Köprülü Canyon Overview
Köprülü Canyon National Park, known locally as Köprülü Kanyon Milli Parkı, is located in the Antalya Province of southwestern Turkey. It spans approximately 144 square miles or 373 square kilometers and is centered around the impressive Köprüçay River, which winds through a dramatic canyon that gives the park its name.
This canyon stretches for about 14 kilometers and reaches depths of up to 400 meters in places, showcasing sheer rock faces and rugged cliffs carved by centuries of water flow. The terrain is a diverse blend of steep gorges, pine-covered hills, and high plateaus, with the Taurus Mountains creating a dramatic backdrop. Towering peaks and ridges, such as those of the Bozburun and Dedegöl mountain ranges, lend a sense of grandeur to the park’s topography.
Vegetation in the park is predominantly Mediterranean, featuring dense forests of red pine, black pine, and cedar trees, interspersed with cypress, juniper, and wild olive. The underbrush includes fragrant shrubs such as sage, thyme, and laurel, while alpine plants grow at higher elevations.
The Köprüçay River is lined with plane trees and provides a lush, green corridor that contrasts beautifully with the stony cliffs surrounding it. Seasonal wildflowers add splashes of color in spring and early summer.
Köprülü Canyon is home to a variety of wildlife. Mammals such as wild boar, red fox, and the elusive Anatolian lynx roam the park’s forests and hills. Mountain goats navigate the steep cliffs, while hares and badgers are commonly spotted in the underbrush.
Birdlife is rich and includes species like golden eagles, peregrine falcons, and various owls. Songbirds fill the forested areas, and the river environment supports kingfishers and herons, making it a notable destination for birdwatchers.
The park is known for its stunning natural beauty as well as its historical landmarks. The ancient Roman Oluk Bridge, still in use today, spans the canyon and offers panoramic views of the gorge below. Remnants of the ancient city of Selge are located nearby, with ruins including an amphitheater and stone buildings that reflect the region’s deep historical roots. These features make the park a unique blend of natural wonder and cultural heritage.
Visitors often experience the park through rafting, which is one of the most popular activities along the Köprüçay River. The white-water rapids attract adventure seekers, especially during the summer months.
Hiking and trekking along the canyon rim and forest trails are other popular ways to explore the area. Guided tours often include visits to archaeological sites, and the park is also a haven for nature photography and picnicking.
Conservation efforts have helped maintain the ecological integrity of Köprülü Canyon National Park. Forest preservation and the protection of native wildlife species have been largely successful, though challenges remain.
These include the impacts of increased tourism, illegal logging, and the potential threat of water pollution from recreational use. Ongoing management strategies aim to balance visitor access with long-term sustainability, helping to preserve this Turkish natural treasure for generations to come.
Park Map
Köprülü Canyon National Park Highlights
Köprülü Canyon National Park Pictures
