Kemer: Jeep Safari to Olympos Beach & the Flames of Chimaera

Imagine a day filled with rugged off-road adventure, swimming in crystal-clear waters, exploring ancient ruins, and witnessing a natural phenomenon that’s been burning for thousands of years. That’s exactly what this 7-hour Jeep Safari from Kemer offers. Led by a friendly guide (in English, Russian, Turkish, or German), you’ll venture into some of the most scenic spots in Antalya Province — and you won’t need to be a seasoned hiker or a history buff to enjoy it.

This tour is perfect for those craving a mix of adventure, relaxation, and a touch of mystery. We love the fact that it hits all the high points — off-road fun, a swim at Olympos Beach, the eerie flames of Yanarta (Chimaera), and a tasty dinner in a tranquil mountain village. The downside? It’s a long day with a fair amount of travel, so if you’re looking for a more relaxed, laid-back experience, this might feel a bit energetic. But for curious travelers who want to see nature’s quirky side and enjoy a good adventure, this tour hits the mark.

If you’re staying in Kemer and want a taste of rugged Turkish countryside combined with breathtaking sights, this tour will suit you well. It’s especially appealing if you like a bit of off-road action and want to combine natural wonders with some history and good local food.

Key Points

• Scenic Off-Roading: The jeep safari takes you through beautiful countryside, making the journey part of the fun.
• Swim & Relax: Olympos Beach offers a chance to cool off in the Mediterranean and unwind.
• Ancient Ruins (Optional): The nearby ruins of Olympos are an extra cost but add a historical dimension.
• Natural Fire Phenomenon: Witness the flames of Yanarta (Chimaera), a natural fire that’s been burning for thousands of years.
• Delicious Dinner: End the day with a hearty meal, choosing between grilled fish or chicken.
• Small Group Feel: The tour offers a friendly, guided experience with a knowledgeable driver.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Thorough Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Out: The Pickup and Scenic Ride

The adventure begins with a hotel pickup in Kemer — a hassle-free start that ensures you don’t have to worry about transportation. The vehicles are clearly marked jeeps or SUVs, giving you a sense of adventure right from the beginning. The drive is about 10 minutes to a vantage point for a panoramic photo stop, where you’ll get your first glimpse of the stunning landscape. Expect lush green hills, countryside dotted with small farms, and mountain views — typical of Antalya’s diverse terrain. As one traveler put it, “The scenic drive already made the trip worth it.”

Off-Road Thrills and the Visit to Olympos Beach

Next, you’ll hop into the jeep for roughly an hour of off-road driving. This part is lively and bumpy — perfect for those who want to feel the thrill of driving through rugged terrain while enjoying the countryside’s natural beauty. If you’re prone to motion sickness, a quick heads-up — the dirt tracks are bumpy but manageable with a good driver.

Arriving at Olympos Beach, you’ll have about 80 minutes of free time. Here, the appeal is twofold: the stunning beach with its pebbly shoreline and clear waters, and the opportunity to swim, sunbathe, or rinse off in the nearby showers. Many reviews mention how relaxing this part of the trip is, especially after the lively ride. One guest remarked, “The water was perfect for cooling off, and the beach had a peaceful vibe that made the whole trip worthwhile.”

If you’re interested in history, there’s an optional visit to the ancient city of Olympos, which costs 10 Euros. The ruins are a brief walk away, with a short guided introduction available in multiple languages. While not included in the main price, it’s worth considering if you love wandering through ruins and imagining what life was like centuries ago.

The Mysterious Flames of Yanarta (Chimaera)

After some time at the beach, the highlight for many is the hike up to Yanarta (Chimaera) — a natural phenomenon where eternal flames flicker from holes in the rocks. The hike is approximately 1,000 meters and involves a mountain trail that can be a bit steep, so comfortable shoes are a must. The climb takes about 1.5 hours round-trip, but the payoff is extraordinary: at the top, you’ll witness the flames dancing in the darkness, a sight that’s both eerie and fascinating.

Multiple reviews mention how atmospheric this experience is. One traveler said, “Seeing these flames up close, with the mountains around me, felt like stepping into a legend. It’s a must-see.” The natural gas ignites from underground sources, and the fact that these fires have been burning for thousands of years adds a sense of timelessness to the visit.

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The Scenic Return and Dinner in Ulupnar

Descending from Yanarta, the jeep takes you through more scenic countryside. This part offers chances to enjoy the views, take photos, and chat with your guide. Afterward, you’ll arrive at a peaceful mountain restaurant in Ulupnar for dinner. The meal features a choice of grilled fish or chicken, accompanied by a fresh salad. Drinks are not included, so bring some cash if you’d like to toast your day. Many guests appreciate the quality of the food and the chance to relax in a tranquil setting after a busy day.

End of the Day and Return to Kemer

The tour wraps up around 10 p.m., with a comfortable drop-off back at your hotel. The long day is packed with variety, from off-road adventures to relaxing beach time, to awe-inspiring natural phenomena — a good value considering the diverse experiences packed in.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

This safari is not just about ticking boxes; it’s about the stories and sights you’ll carry with you. The scenic drives and off-road fun make the journey lively. The swimming at Olympos Beach offers a relaxing break, and the optional ruins give a taste of history without overwhelming. The Chimaera flames are genuinely unique — a visual and atmospheric highlight — and the dinner in Ulupnar rounds out the day with good local food.

The tour is priced fairly when you consider the transportation, guided experience, and access to multiple highlights. It’s especially good for travelers who want a full day of varied activities without needing to plan each step themselves.

Who Will Love This Experience?

If you enjoy a blend of adventure and nature, this tour is ideal. It suits those curious about local natural phenomena, keen on scenic drives, and eager to relax on a beautiful beach. It’s suitable for active travelers, though not for those with mobility issues or pregnant women, due to the hike up Yanarta. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate a mix of exploration and leisure will find plenty to love here.

Final Thoughts

This jeep safari from Kemer delivers a well-rounded taste of Antalya’s natural beauty, history, and adventure. The off-road driving adds a fun and rugged element, while the beach and flames leave you with memorable visuals and stories. The optional ruins allow for a deeper dive into the ancient past, and the dinner provides a delicious local touch.

What sets this tour apart is its balance — combining thrill, relaxation, and awe in a single day. It’s a good pick for travelers who want to see some of Turkey’s most iconic natural sights but without the fuss of complicated logistics.

In short, this experience offers value for money, a friendly guide, and a diverse itinerary that keeps you engaged from start to finish. Whether you’re after stunning views, a bit of history, or just a fun day out, this tour can satisfy your curiosity and your sense of adventure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Kemer, making it easy to start and end your day without hassle.

How long is the hiking to Yanarta (Chimaera)?
The hike up to the flames is approximately 1,000 meters, taking about 1.5 hours round-trip. The trail is mountain terrain, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Can I visit the ancient ruins of Olympos?
Yes, there’s an optional visit to the ruins, which costs 10 Euros. The ruins are a short walk from the beach and include a brief guided introduction.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, sunscreen, a camera, water, and cash (for drinks and the ruins). Don’t forget your sense of adventure.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s best suited for active travelers who can handle a mountain hike. Pregnant women, mobility-impaired, and people with health concerns should consider this before booking.

Are drinks included during dinner?
No, drinks are paid for separately, so you might want to bring some cash if you’d like to enjoy a toast or soft drinks with your meal.

This jeep safari offers a wonderful mix of natural scenery, adventure, and cultural intrigue, perfect for those staying in Kemer who want a day filled with memorable sights and experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here: