Dalyan River Dalyan
Cruise the Dalyan River, marvel at ancient rock tombs, rejuvenate in mud baths, and spot sea turtles at Iztuzu Beach.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for turtles
Dalyan River Dalyan
Best Time
Best chance for turtles
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cruise the Dalyan River, marvel at ancient rock tombs, rejuvenate in mud baths, and spot sea turtles at Iztuzu Beach.
"A fantastic day trip with natural mud baths, a boat ride, turtles, and a beautiful beach."
🎯 Full Day Tour Recommended
A full-day tour (approx. 10 hours) covers mud baths, rock tombs, lunch, and Turtle Beach.
🐢 Turtle Spotting Tips
Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best chance to see loggerhead turtles.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Lycian Rock Tombs
Cliffs overlooking the Dalyan River
Majestic tombs carved into the cliffs, offering a glimpse into ancient Lycian history.
Iztuzu Beach (Turtle Beach)
Dalyan Delta
A protected nesting ground for loggerhead sea turtles, with pristine sands and clear waters.
Mud Baths and Thermal Pools
Near the Dalyan River
Rejuvenate with a natural mud treatment and a dip in the mineral-rich thermal waters.
Dalyan River Cruise
Dalyan River
Scenic boat journey through reed-lined canals, spotting wildlife and ancient wonders.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Boat Tour in Advance
Timing is Key for Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Full Day Tour Recommended
A full-day tour (approx. 10 hours) covers mud baths, rock tombs, lunch, and Turtle Beach. +1
🐢 Turtle Spotting Tips
Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best chance to see loggerhead turtles.
💰 Affordable Boat Trips
Boat tours can be very reasonably priced, often around £20 per person with lunch included.
☀️ Sun Protection Essential
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for a full day out on the water and beach.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Full Day Tour Recommended
A full-day tour (approx. 10 hours) covers mud baths, rock tombs, lunch, and Turtle Beach. +1
🐢 Turtle Spotting Tips
Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best chance to see loggerhead turtles.
💰 Affordable Boat Trips
Boat tours can be very reasonably priced, often around £20 per person with lunch included.
☀️ Sun Protection Essential
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for a full day out on the water and beach.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The river, tombs, and delta offer stunning photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural scenery and the unique combination of ancient history and natural wonders. The boat tours are a major highlight, offering a comprehensive experience of the rock tombs, mud baths, and Turtle Beach. While sightings of sea turtles are a thrill, they are not guaranteed. Some find the mud bath experience messy but fun, and the overall value for money is often praised.
"Dalyan canal, (Dalyan Strait) , is a stream that carries the waters of Köyceğiz Lake to the sea , located in the province of Muğla , and is the lake's conduit . Its length is 10 km. The waters coming out of the lake reach the sea by drawing meanders. Approximately the last 5 km of Dalyan flows within the Dalyan Delta. To the east of the Dalyan canal, the town of Dalyan in the Ortaca district is established. The area is within the borders of the Köyceğiz-Dalyan Special Environmental Protection Area , which was the first in Turkey in 1988."
Mustafa El-Ahwal
"Great place great scenery"
Shireen Elmahmoudy
"Enjoyed the trip by boat all the way to the mud and thermal water park. Mythologically, It is been said that the river is filled by tears of a prince whose love left him for his brother. On the mountains there, they crafted their Graves."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dalyan is accessible via Dalaman Airport (DLM), which is about a 30-minute drive away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or pre-booked transfer to Dalyan town.
Yes, Dalyan town is quite walkable, with a charming riverside promenade. Most attractions are best reached by boat tour.
You can take a bus to Ortaca, the nearest major town, and then a local dolmuş (minibus) to Dalyan.
Boat tours are the primary way to explore the delta, offering access to the rock tombs, mud baths, and Iztuzu Beach. +1
Yes, boat tours to Dalyan are commonly offered from nearby resorts like Marmaris and İçmeler. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The boat tour price typically includes access to the mud baths and Iztuzu Beach. It's best to confirm what's included when booking.
Currently, it is not allowed to enter the tombs to protect them, but they are spectacular to view from the boat.
