This captivating private tour from Kalkan takes travelers on an immersive journey through the ancient Lycian region. Visitors will explore the sunken ruins of Kekova Island, wander the medieval Simena Castle, and discover the iconic rock-cut tombs of Myra. Along the way, they’ll uncover the rich cultural heritage of the Lycian civilization. With convenient pickups, a tasty lunch, and snorkeling gear included, this tour offers exceptional value for the wealth of historical and natural wonders it unveils. Those seeking to delve deeper into the mysteries of this remarkable region won’t want to miss this remarkable opportunity.
Key Points
- This 11-hour private tour departs from Kalkan and showcases the highlights of the Lycian region, including Kekova Island Sunken City, Simena Castle, and the rock-cut tombs of Myra.
- The tour includes transportation, lunch, and snorkeling equipment, allowing for a comprehensive and convenient exploration of the area’s historical and natural wonders.
- Visitors can discover the ghostly outlines of the submerged structures in Kekova Island, enjoy the Lycian legacy at Simena Castle, and marvel at the intricate rock-cut tombs of Myra.
- The Lycian Civilization Museum provides a deeper understanding of the region’s rich cultural heritage, complementing the on-site experiences.
- With a per-person price starting at ₺15,074 and a flexible payment option, this private tour offers exceptional value for the highlights covered.
Tour Duration and Details
The tour lasts 11 hours, with a starting point in Kalkan and per person pricing from ₺15,074, payable via a reserve now, pay later option.
Highlights include the Kekova Island Sunken City, Simena Castle, the Museum of Lycian Civilizations, St. Nicholas Church, and the rock-cut tombs of ancient Myra.
The itinerary includes a van transfer to Andriake Harbour, a boat cruise to Kekova Island, visits to Simena Castle and various bays for swimming and snorkeling, as well as stops at the Lycian Civilization Museum, St. Nicholas Church, and the Myra Ruins.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, and snorkeling gear, but excludes additional food, drinks, beach towels, and archaeological site entrance fees.
Starting Point and Pricing
Where does this private tour to Demre, Myra and Kekova Island depart from? The tour starts in Kalkan, with per person pricing from ₺15,074, payable via a reserve now, pay later option. This tour offers exceptional value, covering a range of captivating highlights across Lycia.
| Tour Details | Cost |
|---|---|
| Duration | 11 hours |
| Starting Point | Kalkan |
| Pricing | From ₺15,074 per person |
| Payment | Reserve now, pay later |
The tour’s strategic starting point in Kalkan ensures convenient access to the remarkable Kekova Island Sunken City, Simena Castle, and other iconic Lycian sites, creating an unforgettable experience for participants.
Highlights of the Tour
What enthralling sights await visitors on this private tour? From the captivating Kekova Island Sunken City to the imposing Simena Castle, the itinerary promises an immersive exploration of Lycia’s storied past.
Travelers will uncover the mysteries of the ancient Lycian Civilization Museum, admire the well-preserved St. Nicholas Church, and marvel at the rock-cut tombs of Myra.
Snorkeling in the turquoise waters of Esmaralda Koyu and Gökkaya Bay offers a chance to glimpse the region’s vibrant marine life.
With a visit to the Pirates Cave and a scenic boat cruise, this tour delivers a comprehensive introduction to the natural and cultural wonders of this captivating corner of Turkey.
Itinerary and Timings
Commencing from Kalkan, the tour kicks off with a 1-hour van transfer to Andriake Harbour, where visitors embark on a 20-minute boat cruise to the captivating Kekova Island Sunken City. The itinerary then takes them to explore the historic Simena Castle for one hour. Afterwards, guests enjoy 40 minutes of swimming and snorkeling in the idyllic Esmaralda Koyu and Gökkaya Bay. A quick 10-minute photo stop at the Pirates Cave precedes a 15-minute marine life viewing in Karemlik Bay. The tour continues with visits to the Lycian Civilization Museum and St. Nicholas Church, each lasting 30 minutes, followed by a 1-hour exploration of the Myra Ruins before the 1-hour van transfer back to Kalkan.
