Saklikent Canyon: A Day Trip into Another World

At 18km long and up to 300m deep, Saklikent is one of the longest gorges in the world and one of Turkey's most dramatic natural wonders. What makes it so extraordinary is the contrast: you enter through a narrow slot in the rock, the temperature drops 10–15 degrees instantly, and you find yourself wading through ice-cold glacier water surrounded by walls of ancient limestone rising hundreds of metres on either side.

It is unlike anything else in the region, and it is only 40km from Kalkan.

Getting There

By car: The most flexible option. Take the D400 east towards Fethiye, then follow signs inland to Saklikent National Park. The drive takes around 50 minutes depending on traffic. There is a large car park at the entrance.

By tour: Several operators in Kalkan run full-day tours to Saklikent, typically combined with a visit to the ancient Lycian city of Xanthos and Patara Beach. This removes the navigation stress but means less flexibility.

What to Expect

The entrance: You cross a wooden walkway suspended above a roaring river to reach the gorge entrance. The sound alone — a constant, powerful rush of water — signals that you are entering somewhere extraordinary.

The gorge walk: The first section of the canyon requires wading through water that ranges from ankle to thigh depth, depending on the season. The water is genuinely cold — fed by snowmelt from the Taurus Mountains even in summer. Waterproof bags and shoes with grip are strongly recommended.

How far can you go? The canyon is technically hikeable for its full length by experienced canyoners with proper equipment. Most visitors wade for 1–3km before turning back. Even a short distance inside is enough to feel the full impact of the landscape.

What to Bring

• Waterproof bag or dry bag — essential for your phone, camera, and wallet
• Water shoes or sandals with straps — the rocks are slippery and uneven
• Change of clothes — you will get wet
• Snacks and water — the gorge is strenuous in summer heat
• Towel — there are no facilities inside the gorge

Facilities at the Entrance

A small tourist village has developed at the gorge entrance with restaurants built on platforms above the river — a wonderfully atmospheric place for lunch. Traditional Turkish food (gozleme, fresh trout, meze) is served to the sound of rushing water below.

There are changing rooms, toilets, and equipment rental (inner tubes, waterproof bags) available.

Best Time to Visit

April–June: The gorge is at its most dramatic — full of water from snowmelt, cooler air temperatures. Less crowded.

September–October: The water level drops, making the wading easier and the penetration deeper. Still warm enough to enjoy.

July–August: Peak crowds, especially on weekends. Arrive early (before 9am) to beat the tour groups. The cool gorge air is a welcome relief from summer heat.

Combining with Other Attractions

Saklikent pairs perfectly with:

Xanthos: One of Lycia's most important ancient cities, just 15 minutes from the gorge. The theatre, agora, and pillar tombs are remarkably well-preserved.

Patara Beach: The longest beach in Turkey (18km of untouched sand), 45 minutes from Saklikent. An ancient city of the same name lies at one end, and the beach is a nesting ground for Caretta Caretta turtles.

Letoon: A UNESCO World Heritage site, the sanctuary of the goddess Leto, with three temples reflected in a still, lily-covered pool.

A full day combining Saklikent, Xanthos, and Patara is one of the most rewarding days you can spend in the region.