Embarking on a private tour from Kalkan to Demre, Myra, and Kekova Island promises a captivating 11-hour adventure along Turkey’s Turquoise Coast. Travelers can discover the historical treasures of the Sunken City, explore ancient Lycian ruins, and visit the iconic St. Nicholas Church. This immersive experience combines rich history, stunning landscapes, and cultural insights, offering an unforgettable journey. Whether intrigued by the region’s past or seeking an exhilarating day of sightseeing and snorkeling, this private tour provides a chance to explore the beauty and stories that define this captivating corner of the Mediterranean.
Key Points
- A private tour from Kalkan to Demre, Myra, and Kekova Island, covering the region’s Lycian heritage and natural wonders over 11 hours.
- Highlights include a boat cruise to the Sunken City of Kekova, exploration of Simena Castle, and swimming/snorkeling at Esmeralda and Gokkaya Bays.
- Visitors can discover the history and culture of the Lycian civilization through visits to the Lycian Civilization Museum and Myra Ruins.
- The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, lunch, snorkeling gear, and entrance fees, with a ‘reserve now & pay later’ option and free cancellation available.
- Key attractions showcase the region’s captivating history, rich cultural heritage, and natural beauty along the Turquoise Coast.
Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview and Pricing
- Itinerary Highlights
- Key Attractions
- Sunken City of Kekova
- Lycian Civilization Museum
- St. Nicholas Church
- Myra Ruins
- Experiential Highlights
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Private Tour?
- Can I Customize the Itinerary to Include Additional Stops?
- Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?
- What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit These Sites?
- Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment Instead?
- Recap
- More Private Tours in Kalkan
- More Tour Reviews in Kalkan
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Kalkan we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Overview and Pricing
This private tour from Kalkan to Demre, Myra, and Kekova Island lasts 11 hours and costs from €605.00 per person.
Participants can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can also choose the ‘Reserve now & pay later’ option.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a provided lunch, snorkeling gear, and entrance fees to the archaeological sites.
Visitors will explore the Sunken City of Kekova, Simena Castle, Esmeralda Bay, Gokkaya Bay, and more.
This comprehensive itinerary allows guests to enjoy the fascinating history and natural beauty of the region.
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Itinerary Highlights
The private tour begins with pickup from Kalkan and includes a visit to the captivating Sunken City of Kekova, where guests embark on a 20-minute boat cruise to explore the submerged ruins.
Afterward, the group stops at Simena Castle for a photo opportunity and free time to wander for about an hour.
Next, they’ll head to Esmeralda Bay for a 40-minute swim and snorkeling session, followed by a meal onboard.
The tour then continues to Gokkaya Bay for another 40-minute swim.
Along the way, the group will stop at the Pirates Cave for a quick photo op and then visit Karemlik Bay to observe marine life for 15 minutes.
Key Attractions
In an article titled ‘From Kalkan: Private Tour to Demre, Myra and Kekova Island’, visitors on the private tour can explore a variety of key attractions, starting with the captivating Sunken City of Kekova, where they embark on a 20-minute boat cruise to witness the submerged ruins. The tour also includes a visit to Simena Castle for a photo stop and free time, followed by swimming and snorkeling opportunities in Esmeralda Bay and Gokkaya Bay. Plus, guests can explore the Pirates Cave, observe marine life in Karemlik Bay, and tour the Lycian Civilization Museum and St. Nicholas Church. The grand finale is a self-guided exploration of the ancient Myra Ruins, allowing travelers to enjoy the region’s rich history.
| Key Attraction | Duration |
|---|---|
| Sunken City of Kekova | 20 minutes |
| Simena Castle | 1 hour |
| Esmeralda Bay | 40 minutes |
| Gokkaya Bay | 40 minutes |
| Pirates Cave | 10 minutes |
| Karemlik Bay | 15 minutes |
| Lycian Civilization Museum | 30 minutes |
| St. Nicholas Church | 30 minutes |
| Myra Ruins | 1 hour |
Sunken City of Kekova
Visitors on the private tour can admire the captivating Sunken City of Kekova, where they embark on a 20-minute boat cruise to witness the submerged ruins.
These ruins date back to the 4th century BC and were once a thriving Lycian city, before a 2nd-century earthquake caused it to partially sink into the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean.
