Turkiye’s (Turkey) breath-taking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and diverse terrain make it an ideal destination for trekking enthusiasts. With a wide range of trekking routes, from coastal trails to mountainous paths, the country offers an unforgettable trekking experience that combines nature, history, and adventure.
The best time to go trekking in Turkiye (Turkey) is during the spring or autumn months (March to May, September to November). The summer is usually hot – temperatures often reach over 30°C, especially in Cappadocia and on the Mediterranean coast. In the winter you can expect rain, snow and cold temperatures.
For the most detailed trekking routes visit here.
1. Carian Trail: The Carian Trail, one of Turkiye’s (Turkey) long-distance trekking routes, spans approximately 820 kilometres along the southwestern coast. Named after the Carian civilization that once thrived in the region, this trail weaves through picturesque fishing villages, olive groves, and ancient ruins, providing a captivating journey through history and nature. As trekkers traverse the trail, they encounter historical sites like the ancient city of Kaunos, with its rock-cut tombs, and the stunning ruins of Loryma. The trail also leads to remote beaches and hidden coves, allowing trekkers to immerse themselves in the tranquillity of Turkiye’s stunning coastline.
Image: Carian Trail
2. Lydia Trail: The Lydia Trail offers an enchanting trekking experience in western Turkiye (Turkey), covering around 500 kilometres through landscapes that were once part of the ancient kingdom of Lydia. The trail takes trekkers on a historical journey, passing through charming villages, verdant valleys, and ancient archaeological sites. Along the way, trekkers can explore the ruins of the ancient city of Sardis, once an important centre of the Lydian civilization, and visit the Temple of Artemis, an impressive archaeological site. The Lydia Trail offers a blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty, allowing trekkers to connect with Turkiye’s past and present.
3. Lycian Way: One of Turkiye’s (Turkey)most famous long-distance trekking routes, the Lycian Way, stretches approximately 540 kilometres along the Mediterranean coastline from Oludeniz (south of Fethiye) to Geyikbayiri (a village near Antalya). This trail offers trekkers stunning views of turquoise waters, rocky cliffs, and ancient Lycian ruins. The route winds through quaint villages like Faralya and Kabak, where trekkers can experience local hospitality and savour traditional Turkish cuisine. Highlights of the Lycian Way include the majestic ruins of Patara, the iconic rock-cut tombs of Myra, and the stunning Butterfly Valley. With its mix of coastal beauty and cultural heritage, the Lycian Way is a must-visit for any trekking enthusiast.
Distance: 335.5 miles (760 kilometres)
Duration: 29 days
Level: Moderate
Best for: Traversing Turkiye’s Turquoise Coast
4. Cappadocia: Cappadocia, renowned for its surreal landscapes and unique rock formations, offers an unforgettable trekking experience. The region’s diverse terrain includes valleys, fairy chimneys, and ancient cave dwellings, making it a trekker’s paradise. Popular trekking routes in Cappadocia include the Red Valley, the Rose Valley, and the Ihlara Valley. Along these trails, trekkers can explore hidden churches and monasteries carved into the soft volcanic rock. Witnessing the mesmerising sunrise over Cappadocia’s otherworldly landscape is an unforgettable experience for any trekking enthusiast.
Distance: 8.1 miles (13 kilometres)
Duration: 5 hours
Level: Easy
Best for: Mind-blowing rock formations
5. Kaçkar Mountains: For those seeking an alpine adventure, the Kaçkar Mountains in north-eastern Turkiye (Turkey) offer challenging trekking routes and spectacular vistas. The Kaçkar region is characterised by rugged peaks, glacial lakes, and lush meadows, providing a stunning backdrop for trekking enthusiasts. Trails like the Ayder Yaylası and the Palovit Yaylası offer trekkers the chance to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of the highlands. The Kaçkar Mountains are a paradise for nature lovers, offering an opportunity to spot unique flora and fauna while trekking through pristine wilderness.
Distance: 28 miles (45 kilometres)
Duration: 4 days
Level: challenging
Best for: Remote mountain passes and glacial lakes
6. Mount Ararat: For seasoned trekkers and mountaineers, climbing Mount Ararat, Turkiye’s (Turkey) highest peak, is a thrilling challenge. Mount Ararat is a dormant volcano, its snow-capped peak looming above the surrounding landscape – according to Christian mythology, it is the resting place of Noah’s Ark. Towering at 5,137 meters (16,854 feet), Mount Ararat provides a rewarding trekking experience, though it requires physical fitness and mountaineering skills. The trek to the summit takes several days, with trekkers ascending through rocky terrain and snow-covered slopes. The panoramic view from the summit is a magnificent reward for those who conquer this majestic peak.
Distance: 46 miles (74 kilometres)
Duration: 5-6 days
Level: Tough
Best for: Bagging a 5000er
Image: Mount Ararat by Leyla Helvaci via pexels
Turkiye’s (Turkey) diverse trekking trails offer a wealth of experiences for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike. Whether trekking along ancient civilizations’ paths, exploring coastal beauty, marvelling at otherworldly landscapes, or conquering high-altitude peaks, each trekking experience in Turkiye is a captivating journey of discovery and wonder.
