Saklıkent Gorge lies inland in the Xanthos valley, about an hour and a half by road from Kaş. The canyon is some eighteen kilometres long, with walls rising to roughly three hundred metres, and visitors walk the first stretch on timber walkways bolted to the rock before wading into the river that cuts through it. The water comes from mountain snowmelt and is startlingly cold even in July, which is part of the appeal on a hot summer day. A jeep safari from Kaş and Kalkan packages the transfer, a guide, a trip through nearby villages and a river lunch into one day, so you do not have to drive the winding inland road yourself. Most jeep days start with a morning pickup from hotels in Kaş and Kalkan, followed by a convoy through pine forests and village roads to the gorge. At the entrance you cross a short suspension walkway, wade through the shallow stream and, if the water level allows, continue deeper into the canyon with the group. After the gorge, the safari stops for lunch at one of the trout restaurants built on platforms over the river, where you eat at low tables with your feet in cold running water, a custom that visitors tend to remember.
What you will do in the gorge: the first section is easy enough for most visitors, with a boardwalk and then a wade in knee-deep water over smooth stones. Beyond the end of the wooden walkway, the canyon narrows and the current increases, and only those who are sure-footed and wearing appropriate footwear should continue.
Rental shoes are widely available at the entrance, and water shoes with a firm sole are better than flip-flops, which tend to be lost in the river. Wear swimwear under your clothes and bring a light towel and a dry change for the return.
The jeep safari element
The vehicles are open or canvas-topped four-wheel-drive jeeps or trucks that hold several passengers each. The ride takes you along dusty village tracks and past orchards, and often includes a stop at a gozleme stall or a viewpoint. It is bumpy but not extreme, suited to families with children old enough to hold on.
Some operators combine Saklıkent with the ancient Lycian city of Tlos, which is perched on a cliff and has rock tombs and a theatre, or with Patara beach on the way back, so check what your safari includes.
Safety and conditions
The level of the river varies with the season. In spring, snowmelt can make the canyon impassable beyond the first section, and operators or the site may close access after heavy rain. In late summer the level is lower, and wading is easier. Do not bring valuables into the water, and use a waterproof pouch for your phone. Children should be supervised at all times.
Practicalities
The entrance fee to the gorge is generally paid separately and in cash, while lunch is normally included or paid on site. Ask your operator which items are covered. The day is long, usually from morning until late afternoon, so bring snacks, sun cream and a hat. If you only have one gorge day, this is the classic choice, and it pairs well with a quieter beach day the next morning.
What to expect
The experience
A guided jeep convoy from Kaş and Kalkan to Saklıkent Gorge, with time to wade into the canyon and a river lunch.
Best time
Late spring to early autumn, when the river is wadeable and the day is warm.
How long
A full day.
Tips
Wear water shoes with grips, bring a towel, a dry bag and cash for the entrance fee.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Active families and groups who want a classic day out in the mountains.
- Families
- Children old enough to wade and hold on in a jeep will enjoy it, but supervise at all times.
- Couples
- Cold water, rock walls and a river-side lunch make for a different kind of day.
- Pair with
- Patara beach, Tlos, or a relaxed beach afternoon on return.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
How cold is the water in the gorge?+
Very cold, even in summer, because the river runs from mountain snowmelt. It is refreshing on a hot day.
Can children go into the gorge?+
Yes, in the shallow first stretch with supervision. Deeper sections are only for sure-footed adults.
Is the gorge entrance fee included?+
Often it is paid separately in cash. Ask the operator before you go.
What should I wear?+
Swimwear, quick-drying clothes and water shoes with a firm sole. Rent shoes at the entrance if needed.
Can the gorge close?+
Yes. Heavy rain or high snowmelt can limit access, so operators may adjust or cancel.