The mud bath and thermal pool facilities are generally open throughout the day, but it's advisable to check specific operating hours.
There might be a small fee for entering Iztuzu Beach, especially if arriving by boat, to support conservation efforts.
Yes, private boat tours are available and offer a more personalized experience, often at a higher cost.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Wear old swimwear as the mud can stain. Bring a towel and a change of clothes.
Most full-day tours last around 8-10 hours, allowing ample time for all the stops.
The main attraction is the loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta Caretta) at Iztuzu Beach. You might also spot various bird species.
Yes, it's generally a family-friendly activity, offering a mix of nature, history, and fun.
The thermal pools are naturally heated and offer a warm, relaxing experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Many full-day tours include a traditional Turkish lunch, often served on the boat or at a riverside restaurant.
Try the local köfte (meatballs) and fresh seafood. Riverside restaurants offer a great dining experience.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, such as mezes, salads, and vegetable-based main courses.
Some tours may offer snacks and drinks for purchase, but it's wise to bring your own water.
The riverside promenade in Dalyan town is lined with numerous restaurants offering diverse cuisines and scenic views.
📸 📸 Photography
The Lycian Rock Tombs, the winding Dalyan River, Iztuzu Beach, and the sunset from Radar Tepe Viewpoint are prime photo locations.
Drone usage may be restricted in protected areas like Iztuzu Beach and around historical sites. Always check local regulations.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with golden hour providing stunning scenery. +1
Yes, but maintain a respectful distance and avoid using flash photography, which can disturb the turtles.
While not common, you can arrange private boat tours that cater to photography interests, allowing for more flexible stops.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a private tour for more flexibility with younger children. Pack plenty of snacks, water, and sun protection. The relaxed pace of the river cruise and the natural beauty of the surroundings make it an engaging and memorable experience for all ages.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for local eateries in Dalyan town for affordable and delicious meals, such as the famous köfte. Staying in guesthouses or smaller hotels can also help keep costs down. Enjoying the natural scenery and the river cruise are low-cost ways to experience the area's charm.
couples
Enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of the riverside restaurants, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. The natural beauty and historical intrigue of Dalyan create a unique and memorable setting for couples seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Dalyan River: A Lifeline of Nature and History
Cruising the Dalyan River is an experience in itself. Boat tours offer a unique perspective, gliding past charming riverside houses and cafes, and providing unparalleled views of the ancient Lycian Rock Tombs carved into the cliffs. The journey also leads to the renowned Iztuzu Beach, a crucial nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles. The delta's natural beauty, combined with its historical significance, makes the river a central element of any visit to Dalyan.
+1For those seeking relaxation, the riverbanks are dotted with opportunities to experience the local mud baths and thermal pools. These natural attractions are a popular part of the Dalyan experience, offering a chance to rejuvenate amidst beautiful surroundings. The blend of natural wonders, historical marvels, and therapeutic waters makes the Dalyan River a truly unforgettable destination.
Iztuzu Beach: A Sanctuary for Sea Turtles
Access to Iztuzu Beach is primarily via boat tours that navigate the Dalyan River, landing at the northern end of the beach. This method of arrival not only offers scenic views but also helps minimize disturbance to the turtle nesting sites. Visitors can enjoy the beach's pristine sands and clear waters, but it's crucial to be mindful of the protected status of the area.
To increase your chances of spotting these magnificent creatures, plan your visit for the early morning or late afternoon. While sightings are not guaranteed, especially outside of nesting season, the possibility of witnessing a sea turtle in its natural habitat is a truly special experience. Remember to respect the turtles' space and avoid using flash photography.
The Magic of the Mud Baths
Visitors are typically provided with buckets of thick, natural mud to apply all over their bodies. After letting the mud dry in the sun, you can rinse off in the warm, mineral-rich thermal waters. The experience is often described as fun and invigorating, though some find the smell of the sulfurous waters to be quite strong.
It's advisable to wear old swimwear as the mud can stain. Many tours include a stop at the mud baths, making it an easily accessible and memorable part of your Dalyan adventure. The combination of the mud treatment and the soothing thermal waters provides a unique way to relax and unwind.
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