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 hour | Van transfer to Andriake Harbour |
| 20 minutes | Boat cruise to Kekova Island Sunken City |
| 1 hour | Visit Simena Castle |
Included and Excluded Items
In the ‘Private Tour to Demre, Myra and Kekova Island’ from Kalkan, the tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a delectable lunch, and snorkeling gear for exploring the underwater wonders.
Additional food, drinks, beach towels, and archaeological site entrance fees are excluded from the package price. This allows travelers to customize their experience and budget according to their preferences.
The tour operator has thoughtfully included the essentials, while giving participants the flexibility to add or skip optional experiences as desired. This balanced approach ensures an enjoyable and cost-effective adventure for all participants.
Kekova Island Sunken City
The tour’s first stop takes visitors to the captivating Kekova Island, where the remains of an ancient sunken city lie submerged beneath the turquoise waters. Cruising along the island’s shoreline, travelers can witness the ghostly outlines of structures, walls, and roads that were once part of a thriving Lycian civilization.
Marveling at the well-preserved ruins visible through the crystal-clear waters.
Spotting diverse marine life, such as schools of colorful fish, swimming around the submerged ruins.
Exploring the tiny island of Kekova and its picturesque medieval fortress of Simena.
Snorkeling in the area’s secluded bays for a closer look at the sunken city’s enchanting remnants.
Simena Castle and Museum
Visiting the picturesque medieval fortress of Simena Castle offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s Lycian heritage. Perched atop a small island, the castle’s imposing walls and towers command stunning views over the turquoise waters of Kekova.
Guests can explore the castle’s atmospheric ruins, discovering its ancient history and breathtaking vistas.
Adjacent to the castle lies the Museum of Lycian Civilizations, showcasing a rich collection of artifacts that illuminate the captivating legacy of the Lycian people. From impressive stonework to intricate sculptures, the museum provides a comprehensive understanding of this remarkable ancient culture.
Both Simena Castle and the Lycian museum offer visitors a immersive experience, transporting them back in time to uncover the wonders of this enchanting Mediterranean region.
Rock-cut Tombs of Myra
After exploring the impressive Simena Castle and the enlightening Museum of Lycian Civilizations, visitors then turn their attention to the captivating rock-cut tombs of ancient Myra.
These elaborate tombs, carved directly into the surrounding cliffs, stand as a testament to the sophisticated funerary practices of the Lycian civilization.
Visitors can expect to:
- Marvel at the intricate designs and ornate decorations adorning the tomb facades.
- Imagine the lives and legacies of the prominent Lycian figures laid to rest within these striking monuments.
- Appreciate the sheer scale and engineering prowess required to carve these tombs directly into the rugged mountainside.
- Gain a deeper understanding of Lycian culture and the reverence they held for their deceased leaders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to suit the traveler’s preferences. The tour operator offers flexibility in adjusting the activities and duration based on the customer’s interests and schedule.
Are Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?
Yes, there may be group discounts available for this tour. Customers should inquire about group pricing when booking, as tour operators often offer reduced per-person rates for larger parties. Discounts typically start with groups of 4 or more.
How Flexible Is the Tour Schedule in Case of Unexpected Delays?
The tour schedule is generally flexible to accommodate unexpected delays. The tour operator give you a smooth experience, but may adjust the itinerary as needed to ensure guests can enjoy the highlights of the tour.
What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for the Tour?
The tour has a flexible cancellation policy. Customers can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour and receive a full refund. Shorter notice may incur a partial refund or credit for a future tour.
Are There Any Additional Safety Precautions During the Boat Cruise?
The tour operator takes safety seriously during the boat cruise. Life jackets are provided, and experienced boat captains navigate the waters. Guests are advised to follow crew instructions for a smooth and secure journey to Kekova Island.
Recap
This all-encompassing private tour from Kalkan provides an exceptional opportunity to explore the captivating Lycian region.
Visitors will marvel at the Sunken City of Kekova Island, wander the medieval Simena Castle, and admire the impressive rock-cut tombs of Myra.
With convenient transportation, a tasty lunch, and snorkeling equipment included, this tour offers unbeatable value for the wealth of historical and natural wonders it showcases.
