Turkey enjoys awe-inspiring natural diversity, thanks to its wondrous mix of geography and climate. Located at the crossroads of multiple continents, it is home to a variety of ecosystems, species, and landscapes. The natural beauty of Turkey is the ultimate crowd-puller when it comes to tourism and sightseeing.
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Natural Wonders of Turkey
The top must-see natural wonders Turkey that should be on the travel itinerary of any nature enthusiast are as follows:
Ölüdeniz – Muğla
No description of the natural beauty of Turkey is complete without mentioning the incredible Ölüdeniz. The name “Ölüdeniz” (Dead sea) pays homage to the calm waters of the Blue Lagoon. With its dazzling blue waters and white sandy beach, the Blue Lagoon’s stillness is a great contrast to the rough seas outside. Ölüdeniz is also a great place for nature-based activities, such as paragliding and hiking, due to the presence of the Babadağ Mountain and famous hiking trails, including the Lycian Way.
Butterfly Valley – Muğla
Among the natural wonders in Turkey is the Butterfly Valley. Nestled at the base of steep cliffs, the Butterfly Valley has its source in Faralya village and it is the jewel of Muğla province. Between late spring and early autumn, this vibrant valley is filled with various species of colorful butterflies. The combination of hidden coves of turquoise water, shimmering waterfalls, and the kaleidoscope of thousands of butterflies is a sight to behold. The Butterfly Valley is also a part of the Lycian Way hiking trail.
Damlataş Cave – Antalya
One of the foremost natural wonders of Turkey in the Antalya province is the Damlataş Cave. The cave was discovered in 1948 during construction work at the Antalya harbor. Anyone who wants to witness the intricacies of nature should visit this wondrous natural treasure at least once in their lifetime. Damlataş Cave is filled with thousands of years of impressive limestone formations. It naturally maintains a cool, humid, and carbon dioxide-rich atmosphere that is good for people with respiratory problems.
Saklıkent Canyon – Muğla
The Saklıkent Canyon in Muğla is a true embodiment of the phrase “Turkey natural wonder”. As one of the deepest canyons in the world at 300 meters, its name literally means “the hidden city”. Saklıkent Canyon boasts an incredible mix of jaw-dropping narrow canyons, beautiful milky-blue waterfalls, and many hidden caves. It is a great place for adventure tourism or even just witnessing the majestic power and diversity of Mother Nature. Suspension bridges and walkways built into the walls make this canyon easily accessible to all.
Salda Lake – Burdur
A place that is high on any list of natural attractions in Turkey is the Salda Lake at Burdur. As natural lakes go, the beauty of Salda Lake is a sight to behold. From transparent, blue waters and white sandy beaches to mineral-rich benefits and a vivid natural color palette, the Salda Lake is one of a kind.
The environment around the lake is preserved as a natural reserve to ensure the protection of its unique ecosystem. Home to diverse algae and other microorganisms, Salda Lake’s unusual hues complement its status as one of the purest water bodies in the world.
Ihlara Valley, Aksaray
Any mention of nature in Turkey is incomplete without talking about the Ihlara Valley in Aksaray. The valley is home to a lush green microclimate that supports a diverse collection of plant life, freshwater fish, and migratory birds. Ihlara Valley is also a place of historical significance due to the presence of several Byzantine-era churches carved from rock formations.
Cappadocia – Nevşehir
Cappadocia frequently earns a spot on the must-visit travel destination lists. With its alien rock formations, subterranean cities, and fairy chimneys, it is a literal representation of natural diversity. As an UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cappadocia is a great example of the natural beauty and incredible geography of Turkey.
Manavgat Waterfall – Antalya
Located at the Manavgat River in Antalya, these beautiful waterfalls cascade from the Taurus Mountains. Their powerful waters are a great backdrop for timeless photographs, leisurely walks, and peaceful picnics.
Kızkumu – Muğla
A shallow sandy strip near the Ölüdeniz bay, Kızkumu in Muğla, tells the story of sacrificing for love. The long stretch of the shallow sandy strip lets visitors wade through water, mimicking the feeling of “walking on water”. The breathtaking combination of sand bars, blue waters, and scenic surroundings makes Kızkumu the poster child of the natural features of Turkey.
Pamukkale – Denizli
Pamukkale is a combination of the words “Pamuk” and “Kale”, roughly translating to “Cotton Castle”. As a frequent tourist attraction, Pamukkale needs no introduction. The place is renowned for its mineral-filled hot springs and beautiful scenery and historical architecture. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Lake Van – Van
Lake Van has the honor of being the largest Lake in Turkey. Surrounded by volcanic mountains, the surface of the lake is a window into incredible landscape formations in its depths. As a tectonic lake, its salty and alkaline waters make a unique ecosystem that has to be seen to be believed.
In short, It would be difficult to find a country with a more diverse landscape and natural beauty of Turkey. For nature lovers, Turkey and its multitude of natural wonders are truly a paradise!
