Half-Day Dalyan Boat Trip: Mud Baths, Kaunos & Turtle Beach
Glide the Dalyan River to ancient Kaunos, soak in sulphur-rich mud baths and swim at long Turtle Beach on a private, four-hour boat trip. Perfect for swimmers and history-lovers who want a concentrated coastal escape.
The Experience
Before You Go
Boarding and footwear
Wear slip-on water shoes for easy boarding and walking on sand and mud flats.
Protect the wildlife
Observe turtle nesting signs on İztuzu and keep distance from marked areas — don’t disturb nesting sites.
Hydration and sun
Bring a refillable water bottle and reef-safe sunscreen; shade is limited on beaches and boats.
Timing your swim
Plan swims in the morning or late afternoon to avoid strong sun and choppier midday seas.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Sunset viewpoint above the Kaunos rock tombs for an uncrowded panorama
- •Salt flats and birdwatching hides along the Dalyan wetlands for kingfishers and herons
Wildlife
- •Loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta)
- •Herons and kingfishers in the reed-lined delta
Conservation Note
Dalyan and İztuzu have active turtle-conservation programs; visitors are asked to follow signage, avoid lights at night near nests and use reef-safe products.
The boat route follows the channel to ancient Kaunos, a Hellenistic and Roman-era port where cliff tombs from the 4th century BCE mark the skyline.
What to Bring
SwimsuitEssential
Essential for swims, mud baths and the thermal pool.
Water shoesEssential
Protects feet on rocky riverbanks, sandy bars and while boarding.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and marine life from chemical sunscreens.
Quick-dry towel and change of clothes
Useful for the mud-bath and the return journey into town.
Common Questions
Do I need to be able to swim to join the trip?
You should be comfortable in shallow open water for short swims; flotation aids are often available and staff assist with beach entries.
Are entrance fees and mud-bath included?
The itinerary lists entrance fees to the mud bath and beach; confirm at booking which fees are covered for your group.
Can we see sea turtles on every trip?
Turtle sightings aren’t guaranteed, but İztuzu is a major nesting beach for loggerhead turtles and sightings are common from shore or boat during nesting season.
Is the tour appropriate for children or strollers?
The tour is family-friendly; strollers can be used in town but beach and boarding areas require carrying small children across sand or low docks.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Dalyan, Muğla
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Light to moderate fitness for short swims and stepping on/off small boats; basic mobility required
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