Experience the best of southern Turkey’s natural beauty and rich history with our full-day tour to Kekova Island and Myra. Departing from the charming town of Kalkan, this immersive trip offers a unique opportunity to explore the Sunken City of Kekova, swim in crystal-clear turquoise bays, and delve into the ancient ruins of Myra and Demre. Whether you're a history enthusiast, adventure seeker, or simply looking for a relaxing day on the water, this tour offers something for everyone.
Your journey begins with a convenient pick-up from Kalkan, where you'll travel by air-conditioned vehicle to Demre Harbour. Once at the harbour, step aboard a comfortable boat, ready to embark on a scenic ride to the famous Sunken City of Kekova. This ancient Lycian city was submerged due to an earthquake in the 2nd century, leaving behind fascinating underwater ruins that are visible as you cruise along. The water is clear and calm, providing perfect conditions for a relaxing boat ride as you capture unforgettable photos of this unique site.
After the Sunken City, the boat will anchor at Kaleköy (ancient Simena), a small village with an incredible history. Here, you’ll have an hour to explore the charming streets, visit the ancient Simena Castle, and enjoy breathtaking views of Kekova Island. For those feeling adventurous, a short hike up the hillside leads to spectacular panoramas of the turquoise coastline. Alternatively, relax by the water, or take a swim in the serene bays surrounding the village. The tranquil waters here are perfect for swimming, and you can even take a dip while enjoying the beauty of the landscape.
Next, we’ll head to Esmeralda Bay for a delicious lunch served on board. Enjoy a break in this peaceful bay, where you can swim and relax in the refreshing waters. After lunch, we’ll make our way to Burç Bay, where the cool waters, due to natural cold springs beneath, provide a refreshing swim amidst beautiful surroundings. Continuing the adventure, we will stop at Gökkaya Bay, where you can opt for thrilling water sports or simply relax and swim in the clear waters.
One of the tour’s highlights is a visit to Pirates Cave, a fascinating natural cave with a dramatic entrance that you can explore by boat. Afterward, we’ll sail to Karemlik Bay, where three species of sea turtles roam the Mediterranean. Here, you have the chance to spot these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
As the boat ride winds down, we’ll return to Demre Harbour, where the final leg of the tour awaits. After disembarking, we’ll visit the ancient ruins of Myra, one of the most significant archaeological sites in the region. Wander through the rock-cut tombs carved into the cliffs, and admire the well-preserved Roman theatre, the largest in Lycia, which dates back to the 5th century B.C. The historical significance of Myra will leave you in awe as you learn more about the ancient Lycian civilization.
The tour concludes with a return trip to Kalkan, where you'll be dropped off at your hotel or the designated meeting point. This day trip offers the perfect combination of history, nature, and adventure, giving you a chance to explore some of the most iconic sites along Turkey’s stunning coastline.
Whether you’re interested in ancient history, underwater exploration, or simply enjoying breathtaking landscapes, this tour from Kalkan is an experience you won’t forget.
