Dalyan Boat Trip & Mud Bath from Bodrum — Kaunos Tombs, Iztuzu Beach and Turtle Spotting
Spend a day cruising the Dalyan River from Bodrum to the Kaunos tombs, Iztuzu Turtle Beach and the famous mud baths. This full-day tour mixes archaeology, wildlife viewing and a restorative mud dip with a local lunch.
The Experience
Before You Go
Protect turtle nesting areas
If visiting between May and August, keep to marked paths on Iztuzu Beach and avoid flash photography around nesting zones.
Bring waterproof storage
Use a dry bag or waterproof pouch for phones and cameras during the river cruise and when on sandy beaches.
Footwear for mixed terrain
Wear reef shoes or sandals with grip for rocky approaches and muddy, slippery paths to the pools.
Hydrate and pace yourself
Carry a refillable bottle—sun, wind and a long day on the water can dry you out faster than you expect.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the short path to the Kaunos harbor to see fishermen’s boats and the small local museum with artifacts
- •Stop at the Köyceğiz lakeshore viewpoint for a quick detour and quieter birdwatching away from the main beach
Wildlife
- •Loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta)
- •River kingfishers and herons
Conservation Note
Iztuzu is a protected nesting area—tourism operates under seasonal restrictions to reduce disturbance, and visitors are asked to follow guidelines to minimize impact.
The Kaunos ruins above Dalyan reflect a city that served as a maritime and trading center from the Lycian and Hellenistic periods; the cliff tombs carved into soft limestone are a local hallmark.
What to Bring
SwimwearEssential
Needed for beach stops, river swims and the mud pools.
Waterproof pouch/dry bagEssential
Protects electronics and documents during the boat segments.
Reef shoes or grippy sandalsEssential
Useful for walking on sand, rocks and slippery mud pool edges.
Reef-safe sunscreen & hatEssential
Protects skin from strong Aegean sun during long outdoor stretches.
Common Questions
How long is the trip from Bodrum?
The full excursion is approximately 10 hours door-to-door, including transfers, a river cruise, beach time, lunch and mud pool visit.
Will I see loggerhead turtles?
Turtle sightings are possible but not guaranteed; nesting season runs roughly May–August and early/late daylight increases viewing chances.
Is the mud safe to use on skin?
The mud is commonly used for its mineral properties and is generally safe—avoid if you have open wounds or skin conditions and rinse thoroughly with freshwater afterward.
Are transfers door-to-door from Bodrum provided?
Yes — the tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off in air-conditioned vehicles; exact pickup time depends on location and is provided at booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
10 hours
Location
Dalyan, Muğla
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires short walks on uneven sand and low steps onto boats
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