Kas-Kalkan Jeep Safari Review: Saklikent, Patara & Kaputas
So, you’re thinking about a Jeep Safari around Kas and Kalkan to see Saklikent Gorge, Patara Beach, and Kaputas Beach? It’s a pretty popular tour option when you are visiting this beautiful stretch of Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, and frankly, for pretty good reason. A day jam-packed with adventure and some of the most beautiful sights around. But, you may be wondering, is it genuinely worth your time and hard-earned cash? As a matter of fact, let’s find out.
What to anticipate on your Jeep Safari
A Jeep Safari is usually an all-day affair, more or less beginning early in the morning, that is, to beat the Mediterranean heat and those crowds that can build later. You will probably find yourself bundled into an open-top jeep, or possibly a convoy of them, ready to rumble across the landscape. Actually, the exact itinerary may shift slightly depending on the operator, yet nearly all of them include the “big three”: Saklikent Gorge, Patara Beach, and Kaputas Beach.
Saklikent Gorge: Walking through water!
First up, arguably, Saklikent Gorge! And let me tell you, it is unlike anything else. To get there, more or less, involves driving inland a bit, the scenery turning from coastal views to something that feels almost alpine. Once you reach Saklikent, that is where the actual adventure gets underway. To experience the gorge properly, actually, you’ve got to wade through rather chilly water (that is, even in the height of summer, so be prepared!). As a matter of fact, the water can sometimes be waist-high, yet generally it is shallower than that. Walking through the gorge is amazing with these steep walls towering above you. Keep in mind that the rocks beneath the water can be a bit slippery and that current is deceptively strong, yet it is something else. You will have opportunities for mud bathing at Saklikent Gorge as well, typically for an extra fee.
Patara Beach: Sun, Sand and History
Next up, depending on the order your tour is following, so be Patara Beach. This beach is famously Turkey’s longest beach. In contrast with your experience in Saklikent, you should have quite some time to relax and maybe get a tan! Patara is likewise home to ancient ruins (Patara was an important Lycian city), that are basically interesting to look around too if you love history. Did I mention, Kaplumbağalar (sea turtles, and specifically Loggerheads) are drawn to this beach, to dig their nests, in the summertime!
Kaputas Beach: The Turquoise Dream
Last, but certainly not least, it may be Kaputas Beach, that is the most photographed beach in Turkey for pretty good reason. Pictures pretty much do tell a thousand words – those unbelievable turquoise waters with a backdrop of cliffs that dramatically drop. Kaputas can get rather crowded, especially later in the day, but, if you arrive earlier, as a matter of fact, it’s easier to find a decent spot and that water is absolutely pristine.
Things to bear in mind prior to you reserving
A Jeep Safari can be an experience that you remember forever if you pack the right gear and information for it. What do I mean? Let’s talk.
What to bring along with you on a jeep safari?
Packing for a Jeep Safari needs a little thought, so, after all, you are doing lots of different things in just one single day:
- Swimwear: Since you will have some time in both the Gorge and on some brilliant beaches, basically bring swimwear for you.
- Towel: For drying off when exiting water, just makes common sense.
- Water Shoes: Those rocks at Saklikent Gorge may be rather slippery, very similar to how beaches can have some hot sand. That said, I suggest bringing water shoes with some good grip.
- Sunscreen: The sun in Turkey may be no joke, yet is more of a very serious contender in the hottest places on Earth! Shield the skin.
- Hat and Sunglasses: Further sun protection, basically critical for a day spent in an open-top jeep.
- Cash: Although lots of tours have their main things prepaid, but it is worth bringing extra money on your to basically pay money at destinations or basically purchase souvenirs and drinks!
- Camera or waterproof phone case: Trust me when I say, just do not forget the Camera! Photos should always come with you on vacation for memory!
What to expect out of the tour itself
These sorts of tours sometimes aren’t made equal, you can come across things you should watch when you decide.
- Tour Operators: I’m mentioning, please, be certain that it’s from an authorized company that you trust and also check previous ratings so it makes it possible for other vacationers so it does provide assurance that it’ll proceed accordingly!
- Inclusions: Basically always review everything. Can it contain foods, fares or some sneaky add ons? Being sure from what that indicates may eliminate unpleasant unexpected situations.
- Timings: Time for certain parts could just get minimal if your groups could possibly get extensive, I have read reports that say some people consider the limited stay too annoying however the majority considers time for certain place enough to be getting more exposure in other sites during the entire journey which balances out.
- Language: Ensure there exists an instructor who communicates with one that speaks to your benefit! You do want everything translated accurately!
Physical Requirements, limitations of it.
Keep that you are involved in a very “active day trip”, but what exactly might it actually entail? Actually it entails hiking on unstable footing and most probable lots walking/climbing for a person who experiences mobile impairment, then perhaps sadly may not match those with back/joint problems therefore contemplate on such needs just before anything else. Basically, know your physical boundaries.
