The vast untouched landscapes of Turkey are simply mesmerizing. Glistening Mediterranean waters, karst sandstone cliffs, proof of ancient civilizations, and Anatolian peaks all makeup parts of this natural treasure trove. Visiting Turkey means you will travel far and wide to explore the bounty of beauty on offer. Turkey has recognized the value of its soaring mountains, sparking seas, and everything in between, mapping out dozens of national parks and protected areas. Each park is unique and offers exceptional experiences to help you enjoy them to the fullest. Here is a guide to Turkey’s national parks and protected areas and how to enjoy them sustainably.
Göreme National Park
Göreme National Park, located in the heart of Cappadocia, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning rock formations, or “fairy chimneys.” Visitors to the park can explore the ancient cave dwellings and churches carved into the soft rock, as well as hike through the park’s valleys and gorges. Balloon rides over the park are a popular activity, offering breathtaking views of the surreal landscape below. This otherworldly destination was completely formed by erosion and societies as far back as the 4th century created complex underground cities and cave dwellings that can still be visited today. The Göreme Open Air Museum is a must-see if you want to get up close to some of the most impressive sandstone formations.
Olympos Beydağları National Park
Olympos Beydağları National Park is located along the Mediterranean coast and is known for its spectacular combination of forest and coastline. This park is an outdoor lover’s dream as they can hike along the park’s stunning trails, swim in the gleaming waters, or explore the ancient ruins of the city of Olympos – a real 3-in-one. The park has a wide elevation profile, creating impressive vegetation diversity ranging from Mediterranean shrubbery to alpine forests.
Lake Van Eastern Anatolia Wildlife Reserve
Eastern Turkey is often overlooked in exchange for the Mediterranean coast in the west but it has many treasures of its own. Lake Van is the largest lake in the country and a haven for wildlife. The Lake Van Eastern Anatolia Wildlife Reserve surrounds the lake and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna that is totally unique to the region. This includes several endangered species such as the Van cat and the Armenian mouflon. It is a great place to go hiking, spend hours birdwatching, or hop on a boat for a relaxing tour of the lake.
Beydağları Coastal National Park
Tanya Dedyukhina, via WikimediaBeydağları Coastal National Park is another of the most treasured areas on the west coast. It offers a stunning mix of mountains, forests, and beaches, ready to be explored. Between hiking and relaxing on the secluded beaches, you can explore the highly underrated ruins in the park, including the city of Phaselis. What’s more, admission to Beydağları Coastal National Park is free.
Yenice Forest
Yenice Forest, located in the western province of Çanakkale, is a vast expanse of lush forest that is home to a variety of wildlife. It is one of the few places in Turkey where you can spot rare and dangerous wildlife like brown bears, wolves, and lynxes. This forest setting is undeniably relaxing and far removed from the bustling tourist cities close by. It is another of the free attractions in Turkey that nature lovers can take advantage of.
Dilek Peninsula-Büyük Menderes Delta National Park
Dilek Peninsula-Büyük Menderes Delta National Park is a stunning mix of rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and wetlands and brings together all the best elements found on the Aegean coast. The park’s scenic trails are a big draw, but birdwatching in the wetlands is amongst the best in the country. The park is also home to the ancient city of Priene, which dates back to the 4th century BC adding another historical bonus to your visit.
Sarıkamış-Kars National Park
This is one of Turkey’s more unlikely landscapes, with many visitors only expecting desert expanses throughout most of the country. Sarıkamış-Kars National Park is located in northeastern Turkey and is a winter wonderland of snow-capped mountains and pristine forests. Visitors can ski or snowboard on the park’s slopes, go snowshoe Sarıkamış-Kars National Park or cross-country ski through the park’s snowy landscape. It is even an outdoor marvel in the summer and visitors can hike along the park’s scenic trails, go mountain biking, or simply relax and take in the stunning views.
Köprülü Canyon National Park
Köprülü Canyon National Park is a highly underrated area located in the Antalya province. It is a rugged landscape of canyons, waterfalls, and turquoise rivers; an incredible contrast of elements. Here you can go white-water rafting or kayaking in the park’s rivers which are some of the best adventure activities in Turkey. Like most national parks in Turkey, it also includes historic attractions and you can explore the ancient ruins of the city of Selge. The park is also home to several natural hot springs, perfect for relaxing after a day of outdoor activities.
