Olympos Cable Car Ride to Tahtali Mountains from Antalya

Planning a trip to Antalya and looking for an experience that balances adventure with incredible scenery? This cable car ride from Antalya to Mount Tahtali, in Kemer, offers just that. Over a span of about three hours, you’ll ascend from sea level to over 7,700 feet, soaking in panoramic views that make for unforgettable photos. It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting a mix of sightseeing and a bit of thrill, especially if you’re into nature or want a bird’s eye view of the Turkish coastline.

What we particularly like about this tour is its convenience—hotel pickup and drop-off are included, so you can relax and focus on the experience. Plus, the ride itself is quite smooth, with modern cable cars and a well-organized itinerary. A second plus is the stunning vistas you’ll get from the top, offering sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea, pine forests, and surrounding mountains. On the flip side, the price, at just under $70 per person, is a decent deal considering the scenic value, but it’s worth noting that the tour is quite short—about three hours total—so it’s best suited for travelers with limited time or those wanting a quick, memorable trip.

If you’re after a scenic experience that’s gentle on the legs but big on visual rewards, this tour could be perfect. It’s especially good for those who like a relaxed pace, stunning photo opportunities, and enjoy being outdoors. However, if you’re seeking a full-day adventure or want to explore other aspects of the area, you might find this just a slice of a broader experience.

Key Points

• Convenient pickup and drop-off simplify logistics for travelers.
• Panoramic views from over 7,700 feet give you a stunning perspective on the coastline and mountains.
• Modern cable cars make the ascent smooth and comfortable.
• Short duration (about 3 hours) makes it ideal for quick sightseeing.
• Good value for the price when considering the scenic payoff.
• Weather-dependent: the experience requires clear skies for the best views.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Booking and Arrival Process

Booking this tour is straightforward, with most travelers reserving about two weeks in advance—though some last-minute bookings are possible. The tour is priced at $69.96 per person, which is reasonable given the views and the included transportation. Most travelers, according to reviews, find the price to be fair, especially since it includes hotel pickup and drop-off—a real convenience in Antalya, where transportation can sometimes be tricky.

On the day of the tour, you’ll be picked up at your hotel around 9:30 am or 2 pm, depending on your chosen departure time. The transportation is in a climate-controlled bus, which ensures a comfortable journey through Beydaglari National Park—an area known for its lush pine forests and rugged terrain. The scenic drive itself is a nice warm-up, as you get glimpses of the landscape before reaching the cable car station.

The Cable Car Ride: From Sea to Sky

Once at the base station, you’ll board a modern cable car for a ride that lasts about 10 minutes. The journey is smooth, and the cabin offers a clear view of the landscape below, so you can start snapping photos even before reaching the summit. This part of the experience is pretty straightforward, but what makes it special is the view from above. You’ll see the coastline of Antalya, the pine forests stretching into the distance, and on clear days, you can spot the islands dotting the sea.

Reaching the Summit: Mount Tahtali

At the top of Mount Tahtali, you’ll be over 7,760 feet (2,365 meters) above sea level. The views from here are the main highlight. You can walk around the panoramic deck, take in the sweeping vistas, or browse the souvenir shop. Several reviews mention that the top offers great photo ops, so bring your camera or smartphone fully charged.

A professional photographer is available if you’d like someone to take pictures of your party—an appreciated touch for capturing memories without the hassle of trying to snap selfies in tricky lighting. If you prefer, you’re also free to explore on your own and take shots from various viewpoints.

What’s Around the Top?

Beyond the views, there’s a small coffee shop and souvenir stalls. Some travelers mention enjoying a quick snack while taking in the scenery, though food and drinks are not included in the tour price. It’s a good idea to bring some water or a snack if you think you’ll need it.

The Return Trip

After spending about an hour at the summit, you’ll descend back down, leaving ample time to explore the top before heading back to the base station. The whole trip is quite manageable, especially since reviews note that the guide and driver are professional and punctual.

Tour Highlights & Considerations

You’ll get a taste of Beydaglari National Park, the coastline, and the mountains, all from a bird’s-eye perspective. The itinerary includes several stops—each offering its own little slice of the landscape—though the main focus is the cable car ride and the summit experience.

According to reviews, the guides are knowledgeable and communicative, even if the driver may not speak fluent English. The overall organization is praised as smooth. Still, it’s worth noting that the tour is relatively short, so if you’re craving a full-day adventure, this might feel a bit compact.

Who Would Love This?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a relaxing yet scenic outing without extensive hiking or physical exertion. It’s perfect for those interested in photography, stunning views, or simply wanting to check off a unique experience from their Antalya itinerary. If you’re traveling with people who prefer a gentle tour with a focus on sightseeing, this will suit well.

Potential Downsides

The main consideration is the weather dependency—cloudy or rainy days can obscure the views, and the experience might be canceled or less impressive. The tours are not refundable if canceled less than 24 hours in advance due to weather, so keep an eye on the forecast.

Some travelers also pointed out that the driver didn’t speak English, which might pose minor communication issues, but overall, reviews suggest the experience is well-organized and guides are helpful.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you love breathtaking vistas without a strenuous climb, this cable car ride is a solid pick. It offers a quick but memorable glimpse of Antalya’s stunning scenery, perfect for couples, solo travelers, or small groups wanting a dose of nature and panoramic views. The convenience of hotel pickup and the short duration mean it fits well into a busy itinerary, especially if you’re just visiting for a few days.

However, if your idea of an adventure involves long hikes, detailed historical insights, or full-day excursions, this might feel a little light. It’s most suited for those who value easy access to scenic viewpoints and don’t mind a brief, well-organized trip with excellent photo opportunities.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t explicitly designed for kids, most children who aren’t afraid of heights should enjoy the cable car ride and the views. Be sure to check with your kids about the height and potential weather conditions.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour price covers a roundtrip cable car ride, driver/guide, and hotel pickup and drop-off. Food, drinks, and personal expenses are not included.

How long does the cable car ride take?
The ascent to the summit takes about 10 minutes each way. The total tour duration, including stops and sightseeing, is approximately 3 hours.

Can I take photos at the top?
Absolutely. The summit offers superb panoramic views, perfect for photos. A professional photographer can take pictures of your group, or you can use your own camera.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience is weather-dependent. If conditions are poor, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if canceled due to weather.

Is there any shopping or food at the top?
Yes, there’s a souvenir shop and a café where you can buy snacks and drinks. However, food and drinks are not included in the tour.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 14 days ahead, but last-minute bookings are often possible.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for the weather. Layered clothing is advisable, especially if it’s cooler at the summit. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around the top.

Is the tour family-friendly?
It’s generally suitable for most travelers who feel comfortable with heights and outdoor conditions. Always consider your children’s comfort with heights and weather before booking.

This cable car experience offers a neat blend of convenience, stunning scenery, and a bit of adventure—all within a manageable timeframe. Whether you’re just passing through Antalya or looking to add a scenic highlight to your trip, it’s worth considering for those breathtaking views and a relaxing ride above the mountains and sea.