Alternatif Outdoor
Kenan Evren Bulvari, Camlik sok. 10/1
48700 Marmaris-Mugla-TURKEY
Tel: 90-252-417-2720
Fax: 90-252-417-3952
Email: info@alternatifraft.com

We invite you to join us on our expedition through a very special region of southwest Turkey – Köycegiz Lake, the Dalyan delta and the coastline between Dalyan and Göcek Bay, with its many charming islands and bays. This is a chance to discover steep rugged cliffs, deserted sandy bays, deep clear pools, fascinating islands, and natural hot springs, not to mention many types of wildlife. The region is dotted with ancient ruins, the most impressive being the ‘Tombs of the Kings’, rock tombs cut into the cliff at Caunos.

Dalyan Coastline

In our sea kayaks we move at our own speed without disturbing the environment – the perfect way to explore a natural paradise. You have the opportunity to explore Iztuzu Beach (Turtle Beach), and the maze of channels through the reed beds under your own steam at your own pace. We explore other quieter beaches away from the tourist crowds and swim and snorkel around deserted cliffs and coves that would otherwise be inaccessible. If we are lucky, we may be able to observe turtles, as well as other wildlife.

Camping on remote beaches in sheltered bays, snorkelling to admire the sea life, exploring ancient ruins, this is a chance for people who enjoy water-sports and paddling to experience a wilder, more natural Turkey.

This trip is designed for people with some previous kayaking experience. Safety drills and paddling techniques are practised at the start of the trip. We use one-person kayaks, and we carry all gear in our kayaks; we camp on beaches without organised facilities and prepare our own meals most nights. All in all, this is a true expedition experience!

Itinerary
Day 1
The group meets in the evening at the campsite in the town of Köycegiz, on the shore of Lake Köycegiz. If necessary, we meet you at Dalaman Airport, approximately 45 minutes drive away.

Day 2
After a briefing about how to paddle your kayak, we set off along the shores of the lake, which is a protected nature reserve. In the afternoon we have a break on a small island with a ruined church, with time to swim and snorkel. We finish the day at a small bay where there are hot sulphur springs and thermal baths, and we camp in the forest nearby.

Lycian Rock Tombs

Day 3
When we enter the channels of the Dalyan delta we first visit the special mud baths! We then kayak past the town of Dalyan and through the labyrinth of reeds, passing beneath impressive Lycian rock tombs built into a sheer cliff face. We picnic in the ruins of the ancient city of Caunos, and then carry on to Iztuzu beach, where fresh water meets the sea. This famous 6 km long stretch of sand is also known as 'Turtle Beach', and is the nesting ground of endangered Caretta Caretta sea turtles.

Day 4
Today is our first day on the open Mediterranean Sea. We turn east to follow the coastline, along the length of Iztuzu beach, playing with the waves and visiting a beautiful cave. We have lunch on a small beach with great snorkelling. After lunch we paddle past high cliffs to our campsite at the small bay of Asý Koy. We eat dinner here in a small restaurant, where they bake delicious bread.

Day 5
This morning we paddle around Disibilmez Cape and on to the sandy beach at Sarigerme. We pass Baba Island, and then continue along the long beach between Sarigerme and Dalaman. Tonight we camp in a small bay and have our food cooked on a real fire.

Day 6
Today we tackle Cape Kurtoglu, with its rugged and spectacular coastline. After rounding the last part of the headland we pass between the mainland and several islands into the sheltered waters of Göcek Bay. After lunch we can walk up the hill on one of the islands for a great view over the bay, and there are some Lycian ruins to be seen. In the afternoon we paddle around the islands in the bay, exploring caves and ancient baths. Tonight we camp on an island.

Day 7
After a wake-up call from mountain goats, and breakfast we paddle around the small islands before the village of Göcek. In the afternoon we arrive at the port and marina of Göcek, the final point of our expedition. Here we have the chance for a shower, then relax in the bar and restaurant for our final evening meal together. Return transfer to Dalaman Airport, if required.

Notes:
1. On some dates the trip may run in the other direction, ie Göcek to Köycegiz.
2. The guide has the right to change the itinerary as necessary, in view of the abilities of group members, or changing weather conditions.

April 12th
May 10th
May 28th
June 14th
September 13th
September 27th
October 11th
October 25th

US$490, starting and finishing at Dalaman airport.

For people with some paddling experience. Up to 6 hours paddling per day.

6 nights camp accommodation, with all equipment except sleeping bags and mats.
All meals.
All kayaking equipment – kayaks, buoyancy aids, paddles etc.
Services of experienced English speaking guide.
Return airport transfers.

2 T-shirts (one to stay wet and salty)
2 pairs of shorts (one to stay wet and salty)
Swimming costume
One warm jumper
1 long-sleeved shirt/top
2 pairs of socks
Shoes / sandals to wear in the water
2 Towels, Wash kit etc
2-season sleeping bag and mat
Something to read, mosquito repellent
Suncream, sunglasses and sunhat
Money for small items eg soft drinks, snacks, toiletries, gifts etc.

Weather Conditions
Summers in southwest Turkey are hot and dry, especially in July and August. The months of May, June, September and October are a little cooler – still shorts and T-shirt weather at most times, with the possibility of occasional showers. The weather is generally very settled and predictable. Throughout the summer the wind normally picks up along the coast in the afternoon and causes small waves and some surf. Because of the high risk of sunburn (especially off the surface of the water) it is important to take all necessary precautions.

Meals
Our guide usually prepares meals in camp, but your help is welcomed. At some campsites we are able to eat a good basic meal at a nearby restaurant. There is plenty of choice for vegetarians too, but please let us know in advance if you have special dietary requirements.

Accommodation
For most of the trip we camp wild on beaches, which means of course that there are no organised facilities. We use 2-person tents with integral nets, which are easy to erect and take down – you and your partner will be responsible for your own tent at each campsite. The guide will also appreciate your assistance in other camp duties. We find that people joining our trips alone soon make friends - please be prepared to share a tent.

Group Size: 4 - 12 people

Health
No vaccination certificates are legally required for entry into Turkey. Check with your doctor for up-to-date information on recommended protection. Generally protection against Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Polio and Typhoid is advised. Malaria does not occur in Turkey except in low-lying parts in the southeast, so should not be of concern.

Insurance
We strongly recommend that you take out personal travel insurance, to cover medical expenses and other travel risks such as loss of baggage, cancellation etc.

© copyright 1996-2003 Adventures Great and Small