Astım Mağarası
1 / 10

Astım Cave

4.5
·4k reviews·, Türkiye

Discover Astım Cave, a natural wonder with healing air and stunning stalactites. Descend into a cool, humid world of ancient formations.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Escape the heat, enjoy cool air

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Astım Mağarası

Astım Cave

Best Time

Summer mornings

Escape the heat, enjoy cool air

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Astım Cave, a natural wonder with healing air and stunning stalactites. Descend into a cool, humid world of ancient formations.

4.5
(4k reviews)

"Felt like Indiana Jones! The caves of Mersin are one of my favorite things in Turkey."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear good shoes!

The spiral stairs can be slippery. Comfortable, non-slip footwear is a must for a safe descent and ascent.

🚶‍♀️ Pace yourself on the climb

The stairs are long! Take your time on the way up; it's a workout but rewarding.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stalactites and Stalagmites

Stalactites and Stalagmites

Inside the cave

Marvel at ancient silicon mineral formations, sculpted over millennia into unique and giant shapes.

Healing Air

Healing Air

Cave interior

Breathe in the humid, clean air, believed to offer relief for asthma sufferers.

Spiral Staircase Descent

Spiral Staircase Descent

Cave entrance

Experience an adventurous descent into the earth via a unique, winding iron staircase.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Prepare for the Descent

Astım Cave features a long, spiral staircase leading down. While manageable for most, be mindful of the climb back up. The cave's cool, humid air is a welcome respite from the heat, but the path can be slippery.

Beyond the Cave

Your ticket often includes access to other museum sections, though some visitors skip them due to heat. Consider exploring the nearby cafe and gift shop for local crafts and refreshments with a view.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Escape the heat, enjoy cool air
Crowd
Medium
When
Afternoon
Why
Cave offers cool relief
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

👟 Wear good shoes!

The spiral stairs can be slippery. Comfortable, non-slip footwear is a must for a safe descent and ascent. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Pace yourself on the climb

The stairs are long! Take your time on the way up; it's a workout but rewarding. Reddit

📸 Capture the formations

Bring your camera! The cave's unique geological features offer fantastic photo opportunities. Reddit

💧 Embrace the humidity

The cave is naturally humid (up to 95% in winter). It's part of the experience and the reason for its name. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear good shoes!

The spiral stairs can be slippery. Comfortable, non-slip footwear is a must for a safe descent and ascent. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Pace yourself on the climb

The stairs are long! Take your time on the way up; it's a workout but rewarding. Reddit

📸 Capture the formations

Bring your camera! The cave's unique geological features offer fantastic photo opportunities. Reddit

💧 Embrace the humidity

The cave is naturally humid (up to 95% in winter). It's part of the experience and the reason for its name. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently impressed by the natural beauty of Astım Cave, particularly its unique stalactite and stalagmite formations and the refreshing, humid air believed to aid respiratory health. The adventurous descent via spiral stairs is a memorable part of the experience, though the climb back up requires effort. Some find the additional museum sections less compelling than the cave itself.

"Astım Cave is a natural limestone cave located near Narlıkuyu, Silifke in Mersin. It is about 200 meters long and famous for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. The cave is believed to have a healing effect on asthma patients because of its humid and clean air — which is where it gets its name (“Astım” means asthma in Turkish). Visitors can enter via a stairway and walk along a platform to explore its unique formations and cool atmosphere."

Kerim Andaç

"I love this place. I feel like I’m in an Indiana Jones movie. The caves of Mersin are just one of my favorite things in Turkey. If you’re in the area, go do this one."

Heather Clinger

"The cave is really really nice. So many pictures to take.

BUT if you are not healthy enough to walk all those stairs and especially to walk them back up again, you might just wanna watch pictures others have taken and posted 😂

I thought I'm not gonna make it upstairs again. But it was very nice downstairs.

With the ticket you can also go to the other museum part, but we didn't go due to the heat."

Nora Seegebrecht

What People Like

Impressive cave formations
Cool, humid air
Unique staircase descent

What People Dislike

Strenuous climb back up
Slippery stairs

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Astım Cave is located near Narlıkuyu, Silifke. You can reach it by car via the D400 highway. Public transport options might involve taking a bus towards Silifke and then a local dolmuş or taxi to the cave. Reddit

Yes, there is plenty of free parking available at Astım Cave, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

Traveling by car offers the most flexibility. If you don't have a car, consider a guided tour or a combination of intercity buses and local transport. Reddit

Astım Cave is a short drive from Silifke, typically around 15-20 minutes depending on traffic and your exact starting point within Silifke. Reddit

