Home to nearly 100 different species of butterflies and moths, Butterfly Valley, located on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, is a fantastic destination for hiking, swimming and simply relaxing in nature.

Butterfly Valley day trips from Fethiye provide a peaceful escape for nature lovers visiting the area. Not only will you get the chance to spot rare butterfly species, but you’ll also get to enjoy the valley’s fresh air, lush vegetation and the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean.

Here's all you need to know about Butterfly Valley, one of the most exciting day trips from Fethiye.

How to get to Butterfly Valley from Fethiye?

Butterfly Valley is located in a deep gorge on the coast of Turkey’s Mula Province. The valley is roughly 14 kilometers south of the city of Fethiye, and can only be accessed by boat or on foot.

From Fethiye to Butterfly Valley by boat

Traveling to Butterfly Valley by boat is the safest and most popular option. The first thing you’ll need to do is take a minibus from Fethiye to Oludeniz, then you’ll need to take one of the boats that go to Butterfly Valley.

The boats to Butterfly Valley usually run between 11 AM and 2 PM and return from the valley between approximately 1 PM and 5 PM. The boats are very affordable, costing roughly TRY15 (US$0.75) for a one-way ticket.

From Fethiye to Butterfly Valley on foot

It is possible to hike down into Butterfly Valley from the nearby town of Faralya, which you can reach by minibus from Fethiye. The clearly-marked hiking trail begins near the town’s mosque, but you should be warned that the hiking trail is very steep.

Although the hike is only around 1 kilometer, it should only be attempted by skilled and experienced hikers.

Guided tour to Butterfly Valley from Fethiye

Avoid the hassle of having to navigate public transport and the perils of a steep and dangerous hike by opting for a guided tour to Butterfly Valley from Fethiye. Your professional local tour guide will take care of your travel arrangements and itinerary so you can sit back and relax.

These excursions typically last around 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the beauty of Butterfly Valley.

How much does the entrance ticket to Butterfly Valley cost?

There is a small entrance fee of TRY50 (US$2) to enter Butterfly Valley. This fee goes toward maintaining the valley’s facilities and its natural sanction.

What is the typical itinerary?

While there are a few different Butterfly Valley day trips from Fethiye available, most of them follow a very similar itinerary. You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Fethiye by your tour guide, who will drive you to Oludeniz in a comfortable vehicle.

Once in Oludeniz, you’ll board a boat and cruise to Butterfly Valley, stopping at St Nicholas Island, the Blue Cave and Cold Spring Bay along the way to swim and enjoy the incredible views on offer.

Lunch will be provided onboard the boat and after a fun-filled day of exploring, you’ll be taken back to your hotel.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Butterfly Valley?

The only tours available to go to Butterfly Valley from Fethiye are guided tours that include stops at nearby islands and landmarks.

Guided tours to Butterfly Valley plus St Nicholas Island from Fethiye

Join a small-group guided tour from Fethiye that provides you with the opportunity to see some of the most gorgeous locations in southern Turkey and meet new people along the way. Everything will be handled for you, including lunch and hotel transfers.

In addition to Butterfly Valley, you’ll get to see St Nicholas Island, also known as Gemiler Island, as well as Cold Spring Bay and the Blue Cave. Your guide will lead the way and provide onboard commentary to ensure that you don’t miss a thing.

How much does a day trip to Butterfly Valley from Fethiye cost?

Basic guided tours to Butterfly Valley from Fethiye, lasting around 7 or 8 hours, typically cost approximately US$35 per person for a group excursion. This price includes hotel transfers and lunch, making for an affordable yet memorable experience.

More comprehensive experiences, lasting around 10 hours and giving you more time to explore the beauty of Butterfly Valley, typically cost around US$55 per person. These tours are also inclusive of lunch, hotel transfers and a professional local guide to lead the way.

What will you see and do?

The beautiful Butterfly Valley in the Fethiye district of Turkey offers no shortage of wonderful things to see and do. From searching for rare butterflies to relaxing at a nearby waterfall, there is something to suit every preference.

Butterfly Valley Beach

Butterfly Valley Beach and the clear, warm water of the Mediterranean Sea provide the perfect conditions for swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving. Most tour operators provide participants with snorkeling equipment, such as goggles and fins.

The little bay is home to a diverse range of sea life, including fish, coral and even turtles. The beach is also a great spot for taking photos, suntanning and simply admiring the incredible surroundings.

Butterfly Valley Waterfall

If you want to make the most of your time in Butterfly Valley, it is well worth taking the time to hike to the nearby waterfall, located near the back of the valley. If you decide to walk to the waterfall, you should keep in mind that the trail can be slippery and potentially dangerous.

The magnificent waterfall flows down from the nearby village of Faralya and creates a tranquil atmosphere for visitors to the valley to enjoy.

Butterfly Cave

The Butterfly Cave, located near the waterfall, has become one of the most popular attractions in the valley. The cave and its surrounding is where you have the best chance of seeing unique species, such as the Jersey Tiger Moth.

Over the years, the number of butterflies found in the valley has decreased, but the Butterfly Cave still offers an opportunity to see these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.

When is the best time to visit Butterfly Valley?

If you're hoping to see some of the famous butterflies, the best time to visit is between April and June. This is also when the valley is the least crowded as it falls out of the peak summer season.

If you would prefer warmer temperatures to enjoy the beach and sea, July and August are preferable, but this is when the valley is at its busiest.

What other day trips can you do from Fethiye?

Travel tips

Carry sunscreen, a hat, and water for protection against the sun, especially in the summer months.
Make sure you carry and drink plenty of water, especially if you plan on hiking.
If you go hiking, make sure you wear good shoes, and be cautious if you're not experienced.
Butterfly Valley is a nature preserve, so be sure to respect the environment. Don't leave any trash, don't disturb the wildlife and stay on the designated trails.
Since the area is quite remote, it's a good idea to carry enough cash.

Butterfly Valley: Day Trips and Tours from Fethiye