An amazing Saklkent tour in Kalkan by Unlimited-Holidays.

An In-Depth Look at the Saklikent Tour in Kalkan by Unlimited Holidays

Taking a day to explore some of Turkey’s lesser-known treasures can be a real highlight of your trip. For around $78 per person, this full-day guided tour offers an engaging mix of natural beauty, history, and culture, all within about 8 hours. You’ll get picked up from your hotel (if it’s on the list), visit the stunning Saklikent Canyon, enjoy a delicious buffet lunch at Yakapark, explore the ruins of the ancient Lycian city Tlos, and finish with a relaxing swim at Patara Beach.

What we love about this tour is how it balances adventure and history—you get your adrenaline rush with canyon trekking or rafting, and then step back into time at Lycian archaeological sites. Plus, the included lunch at Yakapark with its peaceful water sounds makes for a lovely break. Another highlight is the small-group size (max 14 travelers), which keeps things personal and friendly.

One consideration is that admission fees are not included for the main sites, so you’ll want to budget an extra ~70 TL for Xanthos, Saklikent Gorge, and Patara Beach fees—an important detail for those counting pennies. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor activity and cultural discovery, especially families or those with moderate physical fitness. If you’re after an authentic, active day away from the crowds, this one’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Natural wonder: Saklikent Canyon offers stunning scenery and an invigorating adventure.
• Cultural immersion: Tlos ruins provide a fascinating glimpse into ancient Lycia.
• Delicious meal: The buffet lunch at Yakapark is both scenic and satisfying.
• Flexible activities: Options to trek or raft through Saklikent Gorge.
• Small-group feel: With only 14 travelers, expect personal attention.
• Extra costs: Entrance fees are not included, so plan accordingly.

A Deep Dive into the Saklikent Tour Experience

When we first read about this tour, what caught our eye was the promise of exploring Turkey’s hidden treasures. The 8-hour itinerary is packed with diverse activities, making it ideal for those who want a full day of discovery. The price of around $78 is quite reasonable considering the transportation, guide, and meals included—especially when you think about the value of genuine experiences.

The Journey Begins: Saklikent Milli Parki

Your day starts with a hotel pickup, which is a huge plus for convenience—no need to worry about finding your way. Once you arrive at Saklikent Milli Parki, you’ll be standing at the entrance to one of Turkey’s most striking natural sights. The canyon, which means “hidden city,” stretches for about 18 kilometers with walls soaring up to 300 meters. The cool, rushing waters, which you might get wet crossing, cut through a landscape that feels untouched and wild.

This stop is the highlight for many. As one reviewer notes, “The gorge was impressive and good to do some walking on holiday.” It’s a place where you can enjoy a short trek, marvel at the sheer cliffs, and maybe even opt for a rafting adventure if you’re feeling brave. The canyon’s natural beauty is a calming contrast to the morning’s activity, and the cool water provides relief from the warmer Mediterranean sun.

YakaPark: Lunch with a View

After working up an appetite, you’ll head to Yakapark, perched in a peaceful setting where the sounds of flowing water set a relaxing tone. The buffet lunch is included, offering traditional Turkish fare, which many reviews praise as both delicious and plentiful. The tranquil setting—dining beside waterfalls—makes this a memorable experience rather than just a meal.

Some reviews emphasize that the food was enjoyable, and the ambiance is as much a part of the experience as the food itself. The fact that you can sit among nature, listening to water trickling past, makes it a real treat.

Step Back in Time at Tlos

Next, you visit Tlos Ruins, an important Lycian site. As one of the most significant ancient settlements in the region, Tlos offers ruins of amphitheaters, tombs, and city walls. The guide’s insights make history come alive, helping you picture what life was like over 2,000 years ago.

One reviewer mentions, “We discover this extraordinary civilization with our guide and make a short journey into history.” The site is free to enter, and the open-air feel makes it easy to roam and imagine the past. Visiting Tlos allows you to connect with Turkey’s long and diverse past beyond the typical tourist spots.

Relaxing Finale at Patara Beach

The tour wraps up with a visit to Patara Beach, one of Turkey’s longest and most pristine stretches of sand—around 15 km. The hour you spend here is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just taking in the stunning sea views. Many travelers find this to be an ideal way to unwind after a busy morning and early afternoon of touring.

A review notes, “We had an hour swimming break in Patara,” emphasizing how much this trip balances active exploration with time to relax. The beach’s natural beauty and gentle waves make it a highlight for families or anyone wanting a peaceful end to their day.

What to Expect: Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

The transportation is typically a comfortable minibus that picks you up and drops you off at your hotel if you stay at a participating location. With a maximum of 14 travelers, the tour maintains a friendly, small-group atmosphere, which encourages interaction and personalized attention from your guide.

Starting at 9:00 am, the day is well-organized. The admission fees for sites like Saklikent, Xanthos, and Patara are not included in the price—roughly 70 TL combined—so bring some extra cash if you’d like to avoid surprises. The tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as some walking and water activities are involved but nothing overly strenuous.

Authenticity and Local Flavor

One of the best parts of this tour is its genuine feel. The guide, described as friendly and professional, helps you appreciate each site’s significance without overwhelming you with facts. The inclusion of a carpet-weaving demonstration adds a cultural touch, giving a glimpse into traditional Turkish crafts.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

While most reviews are positive, some mention that admission fees can be a surprise if not anticipated. For instance, one reviewer pointed out, “We were told 48 hours before the trip that there would be entry fees.” This is a reminder to budget extra for entrance costs.

Other travelers love the mix of natural scenery and historic ruins, with comments like, “Xanthos and Saklikent Gorge were well worth it.” The delicious buffet lunch at Yakapark is also frequently praised, making the day not just informative but enjoyable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families, outdoor lovers, and those curious about Turkey’s ancient past. It’s well-suited for travelers who enjoy moderate physical activity—trekking, walking, or even rafting—and want to combine adventure with cultural insight. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic day with opportunities to swim, hike, and learn, this trip offers good value and variety.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

For travelers seeking a day of exploration that balances nature, history, and local culture, this Saklikent tour delivers in spades. The small-group setting, the chance to see spectacular natural formations, and the chance to relax on Patara Beach make it an appealing choice.

While you’ll need to budget for some additional entrance fees, the overall value lies in the rich experience—from the thrill of canyoning or rafting to discovering ancient Lycian ruins. The authentic touches, like the carpet-weaving demo and delicious local cuisine, enrich the day further.

If you’re in Kalkan and want to see a different side of Turkey—away from the crowds and into its natural and historic heart—this trip is a worthwhile, memorable option.

FAQ

Are hotel pickups available?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included if you stay at participating hotels, making it hassle-free to start your day.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, providing a full day of activities and sightseeing.

What should I bring?
Consider bringing extra shorts, t-shirts, hats, suncream, and water shoes, especially since water activities are involved.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, as long as they have moderate physical fitness, since activities like trekking and rafting are optional but possible.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for sites like Saklikent, Xanthos, and Patara are not included and total around 70 TL. Budget extra accordingly.

What language is the guide likely to speak?
While not explicitly stated, the guide is described as friendly and professional, likely speaking good English.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a guided tour with a set itinerary, so customization isn’t typically offered, but the group size keeps things flexible.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely, the small-group format makes it easy to meet others and share the experience.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Expect some walking, short hikes, and water activities, but it’s designed for those with moderate fitness levels.

Exploring Turkey’s hidden gems with a knowledgeable guide, delicious local food, and plenty of time for relaxation makes this tour a compelling choice for your Kalkan visit.