The impressive Saklikent gorge, situated in a National Park just thirty minutes from Kalkan, is the second largest gorge in Europe. Saklikent meaning ‘hidden city’ in Turkish, is around 18km long, and over 300 metres deep, making it one of the deepest and most spectacular canyons in the world.
Since this incredible area of natural beauty became a National Park in 1996, it has become increasingly popular with tourists, and for good reason. In peak season between April and November, the snow-caps of the Taurus mountains have long since melted away, leaving lower water levels, perfect for those wishing to walk the 4km long path through the notably icy waters of the gorge, surrounded by sensational towering rock formations.
We recommend bringing a change of clothes, as well as a pair of water shoes, however these can be hired at the entrance too and are extremely helpful when clambering your way through the rocky river bottom. When visiting the gorge, if you are feeling adventurous, you will also have the option to partake in river tubing (extra charges apply), where you can have great fun paddling your way down the rushing ravines in a dinghy for approximately 45 minutes. There are also beautiful local shops that have been carefully built on platforms above the water. Here you can rifle through the trinkets and pots of honey on offer, or just enjoy the shade and views with a Turkish tea, or perhaps some locally caught trout fish with a cold Efes.
Trips to Saklikent are often combined by tour operators with a trip to the nearby historical site of Tlos, as well as a stop at ‘Yakapark’, a local trout farm for lunch.