Absolutely! Astım Cave is a popular stop for day trips from Mersin or nearby coastal towns, often combined with other attractions in the region. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is an admission fee to enter Astım Cave. The exact price can vary, but it's generally considered affordable. Your ticket may also grant access to other museum areas. Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the latest information closer to your visit, but it typically operates during daylight hours. Reddit

Advance booking is usually not required for Astım Cave. Tickets can typically be purchased at the entrance upon arrival. Reddit

While there are signs and platforms to guide you, formal guided tours might not always be available. The cave's layout is straightforward to navigate independently. Reddit

Payment methods can vary. While some tourist sites accept cards, it's always a good idea to have some Turkish Lira cash on hand for tickets and smaller purchases. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Exploring the main cave takes about 30-45 minutes. If you decide to visit other museum sections, allow for additional time. Reddit

Yes, many visitors find it suitable for young children, even as young as 4 years old, though they will need supervision on the stairs. The cool air is often a hit! Reddit

The cave maintains a consistently cool temperature, offering a refreshing escape from the summer heat. Humidity levels are high, reaching up to 85% in summer. Reddit

Yes, there are WC rooms available at the site, usually located near the entrance or the cafe area. Reddit

The cave is accessed via a long, spiral staircase, which may be challenging for individuals with mobility issues. The pathways inside are generally flat once you reach the bottom. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed inside Astım Cave, and many visitors capture the unique stalactite and stalagmite formations. Reddit

The entire cave offers stunning visuals, but focus on the larger, more intricate formations. The entrance and exit points with the spiral staircase also make for dramatic shots. Reddit

The cave is illuminated to highlight the formations. While generally good for photos, consider bringing a small portable light if you want to capture specific details or experiment with lighting. Reddit

While generally permitted, avoid using flash photography that might disturb the cave environment or other visitors. Always be mindful of your surroundings. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted in and around natural attractions and historical sites. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Astım Cave can be a fun adventure for families! Kids often enjoy the novelty of the spiral staircase descent and the cool, mysterious atmosphere inside. While the stairs require supervision, many parents report their young children (even as young as 4) managed the walk around the cave floor. The fresh air is a definite plus, and the unique rock formations can spark curiosity. Reddit

Pack comfortable, non-slip shoes for everyone, as the stairs can be damp. Be prepared for the climb back up – it’s a good workout! The cafe on-site offers a nice spot for a break afterwards, and the gift shop might have small souvenirs to remember the trip. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Astım Cave offers good value for its admission price, especially considering the unique natural spectacle it provides. The free parking is a significant plus for those traveling by car. While there are facilities like a cafe and shop, you can easily enjoy the cave experience without spending extra money beyond the entrance fee. Reddit

Consider packing your own water and snacks to save on costs at the on-site cafe. If you're using public transport, factor in the cost of buses and local transfers. Visiting as part of a larger road trip through the region can maximize your travel budget. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Geology and Healing Properties of Astım Cave

Astım Cave is a natural limestone cave, approximately 200 meters long, renowned for its spectacular stalactites and stalagmites. These formations are the result of silicon mineral accumulation over thousands of years, creating intricate and often giant shapes that evoke a sense of wonder. The cave's unique geological makeup contributes to its distinct atmosphere. Reddit

The cave's name, 'Astım' (meaning asthma in Turkish), stems from the belief in its healing properties. The air inside is exceptionally humid and clean, with humidity levels reaching up to 85% in summer and 95% in winter. This environment is thought to be beneficial for individuals suffering from respiratory ailments like asthma. Visitors often describe the air as fresh and cool, providing a welcome contrast to the external climate. Reddit

Accessing the cave involves descending a spiral iron staircase, a feature that adds to the adventurous feel of the visit. Once inside, visitors walk along a platform to admire the geological wonders. The combination of its natural beauty, perceived health benefits, and unique access method makes Astım Cave a memorable destination. Reddit

Visitor Experience and Practicalities

Visiting Astım Cave involves a significant descent via a spiral staircase. While many find it manageable, reviewers often emphasize the need for good footwear due to potential slipperiness and the physical effort required for the climb back up. It's a good idea to pace yourself and take breaks if needed. Reddit

Once inside, the cool, humid air is a major draw, especially during warmer months. The cave is well-lit, making it easy to see the impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Many visitors enjoy the photography opportunities within the cave, capturing the unique geological formations. Reddit

Beyond the cave itself, the site often includes amenities like a cafe and gift shop, offering refreshments and souvenirs. Some ticket packages may also grant access to other museum sections, though these are sometimes bypassed by visitors due to the heat or time constraints. The staff at the gift shop and cafe are frequently noted as being polite and helpful. Reddit

You may also like