Dramatic 18km-long canyon with walls rising 300 meters, featuring ice-cold mountain streams, narrow passages, and stunning rock formations. Wade through the rushing river, experience the natural refrigerator effect, and explore the gorge's mystical atmosphere - perfect for hot summer days.
Saklıkent Gorge is a dramatic canyon in the Akdağlar range of the Taurus Mountains, located in Fethiye district, Muğla province, southwest Turkey. The gorge extends approximately 18 kilometres into the mountains and reaches wall heights of up to 300 metres, making it one of the longest and deepest canyons in Turkey and the second deepest in Europe. The name means 'hidden city' in Turkish, a reference to the canyon's invisibility from the surrounding landscape until the visitor is almost upon it.
The gorge is accessed via a suspension footbridge crossing the Eşen River, followed by a wooden walkway bolted to the canyon wall approximately two metres above the rushing river. The walkway, approximately 150 metres long, leads into the canyon mouth where the walls narrow to as little as two metres apart in places. Beyond the walkway, the gorge continues on foot through the river itself: visitors wade knee-deep or deeper through ice-cold turquoise water that drains from snowmelt and mountain springs. The water temperature in the gorge rarely exceeds 8°C even in August, creating a natural refrigerator effect.
Restaurant platforms constructed over the river near the gorge entrance offer a distinctive dining experience, with tables literally suspended above the flowing water. Trout, grilled meats, and meze platters are the standard menu. The combination of cold water rushing beneath and tree shade makes these restaurants genuinely refreshing in the summer heat of the Fethiye region.
The accessible wading section stretches roughly 1 to 2 kilometres into the canyon before technical obstacles require turning back. Waterproof sandal rental is available at the entrance, as standard footwear is inadequate for the river passage. The gorge is open May through October and is occasionally closed due to flash flood risk after heavy rain.
Good to know
- Hours
- 8:00-19:00 (May-October). Closed in winter
- Best for
- nature, adventure, families, cooling off
Location
Kayadibi, 48850 Fethiye/Muğla
36.4667, 29.4833 View on map
Highlights
- 300-metre canyon walls narrowing to two metres apart in the deepest sections
- Wading through ice-cold turquoise mountain water in summer heat — temperatures around 8°C
- Wooden walkway bolted to the canyon wall at the entrance, offering dramatic perspectives
- Restaurant platforms suspended directly above the river at the gorge entrance
- Waterproof sandal rental enabling easy access into the river sections
Tips for visiting
- Rent waterproof shoes or sandals - essential
- Water extremely cold even in August
- Bring change of clothes
- Best May-September when water levels manageable
When to visit
May through September is the only open season. Visit in the morning before coach tours arrive from Fethiye and Ölüdeniz, typically after 10:00 AM. The gorge provides natural shade and cool temperatures throughout the day, making it a practical midday escape from beach heat.
Accessibility
The suspension bridge and wooden walkway at the gorge entrance are accessible for most ambulatory visitors. Wheelchair access is limited to the area before the walkway begins; the wading sections are not accessible for visitors with mobility limitations. The riverside restaurant platforms can be reached without entering the water.
Frequently asked questions
Do visitors need special equipment for Saklıkent Gorge?
Waterproof sandals are essential for the wading sections and can be rented at the entrance for a small fee. Bring a change of clothes and a dry bag for valuables. Wetsuits are not necessary but shorts and quick-dry clothing are recommended.
How cold is the water in Saklıkent Gorge?
The water temperature is around 6–8°C year-round, fed by snowmelt and underground springs. Even in peak summer the gorge is genuinely cold; the effect is refreshing in the heat but can cause rapid chilling if visitors wade for extended periods.
How long does a visit to Saklıkent take?
The entrance area, walkway, and first wading section take about an hour. Visitors wishing to explore further into the canyon should allow two to three hours. A riverside meal adds additional time.
Is Saklıkent suitable for children?
The wooden walkway at the entrance is suitable for all ages. The wading sections are manageable for older children (10+) who are comfortable in cold fast-moving water. Young children should remain on the entrance walkway and restaurant platforms.