Discover the Enchanting Depths of Saklikent Gorge

• HelloMerhaba
  [mer-ha-ba]
• GoodbyeHoşça kal
  [hosh-cha kal]
• YesEvet
  [e-vet]
• NoHayır
  [ha-yir]
• Please/You're welcomeLütfen
  [lutfen]
• Thank youTeşekkür ederim
  [te-shek-kur e-de-rim]
• Excuse me/SorryÖzür dilerim
  [o-zur di-le-rim]
• How are you?Nasılsınız?
  [na-sil-si-niz]
• Fine. And you?İyiyim. Peki sen?
  [i-yi-yim. pe-ki sen]
• Do you speak English?İngilizce konuşuyor musunuz?
  [in-gi-liz-ce ko-nu-su-yor mu-su-nuz]
• I don't understandAnlamıyorum
  [an-la-mi-yo-rum]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMenüyü görmek istiyorum, lütfen
  [me-nu-yu gur-mek is-ti-yo-rum, lutfen]
• I don't eat meatEt yemem
  [et ye-mem]
• Cheers!Şerefe!
  [she-re-fe]
• I would like to pay, pleaseÖdemek istiyorum, lütfen
  [o-de-mek is-ti-yo-rum, lutfen]

• Help!Yardım!
  [yar-dum]
• Go away!Uzaklaş!
  [u-zak-laş]
• Call the Police!Polisi arayın!
  [po-li-si a-ra-yin]
• Call a doctor!Doktor çağırın!
  [dok-tor cha-ir-in]
• I'm lostKayboldum
  [kay-bol-dum]
• I'm illHastayım
  [has-ta-yum]

• I'd like to buy...Satın almak istiyorum...
  [sa-tin al-mak is-ti-yo-rum]
• I'm just lookingSadece bakıyorum
  [sa-de-ce ba-ku-yo-rum]
• How much is it?Ne kadar?
  [ne ka-dar]
• That's too expensiveBu çok pahalı
  [bu chok pa-ha-lu]
• Can you lower the price?Fiyatı düşürebilir misiniz?
  [fi-ya-tu du-shu-re-bi-lir mi-si-niz]

• What time is it?Saat kaç?
  [sa-at kach]
• It's one o'clockSaat bir
  [sa-at bir]
• Half past (10)On buçuk
  [on bu-chuk]
• MorningSabah
  [sa-bah]
• AfternoonÖğleden sonra
  [o-le-den af-te-ran]
• EveningAkşam
  [ak-sham]
• YesterdayDün
  [dun]
• TodayBugün
  [bu-gun]
• TomorrowYarın
  [ya-rin]
• 1Bir
  [bir]
• 2İki
  [i-ki]
• 3Üç
  [uch]
• 4Dört
  [dort]
• 5Beş
  [besh]
• 6Altı
  [al-tuh]
• 7Yedi
  [ye-di]
• 8Sekiz
  [se-kiz]
• 9Dokuz
  [do-kuz]
• 10On
  [on]

• Where's a/the...?...nerede?
  [ne-re-de]
• What's the address?Adres ne?
  [a-dres ne]
• Can you show me (on the map)?(haritada) gösterebilir misiniz?
  [gus-te-re-bi-lir mi-si-niz]
• When's the next (bus)?Bir sonraki (otobüs) ne zaman?
  [bir son-ra-ki (o-to-bus) ne za-man]
• A ticket (to ....)Bir bilet (....'ya)
  [bir bi-let ('ya)]

Saklikent Gorge, one of the deepest canyons in Turkey, was formed through the erosive power of water over thousands of years. The Karaçay River, a tributary of the Eşen River, carved its way through the limestone rocks, creating a stunning natural feature approximately 18 kilometers long and reaching depths of up to 300 meters in some areas. The gorge's name, 'Saklikent,' translates to 'hidden city,' aptly reflecting its secluded and mysterious nature.

