Taking a boat tour of the Dalyan delta is a captivating journey through one of Turkey's most stunning natural landscapes. As you embark on your adventure, you'll find yourself in a world of breathtaking beauty, historical intrigue, and vibrant wildlife.
As your boat glides through the calm waters of the Dalyan river, you'll be surrounded by lush greenery with a backdrop of towering cliffs and ancient rock tombs. These monumental tombs were carved into the sheer rock-face by skilled craftsmen in Lycian times. They stand as silent sentinels of a bygone millennia, adding an air of mystery and wonder to the landscape.
As you continue your journey, you'll pass through expansive reed beds that stretch as far as the eye can see. The reeds provide a vital habitat for a rich diversity of wildlife, including rare bird species such as herons, kingfishers, and eagles. Always be ready to take a photo, as you never know what fascinating creatures you might encounter amidst the swaying reeds.
After a walk along the shore of Köyceğiz lake, you can have mud and sulphur baths and enjoy the hot thermal waters. Having a mud bath is a unique and rejuvenating experience that combines the therapeutic properties of mineral-rich mud with the relaxing ambiance of natural hot springs.
As you immerse yourself in the mud bath, you'll feel the silky texture of the mud on your skin. It’s a soothing sensation that is both relaxing and invigorating. Many believe that the mineral content of the mud can help detoxify the skin, improve circulation, and alleviate various skin conditions.
One of the reasons the water is hot is due to its geothermal origin. The warmth of the water adds to the overall experience, helping to relax your muscles and ease any tension or stress you may be feeling. As you soak in the warm mud bath, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of nature, you'll feel your worries melt away, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
After your mud bath, you may choose to rinse off in the nearby hot springs or take a dip in the cool waters of Köyceğiz Lake, providing a perfect balance of temperatures to further enhance your relaxation.
This is followed by lunch and a trip to the antique city of Kaunos, famous for its Lycian tombs, ancient ruins and nature.
We then visit Iztuzu, a beautiful, important and protected nesting beach for Loggerhead sea turtles, known locally by their scientific name, Caretta caretta. These magnificent creatures come to nest on the sandy shores of İztuzu Beach. As you marvel at the unspoiled beauty of the beach, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the efforts made by the organisation called DEKAMER, a centre that monitors and rehabilitates injured sea turtles and works continuously to protect this precious habitat and its inhabitants.
Throughout your boat tour, you'll be accompanied by the soothing sounds of nature – the gentle lapping of water against the hull, the rustle of reeds in the breeze, and the occasional call of a bird overhead. It's a tranquil experience that allows you to relax and unwind as you connect with the natural world around you.
Overall, a boat tour of the Dalyan delta is a magical journey that offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and adventure. Whether you're captivated by the ancient rock tombs, mesmerized by the beauty of the reed beds, or enchanted by the wildlife that calls this place home, it's an experience you're sure to treasure for years to come.