Salda Lake and Pamukkale Tour from Alanya is a fascinating nature and culture excursion that combines two of Turkey’s most beautiful natural wonders: Salda Lake, often called the “Maldives of Turkey”, and the world-famous Pamukkale travertines, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
SALDA LAKE
Our first stop is the breathtaking Salda Lake, located approximately 285 km northwest of Alanya. Known as the cleanest lake in Turkey, Salda Lake is also one of the deepest lakes in the country, reaching depths of around 184 meters. It is believed that the lake was formed nearly 2 million years ago.
The water of Salda Lake has low salinity and high alkaline properties, which contributes to its unique natural structure. Surrounded by mountains and located away from busy city centers such as Burdur, Denizli, and Antalya, the lake has preserved its natural beauty for centuries.
Salda Lake Nature Park offers a stunning landscape where white sandy beaches, pine and juniper forests, and turquoise-blue waters come together. The famous white sand along the shoreline resembles the beaches of the Maldives, which is why the lake is widely known as “Turkey’s Maldives.” During our visit, you will have free time to walk along the white beach and relax.
PAMUKKALE TRAVERTINES
The second stop of the Salda Lake and Pamukkale Tour from Alanya is the world-famous Pamukkale, known for its stunning white travertine terraces and the nearby ancient city of Hierapolis. Pamukkale, which means “Cotton Castle” in Turkish, is located about 365 km from Alanya and attracts millions of local and international visitors every year.
The unique terraces of Pamukkale were formed when thermal spring waters rich in calcium carbonate flowed down the hillside and cooled in the open air, leaving behind white mineral deposits. The thermal water temperature is around 30°C and is believed to have beneficial effects for certain health conditions.
During the tour, you will have the opportunity to walk barefoot on the travertine terraces, swim in the thermal pools, and take unforgettable photos of this unique natural wonder.
HIERAPOLIS ANCIENT CITY
Next to Pamukkale lies the ancient city of Hierapolis, founded in the 2nd century BC by the Pergamon Kingdom. The name Hierapolis means “Holy City.” The city reached its peak during the Roman period and became an important religious center.
According to historical accounts, St. Philip, one of the apostles of Jesus, lived here. Today, the ruins of Hierapolis spread over a wide area and remain open to visitors. Among the most remarkable structures are the ancient theater, colonnaded streets, agora, and the large necropolis (ancient cemetery) filled with sarcophagi.
CLEOPATRA ANTIQUE POOL
Cleopatra Antique Thermal Pool is located just above the Pamukkale travertine terraces and below the ancient city of Hierapolis. According to legend, the pool was named after the Egyptian Queen Cleopatra, who is believed to have swum here, similar to the famous Cleopatra Beach in Alanya.
Inside the pool, visitors can see ancient columns and marble fragments that fell into the water after earthquakes in ancient times. The thermal water of the pool remains around 36°C throughout the year and is believed to have healing properties. According to local legends, those who bathe in the pool feel refreshed and rejuvenated. Swimming in the Cleopatra Antique Pool is possible for an additional fee.
Discover two spectacular natural wonders in one unforgettable trip and join the Salda Lake and Pamukkale Tour from Alanya, where nature, history, and culture come together.
SALDA LAKE AND PAMUKKALE TOUR FROM ALANYA ITINERARY
- Pick-up from hotels and apartments in Alanya and surrounding areas
- Drive towards Pamukkale via Denizli
- Breakfast break
- Comfort break
- Arrival in Pamukkale (around 10:00)
- Visit Hierapolis Ancient City and Necropolis (approximately 1 hour)
- Visit Pamukkale travertine terraces and free time (approximately 3 hours)
- Lunch break
- Visit Salda Lake and free time to explore (approximately 1 hour)
- Dinner break
- Return journey via the Taurus Mountains
- Drop-off at hotels and apartments in Alanya (around 23:30–24:00)
PRICE INCLUDES
- Pick-up and drop-off from hotels and apartments in Alanya
- Professional tour guide
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Entrance fees to Pamukkale travertines, Hierapolis Ancient City, and Salda Lake
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
- Personal expenses
- Swimming in Cleopatra Antique Pool (approx. 11€)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION & TIPS
- Visitors are allowed to walk and swim in the Pamukkale terraces
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- If you plan to swim in the thermal pools or Cleopatra Pool, bring swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen
- The weather in Pamukkale and Salda Lake is usually cooler than in Alanya, so dress according to seasonal conditions
- Visiting and taking photos around Cleopatra Pool is free; only swimming requires an additional fee