Kalkan: Private Tour to Demre, Myra, and Kekova Island
Location: Antalya Province, Turkey
Price: $687 per person
Duration: 11 hours
This private tour from Kalkan takes you through some of Turkey’s most captivating sights—think sunken cities, rock-cut tombs, and medieval castles—all in a single day. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll visit Kekova’s sunken city, explore Myra’s ancient ruins, and enjoy leisurely stops at scenic bays. The journey is designed for those who crave authentic experiences, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, photography, and cultural insight.
What we love about this tour are the beautiful boat cruises around Kekova, offering incredible views of the Sunken City—a must-see for history buffs and lovers of scenic landscapes. The visit to St. Nicholas Church adds a charming touch of religious and historical significance, connecting you with the enduring legacy of the region. Plus, the included lunch and snorkeling gear make it a well-rounded, value-rich experience.
One consideration is the length of the day—at 11 hours, it’s full-on, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a long, active day. Also, since entrance fees aren’t included, travelers should budget for those extras. This tour suits curious travelers who want a comprehensive, personalized experience with the flexibility of a private group.
Key Points
Personalized Experience: Private group, flexible itinerary, and English-speaking guides.
Historical & Natural Highlights: Visit Myra’s rock-cut tombs, Kekova’s sunken city, and St. Nicholas Church.
Scenic Boat Cruise: Enjoy boat rides passing by Kekova’s famous submerged ruins and charming bays.
Cultural Insights: Explore Lycian Civilizations Museum and Myra’s ruins for authentic historical context.
Active & Relaxing: Swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing all in one day, with plenty of opportunities to cool off in scenic bays.
Value for Money: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, and snorkeling gear, making it a convenient and comprehensive option.
Exploring the Full Experience
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Starting from Kalkan: Comfort and Convenience
The tour begins with hotel pickup, which means no hassle of finding a meeting point. The comfortable van ride lasts about an hour, giving you time to get familiar with your guide and get excited about the day ahead. Traveling in a private group ensures a relaxed atmosphere, without the crowds typical of larger tours.
Scenic Drive & Andriake Harbour
The ride itself offers scenic views, giving you a taste of the Turkish coast’s rugged beauty. Approaching Andriake Harbour, you’ll be greeted by the sparkling waters and boats waiting for your cruise. It’s a peaceful spot that sets the tone for a day of exploration.
Kekova’s Sunken City & Boat Cruise
The highlight for many is the boat cruise around Kekova Island, home to the Sunken City. Passing by these ruins, you’ll see what remains of ancient Lycian structures submerged after earthquakes. The boat trip lasts roughly 20 minutes but is packed with visual drama. Be sure to bring your camera because the sight of ancient walls and towers jutting out of the water is striking.
More Great Tours NearbySimena Castle & Self-Guided Exploration
Next, the tour stops at Simena Castle, offering spectacular views of the bay and the charming village of Simena. You’ll have about an hour here for photos, exploring, and enjoying some free time. Many visitors mention the panoramic vistas and the quaint atmosphere as real highlights.
Bays for Swimming & Snorkeling
The tour then shifts to some excellent swimming spots: Esmaralda Koyu, a hidden gem, and Gökkaya Bay. These stops last around 40 minutes each and are perfect for snorkeling gear provided by the tour. Expect clear water and lively marine life, which makes these stops particularly enjoyable for families and water lovers.
Pirates Cave & Marine Life Viewing
A quick pass-by through Pirates Cave adds a dash of adventure, with some great photo opportunities. Later, at Karemlik Bay, you can enjoy a brief marine life viewing, which might include glimpses of colorful fish and underwater scenery.
Cultural & Historical Stops in Demre
After a busy morning on the water, the tour heads to Demre, where you’ll visit the Lycian Civilizations Museum and St. Nicholas Church. The museum offers a glimpse into the region’s ancient past, while the church—famous for being the inspiration for Santa Claus—adds a touch of holiday magic. These visits are self-guided, giving you flexibility to explore at your own pace.
Myra Ruins & Ancient Tombs
The Myra ruins are a highlight for history enthusiasts. The rock-cut tombs carved into cliffs are impressive, and the site offers a tangible link to the Lycian civilization. Many visitors appreciate the authenticity of these ruins, which are less commercialized compared to other ancient sites.
Return & Reflection
After a long and fulfilling day, the return journey offers some downtime in the van, allowing you to reflect on the sights and experiences. The tour concludes back in Kalkan, ready to share stories of your adventure.
Why This Tour Offers Great Value
At $687 per person, this private experience isn’t cheap, but it offers a level of personalization and flexibility that large group tours can’t match. The hotel pickup and drop-off eliminate hassle, while the lunch and snorkeling gear add convenience. The combination of scenic boat rides, historical exploration, and swimming opportunities makes it a well-rounded day.
The price reflects a quality, tailored experience—you’re paying for expert guides, private transport, and the exclusivity of avoiding crowded tours. If you’re a traveler who values comfort, authentic experiences, and the ability to explore at your own pace, this tour is worth considering.
What Travelers Say
One traveler, Shakir, simply called it “Good,” highlighting that the experience met expectations. The friendly guide and the stunning views are recurring themes in reviews, emphasizing that the trip delivers on its promises.
Who Would Appreciate This Tour?
This experience is perfect for those who want a comprehensive day of sightseeing with the flexibility of a private group. It suits history buffs eager to see Myra’s tombs and St. Nicholas Church, as well as nature lovers excited about swimming in beautiful bays and exploring Kekova’s sunken ruins. It’s also a good fit for travelers who prefer a luxurious, stress-free day with included transport, meals, and gear.
However, be aware of the long hours and the cost—if you’re on a tight budget, you might want to look for more economical options. But for those seeking an immersive, personalized experience, this tour hits the mark.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, starting with pickup from your hotel in Kalkan and ending back there in the evening.
What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, a full-day guided tour, lunch, and snorkeling gear. Entrance fees to archaeological sites are not included.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour includes swimming and sightseeing, which can be enjoyable for families. Just consider the long day and the activities involved.
Do I need to bring anything?
Bring sunscreen, a towel, and perhaps some cash for additional purchases or entrance fees. Snorkeling gear is provided.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if plans change.
Are the visits self-guided?
Yes, at the Lycian Civilizations Museum, St. Nicholas Church, and Myra Ruins, you’ll explore at your own pace.
Is the boat cruise included?
Yes, the boat cruise around Kekova is part of the itinerary, offering excellent views of the Sunken City and surrounding bays.
What makes this tour stand out?
Its private nature, personalized attention, and combination of water, land, and cultural activities make it a well-rounded day for curious travelers.
To sum it up, this private tour from Kalkan offers a rich blend of history, scenic beauty, and relaxation, all tailored to your interests. It’s ideal for travelers who want an immersive experience with expert guides, time to explore freely, and the comfort of private transport. While it demands a long day, the payoff is a memorable journey through some of Turkey’s most captivating coastal sights—perfect for those eager to combine adventure, culture, and authentic encounters in one seamless trip.
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