises an evening full of memorable sights and flavors in Turkey.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby