Hike, Kayak and Sail Turkey's Turquoise Coast
Paddle to crystalline coves and wander ancient trails to mystical sites, cooling off in the glittering sea as you go
What's Included?
Activities & Certified Guides
All itinerary activities with local, expert, English-speaking guidesAll accommodation
1 night in a hotel, 2 nights in cabins, 2 nights in locally run guesthousesMeals
All breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinnersTransfers
Airport transfers and everything in betweenEquipment
All your SUP and kayaking gearSmall Like-minded Groups
Solo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 14 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people…
…
What's it like?
Pick up a paddle and SUP your way through the lush surroundings and towering rock faces of Kapuz Canyon
Tread the ancient paths of the Lycian Way, and head out on a twilight hike to marvel at the flaming rocks of Chimera
Sail on a traditional gulet boat and kayak the turquoise waters of Kekova Island, exploring sunken ruins
Master the art of Antalyan cooking, whipping up some delicious dishes with local chefs who call this region home
Key Information
Day 1
Touch down in Antalya
Welcome to the enchanting city of Antalya! Meet your host at the airport at 17:00 for your transfer to your hotel in the city. Famous for its charming narrow streets, picturesque Ottoman-era houses, and historic architecture, your hotel is in the old town and here you'll meet your local guide. Settle in and enjoy a local welcome dinner, getting to to know your fellow travellers and discussing the epic adventure ahead.
Day 2
SUP wild canyons and hike ancient routes at Chimera
Stand Up Paddleboarding
Hiking
This morning, pick up a paddle to SUP your way through the beauty of the Kapuz Canyons, a picturesque gorge with turquoise waters surrounded by fruit and olive trees. Afterwards, head to Çıralı to settle into your bungalows and relax during the hottest part of the day. Late afternoon, jump in the van up to drive to the hillside village of Ulupinar, joining the trail to hike a section of the Lycian Way. Make your way up to Mount Chimera (which lends its name to the mythological fire-breathing creature) and witness the fascinating 'Eternal Flame'. Here, bare flaming rocks have been alight for thousands of years, thanks to fumaroles in the mountain releasing gases. At sunset, headlamps at the ready, continue down the trail to Çıralı beach. Enjoy a leisurely evening in Çıralı, where you'll find many meyhane (Turkish taverns) along the beachfront.
Day 3
Hike and swim along the Lycian Way
Hiking
Lace up your hiking boots this morning to explore another section of the Lycian Way, Turkey's long-distance coastal trail dotted with historic and cultural sites. Today's route runs along stunning Mediterranean beaches, past large caves and through cool forests, leading to the old Genovese Fortress and the ruins of the ancient city of Olympos. Continuing on, you'll loop back to the coast, admiring fantastic views of the impossibly blue sea. After your hike you'll head back to Çıralı, where you will tuck into a delicious lunch at a restaurant on the beach before enjoying some free time on the long stretch of sand, or chilling out in your cosy bungalow.
Day 4
Sail the clear waters of the Mediterranean
Sailing
Hiking
After a tranquil morning in Çıralı, take a the scenic journey to Üçağız village where you'll hit the water. Board a traditional gulet-style boat and head to the ancient city of Aperlai. Amongst its ancient walls, you'll discover the echoes of history – a Christian church and chapel, Lycian sarcophagi, and a monumental tomb carved into the rocky landscape. After heading back to Üçağız, settle into your room before joining a vibrant cooking class led by local women, who not only share their culinary secrets but also double as skilled chefs on the gulet boats.
Day 5
Sea kayak above the sunken city of Dolikhiste
Kayaking
Wake up in the paradise of Üçağız this morning and get ready for one of the best ways to explore this region – by sea kayak! Paddle your way 3km south to Tersane Bay where you'll discover the sunken city of Dolikhiste, a UNESCO World Heritage Site partially submerged on the shores of Kekova Island. Cross to the mainland to wander through picturesque streets adorned with flowers, where you could try the famous homemade ice creams with unique flavours like cactus fruit or tahini. After lunch, get back into your kayak to paddle to your final swim-stop, making the most of the perfect turquoise waters. Take a break at your hotel before enjoying a traditional farewell dinner this evening, next to the Mediterranean.
