The Ultimate Day Trip from Kalkan
If you are looking to step away from the sun-drenched beaches of the Turquoise Coast for a day of adventure, Saklikent Gorge is an absolute must-visit during your Kalkan holiday.
Translating to “Hidden City” in Turkish, Saklikent is a spectacular natural wonder located just a 20 to 30-minute drive from Kalkan. Plunging to depths of around 300 metres and stretching for 18 kilometres into the majestic Taurus Mountains, it holds the title of one of the deepest canyons in the entire world.
At a Glance: Saklikent National Park
- Location: 50km from Fethiye, ~25 mins from Kalkan
- Best Time to Visit: April to October
- Walkable Distance: Approximately 4km (depending on water levels)
- Status: Protected National Park since 1996
- Difficulty: Moderate (slippery rocks and wading required)
What to Expect at the Gorge
Saklikent is open all year round, but the best time to explore on foot is from April onwards. Between November and March, heavy rains and melting snow from the Taurus Mountains cause the river to surge, often making entry impossible. By late spring and summer, the water recedes enough to leave a 4km stretch that is perfect for trekking.
As you approach the entrance, you will cross a suspended wooden walkway pinned to the rock face. The first thing that hits you is the sheer scale of the towering, sculptured limestone walls and the roar of the river echoing through the ravine.
To enter the main walkable section of the gorge, you will need to cross the river. Be warned: the fresh mountain spring water is notoriously freezing cold! Depending on the time of year, you may need to wade through waist-high water for a 6 to 8-metre stretch before reaching the shallower, pebble-strewn canyon floor.
Ring Rafting and Adventure
If trekking through the canyon isn’t enough of a thrill, Saklikent offers fantastic river tubing and rafting experiences.
For an extra fee, you can grab a paddle, jump into an inflatable ring raft, and let the gentle rapids carry you downstream. Guided by experienced locals, the ride takes about 30 to 40 minutes. It is incredibly good fun for families and groups—just make sure you are wearing clothes you don’t mind getting completely soaked!
How to Make a Full Day of It
For first-time visitors, we highly recommend turning your gorge visit into a full-day itinerary. Because it is so close to Kalkan, you can easily tie it together with other local highlights:
- Explore Ancient Tlos: Visit the nearby Lycian ruins of Tlos, one of the oldest and most important religious settlements in the region, complete with rock-cut tombs and a Roman amphitheatre.
- Riverside Trout Lunch: After your canyon walk, relax at one of the traditional riverside restaurants built on wooden platforms suspended directly over the rushing water. Fresh, locally farmed trout and traditional Turkish meze are the specialties here.
- Jeep Safaris: Many local Kalkan tour operators include Saklikent Gorge as the highlight of a full-day open-top Jeep Safari, which takes the hassle out of driving.
What to Pack
To make the most of your trip to Saklikent Gorge, come prepared. Here is your essential packing list:
- Submersible Water Shoes: This is the most crucial item. The rocks beneath the water are slippery, so shoes with a good grip are essential. (If you forget them, you can usually rent plastic jelly shoes at the entrance).
- Swimwear / Quick-Dry Clothes: You will get wet.
- Waterproof Bag: To protect your phone, camera, and valuables.
- Suncream & Bottled Water: While the gorge is shady, the surrounding areas are exposed to the fierce Turkish sun.
- Cash: For entrance fees, rafting, and riverside snacks.
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