Saklıkent Gorge

In Muğla near Fethiye, a deep national-park canyon where cold water runs between steep rock walls.

Why go

Saklıkent, at the foot of the Taurus Mountains, is a narrow, deep canyon that water has cut through limestone ground. Between rock walls that rise hundreds of metres in places runs water that stays cold even in summer. This cool passage is a favourite spot for escaping the Mediterranean heat and walking within nature. Its surroundings were declared the Saklıkent National Park in 1996.

Nature and geography

The canyon was carved by the Karaçay, a branch of the Eşen stream, and is about 18 kilometres long. In the lower parts you find maquis, and higher up red pine, black pine and cedar. At the mouth of the canyon the water emerges from the rock like a powerful spring; further in, it flows along a narrow, shaded bed.

What to do there

Visitors descend into the canyon from the wooden platform at the entrance and, when the water level allows, walk inward along the gravel bed. Inside, walking, cooling off in the cold water and photography stand out. The area also offers nature walks, picnics and, in season, canyoning. Suitable shoes are needed for the water crossings.

How to get there

Saklıkent lies about 45 kilometres from Fethiye and is easily reached by car. The nearest airports are Dalaman and Antalya; in summer there are also regular tours and shuttles from Fethiye. The way into the canyon is via the wooden platform and then the bed beside the water.

When to visit

The period from late spring to autumn is best; in spring, when the flow rises with snowmelt, the inner part of the canyon may be impassable. In midsummer the water level drops and walking inside becomes easier. Even on hot days the water is cold, so a change of clothes and water-suitable shoes help.

Responsible visiting

Saklıkent is a national park and the canyon is an area with strong water flow. Staying on the marked crossings, following the staff’s warnings when the flow is high and being careful in the deeper sections are necessary for safety. Carrying litter back out and avoiding anything that could harm the water matter for protecting the area.

Nearby

The ancient Lycian city of Tlos sits on a hill near the canyon and can be added to the same day. Fethiye, Ölüdeniz and other points along the Lycian coast are close stops that complete the region.