One Canyon, Two Completely Different Experiences
Göynük Canyon appeals to two entirely different visitors at the same time. On one side: slow walking trails, turquoise natural pools, and the sound of cool water moving through ancient rock. On the other: a zipline running 40 metres above the ground at 65 kilometres per hour, body rafting, and canyoning. Both experiences exist in the same valley, on the same day. Which one you choose is up to you — or you can do both.
Located within the boundaries of the Beydağları Coastal National Park, Göynük Canyon is 13 kilometres from Kemer and approximately 36 kilometres from Antalya city centre. Carved over millions of years by the Göynük Stream cutting through limestone rock, the canyon stretches 4.5 kilometres and is enclosed by towering walls that block out the sun for much of the day — which is precisely what makes it so refreshing in summer.
Inside the Canyon
At the entrance, an artificial lake greets visitors and marks the point where the canyon's two experiences diverge. From here, you can walk the 2-kilometre trail along the riverbank and through the forest to reach the natural pools at the upper section of the canyon — or board a safari vehicle that takes you directly to the top. The walking route is the better choice for those who want to experience the canyon itself rather than simply arrive at the pools.
Throughout the canyon, small waterfalls and pools follow one after another. The natural pools at the upper level are swimmable in summer; water temperatures reach around 12 degrees Celsius — cold enough to be genuinely refreshing. The trail is accompanied by colourful salamanders, various reptile species — 11 have been documented in the canyon — and constant birdsong.
Adventure Activities
Göynük has one of the best-developed adventure park infrastructures of any canyon in Turkey. Available activities include the zipline, body rafting, canyoning, rock climbing, and paintball. All activities are paid; if you purchase an activity package at the entrance, the standard entry fee is waived.
The Lycian Way
Göynük Canyon sits on the route of the Lycian Way, one of the world's great long-distance walking trails, running from Ölüdeniz to Antalya. The canyon is consequently a significant waypoint for international trekkers completing the full route, giving it a different kind of visitor from the typical day-tripper.
Important Notes
As a national park, picnicking and barbecues are prohibited inside the canyon. Winter flooding can occasionally cause temporary closures — it is worth checking before visiting in the off-season. The terrain is uneven and can be slippery; non-slip shoes are essential.
Practical Information
- Location: Beldibi Mahallesi, Çomaklar Mevkii, Kemer. 36 km from Antalya, 13 km from Kemer, 4.5 km from Göynük village.
- Getting there: Bus from Antalya to Kemer, then minibus to Göynük. The Göynük municipality runs hourly services to the canyon. By car, take the Göynük–Beldibi exit from the D400 highway near the bridge and follow signs to the canyon; parking is available at the entrance. Safari vehicles and motorcycle rentals are available in the village.
- Entrance fee: Paid entry. Activity packages include canyon entry.
- Opening hours: 09:00–18:30.
- Time needed: 2 to 3 hours for the walking trail only; a full day with activities.
- Best time to visit: Spring and autumn for higher water levels and cooler temperatures; midsummer for swimming and cooling off.
- Combine with: Phaselis Ancient City and Olympos lie along the same coastal route.
