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The Best Outdoor Activities to Enjoy in Turkey Year-Round

There is no place on earth like Turkey when it comes to going outdoors. Whether you’re looking to hike in untouched valleys, sail along stunning coastlines, or experience adrenaline-pumping activities, there’s something for everyone no matter the season. As a team that loves exploring every corner of this beautiful country, we’re here to share the best outdoor experiences you can enjoy in Turkey all year round. So, grab your hiking boots, sunscreen (or maybe a jacket), and let’s dive in!

Why Turkey Should Be Your Next Outdoor Adventure Destination?

Turkey is a country that offers the bounty of nature, the richness of culture and the thrill of adventure at once. One could be strolling through history at the ancient ruins and only a moment later go paragliding over a blue coastline. The geography of the country is such that one can experience the zest of mountain climbing and indulge in the laze of a beach, and that too in one single journey. Also, the weather is moderate due to the Mediterranean seas but adds value to the fact that many of the activities can be undertaken throughout the year especially in the coastal regions.

1. Hiking in Cappadocia’s Otherworldly Landscape

Amongst the places to travel to at any time of the year which is our favorite one is Cappadocia. Paragliding, hot air balloons, and ATV rides aside, it is quite easy to forget that hiking in Cappadocia is like hiking on a different planet. The best bit? Their valleys can be visited any moment in the year. Spring and autumn offer cooler temperatures, but even in winter, a light dusting of snow turns the scenery into a magical wonderland.

How to Get There: Cappadocia is easily accessible via flights to Nevşehir or Kayseri airports. Once there, you can either rent a car or join a guided tour. We recommend taking a hot air balloon ride in the early morning to start your day with a breathtaking view of the valleys.

2. Sailing Along the Turquoise Coast

Should you be the kind that prefers water rather than land, then you should make it a point to sail in the beautiful waters of Turkey called the Turquoise Coast. You can take private yacht tours or go on traditional gulet cruises and explore the coastline of Aegean and Mediterranean with so many natural beautiful bays, clear blue waters and archaeological sites. The sailing season usually begins in the month of April and lasts until October but many companies are still able to provide guided sailing in the cooler months.

Why to Visit: There is nothing more exhilarating than the feeling of floating on turquoise seas, only to be surrounded by the remnants of an ancient civilization partially hidden by cliffs. And yes, you may do all these activities or indulge in a swim, or if exhausted, lounge on the deck enjoying a cup of Turkish tea.

How to Get There: Fethiye, Marmaris and Bodrum are the major ports where sailing tours can be started. One has the option of either making arrangements via the net or wait until reaching the harbor and check what may appeal to them.

3. Skiing in Uludağ

Of course not, It’s not only the beaches when we talk about Turkey! Uludağ, located near the city of Bursa, is one of the leading ski resorts in Turkey and operates from December to March with great conditions. Be it an experienced skier or one who is new, one will always find slopes that suits one’s skill. After finishing skiing, have some hot mulled wine or Turkish coffee at one of the numerous mountain cafés.

Why Visit: It’s a refreshing surprise to find a ski resort just a short trip from Istanbul. The views over the snow-capped peaks and the fun après-ski atmosphere make Uludağ a must-do for winter visitors.

How to Get There: Uludağ is just a few hours’ drive from Istanbul or a quick ferry ride and bus combo from the city. Most visitors take day trips, but there are plenty of mountain lodges if you want to stay overnight.

4. Paragliding Over Ölüdeniz

For the adrenaline junkies, paragliding over Ölüdeniz is an absolute bucket-list experience. Launching from the top of Mount Babadağ, you’ll soar over one of Turkey’s most famous beaches with jaw-dropping views of the blue lagoon below. While the summer months (June through September) are the peak season for paragliding, it’s possible to fly in the spring and autumn, too.

Why Visit: The mix of the crystal-clear Mediterranean waters, white sand beaches, and mountain backdrops makes for a flight you’ll never forget.

How to Get There: Fly into Dalaman Airport and make your way to Ölüdeniz, either by bus or car. Most paragliding companies offer hotel pickups, making it super easy to arrange.

5. Studying Pamukkale’s Thermal Pools

It won’t be enough that the white travertine terraces of Pamukkale are classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site because it is also regarded as one of the most interesting outdoor activities in Turkey. The thermal pools are accessible at any time of the year with winding warm waters on the terraces. A surreal landscape is thus created. You can even indulge in the ancient pool of Cleopatra which is right next to the place!

Why Visit: It’s a perfect combo of relaxation and history. Plus, the warm mineral-rich waters are said to have healing properties.

How to Get There: Pamukkale is closest to Denizli, which has a small regional airport. You can also reach it by bus from major cities like Istanbul or Izmir.

6. Rafting in Köprülü Canyon

For those who want to grab some towels and take on the elements, why not consider white-water rafting? Most experts rank Köprülü Canyon, in the Antalya region, as one of the best places for rafting in Turkey. Usually, the rafting season runs from the month of April to October, where spring is found to be the most ideal for the rapids.

Why Visit: The canyon is quite particularly a site worth visiting as beautiful as enjoyable activities like rafting are appreciated, or it can be a natural wonder in itself. When done with the river, forests around and remains of old Roman civilization offer returns.

How to Get There: It’s a straightforward drive from Antalya, and almost all packages for rafting will include transport to and from the accommodation.

There is no limit to the exploration opportunities for every kind of traveler in Turkey as there are activities to pursue regardless of the season. Even if you are simply trekking around Cappadocia, cruising on the Turquoise Coast, or skiing in Uludağ you can’t help but be awed by the splendour of the country. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get outside and explore!