Kalkan, a picturesque coastal town in Turkey, offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning beauty of Kekova Island. This full-day trip promises a blend of adventure and relaxation, from swimming in the crystal-clear Akvaryum Koyu to uncovering the ancient ruins of the Sunken City. Travelers will savor a local lunch at Gokkaya Bay, bask in the serenity of Esmeralda Bay, and cap off the day with a visit to the historic Simena Castle, where panoramic views await. Whether you’re seeking a culture or a day of pure indulgence, this Kekova Island excursion promises to captivate and leave you longing for more.
Key Points
- A full-day tour from Kalkan to the Kekova region, including swimming, snorkeling, and exploring historical sites like the Sunken City of Kekova.
- Stops at scenic destinations such as Akvaryum Koyu, Gokkaya Bay, and Simena Castle, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views and local cuisine.
- Opportunity to witness the well-preserved underwater ruins of an ancient Lycian city and learn about its history during a boat ride.
- Ample time for relaxation and water activities, including swimming in the clear, turquoise waters of Esmeralda Bay.
- A comprehensive itinerary that allows visitors to experience the natural beauty and rich history of the Kekova region in a single day.
Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview
- Itinerary Highlights
- Detailed Itinerary
- Aquarium Bay
- Sunken City Exploration
- Lunch at Gokkaya Bay
- Esmeralda Bay
- Simena Castle Stop
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Tour?
- What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
- Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
- Can I Rent Equipment for Water Activities at the Stops?
- Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
- Recap
- More 1-Day 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
This full-day tour from Kalkan explores the scenic Kekova region, offering visitors a chance to discover the area’s natural beauty and historical significance.
During the 9-hour excursion, guests will visit several key sites, including the crystal-clear Akvaryum Koyu for swimming and snorkeling, the picturesque Kekova Island for photo opportunities, and the Sunken City of Kekova, where they’ll take a boat ride alongside ancient underwater ruins.
Other highlights include the Esmaralda Koyu for more swimming and snorkeling, the Gokkaya Bay for lunch and water sports, and the historic Simena Castle, which can be explored by hiking up to the panoramic viewpoints.
The tour is priced at $76.49 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Itinerary Highlights
The Kekova region offers a diverse array of captivating sights and experiences for visitors. The tour highlights include:
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Akvaryum Koyu: Guests can enjoy swimming and snorkeling in this picturesque bay.
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Kekova Island: Visitors will have the opportunity to take in the scenic views and capture stunning photographs.
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Sunken City of Kekova: Participants will embark on a boat ride alongside the ancient underwater ruins, offering a unique glimpse into the region’s rich history.
The tour also includes stops at Esmaralda Koyu for more swimming and snorkeling, Gokkaya Bay for lunch and water sports, and Simena Castle for exploring the ruins and taking in panoramic vistas.
Detailed Itinerary
Participants depart from Kalkan and are transported to the Ucagiz/Demre harbor area between 10:20 and 10:40 AM. The first stop is Akvaryum Koyu, where guests enjoy an hour-long swimming and snorkeling break. Next, the boat sails alongside the submerged ruins of the ancient Lycian city of Dolchiste, known as the Sunken City of Kekova. Afterwards, the group visits Burc Bay for a quick swim before exploring the impressive Pirate’s Cave. Lunch is served at Gokkaya Bay, followed by relaxation and swimming at Esmeralda Bay. The tour concludes with a visit to the historic Simena Castle, where guests can explore the village and ruins.
| Departure | Aquarium Bay | Sunken City | Burc Bay |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10:20 – 10:40 AM | 1-hour swim | Boat ride | Quick swim |
| Lunch | Esmeralda Bay | Simena Castle | Return |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gokkaya Bay | Relaxation/swim | Explore ruins | to Kalkan |
Aquarium Bay
After departing from Kalkan, the tour makes its first stop at Akvaryum Koyu, also known as Aquarium Bay.
This scenic cove offers a prime opportunity for swimming and snorkeling. Visitors can expect to find:
- Crystalline turquoise waters that are exceptionally clear, allowing for excellent underwater visibility.
