Saklikent Gorge, one of Turkey’s deepest and most stunning canyons, offers adventure seekers an unforgettable outdoor experience. From hiking through its cool, shadowy trails to thrilling rafting sessions in its wild waters, the gorge is perfect for nature lovers and adrenaline junkies alike. This 2025 guide provides all the essential info to help you plan your visit — including best times to go, safety tips, and what to bring.
If you’re visiting Fethiye, this is a must-do day trip. In this 2025 travel guide, discover how to get to Saklıkent, what to expect, things to bring, and the best activities to enjoy.
📍 Where is Saklıkent Gorge?
- 📌 Located in Muğla Province, ~45 km from Fethiye
- 🕒 Drive time: ~50 minutes
- 🚌 Dolmuş available from Fethiye during summer (limited frequency)
- 🧭 Coordinates: 36.5045° N, 29.3586° E
🌄 What is Saklıkent Gorge?
Saklıkent Gorge is one of the deepest canyons in Europe, formed by water carving its way through limestone over thousands of years.
- Length: 18 km (only ~2 km accessible for tourists)
- Depth: up to 300 meters
- Fed by ice-cold spring water — even in summer it’s freezing!
The name “Saklıkent” means “Hidden City” — and it lives up to the name.
🎫 Entrance Fees & Hours (2025)
- 🕗 Opening hours: 09:00–19:00 (April to October)
- 💸 Entrance fee: ~70 TL per person
- 🥾 Rafting: Extra (~500–700 TL per person)
- 🛶 River tubing: ~400 TL
- 💧 Water shoes rental: ~50 TL
- 🧼 Mud bath: ~100 TL (optional)
🥾 What to Do in Saklıkent Gorge
1. Wade Through the Canyon
You’ll walk upstream through ice-cold water, climb over rocks, and discover secret waterfalls. It’s not easy — but it’s amazing.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 1.5–2 km accessible part
- Duration: 1–2 hours roundtrip
- Wear: Water shoes or rent on-site
Tip: Keep electronics in waterproof bags. A sudden slip is common.
2. River Rafting & Tubing Adventure
For adrenaline junkies, rafting through the fast-flowing streams is a highlight.
- Rafting groups leave hourly
- Includes safety gear and guide
- Children usually allowed if 10+
See also: Top Day Trips from Fethiye
3. Take a Natural Mud Bath
On the way to or from the canyon, many tours stop at a natural mud pool where you can soak, dry, and rinse.
- Good for the skin
- Great photo ops
- Smelly but fun 😄
4. Zip-lining Across the River
A newer attraction in the area — not part of the canyon itself, but available nearby.
- Cost: ~200–300 TL
- Short ride but high adrenaline
5. Picnic by the River
Outside the gorge, the area is filled with wooden platforms above the rushing water where you can eat, nap, or just chill.
- Local dishes: trout, gözleme, mezes
- Most restaurants serve fresh food at affordable prices
🧳 What to Bring to Saklıkent
- Water shoes or sandals with grip
- Waterproof bag or phone case
- Swimsuit + towel
- GoPro or action cam
- Light backpack
- Change of clothes
- Cash (some places don’t take cards)
🍽️ Where to Eat Nearby
- Saklıkent Kanyon Restaurant – riverside, popular for trout
- Yakapark – famous for its fish ponds and chill vibe
- Ceviz Restaurant – quiet, locally-run, budget-friendly
🚗 How to Get to Saklıkent Gorge
🚙 By Car:
- Drive from Fethiye via D400 → follow signs to Saklıkent
- Parking available (~50 TL)
🚌 By Public Transport:
- Dolmuş minibuses run from Fethiye in summer (check timetables)
🚐 By Tour:
- Many agencies in Fethiye offer Jeep Safari Tours that include:
- Saklıkent Gorge
- Tlos ruins
- Mud bath & zipline
- Lunch
Cost: ~1200 TL per person for full-day adventure
👨👩👧👦 Is Saklıkent Family-Friendly?
Yes, but:
- The canyon water is very cold, even in August
- Not suitable for toddlers
- Bring towels, dry clothes, snacks for kids
Great for ages 8+, especially with rafting or tubing included.
📸 Photography Tips
- Arrive early or late afternoon for soft light
- Wear colorful clothes for contrast against the rocks
- Bring a waterproof camera or phone case
❗ Safety Tips
- Water is powerful — hold on to hand ropes provided
- Avoid visiting after heavy rain (risk of flash flooding)
- Always follow local staff instructions
- Don’t go barefoot — rocks are sharp
🧭 Suggested Itinerary
Half Day Trip (self-drive):
- 10:00 – Arrive at Saklıkent
- 10:30 – Hike the gorge
- 12:30 – Mud bath
- 13:00 – Lunch by the river
- 14:30 – Back to Fethiye
Full-Day Tour (Jeep Safari):
- 09:00 – Depart Fethiye
- Visit Tlos Ruins
- Mud bath + zipline
- Saklıkent Gorge hike & lunch
- Return around 17:30