The region surrounding Saklikent Gorge was once part of the ancient Lycian civilization, which thrived from around the 15th century BCE to the 6th century CE. The Lycians were known for their unique language, maritime prowess, and distinctive rock-cut tombs. Although there are no direct archaeological sites within the gorge itself, the nearby ancient cities of Tlos and Xanthos provide a glimpse into the rich Lycian heritage of the area.

During the Roman period, the Lycian League, a confederation of city-states in the region, came under Roman control in the 1st century BCE. The Romans left a lasting impact on the region, constructing roads, aqueducts, and other infrastructure that facilitated trade and movement. The remnants of Roman engineering and architecture can still be seen in nearby ancient cities, contributing to the historical tapestry of the Saklikent area.

Following the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the region became part of the Byzantine Empire. During this period, Christianity spread throughout Lycia, and many ancient cities were transformed with the construction of churches and monasteries. The Byzantine influence is evident in the ruins scattered around the region, providing insight into the religious and cultural shifts that occurred over the centuries.

With the rise of the Ottoman Empire in the 14th century, the region encompassing Saklikent Gorge became part of the vast Ottoman territories. The Ottomans integrated the diverse cultural and historical heritage of the area into their empire. While the gorge remained relatively untouched, the influence of Ottoman administration and culture shaped the broader region's development, leaving a legacy that can still be observed today.

Saklikent Gorge remained relatively unknown to the outside world until its 'discovery' by a local shepherd in 1988. Since then, it has been developed into a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the globe. The gorge's accessibility and natural beauty have made it a significant site for eco-tourism, adventure activities, and cultural exploration, contributing to the local economy and raising awareness of the area's historical significance.

Saklikent Gorge is located in the Mugla Province of southwestern Turkiye. The nearest major airport is Dalaman Airport, approximately 100 kilometers away. From Dalaman, you can rent a car or take a shuttle bus to Fethiye, which is the closest large town to Saklikent Gorge. From Fethiye, you can take a bus or a taxi to the gorge, which is about 50 kilometers away. Alternatively, you can book a guided tour that includes transportation from Fethiye or other nearby cities.

The most convenient way to get around the area is by renting a car, which allows you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Local buses also operate between Fethiye and Saklikent Gorge, but they can be less frequent, especially during the off-peak season. Taxis are available but can be relatively expensive if you plan to make multiple trips. If you prefer a guided experience, several tour companies offer day trips to the gorge, which include transportation and a guided tour.

The official currency in Turkiye is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in rural areas and local markets. ATMs are available in Fethiye and other nearby towns, so you can withdraw cash as needed. It's a good idea to have some local currency on hand before you arrive at Saklikent Gorge, as there are limited facilities to exchange money in the immediate vicinity.

Saklikent Gorge is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is important to take standard precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding isolated areas after dark. Petty crimes like pickpocketing are rare but can occur in crowded places, so stay vigilant. The gorge itself can be slippery and challenging to navigate, especially after rain, so wear appropriate footwear and be cautious while exploring. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists near Saklikent Gorge.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for medical assistance, fire, or police services. The nearest medical facilities are located in Fethiye, so it is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Fethiye where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. If you find yourself in need of assistance within the gorge, there are staff members and guides who can help or direct you to the nearest help point.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable and sturdy footwear suitable for hiking and walking through water. Avoid wearing flip-flops or high heels. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting nearby towns or villages. Public Transport: Do be courteous to drivers and fellow passengers. Don't eat or drink on public buses. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Merhaba' (hello) or 'Günaydın' (good morning). A handshake is a common form of greeting. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite. Always drink bottled water to avoid any stomach issues.

To experience Saklikent Gorge like a local, try to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the peak tourist crowds. Bring a waterproof bag for your belongings, as parts of the gorge require wading through water. Consider combining your visit with a trip to the nearby Tlos ancient city or the Yakapark trout farm for a complete day of exploration. Engaging with local guides can provide you with deeper insights into the natural and historical significance of the area.