- A diverse array of marine life, including colorful fish and other sea creatures.
- Rugged, rocky cliffs that provide a picturesque backdrop for this idyllic swimming hole.
Guests are provided ample time to enjoy the tranquil waters and explore the bay’s natural wonders before the tour continues on to the next destination.
More Great Tours NearbySunken City Exploration
From Akvaryum Koyu, the tour heads to the sunken city of Kekova, an ancient settlement that now lies submerged beneath the turquoise waters.
Passengers board a boat for a leisurely cruise around the ruins, which include the remnants of buildings, roads, and other structures. The tour guide provides commentary on the history and archaeology of the site, explaining how the city was gradually submerged over centuries due to earthquakes and natural erosion.
Visitors are able to peer down into the clear waters, catching glimpses of the well-preserved ruins below. This unique opportunity to witness a sunken city is undoubtedly a highlight of the Kekova region tour.
Lunch at Gokkaya Bay
The tour then transports guests to the picturesque Gokkaya Bay, where they can indulge in a delightful local lunch.
The spread includes:
- Fresh, grilled seafood caught that day
- Traditional Turkish meze dishes, like hummus, tabouleh, and dolma
- Refreshing drinks to accompany the meal
After enjoying this authentic culinary experience, guests have the opportunity to swim in the serene bay, or even try their hand at optional water sports.
This relaxing interlude provides a welcomed respite before continuing the exploration of the Kekova region’s historical sites.
Esmeralda Bay
Following the Gokkaya Bay stop, the tour takes guests to the tranquil Esmeralda Bay. This picturesque cove offers a chance for relaxation and swimming in its cool, clear waters. Visitors can take in the stunning natural scenery and enjoy a peaceful moment away from the bustle of the day.
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| Swimming | As desired |
| Relaxation | As desired |
| Photography | Flexible |
The Esmeralda Bay segment provides a welcome respite before the final stop at Simena Castle, allowing guests to recharge and soak in the beauty of the Kekova region.
Simena Castle Stop
Next, the tour makes its way to Simena Castle, the final stop of the day. This medieval castle sits atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding bays and islands.
Visitors can explore the village and the castle ruins, which date back to the 5th century BC. The highlights include:
- Climbing up to the castle walls for sweeping vistas of the Kekova region.
- Wandering through the narrow streets of the historic village below the castle.
- Discovering the ancient tombs and sarcophagi scattered throughout the site.
After this final stop, the tour then returns to Kalkan, bringing an eventful day of exploring the stunning Kekova region to a close.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Tour?
Yes, passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the boat tour. The tour includes lunch, but individuals are welcome to supplement with their own provisions if they prefer. Bringing a water bottle and snacks is recommended.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour’s dress code is casual and comfortable. Participants should wear lightweight, breathable clothing that can get wet, such as swimsuits, t-shirts, and shorts. Sturdy sandals or water shoes are also recommended for the boat and shore activities.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. Children of all ages are welcome to join, but parents should ensure their kids can safely participate in the water activities.
Can I Rent Equipment for Water Activities at the Stops?
According to the tour details, visitors can rent equipment for water activities like snorkeling at the stops. The tour includes opportunities for swimming and snorkeling at Akvaryum Koyu and Esmaralda Koyu.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour operator doesn’t offer an option to extend the tour duration. The standard 9-hour itinerary covers the key highlights of the Kekova region. Travelers can’t customize the length of the excursion.
Kalkan: Day Trip to Kekova Island
“The trip to Turtle bay to swim with turtles was the highlight! We loved the trip – the fish for lunch was amazing and we enjoyed seeing the sunken …”
Recap
This day trip to Kekova Island from Kalkan is a must-do for anyone seeking a truly unique and adventurous experience. From swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Akvaryum Koyu to exploring the ancient ruins of the Sunken City, this tour offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The scenic lunch at Gokkaya Bay, relaxation in Esmeralda Bay, and the stunning views from Simena Castle make this a well-rounded and unforgettable journey.
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