Altınbeşik Cave National Park

Altınbeşik Cave Overview

Altınbeşik Cave National Park, known locally as Altınbeşik Mağarası Milli Parkı, is located in the İbradı district of Antalya Province in southwestern Turkey.

Covering approximately 2.8 square miles (7.3 square kilometers), this relatively small yet striking park is renowned for its cave system and subterranean lake, which are among the most impressive natural formations in Turkey.

Nestled within the steep and rugged limestone terrain of the western Taurus Mountains, the park is situated on the southern slopes of the Central Anatolian Plateau. Its dramatic topography includes deep valleys, high cliffs, and dense patches of pine forests, creating a lush green landscape during much of the year.

The heart of the park is the Altınbeşik Cave, a three-level limestone cave stretching over 1.6 miles (2.5 kilometers). Inside lies Turkey’s largest underground lake and the third-largest in Europe. Visitors often marvel at the milky-blue color of the lake, which is fed by karst springs and flows through the cave’s sculpted chambers.

Stalactites and stalagmites adorn parts of the cave, adding to its mystique. The park’s upper elevations support Mediterranean vegetation, including juniper, cedar, and black pine trees, while the lower areas contain thick brush and wildflowers that bloom in spring and summer.

Wildlife in Altınbeşik Cave National Park is modest but still rewarding for nature enthusiasts. Mammals such as foxes, wild boars, and martens may be seen roaming through the forested slopes, while reptiles and amphibians thrive in the damp, shaded areas around the cave.

Birdlife is especially diverse in the park’s skies and treetops. Notable bird species include golden eagles, Eurasian jays, and woodpeckers. The quiet and undisturbed nature of the park makes it a favorable nesting ground for various birds of prey, and birdwatchers often find it a rewarding destination during migration seasons.

The most popular feature of the park is, without question, the Altınbeşik Cave itself. Accessible by boat during the high-water months of spring and early summer, visitors can glide over the underground lake through a spectacular tunnel into chambers framed by natural rock bridges and flowstone formations.

Outside the cave, the park offers walking trails and scenic viewpoints that give visitors a chance to take in the rugged mountain scenery and lush vegetation. Small observation points and rest areas are scattered throughout the park, providing peaceful spots for reflection and photography.

Visitors can engage with Altınbeşik Cave National Park in a number of immersive ways. Guided boat tours through the cave are the highlight experience, while hiking the surrounding trails provides a more active way to explore the terrain.

The nearby village of Ürünlü offers opportunities for cultural interaction and access to local cuisine. The park is a popular day-trip destination from Antalya and Alanya and appeals particularly to those interested in geology, spelunking, and eco-tourism.

Conservation efforts at Altınbeşik Cave National Park have centered on protecting the cave’s delicate ecosystem and regulating visitor access to prevent damage from overuse. The park’s management has achieved some success in balancing tourism and preservation, though challenges remain.

Seasonal water levels can fluctuate due to climate changes and nearby land use, impacting both biodiversity and visitor experiences. Continued monitoring and responsible tourism practices are key to preserving the park’s unique subterranean and forest habitats for future generations.

Park Map

Altınbeşik Cave National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

Altınbeşik Cave National Park also offers a haven for bird species that thrive in its karst cliffs, forest edges, and freshwater sources.

Wallcreeper
One of the most iconic birds of the park, the wallcreeper uses its red wings and curved bill to cling to limestone cliff walls and forage for insects in crevices.

Peregrine Falcon
Nesting in high rock ledges, this powerful falcon preys on smaller birds with lightning-fast dives. Its speed and agility make it a top aerial predator.

Golden Eagle
Soaring above the cliffs and open areas, the golden eagle hunts for hares, reptiles, and smaller mammals. Its broad wings and sharp talons command the sky.

Blue Rock Thrush
Often seen perched on rocky outcrops, the blue rock thrush has striking blue plumage and a sweet, melodic song. It feeds on insects and small lizards.

Crag Martin
These swift fliers nest on vertical cliffs and hunt flying insects. Their forked tails and agile maneuvers make them a constant presence near the cave entrance.

Eurasian Eagle-Owl
This large owl roosts in secluded rocky niches and hunts at night for rodents and small birds. Its deep hoots can be heard echoing through the valleys.

Short-toed Snake Eagle
Specialized in hunting snakes and lizards, this raptor can be seen gliding silently above open areas. It has piercing yellow eyes and a powerful beak.

Chukar Partridge
This ground-dwelling bird is well camouflaged among the rocks. It has a bold black face pattern and calls that echo through the hills.

White-throated Dipper
Found near streams and freshwater springs, the dipper dives underwater in search of aquatic insects and small fish. It’s often seen bobbing on rocks along the water.

Alpine Swift
High-flying and fast, the Alpine swift nests in rock crevices and spends most of its life in flight. It feeds on insects caught while soaring over the cliffs.

Altınbeşik Cave National Park may be small in size, but its complex terrain and biodiversity make it a hidden gem for wildlife and bird enthusiasts alike.

Altınbeşik Cave National Park, located in the Antalya Province of southern Turkey, is famed for its spectacular karst formations and one of the largest underground lakes in Europe. While smaller than other parks, it still hosts a range of fascinating species adapted to its rocky, forested, and subterranean landscapes.

Wild Goat (Bezoar Ibex)
This agile climber is commonly seen on the steep, rocky slopes surrounding the cave areas. Males are known for their dramatic, curved horns, which they use in dominance battles.

Red Fox
Often spotted at dawn or dusk, the red fox is a cunning and adaptable mammal that feeds on a variety of small animals, fruits, and insects. Its reddish coat helps it blend into the pine forest undergrowth.

Eurasian Badger
This nocturnal forager digs extensive burrow systems in forested areas of the park. It has a stocky body, distinctive facial stripes, and a diet of insects, small mammals, and plants.

Brown Bear
Though not commonly seen, the brown bear occasionally wanders into the park’s more remote forested zones. It forages for berries, insects, and small mammals.

Striped Hyena
Rare but present, the striped hyena is a scavenger that may venture into the park’s caves or forest margins in search of carrion. It is known for its strong jaws and nocturnal habits.

European Pine Marten
An agile tree-dwelling predator, the pine marten has a slender body and bushy tail. It feeds on small rodents, birds, and fruit, and prefers dense forest habitats.

European Wildcat
Shy and elusive, the European wildcat resembles a domestic cat but is larger and more muscular. It prefers secluded forest areas and is a solitary, nocturnal hunter.

Hedgehog (Eastern European Hedgehog)
This small mammal is common in the underbrush, where it feeds on insects, snails, and worms. It curls into a spiny ball when threatened by predators.

Rock Hyrax
Although not native to much of Turkey, isolated populations of rock hyrax may exist in southern karst environments. These small mammals sunbathe on rocks and use sharp calls to communicate.

Eurasian Otter
This sleek, aquatic mammal is occasionally found near streams and underground lakes within the cave system. It feeds primarily on fish and amphibians and is a strong swimmer.