Day Tour to Xanthos City, Saklikent Canyon and Patara Beach

Explore the Ancient Land of Lycia on a Day Tour from Antalya Province

This 7-hour day tour offers a captivating journey through Turkey’s stunning landscapes and historical sites, starting from Kalkan or Patara. Priced at $74 per person, the tour combines ancient ruins, natural wonders, and relaxing beach time, making it ideal for those who want a well-rounded day of sightseeing.

You’ll visit Xanthos, a UNESCO World Heritage site, walk through Saklikent Canyon, and unwind at Patara Beach, the longest sandy beach in Turkey. The tour includes an al-fresco lunch beside a river and offers transport and guide services throughout. While the tour covers a lot in one day, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full schedule and some walking.

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Key Points

• Visit Xanthos, an important Lycian archaeological site with well-preserved ruins and tombs
• Walk through Saklikent Canyon, Europe’s second-longest gorge, with options to trek or raft
• Relax at Patara Beach, Turkey’s longest sandy stretch, perfect for swimming and sunset views
• Enjoy an included al-fresco lunch next to a scenic river
• Pickup and drop-off are included from Kalkan or Patara
• Cost is $74 per person, with flexible cancellation options

From Kalkan or Patara to Ancient Xanthos City

The tour begins at 9:00 AM, with pickup from your hotel or accommodation in Kalkan or Patara. The bus takes you to Xanthos, an ancient city that once thrived as a Lycian capital. Your professional guide shares stories about the site’s fascinating history, highlighting its well-preserved ruins and tombs.

In the scenic setting of Lycia, Xanthos offers a glimpse into Turkey’s ancient past. The ruins include remnants of city walls, temples, and tombs, all set amidst lush countryside. After exploring, there’s an opportunity to visit a local workshop, where you’ll learn about Turkish carpet craftsmanship, adding a cultural touch to your visit.

Walking Through Saklikent Gorge: Europe’s Second Longest Canyon

Following Xanthos, the journey continues to Saklikent Gorge, known as the second-longest canyon in Europe. The impressive rock walls tower over you, creating a dramatic natural corridor. The guide explains the geological formation as you walk along the cool, shaded trail.

For those feeling adventurous, there’s an option to walk through the shallow river, requiring a change of clothes (spare clothes are recommended as you’ll get wet). The site also offers rafting activities, which can be arranged on-site for added fun. The fresh mountain air and striking landscape make this stop a highlight.

Enjoying a Scenic Al-Fresco Lunch by the River

Midday, the tour includes a delicious outdoor lunch served beside a river. The meal provides a relaxing break and a chance to soak in the natural surroundings. The lunch is included in the tour price, making it convenient for visitors who want a hassle-free experience.

The setting is picturesque, with the sound of flowing water and lush greenery creating a peaceful atmosphere. After eating, there’s free time to take photos, relax, or explore further around the gorge area.

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Patara Beach: The Longest Sandy Shore in Turkey

The final stop is Patara Beach, famous as Turkey’s longest sandy beach. Here, the crystal-clear waters invite you for a swim, or you can simply lounge on the soft sand. The beach also features ancient ruins of the Patara city, including a well-preserved Lycian tomb and remnants of an ancient harbor.

As the day winds down, visitors stay to watch the sunset, enjoying the expansive views over the Mediterranean. The beach’s natural beauty, combined with its archaeological interest, makes it a perfect place to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.

Practical Information: What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour includes pickup and drop-off from Kalkan or Patara, a full-day sightseeing guide, and lunch. It does not cover drinks, snacks, entry fees, or additional activities such as rafting.

Travelers should bring passport or ID, sunglasses, sun hat, and camera. It’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring a spare change of clothes for Saklikent Gorge since you’ll get wet walking through the canyon.

The Transport and Guide Experience

The tour is led by driver-guides who speak Turkish and English, ensuring clear communication and helpful insights. Pickup is included from your accommodation in Kalkan or Patara, making logistics straightforward. The entire experience is designed to be smooth, with skip-the-line access at the sites, saving you time.

The group size tends to be manageable, and the timing allows for a relaxed pace, balancing sightseeing with leisure. The 7-hour duration means you get a full day of exploration without feeling rushed.

What Sets This Tour Apart: The Combination of Culture, Nature, and Relaxation

This day trip offers a well-balanced mix of ancient history, natural beauty, and leisure. Visiting Xanthos provides a tangible connection to Turkey’s Lycian past, while Saklikent Canyon showcases the dramatic landscape that shaped the region.

The highlight for many is Patara Beach, where the sheer length of the sandy shoreline and the chance to watch the sunset create lasting memories. The lunch beside the river enhances the experience with regional flavors in a scenic setting.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour covers several key sights, it involves a fair amount of walking and some physical activity, such as walking through the canyon or treks in Saklikent. Travelers should be prepared for outdoor conditions and bring appropriate gear.

Since entrance fees are not included, visiting certain sites may incur additional costs. Also, activities like rafting or zip lining are not included but can be arranged separately at the site if desired.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour appeals most to history enthusiasts eager to see Lycian ruins, nature lovers interested in gorges and beaches, and those wanting a full day of variety. It’s suitable for active travelers comfortable with walking and some outdoor conditions.

The price point and inclusions make it a cost-effective way to explore multiple highlights in one day. It’s an excellent choice for visitors based in Kalkan or Patara seeking an adventure that balances cultural discovery and relaxation.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Day Trip with Rich Sights and Natural Wonders

The Day Tour to Xanthos City, Saklikent Canyon, and Patara Beach delivers on a mix of history, nature, and leisure. For $74, it provides a comprehensive experience, including transport, guide, and lunch, making it a convenient option for those wanting to maximize their time.

While it involves some physical activity and additional expenses for site entry, the highlights—Xanthos’s ancient ruins, the dramatic Saklikent Gorge, and the expansive Patara Beach—make it a worthwhile outing.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy outdoor exploration and cultural sites in a manageable schedule, offering a memorable day in Turkey’s stunning Antalya Province.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting time for this tour?
The tour departs at 9:00 AM, with pickup from your hotel or accommodation in Kalkan or Patara.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts approximately 7 hours, ending around 5:30 PM.

Is lunch included?
Yes, the tour includes an al-fresco lunch served next to a river.

What are the main sights visited?
The tour covers Xanthos, Saklikent Gorge, and Patara Beach, with optional activities at Saklikent like trekking or rafting.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring passport or ID, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, and spare clothes for Saklikent because you’ll get wet.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entry fees to sites are not included and must be paid separately if you choose to visit certain attractions.

Can I participate in activities like rafting?
Rafting can be organized on-site but is not included in the tour price.

Is the tour suitable for children or less active travelers?
Yes, but some walking and outdoor conditions are involved, so travelers should be prepared for physical activity.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Turkish and English, ensuring clear explanations throughout the day.

How do I book or cancel this tour?
You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby