Dalyan,Turkey

• Iztuzu Beach (Turtle Beach) — famous sandy nesting beach for loggerhead turtles
• Kaunos Ancient City and Rock Tombs — Lycian-Roman ruins carved into cliffs overlooking the river
• Dalyan River & Delta — scenic boat trips through reedbeds and wetlands
• Dalyan Mud Baths & Sultaniye Hot Springs — thermal mud and mineral pools popular with visitors
• Köyceğiz Lake and surrounding countryside — calm waters and nature walks
• Dalyan town center & harbor — restaurants, markets and a relaxed riverside atmosphere
• Sea turtle conservation center and educational displays

• Lycian rock-cut tombs carved into cliff faces
• Protected sandy nesting habitat for endangered Caretta caretta
• Thermal springs and mud baths with reputed therapeutic benefits
• A quiet river canyon with reedbeds and diverse birdlife (kingfishers, herons, egrets)
• Small-scale, community-led conservation and eco-tourism

• Scenic boat trips along the Dalyan River to Iztuzu Beach and Kaunos
• Visiting the rock tombs and exploring the Kaunos ruins
• Mud bath and hot spring experiences at Sultaniye
• Guided turtle-watching and conservation tours (seasonal)
• Birdwatching and photography in the delta and reedbeds
• Swimming, sunbathing and watersports at Iztuzu and nearby lakes
• Local markets, dining at riverside restaurants and short bike rides

• Local summer festivals and cultural events in the Muğla province
• Turtle conservation awareness events and volunteer opportunities (seasonal)
• Weekly local markets and small village celebrations

April–June and September–October for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. May–August is turtle-nesting season (best for guided turtle-watching but busier and hotter).

Typical Mediterranean climate: hot, dry summers (July–August often 30–35°C/86–95°F), mild wet winters (December–February). Shoulder seasons are warm and comfortable.

Nearest airport: Dalaman Airport (DLM) — approximately 40–60 minutes by car/transfer (depending on route). Regular shuttle services, taxis and car rentals available. Regional minibuses (dolmuş) connect Dalyan with Ortaca, Marmaris and Fethiye. The town is small and walkable; boat access is common for visiting beaches and the Kaunos area.

2–4 days to enjoy the main sites at a relaxed pace (longer if you plan birdwatching, volunteering or multi-day hiking).

Light, breathable clothing, sun hat, sunscreen, swimwear, sturdy shoes for uneven archaeological sites, insect repellent, binoculars for birdwatching, a light rain jacket in shoulder/winter seasons.

Fresh seafood and mezes at riverside restaurants, local olive oil and preserves, handcrafted textiles and pottery. Respectful souvenir advice: avoid illegal or animal-based items (do not buy anything made from turtle products). Try local specialties such as gözleme and fresh fish dishes.