Koprulu Canyon
Koprulu Canyon in Belek, Turkey
Koprulu Canyon is located northeast of Belek, in the mountainous part of Antalya Province, within Koprulu Canyon National Park. It was formed by the Koprucay River, which over a long period eroded the limestone rocks and created a deep gorge with steep slopes, cliffs, and areas of dense forest. A trip here is noticeably different from a holiday on the coast: instead of resort development, the landscape is dominated by a river valley, coniferous forests, and rocky terrain.
The national park is known for its combination of natural landscapes and outdoor activities. Along the river there are areas of pine, cedar, and cypress, and the terrain itself changes as you move through the gorge - from greener banks to drier and higher sections of the canyon. Thanks to this, the area is interesting not only for a short excursion from Belek, but also for a longer trip through the inland parts of Antalya.
The Koprucay River is especially known for its rapids and fast current, so the canyon is often chosen for rafting. In addition to rafting, people come here for walks, stops by the water, and viewpoints from which the rock walls and riverbed are clearly visible. It is one of the most well-known natural places in the surroundings of Belek for those who want to see a different landscape beyond the beach area.
Interest in Koprulu is also connected with the historical sites nearby. The Roman Oluk Bridge is located close by, and in a more remote part of the area are the ruins of the ancient city of Selge. For this reason, a visit to the canyon is often combined with sightseeing at archaeological sites and a trip through the mountainous part of the region.
Koprulu Canyon on the map
Koprulu Canyon and the surrounding park area
A river gorge, coniferous forests, and historical monuments come together here.
A deep river gorge with rafting, forests, and a Roman bridge
The liveliest part of the canyon is connected with the Koprucay River, where rafting routes of different lengths take place. Even without joining a rafting trip, you can approach the water, watch the current and rapids, and walk along sections of the riverbank where the light limestone cliffs are clearly visible. In some places the river widens and the scenery becomes more open, while higher up in the gorge the slopes appear drier and steeper.
For a walk through the park, it is worth bearing in mind that the terrain here is uneven: there are rocky paths, changes in elevation, and sections without shade, especially during the hot season. The forest areas around the canyon consist mainly of coniferous trees, and near the river the air is usually cooler than on the coast. It is best to come in comfortable shoes and with a supply of water, especially if you plan not only to stop at a viewpoint but also to walk around the surrounding area.
One of the most notable historical sights nearby is Oluk Bridge, an ancient stone bridge over the river that is often photographed together with the view of the gorge. Longer routes usually also include the ruins of the ancient city of Selge, located in the mountains farther from the river valley.
From Belek, people usually get here by car or as part of an organised excursion toward Koprulu Canyon National Park. The road from the coast leads inland through the province and gradually climbs into more mountainous terrain.
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Photos of the canyon
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