Day 6
Güle güle
After a glorious adventure discovering the spectacular scenery of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, it’s time to head back home. After a final breakfast with your travel companions and a chance to swap photos, transfer back to Antalya Airport for your flight home.
The Area
Logistics
Starts
Antalya Airport
17:00 on Day 1
Ends
Antalya Airport
11:30 on Day 6
Transfers
On Day 1, your driver will meet you at Antalya Airport at around 17:00 and transfer you to the hotel in the city's old town which takes around 30 minutes. If you arrive earlier (and do not wish to wait) or later, your host can arrange a private transfer for you for an additional charge. Please see Optional Extras for prices.
On Day 6, there is one group transfer to Antalya Airport, with drop-off scheduled around 11:30. We recommend booking a return flight that departs no earlier than 13:30. If you plan to stay in Antalya, you can also be dropped off in the city, at no additional cost. If you wish to extend your time on the coast, your host can arrange a private transfer for you for an additional charge. Please see Optional Extras for prices.
Travel options
There are direct international flights to Antalya from the UK and various major hubs in Europe, as well as indirect flights which transit via Istanbul.
From the US, there are indirect flights from various major hubs to Antalya which transit via Istanbul.
Day 1
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 2
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 3
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 4 – Day 5
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 6
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
What is the food like?
The food in Turkey is more than just your classic kebab, with traditional and local meals as varied as its history. Many dishes make good use of seasonal vegetables, with fresh bread always in easy reach. A classic Turkish breakfast (kahvalti) is a mezze-type affair with bread, butter, olives, white cheese, cucumber, tomatoes, jam and honey, with strong coffee or freshly brewed Turkish tea. For lunch or dinner you could be served dolma (stuffed vegetables packed with a rice, spices, pine nuts, and maybe small dried fruits). Many types of kebap or köfte are popular, along with sweet or savoury börek (filo-based pastries) or lahmacun (flatbread topped with minced meat and seasoning), followed by sweet specialities.
Dietary requirements and allergies can be catered for, but please note that in some areas it may be difficult to cater for all special diets – please request these on your passenger info form.
What is the accommodation like?
Antalya
In Antalya you’ll stay at the Argos Hotel, located in the heart of the old town and a short walk from the marina. You’ll stay in twin-share rooms with private bathrooms. Relax by the pool or head out to explore the historic centre.
Çirali
You'll spend two nights in Çıralı at the Kibala Hotel and Cabins. The wooden cabins sit among a large garden, with hammocks strung amongst orange, lime and avocado trees. You’ll stay in twin-share rooms with private bathrooms and air conditioning. The valley and coast of Çıralı is a low-key haven with a relaxed vibe and a protected loggerhead turtle beach.
Üçağiz
In Üçağiz village you’ll stay at Onur Pension in the region of Kekova. Overlooking the turquoise sea and boats bobbing at anchor, this guesthouse is a great place to sit back and watch the world go by. You will have twin-share rooms with private bathrooms. In the case of larger groups, your host may arrange accommodations across several guesthouses, such as Kekova Theimussa or Ekin Pansiyon, which offer a similar level of comfort.
Upgrades
For solo travellers looking for their own space, an optional private room can be booked for an extra charge, see Optional Extras for the price. Please request this at the time of booking (this is subject to availability).
This trip has been rated as Easy
Whilst no prior experience is needed, a reasonable level of general fitness is required – you'll be paddling, hiking and kayaking at different points across the itinerary between two and five hours in duration and using different muscle groups.
The hiking within the itinerary will be through forested hills and on rocky trails, although not at high altitude. The potential of changeable weather will mean you need to be prepared and hot weather may make activities more strenuous than expected. Sea kayaking around the coast of Kekova will be a leisurely paddle on reasonably calm water, although it's possible that higher waters and currents could make the paddling a little more challenging.
