The Dalyan excursion from Bodrum offers a rich tour program. Within this excursion, you will receive a historical overview, relax and improve your health in healing springs, and visit the famous Turtle Beach.
Dalyan Excursion Program from Bodrum:
05:30-07:00 — Pick up from hotels in Bodrum (time may vary depending on your hotel's location)
07:15 — Departure from Bodrum
08:30 — Breakfast
10:30 — Arrival in Dalyan. Here, you will transfer to small boats for further travel along the river
11:00 — Visit to the mud baths
12:30 — Lunch in a local restaurant by the river
14:00 — Iztuzu Beach (Turtle Beach)
15:30 — Introduction to the Lycian Tombs
16:00 — Departure from Dalyan to Bodrum
17:30 — Technical stop
19:00 — Return to Bodrum
Dalyan River
The fascinating journey along the Dalyan begins with the river of the same name. The Dalyan River flows from the deep-water Lake Koycegiz and meanders through landscapes of incredible beauty.
Lake Koycegiz covers a large area of 5200 hectares, with even 5 uninhabited islands located in its waters. The lake has a mountain-tectonic origin and is fed by numerous mountain streams, freshwater springs, and two rivers. The lake is renowned among locals and tourists for its mineral springs.
The Dalyan River originates from this lake, connecting it to the Mediterranean Sea. The river itself is not very wide and is quite winding, making your journey on small boats an exciting experience.
As you navigate the river channels, you'll understand why Dalyan is called the "Turkish Venice." Restaurants and even hotels line the riverbanks, with people crossing to the other side on small boats.
Mineral Waters and Mud Baths
You will visit the thermal resort of Sultaniye. Here, you'll find a pool with healing mud and several pools with thermal waters.
After applying the therapeutic mud generously, let it dry a bit. Then, rinse off in specially equipped showers or simply jump off the platform into the river. The effects of the mud are immediately noticeable, leaving your skin smooth and toned. The medicinal mud can help treat various skin conditions and even alleviate joint problems.
Afterwards, we recommend relaxing and revitalizing in the pools with sulfur-rich mineral waters. The aroma might not be pleasant, but the therapeutic effect on the entire body is worth it!
Turtle Beach (Iztuzu)
Named after the famous Caretta-Caretta turtles, this beach is a unique habitat under protection. Caretta-Caretta turtles choose this beach to lay their eggs every year. Due to their endangered status, measures have been taken to preserve and facilitate their reproduction.
Access to the beach is restricted, especially during the night, and the area where the eggs are usually laid is fenced off.
With patience, you might witness the impressive size of these turtles. Sometimes, they swim close to the boats from the river side to greet the tourists.
The beach is also unique as it is washed by both river and sea waters. Here, you'll have the opportunity to swim in both fresh and saltwater at the same time. The entrance to the sea at Iztuzu Beach is comfortable, often with waves that both adults and children enjoy riding. As you have free time at the beach, you can swim to your heart's content.
Lycian Tombs
High up in the cliffs along the Dalyan River, you'll find the Lycian Tombs—sites of ancient burials.
Your boats will approach as close as possible so you can get a better look and take memorable photos. The guide will share the history and legends of the ancient city and who might be buried in these tombs.
The Dalyan excursion from Bodrum allows you to cover several interesting places within one tour. Time on the Dalyan tour passes by unnoticed, but the vivid emotions and memorable photos from the excursion will stay with you for a long time.