Dalyan Day Trip: Mud Baths, Kaunos & Turtle Beach

Nature & Hiking

Dalyan, about 1.5 hours' drive west of Fethiye, is one of the classic day trips. River boats wind through the reed beds of the Dalyan delta past the famous Lycian rock tombs carved into the cliff, stop at the ruins of the ancient city of Kaunos, and continue to the mud baths and hot springs at Sultaniye on Lake Köyceğiz – you cover yourself in mud, let it dry in the sun and rinse off in the warm pools. The day usually ends at İztuzu Beach, a 4.5-km sand spit between the river and the sea and one of the most important nesting beaches for loggerhead turtles in the Mediterranean.

Key facts

Location: Dalyan, Ortaca
Duration: Full day (~10 hours)
Season: April – October
Estimated cost: Organised tour with lunch roughly $50–60; mud bath and site fees may be extra

Highlights

Boat trip through the reed-lined Dalyan delta
Lycian rock tombs of Kaunos above the river
Sultaniye mud baths and hot springs
İztuzu Beach, a protected loggerhead turtle nesting site

Frequently asked questions

How do I book Dalyan Day Trip: Mud Baths, Kaunos & Turtle Beach?

Organised tours from Fethiye include transfer, the boat and lunch – check whether the mud bath, Kaunos and beach fees are included. Independently: drive or take a bus to Dalyan (via Ortaca), then join one of the boat cooperative trips from the riverfront.

Any local tips for Dalyan Day Trip: Mud Baths, Kaunos & Turtle Beach?

İztuzu Beach is closed at night during the turtle season (May–October) – don't disturb nests marked with cages and don't leave rubbish. Wear old swimwear for the mud bath, as it can stain light fabrics. Bring cash for extras.