Carved by the Hand of Nature: 9 Breathtaking Canyons to Explore in Turkey
Turkey's diverse landscapes are full of surprises. In particular, its dramatic gorges are some of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders to be discovered. From narrow gorges tucked away in pine forests to vast valleys carved by ancient rivers, these canyons offer unforgettable adventures for hikers, photographers and nature lovers alike.
Let's learn more about these canyons so you can choose which one to visit!👇
Ulubey Canyon
The Ulubey Canyon, a nature park covering the Ulubey and Karahallı districts of Uşak, is the second largest in the world after the Grand Canyon in the United States. The canyon, which is a suitable habitat for several species of animals and plants, has over time become an ecotourism center. It is ideal for hiking, trekking and camping. There are several places of interest near the canyon, such as the Cilandiras Bridge, the rock tombs of Duraklı, the monuments of Hasköy, the ancient cities of Pepuza and Blaundus, and the Salma Creek. Banaz Creek, which lies inside the canyon, offers rafting opportunities and the canyon itself is excellent for climbing.
There is also a glass viewing platform to take in the amazing scenery. A 302 square metre café is also available to make the most of this incredible canyon.
Valla Canyon
Believed to be the second deepest canyon in the world, Valla is located in the Pınarbaşı district of Kastamonu. Due to its natural beauty and incredible geography, the canyon is excellent for outdoor sports. If you are into rock climbing or trekking, or perhaps both, you must visit and experience this phenomenal natural formation created when the Devrekani Creek eroded the Küre Mountains. The valley is also known for its rich fauna as it is home to several birds of prey such as eagles and vultures. Because of this, it is forbidden to enter much of the canyon without appropriate clothing, and sports and trekking are only allowed in certain areas. As with Ulubey Canyon, there's a viewing platform that's not to be missed!
Ihlara Valley
Close to Mount Hasan and Mount Melendiz, this valley is a canyon that is thought to have housed more than 4,000 houses and several cave churches throughout history. This comes as no surprise to us, as the Kapadokya region, where the canyon is located is world famous for its rock carved structures.
The valley, with its vineyards, poplars and pistachio trees, is ideal for trekking and hiking, and will soothe your spirit with the echoing sound of the rushing waters of the Melendiz River. Be sure to visit the cave churches here, all of which are decorated with amazing frescoes. Near Belisırma, one of the many entrances to the valley, there are some restaurants - ideal for lunch after you have exhausted yourself from all the outdoor activities available in the valley.
Saklıkent Canyon
The Turkish city of Muğla is home to a canyon that's already become a tourist hotspot. With depths of up to 30 metres, Saklıkent is one of the deepest canyons in the world, with several sheer cliffs, waterfalls and a total of 16 amazing caves. You'll have to cross a bridge to enter this natural landscape, which has been declared a nature park, and a huge 10-metre deep crevice will welcome you and entice you to discover this amazing canyon. Because of the high cliffs and sculpted walls, there's little to no light in the canyon. This is why it is known in Turkish as 'Saklıkent', which means 'hidden city'.
Be sure to visit the ancient ruins of Tlos and dine at one of the fresh trout restaurants nearby. The restaurants here are set on wooden platforms suspended over the rushing waters of the river - in other words, something as simple as lunch will make your trip to Saklıkent unforgettable!
Köprülü Canyon
Stretching along the Köprü River, this canyon is a popular destination for adrenaline junkies. Home to a national park of the same name, the canyon is an ideal place to enjoy rafting in the safest way possible. Located in Antalya's Manavgat district, it is also an excellent place for rock climbing and camping.
Köprülü Canyon National Park has a rich flora and fauna and is home to several species of pine, black pine, cedar, fir and oak, as well as endemic and endangered animal species. It is also home to the largest cypress forest in Asia Minor. Parts of the St Paul's Trail and the ancient city of Selge also fall within the boundaries of the national park.
Karanlık Canyon
Karanlık Canyon, which means 'Dark Canyon' in Turkish, is a steep-sided canyon near the town of Erzincan. It was formed by the Karasu River in the so-called Munzur Mountains and is excellent for canyoning and canoeing. The 'Euphrates Route' that runs along the Karanlık Canyon has been named one of the top 10 European canoeing routes by a water sports magazine.
The canyon's rough and rugged terrain makes the roads here quite challenging to drive - and the perfect destination for adventurous, adrenaline-charged drivers. In fact, sections of the road here are considered even more dangerous than the famous Guoliang Tunnel in China.
Arapapıştı Canyon
Arapapıştı Canyon is one of the most visited spots in the Turkish Aegean region, stretching over a large area in the southwestern provinces of Aydın, Denizli and Muğla. Also known as İnceğiz Canyon, it offers beautiful boat tours that are ideal for a city break. Formed by the waters of the Akçay River, the canyon is a boon to the local economy. The canyon is also known for its rare wildlife, including eagles, wild goats and wild boars.
Source: Kültür Portalı
Sapadere Canyon
The Sapadere Gorge, located about 40 kilometers east of Antalya's Alanya district, is a rugged gorge with a waterfall and clear pools that are popular with swimmers. Its shades of green and rock formations are truly captivating.
If you find yourself in this perfect getaway, which is particularly popular with those who want to cool off from the summer heat, be sure to take a walk around the village of Sapadere, admire its beautiful water mill and silk weaving workshops, and taste the delicious fresh trout available in the nearby restaurants.
Source: Antalya.com.tr
Cehennem Deresi Canyon
Cehennem Deresi, one of the few canyon valleys in the world, is probably the most popular canyon in the Black Sea region of Turkey. Located in the town of Artvin, the canyon has been declared a national park and is equipped with wooden stairs to add to the fun. It's most famous for being the second-highest canyon in the world, after the Grand Canyon in Arizona, and is ideal for outdoor sports such as hiking and trekking.
Source: TripAdvisor
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