What will I need to carry?
You'll need to have a larger bag suitable for all your belongings which will be transported for you, and then a small daypack to carry personal items and a water bottle each day.
The weather in spring, late summer and early autumn in southern Turkey will be warm and pleasant, with ideal temperatures for the included activities. Although the likelihood of rain is low, the weather could be changeable in the Mediterranean at either end of the trip dates scheduled, with the occasional storm a possibility.
In the southwestern region of Turkey, the daytime temperatures will be generally in the region of 19ºC/66ºF to 30ºC/86ºF, and down to between 10°C/50°F to 19°C/66°F at night.
Swimming & sailing
I had done a couple of solo trips with another company in previous years but this was my first with MBA and was by far the best. I was looking for a trip which would fit my annual leave dates and whilst Turkey wouldn’t have been my first choice, I have to say it was absolutely brilliant.
Our guide Cahit was so knowledgeable and made the trip run so smoothly, he had years of experience guiding tours in various places and I couldn’t have asked for a better leader. There were 14 of us on the tour spanning approx. 20 years in age and we all gelled so well, it really was a fabulous bunch of people and they really made the trip for me.
I particularly enjoyed the variety of activities on this tour and there was also some down time included so it wasn’t too tiring. The tour is classified as easy and I would mostly agree although the hike on day 1 was a little more challenging, especially given the heat.
You also won’t go hungry on this trip, the food is outstanding especially during the sailing trip but there are plenty of places to get snacks for the hikes if you feel you need them.
I would advise to definitely bring sea shoes, you will need them when carrying your paddleboard from the vehicle to the canyon and also during the kayaking. Another good thing to bring would be a snorkel and mask if you have one, I wish I’d brought mine with me. The company provide waterproof containers for money and phone etc on the kayaking part of the trip but you might want a dry bag or a waterproof phone case for the SUP.
The standard of accommodation was good although the first hotel in Antalya was very noisy so if you’re a light sleeper you might struggle to sleep, so definitely bring ear plugs. The second and third places we stayed were absolutely lovely, all had AC and were very peaceful although the rooms in the third place were very small, not ideal if you’re sharing with someone you don’t know although many of us had paid for our own rooms.
The sailing was probably one of the highlights for me although make sure you wear insect repellent as we got bitten a lot! Also it gets quite chilly later on so a fleece or something would be a good idea.
Overall I couldn’t recommend this trip highly enough, it was thoroughly enjoyable and I can’t wait to book my next MBA adventure!
Sun, Sea, Sunrises and Hikes!
Had an absolutely AMAZING time. It was a great mix of hikes and more water-based activities, definitely one if you love to be in the sea!
We also decided to go on some sunrise swims before the activities, so if you're an early bird, would highly recommend that as an addition to the adventure.
The people were so lovely. I was nervous because it was my first MBA trip, but it was great to explore with similar curious-minded people, meet locals, and truly find some hidden gems and off-the-beaten-track paths.
Our Guide was GREAT! Very knowledgeable and imaginative, adjusted the hiking to fit the speed of the group and recommended some great local restaurants.
I couldn't recommend this trip more!
My first solo adventure
This was an adventure of a lifetime, the first time doing a solo trip but I honestly made friends for life!
The trip had the right balance of activities and downtime (which was your own time to do what you want with it). I loved all the activities and only wish I could do them all again! The food was amazing and I did not go hungry that’s for sure!
Our tour guides were AMAZING!! Jahid and Ahmed always had smiles on the faces, had a laugh, and made everything run so smoothly!
If you’re considering booking it, don’t think twice just do it!
Word for the wise if you are booking this trip;
- trekking trainers were easier than walking boots for the hikes
- Take a snorkel, there are plenty of amazing places to enjoy the clear Mediterranean
- Go for sunrise swims! The landscape is beautiful and watching the sunrise is a truly magical moment!
