Kemer Exclusive Salda Lake & Pamukkale Day Tour w/Meals & Pickup

A full-day excursion from Kemer offers an impressive blend of natural beauty and ancient sites, all for $60 per person. Spanning approximately 15 to 16 hours, this tour takes you from your hotel with pickup included, making it a hassle-free way to explore some of Turkey’s most stunning landscapes. The journey features visits to Salda Lake, often called the Turkish Maldives, along with the famous Pamukkale terraces and the archaeological site of Hierapolis. The tour also includes meals, entrance fees, and guided commentary, making it a comprehensive day trip suited to those eager for both scenery and history.

While the tour’s long duration means an early start at 3:00 am, the itinerary is thoughtfully designed with multiple stops for rest, breakfast, and sightseeing. Reviews highlight the professionalism of guides, the quality of the included meals, and the breathtaking views at Salda and Pamukkale. However, travelers should be prepared for a busy schedule and a long drive, which can be tiring but rewarding for those wanting a full experience in one day.

Key Points

• Comprehensive full-day experience from Kemer including Salda Lake and Pamukkale
• Price of $60, with hotel pickup, breakfast, lunch, and entrance fees included
• Guided tour with expert commentary and comfortable transport
• Visit Salda Lake, renowned as the Turkish Maldives, for its turquoise waters and white sands
• Explore Hierapolis ruins and soak in thermal pools at Pamukkale
• Long but well-paced day with multiple stops for rest, food, and sightseeing

From Kemer to Salda Lake: The Journey Begins

The tour starts early at 3:00 am with a pickup from your hotel in Kemer, ensuring everyone is comfortably transferred to the bus. The air-conditioned vehicle is ready to handle the long drive, which lasts roughly 4 hours to reach Pamukkale, with several stops along the way. This setup helps break up the journey and keeps the mood lively. The first stop in Korkuteli offers an opportunity for a relaxing breakfast or a quick refreshment in a quiet cafeteria, setting a pleasant tone for the day ahead.

Scenic Stop at Korkuteli for Breakfast and Relaxation

In Korkuteli, travelers enjoy a one-hour break that allows for breakfast at a local cafeteria. This stop is perfect for stretching legs and fueling up before the final leg of the trip. It offers a chance to appreciate the local atmosphere and prepare for the scenic exploration ahead. This stop is free of charge, adding value to the journey with minimal waiting time.

Visiting Salda Lake: The Turkish Maldives

Arriving at Salda Lake, the main highlight of the tour, travelers are greeted by turquoise waters, white sandy shores, and a surrounding green forest. Known for its volcanic origins and mineral-rich waters, Salda Lake has earned its nickname as the Turkish Maldives. Visitors can relax, take photographs, and if they wish, swim in the clear waters. The lake’s exotic scenery makes it a favorite for capturing memorable images and enjoying a peaceful moment amid nature.

Exploring Pamukkale’s Thermal Pools and Hierapolis

After about 4 hours of travel and sightseeing, the tour arrives at Pamukkale, where the guide provides detailed explanations about the site’s features. Visitors have around 3 hours of free time to explore at their own pace. Options include walking on the white mineral terraces, bathing in the thermal pools, or visiting the ancient ruins of Hierapolis and the Necropolis. The opportunity to swim in Cleopatra’s Pool is also available. This flexible period allows for a personalized experience, whether seeking relaxation or history.

Visit a Local Stonemason in Pamukkale

A short stop at a local stonemason workshop introduces visitors to traditional Turkish craftsmanship. Here, travelers observe artisans at work and learn about the art of stone carving, adding an authentic cultural element to the day. This stop is brief but provides insight into Turkish artisanal skills, enriching the overall experience.

Lunch in Denizli: A Tasty Turkish Meal

Following the free time at Pamukkale, the tour includes a 1-hour lunch break in Denizli, where a freshly prepared meal is served. The lunch is included in the tour price, offering good value and a break to refuel before the afternoon activities. The meal provides a chance to relax and enjoy Turkish cuisine in a local setting.

Travel to Salda Lake Post-Lunch

After lunch, the journey continues with a roughly 1-hour drive to Salda Lake. This segment allows travelers to relax and prepare for the final sightseeing stop. The scenic drive offers views of the surrounding landscape, including Taurus Mountains and village scenery, contributing to the overall visual pleasure of the day.

Immersive Experience at Salda Golu

Salda Lake’s white shores and turquoise waters are equally impressive in the late afternoon. Visitors can observe the picturesque landscape or swim again if they wish. The lake’s calm atmosphere and natural beauty make it an ideal place to unwind and appreciate nature’s artistry. The one-hour stop ensures enough time to relax by the lake before heading to the next destination.

Dinner Near Burdur: A Relaxing End to the Day

The final meal of the day takes place near Burdur, where travelers enjoy a relaxed dinner. This hour-long stop offers a chance to reflect on the day’s adventures and unwind before the journey back. The dinner is not included in the tour price, but it provides a comforting and scenic way to wind down after a busy day.

Return to Kemer: End of the Scenic Journey

The tour concludes with a comfortable drive back to Kemer, arriving during the evening hours. The bus drop-off is at your hotel, making the end of the day convenient. Travelers should be prepared for a long but rewarding day, with ample opportunities to enjoy Turkey’s natural wonders and historic sites.

Overall Value and Suitability

This full-day tour offers a comprehensive experience at a competitive price of $60. The guided commentary, meals, and entrance fees are included, making it a good value for those interested in natural scenery and ancient ruins. The long hours require patience and stamina, but the well-chosen stops and scenic highlights help justify the schedule. It is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see both Salda Lake and Pamukkale in one seamless trip.

Summary of Strengths and Considerations

Strengths include professional guides, beautiful scenery, and value-packed inclusions. The picturesque Salda Lake and thermal pools at Pamukkale are the standout features. The organized itinerary manages to fit in multiple key sights despite the long drive.

Limitations involve the early start and long travel hours, which might be tiring. The lunch quality has received mixed reviews, and entrance fees for certain attractions are not included. Travelers should be prepared for crowds in Pamukkale and the possibility of traffic delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the tour price?
The tour costs $60 per person, including meals, guided visits, and hotel transfers.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
No, the entrance fees are not included in the price, but the guided tour covers most sites.

What are the main highlights?
The key highlights are Salda Lake, known as the Turkish Maldives, Pamukkale’s terraces and thermal pools, and the Hierapolis archaeological site.

How long is the entire trip?
The tour lasts approximately 15 to 16 hours, starting early at 3:00 am and returning in the evening.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast and lunch are included in the tour.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but the long hours and walking at sites suggest better suitability for active visitors.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable footwear, swimsuits if you want to swim, and sun protection for outdoor stops.

Can I swim at Salda Lake and Pamukkale?
Yes, swimming is possible at Salda Lake and Cleopatra’s Pool in Pamukkale.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The tour offers hotel pickup in Kemer; confirm your pickup details in advance.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is dependent on good weather. In case of cancellation due to weather, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

Is there a group size limit?
The maximum group size is 45 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience with guided support.

This full-day Kemer Salda Lake and Pamukkale tour combines natural beauty, ancient history, and convenient logistics to deliver a memorable experience. It appeals most to those wanting a comprehensive exploration of Turkey’s scenic and archaeological treasures in a single day.