Exploring the Ultimate Kekova Island Kayaking Trip: A Deep Dive into a Unique Coastal Adventure
If you’re dreaming of a day that combines stunning landscapes, fascinating history, and active outdoor fun, the Ultimate Kekova Island Kayaking Trip might just be what you’re looking for. This guided tour offers a chance to paddle over the famous sunken city of Kekova and its ancient ruins, away from the tourist crowds, in a friendly, beginner-friendly setting. It’s a blend of adventure and culture, with plenty of opportunities to relax, swim, and learn along the way.
What we particularly love about this experience is the chance to get up close to the Lycian coast’s breathtaking scenery from the water—something that a bus or boat tour simply can’t match. Plus, the guides’ expertise shines through, making the trip both educational and fun. On the other hand, some travelers might find the day’s physical activity a bit demanding, especially if they’re not accustomed to paddling. Still, if you’re looking for an active, authentic way to see this part of Turkey, this tour offers excellent value, especially since lunch and all equipment are included.
This trip is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor adventures, want a bit of history without the crowds, and prefer small-group experiences that feel personal. Family-friendly and beginner-friendly, it’s perfect for anyone wanting a memorable day on the water, with plenty of time to soak up the scenery and learn from local guides.
Key Points
- Active exploration of Kekova’s sunken ruins from a kayak offers a close-up view that tours by boat often miss.
- Expert guides ensure safety, provide historical insights, and make the experience engaging and accessible to beginners.
- Inclusion of lunch and safety gear adds convenience and value, making it a well-rounded day trip.
- Swim and photo breaks give plenty of opportunities to relax and capture memories.
- Small group size helps keep the experience personal and flexible.
- Suitable for most fitness levels, though not recommended for those with mobility impairments.
Discovering Kekova from the Water: What You Can Expect
This tour starts early in the day, typically from Kas, with a short transfer to Ucagiz, the small village that serves as the base for your adventure. The journey itself offers a taste of local life and scenery before you even set foot on the water. Once there, your expert guide—often BCU certified—will give a safety and paddling introduction, ensuring even novices feel confident before launching into the waters.
Paddling over the sunken city of Kekova is the highlight. The ancient ruins, now partly submerged, lie just beneath the surface, and from your kayak, you get an intimate view of the stone walls and structures. Several reviews emphasize how mesmerising the views are—one enthusiast described kayaking around the site as “such an amazing experience,” noting the proximity to the ruins is unlike anything seen from land or boat.
The tour is divided into three main segments of around 45 minutes each, allowing for a relaxed pace that balances sightseeing, paddling, and breaks. These swim breaks are carefully planned, giving you a chance to cool off, snorkel, or just float in the calm waters while guides take free photos—something many travelers appreciate, especially after a few hours of paddling.
Learning about local history is part of the fun, as Barbaros, the knowledgeable guide, shares stories about the ancient Lycian civilization and the sunken city’s story. One reviewer praised Barbaros for being “very knowledgeable and kind,” making the whole trip engaging without feeling like a lecture.
Lunch in Simena Village offers a welcome pause. The meal, featuring Turkish specialties with vegetarian and chicken options, is described as “very good,” with travelers often mentioning it as a highlight. Afterward, you can explore the castle ruins, which provide panoramic views and a taste of authentic Turkish village life. For those with extra energy, a short optional hike up to the castle is available, adding another layer of adventure and scenic beauty.
The return paddle takes you back to Ucagiz, with the option of additional kayaking near Kaleüçaz, allowing more close-up views and quiet moments on the water. The tour concludes with drop-offs at your chosen location, often in Kalkan or nearby.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Kaleucagiz.
The Itinerary in Detail
Starting from one of three possible locations—Kalkan, Van, or Kaleüçaz—the journey is designed to maximize your time on the water and exploring Kekova’s highlights. The initial transfer, lasting about 45 minutes, takes you to the quaint Ucagiz village. Expect a friendly, small-group atmosphere, with the guide providing all necessary equipment, including kayaks, paddles, and safety gear.
Your first kayaking segment kicks off on Kekova Island, with 45 minutes dedicated to paddling and sightseeing. The tranquil waters here are ideal for beginners, and the scenery is simply spellbinding—craggy coastlines, rugged cliffs, and glimpses of the sunken city beneath the surface. As one reviewer noted, “Kayaking around the sunken city was such an amazing experience—the views were mesmerising.”
