Mount Yanartas
Mount Yanartas in Olympos and Cirali, Turkey
Mount Yanartas is located above the village of Cirali, near ancient Olympos, in the Kemer area. It is a well-known natural site on the mountainside, where natural gas emerges from cracks in the rocks and small flames burn continuously on the surface. The place is located within the Beydaglari National Park and is often visited together with Cirali and the ruins of Olympos.
The main feature of Yanartas is the natural tongues of flame, which can be seen at different times of day. The phenomenon is caused by gas escaping from the mountain rocks, so the flames are sustained without an artificial source. It is precisely this feature that made the mountain a notable attraction of the region and gave rise to various legends, including the legend of the Chimera, known from ancient tradition.
The ascent to the flames follows a rocky trail with sections of steps. The route is not considered difficult, but it requires comfortable shoes and caution, especially in the evening, when people often climb here to see the flames in the dark. There is no extensive infrastructure at the top, so people usually come here for the natural phenomenon itself, a short walk, and views of the surrounding mountain slopes.
Yanartas is of interest to those who want to see a rare natural phenomenon without a long hike and combine a walk with a visit to the coast of Cirali or the archaeological zone of Olympos. This place is suitable for an independent trip of a few hours and complements a visit to the natural and historical landmarks of Turkey’s southern coast.
Mount Yanartas on the map
Mount Yanartas and the climb to the natural flames
The route follows a rocky trail to the flames on the mountainside.
Natural flames among the rocks on the slope above Cirali
The route to Yanartas begins at the entrance by the road and goes uphill along an equipped trail. The ascent takes time depending on your pace; it is usually a short walk, but in hot weather it feels noticeably more strenuous. Along the way there are stones, roots, and steps, so it is better to choose closed shoes and bring water for the climb.
At the top, visitors see several flames emerging directly from crevices between the rocks. The flames are located on an open slope and are best seen after sunset, although the site is also accessible during the day. You should not get too close to the cracks, place your feet on them, or leave flammable items nearby.
A trip to Yanartas is often combined with a walk around Cirali, a visit to the ruins of ancient Olympos, and relaxation on the local beach. If an evening climb is planned, it is useful to bring a flashlight, as descending the rocky trail in the dark requires greater attention. In season, tickets are usually sold at the entrance, and most people get here by car, taxi, or dolmus to Cirali, followed by a short ride to the beginning of the trail.
This place is suitable for those interested in natural processes, ancient stories, and walks without a difficult mountain route. A visit usually does not take much time, so Yanartas is easy to include in a half-day itinerary or an evening trip from the Kemer area.
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