Olympos Cable Car Ride to Tahtali Mountains from Kemer

If you’re looking for a way to catch some truly spectacular views during your time in Kemer, this cable car ride up Mount Tahtali might just be your best bet. While I haven’t done this particular tour myself, I’ve read a lot of reviews and details, and it sounds like a solid choice for anyone wanting to see the Mediterranean from a new perspective.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the scenic drive through Beydaglari National Park offers a taste of the landscape even before reaching the cable car station. Then, the ride itself provides jaw-dropping panoramic views of pine forests, mountain ranges, and the shimmering sea below. Plus, it’s very family-friendly and a romantic outing all in one, thanks to the relaxed pace and incredible scenery.

One thing to keep in mind is that, as with many mountain excursions, the weather can influence your experience. On very hot days, the high altitude might give you a refreshing break, but fog or clouds could limit visibility. Also, since this tour is quite popular, booking ahead (around 19 days in advance on average) is recommended to secure your spot. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy gentle adventures, stunning natural vistas, and a touch of tranquility away from the busy beaches.

If this sounds like a trip that could fit into your itinerary, keep reading. I’ll walk you through what to expect, the pros and cons, and why it might be the right choice—or not—depending on what you’re after.

Key Points

• Stunning panoramic views from Mount Tahtali are the main highlight, providing a unique perspective of the Mediterranean and Taurus Mountains.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics smooth and hassle-free.
• It’s a great option for families and couples looking for a relaxed, scenic experience, with all entrance fees included.
• The timing is flexible, with about 2 hours at the summit for photos, snacks, or just soaking in the scenery.
• The price (~$64 per person) offers good value considering transportation, cable car ride, and hotel transfers.
• Some travelers mention limited time at the summit (around an hour), so if you’re keen on exploring or taking lots of photos, plan accordingly.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Olympos Teleferik

Your day begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Kemer or nearby areas like Beldibi, Goynuk, Kiris, Camyuva, or Tekirova. This is a real convenience; knowing someone else handles the transfer means you can relax from the start. The drive to the cable car station is about 20 minutes, allowing you to enjoy the scenery along the way.

Once at the station, you’ll purchase your ticket, which includes all the entrance fees. The cable car ride itself lasts around 10 minutes but delivers views that stay with you long after. From the bottom, you’ll ascend through pine forests and open up to a panoramic spectacle as you approach the summit.

The Cable Car Experience

The ride in the Olympos Cable Car is the star of the show. As you rise, you’ll see the landscape unfold beneath you—mountains, coastline, and the sea shimmering in the distance. One review notes, “20 minutes to the start of the steep ascent up the mountain, and then 10 minutes to the summit with amazing views.”

This journey offers more than just transportation; it’s a chance to marvel at the scale of the natural world, and many find it surprisingly peaceful. The cable car cabins are enclosed, so you’re protected from the elements, but the windows are large enough for perfect photo opportunities.

Reaching Mount Tahtali

Once at the top, you’ll spend about two hours exploring. There’s a summit cafe where you can grab coffee or snacks, and a small market area with gifts and souvenirs. A reviewer describes it as “a great chilling time high there,” emphasizing the relaxed vibe and excellent photo ops.

Expect breathtaking vistas from the viewing platforms, with options for capturing photos of the Taurus Mountains, the coastline, and the Mediterranean Sea. The views are described as “really far” and “quite beautiful,” even on a hot sunny day. But don’t be surprised if clouds roll in and obscure the horizon; the weather can change quickly at high altitude.

Free Time and Optional Activities

With around 1.5 hours before heading back down, you can take your time snapping pictures, enjoying the cool mountain air, or simply soaking in the scenery. Some reviews mention the summit cafe’s coffee, gifts, and snacks as a pleasant addition. If you’re a fan of slow, scenic moments, this part of the trip is ideal.

The Descent and Return

The trip down takes roughly 10 minutes in the cable car again, but the journey back to your hotel usually takes about 20 minutes. The tour is designed as a 3-hour experience, but some reviews note that it can last a bit longer—up to about 4.5 hours in some cases—especially if you linger at the summit or take additional photos.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Most reviews are glowing, with a 4.8/5 rating from 61 travelers. Neil, one reviewer, says, “Excellent booking online, prompt pick up from hotel, 20-minute journey, and 10 minutes to the summit with amazing views. A must-do for families.” That sums up much of the feedback: smooth organization, beautiful scenery, and a memorable experience.

Another review highlights the well-organized nature: “The bus arrived on time, and we got to the station quickly from Kemer. The scenery was already beautiful down at the starting point and got even better at the top.” This confirms that the logistics are generally hassle-free, and the scenery consistently impresses.

People also appreciate the relaxed atmosphere: “Just a great time spent with family high in the mountains. Super views and a chill vibe.” The summit offers enough time for photos and enjoying the crisp mountain air without feeling rushed.

What Could Be Better?

Not all reviews are perfect. Some travelers mention that the time at the summit is limited—about an hour—so if you’re keen on exploring or taking lots of photos, plan ahead. A few noted that the guidance is minimal, with no detailed commentary or guide onboard, which might diminish the educational aspect if you’re interested in learning about the area.

A couple of reviews touched on customer service issues, like feeling hurried or unclear procedures, especially when signing documents. Also, one reviewer felt the tour was a bit “touristic,” and the guide/driver didn’t speak much English, which might matter if you prefer more informative experiences.

Price and Value Analysis

At around $64 per person, this tour offers decent value considering hotel transfers, the cable car ride, and the summit experience. Many reviews mention the good quality of the views and the comfort of the ride, making it a worthwhile expense for a half-day escape from the beach.

It’s worth noting that all entrance fees are included, so there are no hidden costs once you pay the initial fee. For travelers seeking a relaxing, scenic experience with minimal hassle, this is a cost-effective way to see some of the best views in the area.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for those who want an easy, scenic outing that doesn’t require strenuous activity or a long trek. It’s perfect for families (the ride is smooth and safe), couples looking for a romantic escape, or anyone wanting to capture stunning photos from one of Turkey’s highest peaks.

If you’re someone who values organized logistics and beautiful vistas, this trip will likely meet your expectations. However, if you’re looking for in-depth history or a guided educational experience, this tour might not satisfy that desire, as it’s more about the visuals and relaxing atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

The Olympos Cable Car Ride to Mount Tahtali from Kemer offers a beautiful, straightforward way to see some of Turkey’s most impressive mountain and sea views. The scenic drive, smooth cable car ride, and time at the summit combine to create a memorable half-day activity that’s especially suited for those who enjoy nature and photography.

While the experience is mostly about the views and relaxation, keep in mind some limitations—short summit stay, minimal guidance, and possible weather changes. It’s a trip that delivers on its promise of incredible panoramas and a peaceful escape from the busy resorts.

Whether you’re traveling with family, your partner, or even solo, this experience is likely to leave you with plenty of great photos and a sense of achievement at reaching such heights. For the price, it’s a well-organized, scenic excursion that’s worth considering.

FAQ

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour is approximately 3 hours, but it can extend slightly depending on how long you spend at the summit or during transportation.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from hotels in Kemer and nearby areas like Beldibi, Goynuk, Kiris, Camyuva, and Tekirova are included.

What is the duration of the cable car ride?
The ride from the station to the summit takes about 10 minutes each way, offering plenty of time for photos and sightseeing.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees to the cable car and summit area are covered in the ticket price.

Can I buy snacks or gifts at the summit?
Yes, there’s a cafe and gift shop where you can buy coffee, snacks, and souvenirs.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, it’s generally family-friendly, especially since the cable car ride is smooth and safe. However, always check your child’s comfort with heights and altitude.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, some water, and maybe a light jacket if it’s windy or cooler at the top. Sunscreen is also a good idea, especially on sunny days.

What if the weather is bad?
Clouds or fog might limit the views. Unfortunately, the experience depends heavily on clear weather, so check the forecast if possible.

This trip offers a straightforward, scenic experience that’s perfect for travelers craving stunning vistas with minimal fuss. Keep your camera ready, and enjoy the ride!