From Kas: Day Trip to Kekova Island

Exploring the ancient ruins and stunning natural beauty of Kekova Island is a must-do activity for visitors to the Kas region. This day trip from Kas immerses travelers in the captivating history and breathtaking landscapes of this remarkable destination. From the submerged city of Dolchiste to the impressive Simena Castle, the tour offers a well-rounded experience that caters to history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With a solid rating and a delicious Turkish lunch included, this excursion promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave you eager to uncover more of the region’s hidden gems.

Good To Know

• Depart from Andifli, Liman Sk. No:20, 07580 Kaş/Antalya and meet at Smileys Restaurant for a full-day tour of Kekova Island starting at 9:00 am.
• Explore the ancient Lycian ruins of the submerged city of Dolchiste and visit the well-preserved Crusader-era Simena Castle with a 4 euro entrance fee.
• Enjoy a typical Turkish lunch featuring fresh seafood during the midday break on the island.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible but is close to public transportation, and most travelers can participate despite some mobility challenges.
• The overall tour has a rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars, with positive reviews for the scenic beauty, historic sites, on-board lunch, and knowledgeable tour guides.

Overview of Kekova Island

Situated along the Turquoise Coast of Turkey, Kekova Island is a serene destination known for its ancient ruins, crystal-clear waters, and stunning natural beauty.

Divided into two sections, Kekova Island features the partially submerged ruins of the ancient Lycian city of Dolchiste, which were submerged due to an earthquake in the 2nd century. Visitors can explore the sunken structures while taking a boat tour or kayaking along the coastline.

The island’s other section, Simena, offers a charming village with a Crusader-era castle, Byzantine church ruins, and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Kekova Island’s tranquil atmosphere and historical significance make it a popular day trip destination for travelers exploring the Kas region of Turkey.

Transportation and Meeting Point

The day trip to Kekova Island departs from the meeting point in Andifli, Liman Sk. No:20, 07580 Kaş/Antalya, Türkiye.

Participants will be picked up at Smileys Restaurant. The full-day tour starts at 9:00 am, with lunch included.

The meeting point isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s located near public transportation. Infants must sit on laps, and most travelers can participate.

The tour confirmation is received at booking, and there are no refunds for cancellations.

The overall rating for this day trip is 4.0 based on reviews from Viator and Tripadvisor, with a breakdown of 5, 4, 3, 2, and 1-star reviews.

Detailed Tour Itinerary

After getting picked up at Smileys Restaurant, the day trip to Kekova Island begins at 9:00 am. The tour includes a boat ride to the island, where visitors can explore the ancient Lycian ruins. Lunch is provided, and participants can visit the Simena Castle, with its entrance fee of 4 euro. The tour ends in the late afternoon, providing ample time to enjoy the scenic beauty of the island.

Time	Activity
9:00 am	Depart for Kekova Island
10:00 am	Arrive at Kekova Island and explore the ruins
12:00 pm	Enjoy a included lunch
2:00 pm	Visit Simena Castle
4:00 pm	Depart Kekova Island and return to Kas

Lunch and Simena Castle

During the tour, participants enjoy an included lunch on Kekova Island, which provides a chance to refuel and recharge before visiting the nearby Simena Castle.

The lunch is a typical Turkish fare, featuring local cuisine and fresh seafood.

After lunch, the group heads to the ancient Simena Castle, a well-preserved Byzantine structure that offers stunning views of the surrounding islands and coastline.

The entrance fee to the castle is 4 euro per person.

Exploring the castle’s ruins and taking in the panoramic vistas are highlights of the day trip, allowing visitors to enjoy the rich history and natural beauty of the region.

Booking and Pricing Information

According to the information provided, the day trip to Kekova Island can be booked at a starting price of $53.71 per person.

Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and there are no refunds for cancellations.

The tour has the following booking and pricing details:

• Price: From $53.71 per person
• Confirmation received at booking
• Non-refundable: No refunds for cancellations

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s near public transportation.

Infants must sit on laps, and most travelers can participate in the day trip.

Accessibility and Participation

The day trip to Kekova Island isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s near public transportation.

Infants must sit on laps during the tour, so parents should plan accordingly.

Despite these accessibility limitations, most travelers can participate in the excursion.

It’s important to note that the tour involves some walking, so individuals with mobility issues may find it challenging.

However, the overall experience is suitable for a wide range of participants, making it an enjoyable option for those seeking to explore the stunning Kekova Island and its historic sites.

Guest Reviews and Ratings

Travelers’ reviews of the day trip to Kekova Island have been largely positive, with the tour garnering an overall rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars across prominent review platforms.

The key highlights from the reviews include:

• The breathtaking scenery and historic sites visited during the tour, such as the Simena Castle and the sunken ancient city, left a lasting impression on guests.

• The on-board lunch was praised for its quality and variety, providing a satisfying mid-day break.

• Reviewers appreciated the knowledgeable and friendly tour guides, who enriched the experience with their insights and attention to the group’s needs.

The Sum Up

The day trip from Kas to Kekova Island offers a fascinating exploration of ancient Lycian ruins, including the submerged city of Dolchiste. Featuring a delicious Turkish lunch, a visit to the stunning Simena Castle, and breathtaking coastal views, this highly-rated experience is perfect for history enthusiasts and nature lovers. With convenient transportation and a well-planned itinerary, it’s an excellent way to discover the rich heritage and natural beauty of this captivating region.