The boat cruise allows visitors to observe the impressive architectural remains, including sunken buildings, paved roads, and sarcophagi, all while enjoying the serene natural beauty of the surrounding area.
This unique opportunity to explore a lost civilization underwater is a highlight of the comprehensive private tour, giving travelers a glimpse into the region’s captivating history.
More Great Tours NearbyLycian Civilization Museum
After exploring the Sunken City of Kekova, the private tour takes visitors to the Lycian Civilization Museum, where they can discover the rich history and cultural heritage of the Lycian people. The museum offers a self-guided tour, allowing guests to enjoy the artifacts and exhibits that showcase the remarkable achievements of this ancient civilization. Through interactive displays and informative panels, visitors learn about the Lycian architectural styles, funerary practices, and the region’s significance in the broader context of Mediterranean history.
| Lycian Civilization | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Architecture | Rock-cut tombs, amphitheaters |
| Funerary Customs | Sarcophagi, necropolis sites |
| Trade & Commerce | Maritime routes, coastal cities |
| Mythological Figures | Chimera, Bellerophon, Sarpedon |
St. Nicholas Church
Following the private tour of the Lycian Civilization Museum, the group proceeds to the historic St. Nicholas Church, a revered site that holds significant religious and cultural importance.
Constructed in the 6th century, this Byzantine-era church is renowned for its well-preserved architectural features and its connection to the beloved St. Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors.
Visitors can explore the church’s intricately carved stone walls, admire the intricate mosaics, and gain insight into the region’s rich Christian heritage.
The church’s legacy extends beyond its religious significance, as it serves as a symbol of the area’s enduring cultural traditions and the reverence for St. Nicholas, a figure venerated across the Mediterranean.
Myra Ruins
From the historic St. Nicholas Church, the private tour proceeds to the captivating Myra Ruins, an archaeological site that offers a window into the region’s Lycian heritage.
The ancient city of Myra, once a thriving commercial and religious center, now stands as a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of its long-gone inhabitants.
Visitors can explore the well-preserved rock-cut tombs, marvel at the impressive Roman theater, and enjoy the remnants of a civilization that flourished centuries ago.
The self-guided tour of the Myra Ruins allows travelers to discover the intricate details and grandeur of this remarkable historical site at their own pace, further enriching their understanding of the region’s captivating past.
Experiential Highlights
The private tour offers a captivating blend of historical exploration and natural wonder, allowing travelers to explore the region’s rich Lycian heritage and bask in the breathtaking sights that define the Turquoise Coast.
The highlights include:
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Uncovering the enigmatic rock-cut tombs of ancient Myra, providing a glimpse into the remarkable Lycian civilization that once flourished in this area.
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Embarking on a boat cruise to the Sunken City of Kekova, where submerged ruins bear witness to the region’s tumultuous past and the power of nature.
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Discovering the Museum of Lycian Civilizations and the iconic St. Nicholas Church, immersing visitors in the cultural tapestry that has shaped this enchanting corner of Turkey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Private Tour?
The private tour does not specify a maximum group size. Since it is a private tour, the group size is likely flexible and can be tailored to the needs of the customers.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Include Additional Stops?
Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to include additional stops. The operator offers flexibility in designing the tour to meet the traveler’s specific interests and preferences within the overall tour duration.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?
Yes, there are discounts available for children and seniors on this tour. Children under 12 receive a 25% discount, while seniors over 65 get a 15% discount off the standard per person price.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit These Sites?
The best time to visit these historical sites is during the spring and fall seasons when the weather is mild and crowds are smaller. Summer can be quite hot, while winters may have limited hours or closures at some attractions.
Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment Instead?
Yes, travelers can bring their own snorkeling equipment on this tour. The tour provides snorkeling gear, but if guests prefer to use their own, they are welcome to do so. The key is to be prepared for the water activities.
From Kalkan: Private Tour to Demre, Myra and Kekova Island
Recap
This private tour from Kalkan takes travelers on an immersive 11-hour journey through the historical and natural wonders of Demre, Myra, and Kekova Island.
Visitors will discover the Sunken City, explore ancient Lycian ruins, and visit the iconic St. Nicholas Church, all while enjoying scenic boat rides, snorkeling, and a delightful onboard lunch.
This captivating experience combines rich history, stunning landscapes, and cultural insights, making it an unforgettable exploration of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast.
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