Saklikent Gorge: Day Trips and Tours from Fethiye

Saklikent Gorge is a stunning natural canyon that runs through Saklikent National Park near Fethiye, Turkey. The gorge is one of the deepest in Europe and is the perfect destination for outdoor activities, with plenty of rock climbing, hiking and rafting opportunities. The area is also steeped in history, as many refer to Saklikent as “The Lost City.”

One of the best ways to discover the canyon is through a full-day tour led by an expert guide. A day trip to Saklikent Gorge from Fethiye is a remarkable adventure that combines breathtaking natural beauty with exciting outdoor activities.

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

How to get to Saklikent Gorge from Fethiye?

From Fethiye to Saklikent Gorge by car

Saklikent Gorge is less than a 1-hour drive from Fethiye by car. Head east out of the city center on the D400 for a little over 20 minutes until you arrive in the town of Uğurlu. Switch to the D330 and ride south for the next 25 minutes until you reach the Saklikent National Park and Gorge.

Guided tour to Saklikent Gorge from Fethiye

The most convenient way to visit the Saklikent Gorge is on a guided day trip from Fethiye. On these excursions, you’ll benefit from the ease of hotel pickup in a comfortable vehicle and an experienced guide to lead the way. With a full day at your disposal, you’ll have plenty of time to hit multiple landmarks and partake in various activities along the way.

How much does the entrance ticket to Saklikent Gorge cost?

The entrance ticket to Saklikent Gorge costs TL10 (less than US$1) per person. When you book a day tour, the entrance fee will usually be included in the ticket price.

What is the typical itinerary?

A typical guided tour to Saklikent Gorge begins with a morning hotel pickup in Fethiye by a 4x4 Jeep and driver. From there, you’ll head to a meetup spot where you’ll join several other vehicles to begin the journey. On the way to the destination, you may have the opportunity to stop first for an easy hike at Gizlikent Waterfall or a visit to the Ancient city of Tlos to see the ruins.

Afterward, you’ll head for a traditional Turkish lunch before arriving at Saklikent Gorge. You will walk the canyon, do some more swimming and finish with a relaxing mud bath nearby. Tours typically finish with a shower before the drive back to Fethiye and hotel drop-off.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Saklikent Gorge?

Jeep safari to Saklikent Gorge from Fethiye

This adventure-filled day trip to Saklikent Canyon begins with a hotel pickup, where you’ll board a 4x4 Land Rover for a rip-roaring jeep tour from Fethiye until you reach a meetup point for the rest of your tour group. From there, you’ll begin your journey toward Saklikent National Park. The first stop of the day will be at Gizlikent Waterfall, where you’ll park for an easy hike through the lush green forest with your guide.

Once you arrive at the waterfall, you’ll admire its beauty, take a dip in the water, and enjoy 1 hour of free time for pictures and exploration. Back in the Jeep, you’ll continue along your route until you reach a stopping point for a traditional Turkish lunch. After a delicious meal, you’ll finally arrive in Saklikent National Park. Tour one of the largest canyons in Europe with your knowledgeable guide and take a dip in the refreshing ice-cold waters. Finish up with a relaxing mud bath, shower and resting period before driving back to Fethiye for hotel drop-off.

Jeep safari to Saklikent Gorge plus Ancient Tlos from Fethiye

This excursion combines the natural beauty of Saklikent Gorge with the mystical wonder of Ancient Tlos. You’ll begin your day with an early morning pickup at your Fethiye hotel, from where you’ll head to meet the rest of the Jeep convoy with your driver. Travel to the ancient Lycian city on a sky-high hilltop to take in stunning panoramic mountain views. You’ll see rock-cut tombs, the city’s Roman baths and a stadium left from antiquity.

Afterward, you’ll head for lunch and refreshments at a local trout farm. The day continues with a visit to Saklikent National Park, where you’ll be able to walk the Gorge and enjoy the ice-cold water. Choose from a list of additional activities such as rafting and bungee jumping, or relax alongside the rushing water. Finish with a visit to the Gizlikent Waterfall before heading back to Fethiye for a hotel drop-off.

Private tour to Saklikent Gorge plus Ancient Tlos from Fethiye

Book a private day trip to Saklikent Gorge to enjoy personalized attention from an experienced guide and the luxury of a customizable itinerary. This 6-hour excursion combines nature and history by visiting both the breathtaking Saklikent Gorge and the ancient city of Tlos. When the day begins, you’ll either meet your guide or opt for hotel pickup. From there, you’ll board an air-conditioned vehicle for a 1-hour ride through the Turkish countryside.

Your first stop of the day will be in Ancient Tlos, hilltop ruins that were once a Lycian settlement from the 2nd century B.C. Your guide will share valuable information about the historic location where Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans all resided until the 19th century. After seeing the landmarks left behind, you’ll continue on to Saklikent Milli Parki to visit the Gorge. Hike along the canyon and take a swim in the blue water before stopping for lunch at a riverside restaurant. You’ll finish your day with a 1-hour ride back to Fethiye for drop-off.

How much does a day trip to Saklikent Gorge from Fethiye cost?

Group Jeep safari tours that visit Saklikent Gorge from Fethiye typically cost between US$25 and US$45 per person. Children between the ages of 4 and 12 are usually priced around US$20 per person, and infants under the age of 3 are free. Private tours to Saklikent Gorge that include stops in Ancient Tlos cost about US$200 per person.

What will you see and do?

Saklikent Gorge

Saklikent Gorge is an excellent chance to embrace the natural beauty of Turkey while engaging in fun outdoor activities. While in the National Park, you can swim or go rafting in the ice-blue water, and hike or rock climb the beautiful terrain.

Ancient Tlos

A visit to the ancient city of Tlos while touring Saklikent Gorge is the best way to add a history lesson to your travels. You can climb the hilltop to the ruins to see Lycian tombs, a fortress, what was once a Roman market, baths, a theater and a stadium preserved in time.

What are the opening times?

Saklikent Canyon is open every day from 9AM until 7:30PM. The park may sometimes close due to rainy weather.

When is the best time to visit Saklikent Gorge?

The best time to visit Saklikent Gorge from Fethiye for a day trip is during the summer months, from late May to early September. During these months, the weather is ideal for exploring and the water level in the gorge is more manageable. To avoid the midday heat and crowds, aim to start your trip early in the morning.

Travel tips

• As you'll be walking through water, and the rocks can be slippery, it's best to wear sturdy water shoes or sandals with good grip.
• The temperatures can get high, so carry plenty of water. Also, don't forget sun protection - a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential.
• While there are restaurants near the gorge, you may want to pack snacks or a picnic lunch for convenience during your hike.
• Saklikent Gorge is a natural wonder. Ensure you carry out all your trash and respect the flora and fauna.