Great week away
This was my first group tour and i loved every minute of it, the guide was great, the activities brilliant and the people and food absolutely. The vegetarian options were incredible, especially on the boat. 5 stars all round
Amazing Trip!
Wow! I can't say enough good things about this trip! Turkey was BEAUTIFUL! Our group was fantastic and the guides were amazing! It was really nice to not have to think about a travel itinerary. From the airport pick-up to group dinner plans, some last minute adjustments to the itinerary and even an impromptu birthday celebration - I can't say enough good things about this trip. Be sure to bring trail snacks, plenty of water (I add sea salt to keep electrolytes up), and I would strongly suggest a water shoe be added to your kit list. I would absolutely do this trip again - the group we had was phenomenal and I think we all had loads of fun.
Thanks for your fantastic review and helpful feedback.
We have now added 'water shoes' to the kit list, as we appreciate that these would be useful on this trip.
Ruth MBA Operations Team
Turkish Delight!
As a first-timer with MBA I was not sure quite to expect but was not disappointed. The locations were stunning and the mix of activities and free time provided an excellent taster for adventure holidays. The SUP location was ideal for a beginner, the hikes manageable but some elements more moderate than easy for inexperienced hikers and the Kayaking broken into comfortable sections. The accommodation and food was excellent in all areas and our guides knowledgeable and friendly. The highlight was the boat trip with amazing food and a journey back under stars. Would definitely recommend.
Truly memorable
This was an excellent experience. Our days were active yet flexible, and everything was very well-considered. The scenery was gorgeous, the food was plentiful, and the guide was a delight. As a novice, the hikes were challenging, but manageable and very rewarding. Would definitely recommend.
Good for the soul!
This tour is an awesome way to experience a beautiful part of Turkey - it just kept getting better and better as the days went by! The hikes, SUP and kayaking activities were varied in length, exertion and terrain. The free-time was well distributed with lots of opportunity to go swimming in the ocean, explore the local areas, and go out in the evenings. The home-made meal while nighttime sailing was absolutely perfect. Highly recommend this tour!
10/10 would recommend
An excellent trip, stunning scenery, delicious food and fun experiences throughout. All aided by a very knowledgeable guide who could answer any questions you have. All hotels were clean and friendly. Every dinner was a feast you’ll definitely not be going hungry this trip.
A trip with both nature and culture, excitement and relaxation!
The trip is very carefully planed. There are different activities on each day, paddle board, hiking, boat, kayak. Each activity are well organized with professional staff. The duration and intensity are moderate which is feasible for most people. The hotels are very clean and comfortable. The location and environment are well thought through, matching ideally with the activity. For example, the 2nd stop is for river paddling and hiking while the hotel is bungalow style providing the free spirit. The 3rd stop is for boating and kayaking while the hotel is waterfront boutique hotel, providing the oceanic style. The food is really good and abundant. We tried various types, sea view dinner, river bank lunch, picnic, garden breakfast, dinner on boat, home made dishes …. All tasted great! I didn’t expect that much culture from the trip. But to my surprise, the route passes by so many ancient and historical sites. I learned a lot about the history of early settlement in the Antalya<-> Fethiye coast. Our guide is very knowledgeable and enthusiastic. He led us to many hidden treasures where we wouldn’t know as foreign tourists. When he explained us the history and anecdote, we can feel his love in this job and his country. We also fell in love with Turkey and Lycian way. Thanks, Istemihan!
Enjoy 12.5% Off Outdoor Gear
In need of a few more items? All bookings receive a 12.5% discount to use at Cotswold Outdoor, Snow + Rock and Runner's Need.
What's included?
All equipment and safety gear for SUP, kayaking and sailing
What do I need to bring?
