Dalyan Day Trip from Fethiye Including River Cruise, Mud Baths and Iztuzu Beach

If you’re thinking about spending a day in Dalyan, this tour might be just what you’re after. It’s advertised as a full-day experience that combines scenic river cruises, relaxing mud baths, visits to ancient Lycian tombs, and time at the famous Iztuzu Beach, home to loggerhead turtles. While I haven’t taken this exact trip myself, I’ve read through the reviews and all the details to give you a balanced look.

What really stands out is the variety—this isn’t just a boat ride or a beach day, but a well-rounded outing that touches on history, nature, and relaxation. Another big plus is the guide’s role; many reviews praise the knowledgeable, friendly guides who help make the experience more engaging and informative. However, one thing to consider is the price—$58.11 per person sounds reasonable, but it’s worth weighing the included activities versus extras like beach entrance fees.

This trip seems best suited for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing, cultural insight, and downtime. If you love being on the water, seeing ancient ruins from a boat, and getting in some nature therapy with mud baths and turtle sightings, this tour could be a good fit. It’s also a great choice for those who enjoy full-day outings that balance activity with enough time to relax and soak up the scenery.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary offers a mix of cultural, natural, and relaxing experiences.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the trip with friendly, informative commentary.
• Good value for the variety of activities included at the price.
• Includes transportation from Fethiye, making logistics straightforward.
• Not just a sightseeing tour—you get to experience mud baths and see turtles in their habitat.
• Potential for a long day with many stops, so be prepared for a full schedule.

This full-day tour is designed to give you a taste of Dalyan’s natural beauty and historical sites, all without the hassle of planning individual transfers or excursions. The package starts with hotel pickup around 8-9 am, so your day kicks off early—perfect for making the most of it.

Transportation and Timing

The journey begins with a bus ride from Fethiye, lasting about an hour and a half, during which you’ll pass Sülüngür Lake and lush pine and sweetgum forests. It’s a smooth way to start the day and sets the scene for what’s to come. The group size is capped at around 45 travelers, which generally keeps things manageable and allows for better interaction with your guide.

The Stops and Activities

Sultaniye Thermals and Mud Baths: This is one of the main highlights. You get about an hour and a half at the mud baths, where you can soak in sulfur-rich pools that many say have rejuvenating and skin-smoothing effects. Several reviews mention feeling like they’ve been reborn after this experience, with one traveler even noting they looked 10 years younger! The mud bath has been used since the Lycian period and is revered for its healing properties.

Lunch by the River: After the mud baths, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch at a riverside restaurant. The menu offers a variety of dishes, giving you a chance to refuel with fresh, local flavors. Many travelers appreciate the good value here, considering the quality of food and the scenic setting.

Cruising to the Lycian Tombs: Post-lunch, the boat takes you through Dalyan’s canal, where the view of the rock-cut Lycian tombs carved into the cliffs is a real visual treat. Many reviews rave about how stunning these ancient structures are from the water. The tour guide provides insights into their history, making it a meaningful stop.

Iztuzu Beach: Next is the visit to Iztuzu Beach, often called Turtle Beach, for about 1.5 hours. It’s the second-longest beach in Turkey and serves as a protected breeding ground for loggerhead turtles. Keep your camera ready—if you’re lucky, you might spot a Caretta caretta turtle. The beach is wide, sandy, and perfect for sunbathing or a swim. Entrance is not included, so be prepared for this small additional cost, but many find it worth it for the chance to relax on such a pristine stretch of coastline.

Final Leg and Return

The trip concludes with a coach ride back to Fethiye, arriving in the late afternoon. The day is packed but well-paced, according to travelers who say it’s a good balance of activity and downtime.

The tour’s strength lies in its variety. You’re not just floating on a boat; you’re exploring history, enjoying natural thermal waters, and relaxing on a beautiful, turtle-friendly beach all in one day.

The river cruise offers panoramic views of reed beds and cliffs, with the ancient Lycian tombs visible high in the cliffs. Many reviewers find the boat ride peaceful and scenic, with one noting that the view of the tombs from the canal is “fascinating.” The boat itself is comfortable, and you’re encouraged to bring your camera, especially for the photo opportunities at the tombs and the beach.

The mud baths are a standout for many. The mineral-rich mud is said to have healing properties, and visitors frequently mention how revitalized they feel afterward. Some reviewers even joke about looking younger—and a few say they did! The sulfur smell is noticeable, but most find it part of the fun and the authenticity of the experience.

Lunch is generally well-reviewed, with many appreciating the variety and quality of the dishes. Sitting by the water makes for a relaxing break, and the setting adds to the enjoyment.

The Lycian tombs are a must-see. From the boat, you get a unique perspective on these impressive rock-cut structures. Our sources note that the guide shares interesting tidbits about their history, which enhances the experience.

Iztuzu Beach offers a chance to unwind and take in the natural beauty. The long stretch of sand and clean waters are perfect for a swim or sunbathing. Watching for turtles adds an element of excitement, especially if you’re lucky enough to spot one.

At $58.11 per person, this tour seems quite reasonable given the range of activities. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a guide, lunch, mud bath entrance fees, and the canal cruise. The only additional costs are for drinks and the beach entrance fee, which many travelers consider minor extras.

The reviews suggest that most people feel they receive good value for what they pay. The variety makes it easy to justify the cost, especially with the chance to see historical sites, enjoy thermal waters, and relax on a beautiful beach—all in one day.

This trip is well-suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic boat rides, historical sights, and nature-based activities. It’s ideal for those who want a full-day experience without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions. If you’re okay with a busy schedule and appreciate guided commentary, you’ll find this tour enriching.

Keep in mind that it’s a long day, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are traveling with small children, consider how the schedule fits your needs. The tour is generally good for most ages, but the physical activity at the mud baths and walking at the beach might require some stamina.

This Dalyan day trip from Fethiye offers a solid combination of cultural sights, nature encounters, and leisure activities in one package. From the scenic river cruise past ancient tombs to the healing mud baths and the chance to see turtles in the wild, there’s plenty to keep you engaged.

You’ll love the friendly guides, the variety of experiences, and the scenic beauty of Dalyan. The only real consideration is fitting a full day into your schedule and being prepared for a busy but rewarding adventure.

If you enjoy discovering new landscapes, exploring history from a boat, and unwinding on a pristine beach, this trip is likely to leave you with lasting memories.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off in Fethiye, making logistics much easier for you.

How long is the bus ride?
The journey from Fethiye to Dalyan takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, providing a comfortable start to your day.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat. The tour also recommends bringing a camera to capture the stunning scenery and wildlife.

Are meals included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is included at a riverside restaurant, offering a variety of dishes to suit different tastes.

How much does the Iztuzu Beach entrance cost?
The entrance fee to Iztuzu Beach is not included in the tour price, so you might need to pay this locally.

What activities are included in the price?
The tour includes the canal boat cruise, mud bath, lunch, and visits to the Lycian tombs. The mud bath entrance fee is included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers of all ages seem to enjoy it, but it involves some walking and activities like mud bathing. Consider your children’s stamina and interest level.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour caters to up to 45 travelers, which helps keep things manageable but still social.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity, allowing for flexibility.

What do travelers think of this experience?
Reviews consistently praise the guide, the scenic boat journey, and the enjoyable mix of activities. Some mention the long day but agree it’s worth the effort.

If you’re after a day packed with history, nature, and relaxation, this Dalyan tour from Fethiye might be exactly what you’re looking for—just pack your sense of adventure and some sunscreen!