Next, you’ll enjoy a second segment focused on swimming, snorkeling, and taking in the sights. This break is perfect for cooling off and soaking in the peaceful surroundings. Then, more kayaking ensues, allowing you to explore further along Kekova’s coast, with plenty of opportunities to spot turtles or even do some cliff jumping if weather permits—a fun detail that some visitors mentioned with enthusiasm.
The highlight of the day is undoubtedly the lunch in Simena, a traditional Turkish village perched above the sea. The meal, which offers options like chicken or vegetarian dishes, is seen as a generous and tasty refreshment after several hours on the water. Many mention it as “very good,” adding value to the overall experience. After lunch, an optional 15-minute hike up to Simena Castle rewards you with panoramic views and an authentic taste of local history.
The final paddling segments bring you back to Kaleüçaz and then to your starting point, wrapping up a day filled with exploration, learning, and fun. Throughout, the guides’ patience and knowledge shine, with several reviews praising Barbaros and the team for making the experience accessible and memorable.
The Value and Practicalities
The overall cost for this tour includes transfer, equipment, guidance, and lunch, making it a good deal when you consider the comprehensive nature of the experience. The small group size means more personal attention, and the safety gear ensures peace of mind, especially for beginners.
Timing is flexible, with tours lasting between 6 and 8.5 hours, which caters to different pace preferences. The activity is suitable for most, but it’s worth noting that it’s not recommended for people with mobility impairments. Be prepared for a full day outdoors—bring sun protection, a change of clothes, water, and a camera.
The reviews highlight how engaging and well-organized the trip is—many mention the patience and knowledge of guides like Barbaros, and the stunning, peaceful scenery that makes the paddling worthwhile. The inclusion of lunch and the option to extend your adventure with optional hikes or extra kayaking segments adds to the overall value.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This kayaking trip is perfect for active travelers who want more than just a boat tour. If you’re comfortable paddling or eager to learn, you’ll enjoy the slow, scenic pace along with the chance to get up close to Kekova’s submerged ruins. It’s especially suited for those seeking authentic experiences, small-group intimacy, and knowledgeable guides who will enrich your understanding of local history and nature.
Families with children comfortable in water, couples looking for an active day, and solo travelers eager to meet others in a relaxed setting will find this trip rewarding. Keep in mind that the physical activity level might be a consideration for those with mobility issues or extreme fatigue.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Sum Up
The Ultimate Kekova Island Kayaking Trip offers a compelling blend of adventure, culture, and scenery, all delivered with the warmth of expert guides. It’s a rare opportunity to witness the sunken city from a perspective that few other tours can match, while also enjoying a delightful Turkish meal and the peaceful beauty of the Lycian coast.
If you value authenticity, expert guidance, and a chance to actively explore a stunning historic site, this tour checks all those boxes. Its focus on small-group intimacy and inclusive approach makes it a standout choice for those eager to experience Kekova beyond the typical tourist trail.
This trip isn’t just about seeing ruins; it’s about feeling connected to the landscape, history, and sea in a way that leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a curious beginner, the combination of scenic beauty, expert storytelling, and relaxed pace makes this a memorable day out—one you’ll see in your photos and remember in your stories.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is beginner-friendly. The guides provide basic paddling instructions and safety briefings to ensure everyone feels confident on the water.
What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, a sun hat, change of clothes, towel, sandals, sunscreen, water, and cash for extras like drinks during lunch or the castle entrance fee.
How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts between 6 and 8.5 hours, depending on the starting time and pace. Expect a full day of adventure, sightseeing, and relaxing breaks.
Are transportation arrangements included?
If you choose the transfer option, pickup and drop-off from Kalkan or Ka are included. Otherwise, you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point.
What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible option if your plans change.
Can I do this trip with kids?
While many reviews mention families and children enjoying the experience, it’s best suited for those comfortable in the water and able to paddle for stretches. The activity is not recommended for those with mobility impairments.
In the end, the Ultimate Kekova Island Kayaking Trip offers a well-balanced mix of active exploration, cultural insight, and scenic beauty. It’s a fantastic way to see a lesser-known side of Turkey, connect with nature, and learn from knowledgeable guides—all in a friendly, relaxed setting.
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