About the canyon
Saklikent Gorge is around 18 kilometres long and reaches depths of up to 300 metres in places, making it Turkey's longest and one of the world's deepest canyons. The name means 'hidden city', and it was carved by thousands of years of water erosion. The entrance opens straight into the canyon via a narrow wooden walkway suspended from the rock face.
From April onwards, once most of the snowmelt from the Taurus Mountains has passed through, around 4 km of the gorge becomes walkable; in winter, rising water levels can temporarily close access.
What to do and eat
The wooden-platform trout restaurants at the canyon entrance are the classic stop, where you can dangle your feet in the icy stream and eat freshly grilled trout. More adventurous visitors can wade further into the canyon's deeper sections with a guide. The sulphur spring at the entrance is considered good for the skin, and some visitors linger there too.
Getting there and nearby sights
There is no direct public transport to Saklikent from Dalaman Airport; the most practical route is a private transfer or day tour via Fethiye. The ancient city of Tlos and the trout gardens at Yaka Park can easily be added to the same day, combining history and nature in a single outing.
Practical tips
Your feet will get wet inside the canyon, so a change of clothes and a waterproof bag help; the water is very cold, especially in spring. Entry is subject to a small nature-park fee. Even at midday in summer, the canyon interior stays cool, making it a short escape from the coastal heat.
