Saklikent National Park

Saklikent Overview

Saklıkent National Park, known locally as Saklıkent Milli Parkı, is a striking protected area located in southwestern Turkey within the Muğla Province. Covering an area of approximately 6.9 square miles (17.8 square kilometers), the park lies near the Mediterranean coast, not far from the cities of Fethiye and Antalya.

Its most famous feature is the Saklıkent Gorge, one of the deepest canyons in Europe, carved over millennia by the waters of the Esen River. This dramatic chasm reaches depths of 980 feet (300 meters) and stretches for nearly 11 miles (18 kilometers), making it a magnet for nature lovers and thrill seekers alike.

The terrain of Saklıkent National Park is dominated by the rugged limestone slopes of the Akdağlar Mountains, which tower above the gorge and feed the rushing waters below with snowmelt. The canyon itself features steep, narrow walls, often just a few feet apart, where cool waters run through smooth rock corridors.

The surrounding landscape blends Mediterranean scrubland with pine and cedar forests higher up the slopes. In spring and early summer, wildflowers emerge along the trails, and mosses and lichens thrive along the damp walls of the gorge. Waterfalls and natural springs add to the park’s raw, refreshing atmosphere, especially where the river tumbles over polished stone.

Wildlife in Saklıkent National Park is diverse, reflecting the park’s range of elevations and habitats. Among mammals, foxes, wild boars, and mountain goats are occasionally spotted in the forested and mountainous areas. Reptiles such as lizards and tortoises are common along the warmer, rocky terrain.

Birdlife includes species such as the Eurasian jay, golden oriole, and various types of warblers and finches. Birds of prey like eagles and kestrels can sometimes be seen gliding above the cliffs. The relatively undisturbed habitats provide important refuge for these animals despite the park’s growing popularity.

Saklıkent Gorge is the park’s defining attraction and a centerpiece for visitors. In the summer months, tourists wade and hike through the canyon’s chilly, ankle- to waist-deep waters, venturing into its cooler interior to escape the Mediterranean heat.

Small wooden platforms built along the canyon’s entrance host cafes and restaurants perched above the river, offering scenic resting spots. Beyond the gorge, the park features walking paths, forested picnic areas, and viewpoints with sweeping panoramas of the valley below. Canyoning, river tubing, and guided hikes are common ways for visitors to engage more actively with the landscape.

Management efforts at Saklıkent National Park aim to balance public access with ecological preservation. Seasonal regulations are in place to limit activity during periods of high water or breeding seasons for wildlife.

While tourism brings economic benefits to surrounding communities, increased foot traffic has led to erosion and littering challenges. Conservation efforts include ongoing educational campaigns and infrastructural improvements to reduce impact.

The park’s success in maintaining the gorge’s natural state while welcoming thousands of visitors annually is seen as a model for eco-tourism in the region.

Park Map

Saklikent National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Saklıkent National Park, located in southwestern Turkey near Fethiye and Seydikemer, is famed for its dramatic limestone canyon—one of the deepest in Turkey—as well as its rushing streams, steep cliffs, and lush pine forests. This rugged and narrow gorge, carved by the Karaçay River, provides refuge for a variety of mammals and reptiles that are well-adapted to rocky, forested, and Mediterranean environments.

Wild Goat (Bezoar Ibex)
A natural acrobat of the cliffs, the wild goat is commonly seen on the steep canyon walls. With impressive curved horns and surefootedness, it thrives on sparse vegetation high above the riverbed.

Red Fox
Clever and adaptable, the red fox inhabits forest edges and scrublands surrounding the gorge. It preys on rodents and insects but also forages for fruit and small reptiles.

Golden Jackal
This scavenger and predator roams the dry pine woodlands and rocky valleys. It feeds on carrion, small mammals, and reptiles, and is often most active at dusk and dawn.

Grey Wolf
Occasionally passing through remote parts of the park, the grey wolf preys on wild goats and small mammals. It is elusive and usually avoids human activity.

Wild Boar
Common in the scrubby woodlands near the canyon, wild boars use their strong snouts to dig for roots and invertebrates. They are powerful and often move in family groups.

European Pine Marten
An agile predator of the treetops, the pine marten hunts birds, insects, and rodents. It prefers dense pine forest and is rarely seen due to its nocturnal habits.

European Wildcat
This solitary feline inhabits wooded slopes and rocky ravines. It hunts at night, feeding primarily on small mammals and birds, and resembles a muscular domestic cat.

Eastern Hedgehog
Thriving in the park’s underbrush and grassy edges, the hedgehog is a nocturnal insectivore. It feeds on worms, beetles, and slugs and uses its spines for protection.

Spur-thighed Tortoise
Found in sunlit scrub and rocky clearings, this herbivorous tortoise grazes on wildflowers and herbs. It is slow-moving and hibernates during the cooler winter months.

Anatolian Rock Lizard
Frequently seen basking on sunlit rocks or darting among canyon crevices, this quick and agile reptile feeds on insects and is well-camouflaged in the rocky landscape.

Birds

Saklıkent National Park is also home to a variety of bird species, especially those that favor rocky gorges, pine forests, and Mediterranean scrub habitats.

Golden Eagle
This majestic raptor is often seen soaring above the canyon rim. It hunts wild goats, rabbits, and other small mammals, nesting on inaccessible cliff ledges.

Peregrine Falcon
One of the fastest birds in the world, the peregrine falcon nests on vertical cliffs and hunts smaller birds mid-air with precision dives.

Eurasian Eagle-Owl
This massive owl roosts in canyon walls or dense forest and becomes active after dusk. It preys on rodents, birds, and reptiles and has a deep, haunting call.

Short-toed Snake Eagle
Gliding above rocky slopes, this eagle specializes in hunting snakes and lizards. It often hovers before striking and is commonly seen near open scrub and grassland.

Chukar Partridge
Well-camouflaged in rocky and arid slopes, the chukar forages on seeds and insects. It travels in small groups and is known for its sharp, echoing call.

Blue Rock Thrush
This colorful and solitary songbird nests among cliffs and boulders. Males have deep blue plumage and sing a rich melody from rocky perches.

Wallcreeper
With its crimson wings and fluttering, bat-like flight, the wallcreeper clings to vertical canyon walls, searching for insects in cracks and ledges.

Crested Lark
Common in open areas with low vegetation, the crested lark sings while perched on rocks. It feeds on seeds and insects and is easily identified by its raised crest.

Raven
Soaring above the gorge, ravens are intelligent and vocal scavengers. They feed on carrion, insects, and fruit and are often seen in pairs.

Rock Nuthatch
This small, agile bird clings to vertical rock surfaces, using its strong bill to dig out insects and seeds. It nests in rocky crevices and is frequently heard before it’s seen.

Saklıkent National Park is a striking blend of vertical wilderness and Mediterranean beauty—where narrow canyons, rushing waters, and pine forests offer a sanctuary for agile mammals and cliff-dwelling birds in one of Turkey’s most spectacular natural settings.