Saklikent National Park, nestled in southwestern Turkey, is a breathtaking natural gem celebrated for its dramatic scenery and distinctive geological formations. At the heart of the park lies the Saklikent Gorge, one of Turkey’s deepest canyons, with soaring cliffs and crystal-clear waters perfect for trekking and river tubing. Since its establishment in 1996, the park has expanded to over 300 square kilometres, showcasing various flora and fauna, including some rare species. Visitors can navigate the stunning gorge, traverse scenic trails, or unwind in the cool shade of the river. Saklikent National Park is a prime destination for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts looking for tranquillity and excitement.
About Saklikent National Park
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Saklikent Milli Parkı was founded on June 6, 1996. It is one of Turkey’s most beautiful national parks in the Muğla Province near Fethiye and Kaş. It includes the magnificent Saklikent Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world, which has been shaped by water for thousands of years.
Established as a national park in 1992, Saklikent has gradually developed into a world-class adventure tourism site with an annual visitor flow of 200,000-300,000. The park’s presence of red and black pine cedars and historical caves that ancient people used make it even more mysterious.
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Saklikent National Park Entrance Fee & Opening Hour
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Saklikent National Park is cheap and easy to visit. The entrance fee is a mere 10 TL (USD 1. 20), which allows visitors to access the entire canyon, the newly constructed wooden bridge, and the famous mud bath.
The park is open for visitors every day from 8:30 in the morning to 7:00 in the evening, allowing them to enjoy its beauty. These hours are suitable for any schedule, whether you wake up early to avoid the crowd or are planning a midday trip. Saklikent is always available all year round.
Activities To Do At Saklikent National Park
Saklikent National Park in southwestern Turkey is a haven for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visitors can hike through the dramatic Saklikent Gorge, one of the deepest canyons in Turkey, or try white-water rafting and canyoning for a thrilling experience. The park also offers serene spots for picnicking and enjoying the tranquil scenery. Whether looking for adventure or relaxation, Saklikent National Park has something for everyone. It’s an ideal destination for exploring Turkey’s natural beauty.
1. Trekking
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Take an exciting trail to Saklikent Canyon, where you are trekking through Saklikent National Park Hike along the narrow and winding gorge and high cliffs. This adventure tests endurance and endurance, contrasting the dark, shaded areas with the bright outside world.
Some of the experienced activities include crossing wooden bridges, wading through icy water and taking a relaxing mud bath at the end of the trail. Best for those who are very much into trekking, this experience guarantees a fantastic adventure in the heart of the great outdoors.
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2. Rafting
Experience the fun of rafting through the turbulent waters of the Esençay River, which passes through Saklikent Canyon. This trip is excellent for first-timers and experienced rafters, taking you through rapids and calm water.
While cycling the 12 km route, you can see the beautiful forests, rocky cliffs, and ruins of ancient cities and share the experience with like-minded people. Here, rafting is done with a lot of energy and accompanied by beautiful views of the park, making it one of the best water activities to do in the park.
3. Canyoning
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For those who want a more extreme experience, canyoning in Saklikent National Park is the best option. This activity entails hiking, scrambling, leaping, and rappelling through the canyon’s rugged terrain.
Discover the waterfalls, caves, and clear water pools deep in the forest as you challenge your limits under the supervision of professional trainers. Canyoning allows the participants to explore the canyon in its most pristine state, giving them a thrilling experience and stunning scenery.
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4. Bungee Jumping
Feel the real thrill of extreme adventure by bungee jumping from the 45-metre height of Saklikent Bridge. This thrilling activity provides spectacular views of the Esencay River and the canyon, making your jump even more spectacular.
Whether you jump alone or with a partner, the measures and instructions guarantee a safe but thrilling adventure. Saklikent bungee jumping is ideal for people who would love to overcome their fears and have some of the most memorable experiences.
5. Ziplining
Get a bird’s eye view of Saklikent National Park by ziplining over the beautiful terrains. Situated in the Saklikent Adventure Park, there are different courses with a length of 50 to 300 metres and varying degrees of complexity.
While flying, you can see the canyon’s beauty, forests, and rivers from a bird’ s-eye view. This activity is suitable for all ages and abilities and is a great way to discover the park in a fun and exciting way.
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6. Skiing
In winter, Saklikent becomes a skiing paradise, and the landscape is covered with snow during the cold season. Saklikent Ski Center has different slopes for beginners, professional skiers, and snowboarders.
Slide down snowy trails with the canyon and mountains’ backdrop and feel the place’s serenity. Skiing in Saklikent has all the facilities, such as ski lifts, rentals, and schools, which makes skiing a delightful winter activity.
Saklikent National Park: Best Time To Visit
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The best time to visit Saklikent National Park is in summer because the temperature is high and the water in the canyon is cold. Spring is also good because flowers bloom and water levels are high, making trekking and rafting more exciting.
Autumn is also an excellent time to travel because the weather is moderate, and there are no crowds like during summer. Winter is also comparatively less busy but ideal for skiing lovers who want to enjoy the snow-covered terrain.
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How To Reach Saklikent National Park
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Saklikent Canyon is located in the province of Mugla in Turkey’s Aegean region. It is easily accessible by car or bus.
By Road: The easiest way to Saklikent Canyon is by car from Fethiye, which is 50 km away from the site. Hiring a car is convenient because it allows the client to visit other attractions of interest at his or her convenience. The drive takes about 45 minutes through the Kalkan—Yesilova road to Palamut village or the Kemer road from the north.
By Air: The nearest international airport is Dalaman Airport, where you should arrive for your Fethiye vacation. Saklikent Canyon is located near Fethiye. You can reach it by shuttle or car from Dalaman and then drive to the Canyon.
By Rail: There is no direct train to Saklikent, but one can take a train to nearby cities such as Izmir or Denizli, then take a bus or a car for rent to Fethiye and then the canyon.
Travel Tips For Visiting Saklikent National Park
Wear Appropriate Footwear: Proper shoes that can be submerged in water and have proper grip are very useful when it comes to trekking or any water-related activity to avoid slipping.
Dress Properly: Dress appropriately for the unpredictable weather. Wear clothes that dry quickly and bring a waterproof coat.
Stay Hydrated: Always ensure you have enough water and food to help you sustain yourself throughout the day, especially when you are out in the field.
Protect Your Electronics: Always carry cameras and phones in water-proof bags or cases to prevent water and mud from getting to them.
Plan: It is advisable to get to the park early in the morning to make the most of the day and check the weather to avoid any nasty weather that may spoil your day.
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Saklikent National Park is one of the most beautiful places that offers a combination of natural scenery and exciting activities. It has something for everyone, from hiking through the Great Canyon to water skiing and other adventurous activities. Whether you want to hike alone in the mountains or go bungee jumping, Saklikent guarantees a thrilling experience. Don’t wait any longer and start planning your trip to Turkey and explore the beauty of Saklikent National Park now!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Saklikent National Park
Is there a place to stay in Saklikent National Park?
Yes, the park has tree houses, motels, and areas for camping. However, other towns such as Fethiye and Kaş offer a variety of options for accommodations.
Can Saklikent National Park be considered a family-friendly destination?
Absolutely. Some of the activities like trekking and canyoning are more appropriate for children and adults, while there are many things that families can do such as walking, having a picnic and swimming in the cool water.
Is it possible to visit Saklikent National Park during the rainy season?
Yes, but it is safer to consult the weather forecast before going. Spring and autumn are perfect seasons for sightseeing because the weather is not extreme for most of the activities.
How big is the Saklikent National Park?
The Saklikent National Park spans a total area of 4,060 acres in Turkey.
Which animals can I encounter in Saklikent National Park?
The park is endowed with a variety of vegetation and wildlife. During the hike, you can come across such trees as red and black pines, cedars, and maybe even meet the inhabitants of the canyon.
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