Saklıkent National Park: Türkiye’s Deepest Canyon Adventure

Just 45 kilometres from Fethiye and a scenic drive from Kaş, Saklıkent Gorge is one of Türkiye’s most extraordinary natural landmarks. At 18 kilometres long and 200 metres high, this steep, narrow canyon was carved over millennia by the powerful Karacay Stream, a branch of the Esen River. Its narrowest point is just two metres wide — truly a dramatic sight.

🏞 A National Park of Natural Beauty

Saklıkent Gorge sits within Saklıkent National Park, which spans the provinces of Muğla and Antalya, crossing the districts of Seydikemer and Kaş. Protected since 1996, the park is rich in biodiversity, covered with Calabrian pines and Mediterranean cedars, especially around Mount Dumanlıdağ.

From spring to autumn, the area transforms into a popular picnic and adventure spot, perfect for nature lovers, adrenaline seekers, and families alike.

🌊 Walking Into the Gorge

You enter the canyon via a 200-metre wooden walkway secured to the cliffside with iron poles. It takes you above the rushing waters and offers breathtaking views of the vertical limestone walls. After the platform ends, you're met with ice-cold spring water—a refreshing shock on a hot summer day!

Be cautious: the underwater current is extremely strong and swimming or walking through deeper areas isn’t advised without proper guidance.

🚣‍♂️ Rafting and Outdoor Adventures

Saklıkent is a hub for outdoor sports. Whether it’s rafting, canyoning, or river kayaking, there’s plenty to keep thrill-seekers busy. The five-kilometre rafting route is ideal for beginners and takes around 30 minutes, making it a popular family activity.

You’ll paddle past lush valleys, ancient ruins, and towering cliffs, experiencing both adventure and natural beauty all in one go.

❄️ Winter Fun: Saklıkent Ski Resort

Yes, you read that right — Saklıkent isn’t just a summer destination. If you visit during winter, head to the Saklıkent Ski Resort on Mount Bakırlıdağ. Located at over 1,000 metres above sea level, the resort is open for about three months and offers skiing with sea views — a rare treat in Türkiye!

⏰ Entry Fees and Visiting Hours

• Opening Hours: 08:00 – 22:00 (daily)
• Entry Fees:
  • Adult: 8 TL
  • Student: 4 TL
  • Car: 24 TL
  • Bicycle: 8 TL
  • Motorcycle: 12 TL
  • Minibus: 72 TL
  • Bus: 216 TL
  • Museum cards are not valid

⚠️ Note: Access may be restricted during high water levels.

🗺 How to Get to Saklıkent Gorge

Closest Airport: Dalaman Airport (90 km away)

From Dalaman:

• Rent a car, take a taxi, or arrange a private transfer.
• Alternatively, take a bus to Seydikemer, then a local minibus to the canyon.

From Fethiye (45 km):

• Regular minibuses run from the town centre.

From Kaş:

• Drive through Patara and Kınık. Follow the signs at the Saklıkent junction for another 16 km.

From Antalya (203 km):

• Head west toward Fethiye and turn off at the Kalkan junction through Palamut village.

🧭 Nearby Sights Worth Adding to Your Itinerary

• Xanthos: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with Lycian ruins
• Letoon: Ancient religious site with temples and mosaics
• Patara: Birthplace of St. Nicholas and home to a beautiful sandy beach
• Pinara: A peaceful archaeological site nestled in the mountains

🛥 Boat Trip Ideas from Kaş

For those exploring from Kaş, consider pairing your trip to Saklıkent with a Blue Cruise or Kekova boat tour. These sea journeys offer a perfect contrast to your canyon adventure — combining history, swimming, and sunshine.

Boat Trip Turkey is rated the #1 activity in Kaş on TripAdvisor. Call us on +90 542 731 23 58 for help planning the ultimate land and sea itinerary.