Dalyan Turkey, the beautiful delta city
Things to do in Dalyan. The captain will arrange
to get you a water taxi which will cost about $200. Most likely it will be our
friend Mutlu. This is a long day so be prepared. Wear a bathing suite under your
clothes. Bring a beach towel, water, sweatshirt, hiking shoes or Tevas, money,
camera, hat, sunscreen, etc. You can take a few beers, wine, etc. All drinks can
go in Mutlu's cooler. You can take everything with you and leave them on the
boat. Mutlu will always be on the boat to watch over them (but don't bring
wallets, just some cash).
The Dalyan Delta and Delikli Island lies right off the coast, southeast of
Ekincik. The Delta, with a long, golden sandy beach at its mouth, is a
nature-conservation area and a refuge for Loggerhead Sea Turtles (Caretta
Caretta) and blue crabs.
You will first stop at the the fascinating ancient harbor city of
Caunos or Kuanos where you can explore the
ancient Lycian and Byzantine ruins. Then you will cruise the river where high on
the cliff face above, you will see the magnificent Lycian tombs carved into the
rock. Look for the turtles as you cruise through the unique bamboo marshes of
the river. Stop at Dalyan for a lunch of Blue Fin Crab or the local fish
delicacy "Kefal" at one of the many fish restaurants along the river - or grab a
Doner Kebab (Gyro) from one of the street vendors. There is an ATM here and the
PTT office where you can exchange money. The men will have time for a shave and
the women can have their hair washed and a heavenly massage for about $5 at the
AYDEMIR BARBER SHOP (a.k.a. The Chippendales Barber Shop) in the center of town.
But don't dilly dally - try to be back in the water taxi within 1-2 hours
because you still have to visit the famous Thermal Mud Baths.
You're off to the therapeutic Mud Baths that have muddied the likes of Dustin
Hoffman, Sting and many other celebrities. Slop yourself with the mud, let it
dry in the sun then rub or wash it off. Rubbing it off produces a much better
result. Rinse off and relax in the thermal mineral pool. Rinse off again and
you're all done.
If you have time, you can stop at Dalyan Beach for a sunset cocktail, a walk
along the beach and swim before you return. Make sure you don't forget to pack
the cocktails! It will be getting dark when you return. Your water taxi ride
will be a bit bumpy and it may get chilly. For fun you can go to the front of
the water taxi, hold onto the rope and surf the waves. It's fun. This excursion
takes all-day - it is a great time and a MUST!!
Market Day: Wednesday.