BAGS
- Soft overnight duffel bag or luggage
- Daypack (25-30 litres)
- Waterproof daypack liner
CLOTHES
- Waterproof jacket
- Light fleece jacket or similar
- Lightweight trousers/shorts/skirts
- T-shirts
- Lightweight top for kayaking in the sun (ideally long-sleeve)
- Underwear and socks
- Something to sleep in
- Swimwear
- Sunglasses (with cord to go around neck, for when kayaking)
- Sunhat
- Hiking shoes/boots (worn-in)
- Water Shoes (optional)
- Sandals
OTHER
- Universal travel plug adapter
- Power bank or solar charger
- Head torch for sunset hiking to Chimera
- Dry bag/Waterproof phone case for water activities (optional)
- Passports (and visas)
- Travel insurance documents
- Cash and debit/credit card
- Ear plugs
- Insect repellent
- Suncream (SPF 50+ recommended)
- Personal first-aid kit (inc. blister treatment)
- Quick-dry towel
- Alcohol hand-gel
- Reusable water bottle x 1.5 litre (minimum)
- Electrolyte tabs/Rehydration salts (very important in hot weather)
- Energy bars and snacks - read our article on Best Hiking Snacks
Additional Night in Antalya Single Room
Payable Before Departure
Additional Night in Antalya Single Room
… Per Night
Additional Night in Antalya Twin/Double Room
Payable Before Departure
Additional Night in Antalya Twin/Double Room
… Per Night
Optional Private Room Upgrade
Payable Before Departure
Optional Private Room Upgrade
…
Private Arrival Airport Transfer to Antalya (For up to 3 people)
Payable Before Departure
Private Arrival Airport Transfer to Antalya (For up to 3 people)
…
Private Departure Airport Transfer from Üçağiz (For up to 3 people)
Payable Before Departure
Private Departure Airport Transfer from Üçağiz (For up to 3 people)
…
We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.
What's the number?
It works out on average at 258kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.
The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.
But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:
- Driving 1000miles/1609km would be approx. 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person if there was 2 of you in it).
- A return economy class flight London - New York would be approx. 1,619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
- 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approx. 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.
What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.
Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.
Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion, but if you wish to, any tips will be shared between the driver and guide. However, we suggest the below as a guideline:
£6-£8 per person, per day
Of course, you are free to tip more or less, and the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality - a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
Tap water in Turkey is generally not safe to drink, so there will be filtered drinking water available at each night’s accommodation. Please bring along your own reusable water bottles (at least 1.5L) to fill up.
Sturdy double kayaks are provided as standard. The kayaks have a maximum weight limit of 120kg (18.9 stone/265 lbs) per person.
This trip visits locations where daytime temperatures can be extremely high during the times of year when this trip operates. High humidity and limited access to shade can also be factors, and warm temperatures can continue into the nighttime, which additionally influence the body’s ability to cool down. Personal care should be taken to keep cool as best possible in the conditions, such as wearing appropriate clothing and proper hydration. Very high temperatures can impair an individual’s physical abilities to perform an activity that they may otherwise be able to do competently at cooler temperatures. People may experience symptoms associated with dehydration and Heat Stroke. Your guide(s) are trained to mitigate the risks associated with high temperatures, by carefully managing the intensity of the activity, and to provide the appropriate support response should someone feel ill during the trip. Should you experience health issues during your trip you should inform your guide immediately so the proper care can be provided.
Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.
Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with. You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.
Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website, where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).
For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.
Our recommended travel insurance provider is Campbell Irvine.
Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures and you are required to provide your policy information before departing.
Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. We also strongly recommend it includes cancellation and curtailment insurance, should you be unable to join your trip for specific reasons such as illness.
We fully endorse Campbell Irvine as their insurance offers all of the above, so get in touch with them or call on 020 7938 1734 to get your insurance sorted. We suggest that you book travel insurance as soon as you book your adventure, just to cover you for any last-minute life changes. We know you’re an active lot and injuries do happen!
We recommend checking out the country-specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.
We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.
If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.
All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy (18+) as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. Children can be accommodated on some private departures.
You're always in good company on one of our adventures.
Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.
Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.
It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.
Don't just take our word for it:
- 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
- 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
- 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends
See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.
Interested in a more exclusive experience? Opt for a 'Private Group' through the dates and prices tab to book this adventure for just you and your chosen companions.
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