Fethiye, a jewel on Turkey’s southwestern coast, boasts a captivating blend of ancient history, rugged nature, and thrilling adventure. If you’re looking for a perfect day trip filled with canyon trekking, cultural exploration, ziplining, and waterfall dips—all while enjoying the scenic Turkish countryside—then this comprehensive guide will help you make the most of your visit to four must-see locations: Saklikent Gorge, Tlos Ancient City, Gizlikent Waterfall, and Yakapark.
🌋 Saklikent Gorge
Begin your day at the awe-inspiring Saklikent Gorge, one of Europe’s longest and deepest canyons, stretching 18 km and reaching depths of up to 600 meters. A favourite among nature lovers and adrenaline junkies alike, the canyon offers a 300-meter riverside walk, icy cold mountain spring water, and thrilling options like:
- Ringo Rafting: Ride the current through narrow canyon paths.
- Mud Baths: Cover yourself in rejuvenating mineral-rich mud.
- Jeep Safari Stop: Most tours kick off or end here for adventure seekers.
Getting There:
- Private Car: Around 45 minutes from Fethiye (46 km)
- Dolmuş (Minibus): Regular service from Fethiye Otogar; first buses at 07:30
- Jeep Safari Tours: Include hotel pickup, canyon access, and guides
🏛️ Tlos Ancient City
Next, delve into ancient history at Tlos, a magnificent Lycian city perched on the slopes of Mount Akdağ. Marvel at:
- Rock-cut Lycian tombs
- A Roman-era amphitheatre
- Remains of Roman baths and the stadium
- A breathtaking view from the Acropolis
Getting There:
- ~30 km from Fethiye (on the same route to Saklikent)
- Dolmuş route shared with Saklikent (request to stop at Tlos)
- Often included in Jeep Safari tours
🌧️ Gizlikent Waterfall
Tucked away near Saklikent, this waterfall is a hidden oasis ideal for relaxation after a long hike or canyon trek. Enjoy:
- Shaded, peaceful trails through the woods
- A 300-meter walk to reach the waterfall basin
- Refreshing swims in cool, shallow pools
- Local eateries serving trout and Turkish meze
Getting There:
- Only 5 km from Saklikent
- Short walk or 5-minute drive
- Accessible via Jeep Safari or on foot from Saklikent
🏞️ Yakapark
End your day surrounded by the tranquil sounds of water at Yakapark, a forested natural retreat with:
- Cold-water pools to dip your feet in
- Trout farms where you can catch your lunch
- Riverside dining with Turkish specialities
- Optional Zipline and Monster Truck experiences for thrill-seekers
Getting There:
- About 10 km from Tlos
- Best accessed by private car or as part of a guided tour
🛋️ Suggested Full-Day Itinerary
- 08:00 – Depart Fethiye
- 09:00 – Tlos Ancient City (1 hour visit)
- 10:30 – Yakapark (relax, breakfast/snack, zipline option)
- 12:00 – Saklikent Gorge (trekking, rafting, mud bath)
- 15:30 – Gizlikent Waterfall (refresh and dine)
- 17:00 – Return to Fethiye
🚗 Transport Options
| Option | Route Details | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Car | Fethiye → Tlos → Yakapark → Saklikent → Gizlikent | Flexibility, comfort | Must drive yourself |
| Dolmuş + Taxi | Fethiye → Saklikent (dolmuş), then local taxi to other points | Budget-friendly | Limited schedule, walking required |
| Jeep Safari Tour | Hotel pickup, all spots included | All-in-one, guided, fun extras | Less personal pace |
🌟 Activities Summary
- Tlos – History, photography, ancient ruins
- Yakapark – Zipline, trout farm, monster buggy, nature walks
- Saklikent – Trekking, rafting, mud bath, water fights
- Gizlikent – Waterfall trek, swimming, rustic meals
📅 Best Time to Visit
- Spring to Early Autumn (April–October): Warm temperatures, lush scenery
- Avoid midday heat in summer; start early
🚶️ What to Bring
- Water shoes or sandals
- Swimwear and towel
- Dry clothes and waterproof bag
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat
- Cash (some locations don’t take cards)
🚩 Guided Jeep Safari Highlights (Optional)
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Buffet lunch (grilled chicken, trout, omelette)
- Stops at all four main locations
- Extras available: Zipline, Ringo rafting (
£10), Monster buggy (£20) - Water fights and mud baths included for fun!
Cost: Approx. $33–35 (or £26–29) Duration: 8–10 hours
✅ Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for ancient history, thrilling adventures, or peaceful natural scenery, this day trip from Fethiye offers the perfect itinerary. Choose your transport style—go solo, take the dolmuş, or join an exciting Jeep Safari—and experience the region’s most iconic highlights in a single unforgettable day.
