From Olympos: Day Trip to Demre, Myra and Kekova

Discover the captivating wonders of the Lycian Coast with a day trip from Olympos. This 11-hour adventure promises to immerse you in a rich tapestry of history, natural beauty, and unique cultural experiences. From the submerged ruins of the Sunken City of Kekova to the impressive Simena Castle and the ancient city of Myra, this tour offers a remarkable opportunity to uncover the secrets that have enthralled travelers for centuries. Whether you’re drawn to the allure of swimming and snorkeling or the enchantment of traditional Turkish cuisine, this excursion is sure to leave an indelible mark on your Olympos adventure.

Key Points

• A day trip from Olympos that features visits to Simena Castle, Myra Ancient City, the Sunken City of Kekova, and opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.
• The tour is priced at $61 per person for an 11-hour journey and includes round-trip transportation, entrance fees, and a boat trip.
• Highlights include panoramic views from Simena Castle, exploring the Roman-style theater and rock-cut tombs at Myra, and glass-bottom boat views of the Sunken City.
• Lunch at Esmeralda Bay and optional water sports at Gokkaya Bay are also included in the tour package.
• The tour offers a flexible cancellation policy with a full refund available up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

What does this day trip from Olympos to Demre, Myra, and Kekova entail? For $61 per person, you’ll embark on an 11-hour journey to explore historical and cultural sites in the region.

The tour includes round-trip transportation from Olympos, a boat trip to the Sunken City of Kekova, and entrance fees to Simena Castle and Myra Ancient City.

There are also opportunities for swimming and snorkeling at various bays. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you don’t need to pay upfront to reserve your spot.

Itinerary Highlights

The day trip begins at the Bayrams Tree Houses in Olympos, where participants embark on a journey through scenic vistas.

Along the way, they’ll pass by Kekova Island, Simena Castle, and Esmaralda Koyu. The first stop is Simena Castle, where visitors can explore the historical ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the Kekova region.

Next, they’ll visit the Myra Ancient City, home to a Roman-style theater and rock-cut tombs dating back to the 5th century B.C.

Throughout the day, there will be ample opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Karemlik Bay, Gokkaya Bay, and Burc Bay.

The highlight of the trip is the boat tour to the Sunken City of Kekova, where visitors can marvel at the submerged ruins through the glass-bottom boat.

Historical and Cultural Sites

The Kekova region is home to a wealth of historical and cultural sites that offer glimpses into the area’s ancient past.

Kekova Island itself is renowned for the submerged ruins of the ancient city of Dolchiste, which was devastated by a 2nd-century earthquake.

Towering above the sea, Simena Castle provides panoramic views of the Kekova region and its historical remnants.

In Myra, visitors can explore the impressive Roman-style theater, the largest in the Lycian region, as well as the well-preserved 5th-century B.C. rock-cut tombs.

These archaeological wonders showcase the rich cultural heritage that has shaped the landscape of this captivating corner of Turkey.

Activities and Experiences

Guests embark on a boat trip to explore the renowned Sunken City of Kekova, where they can capture captivating photos through the vessel’s glass-bottom. Plus, visitors have ample opportunities to swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Karemlik Bay, Gokkaya Bay, and Burc Bay. An optional visit to the Pirates Cave, known for its impressive size and unique entrance, offers a glimpse into the region’s historical past. During the excursion, a lunch break is provided at the picturesque Esmeralda Bay, allowing travelers to recharge and take in the stunning scenery.

Activity	Location	Duration
Sunken City Boat Tour	Kekova	1-2 hours
Swimming and Snorkeling	Karemlik Bay, Gokkaya Bay, Burc Bay	1-2 hours
Pirates Cave Visit	Pirates Cave	30-60 minutes
Lunch Break	Esmeralda Bay	1 hour
Optional Water Sports	Gokkaya Bay	Varies

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Meeting Point and Pick-up

Meeting times and pick-up locations for the day trip vary by season.

During the peak summer months, the tour departs from Bayrams Tree Houses in Olympos at 8:00 AM. In the shoulder seasons, the departure may be slightly later to accommodate weather conditions.

Regardless of the time, you’ll receive your pickup details one day prior to the tour. This allows the operator to coordinate efficiently and ensure a smooth start to your exciting adventure exploring the ancient sites of Demre, Myra, and the captivating Kekova region.

Be ready at the designated time and location for a seamless start to your day trip.

What to Bring

Pack a few essential items for your day trip to Demre, Myra, and Kekova.

Bring a sun hat to shield yourself from the Mediterranean sun. Don’t forget your swimwear and a towel for taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters. Sunscreen is a must to protect your skin.

You’ll also want to have a water bottle on hand to stay hydrated throughout the day. Consider packing a light jacket or sweater, as the weather can be cooler on the water.

Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes as you’ll be exploring historical sites and scenic viewpoints.

With these essential items, you’ll be prepared to fully enjoy your adventurous day along the Turkish Riviera.

Inclusions

The day trip package includes a convenient round-trip transfer from the starting location at Bayram’s Tree Houses in Olympos. The tour also covers entrance fees to key historical sites like Simena Castle and the Myra Ancient City. Guests can enjoy a boat trip to explore the Sunken City of Kekova, with opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Karemlik Bay, Gokkaya Bay, and Burc Bay. Lunch is provided at Esmeralda Bay. Here’s a breakdown of what’s included:

Included	Not Included
Round-trip Transfer	Optional Water Sports
Entrance Fees	Personal Expenses
Boat Trip	Gratuities
Lunch

Cancellation Policy

With a free cancellation policy, travelers can cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This flexibility allows visitors to plan their trip without the worry of unexpected changes. The tour operator understands that plans can shift, and they’ve designed their cancellation policy to accommodate those needs.

Customers who need to cancel or reschedule their day trip from Olympos to Demre, Myra, and Kekova can do so conveniently, without incurring any penalties.

This hassle-free approach ensures a stress-free booking experience, allowing travelers to focus on anticipating the highlights of their upcoming excursion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Boat Trip Suitable for People With Motion Sickness?

The boat trip may not be the best choice for those prone to motion sickness, as the waters around Kekova can be choppy at times. However, the glass-bottom boat provides a more stable and comfortable option to explore the sunken city.

Will There Be a Guide to Provide Historical Information?

Yes, the tour includes a professional guide who will provide historical information and commentary about the sites visited, including the Sunken City of Kekova, Simena Castle, and the ancient ruins of Myra.

Can We Choose the Length of Time Spent at Each Site?

The tour itinerary is pre-determined, and participants can’t choose the length of time spent at each site. However, the guide will provide historical information and allow free time for exploration within the scheduled stops.

Are There Any Dietary Options for the Included Lunch?

The tour provides a flexible lunch option that accommodates various dietary needs. Guests can choose from vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options to ensure an enjoyable dining experience during the tour.

Can We Explore the Sites on Our Own or Do We Need to Stay With the Group?

The tour typically involves a group activity, though participants may have opportunities to explore certain sites independently during free time. The specific level of group versus individual exploration can vary depending on the itinerary and group size.

Recap

This day trip from Olympos takes visitors on a captivating journey along the Lycian Coast. Highlights include a boat ride to the Sunken City of Kekova, visits to Simena Castle and the ancient city of Myra, and time for swimming and snorkeling in the stunning Esmeralda Bay. With its rich history and breathtaking scenery, this tour provides a truly immersive experience of the region’s natural and cultural treasures.

You can check if your dates are available here: