How to Visit the Sunken City of Kekova in the 2026 Off-Season

Visiting the Sunken City of Kekova during winter feels like entering a hidden chapter of history. The sea is calm. The villages are quiet. The ruins feel untouched. For travelers interested in Lycian ruins Turkey, the off-season offers clarity, silence, and space to explore at your own pace. This guide explains how to visit Kekova in 2026 and how to combine it with the legendary Lycian landscape experience.

What Is the Sunken City of Kekova?

The Sunken City of Kekova is an ancient Lycian settlement partly submerged after strong earthquakes in the 2nd century. Stone walls, staircases, and building foundations now rest beneath clear turquoise water. From a boat, you can see these remains just below the surface. The ruins are located near Kekova, close to Simena. The entire area is protected. Swimming is forbidden. Viewing the ruins is only allowed by boat.

Why Visit Kekova in The Off-Season?

Winter travel changes the experience completely.

• No crowds
• Fewer boats
• Clearer water
• Flexible private tours

From November to March, Kekova becomes peaceful. On sunny winter days, visibility under water can be even better than in summer. This makes Kekova winter travel ideal for photography and relaxed sightseeing.

Is Kekova Open in Winter 2026?

Kekova is accessible year-round. What changes in winter:

• Large group tours stop operating daily
• Private wooden boats still run
• Tours depend on daily weather
• Planning ahead is essential.

How to Reach Kekova in Winter?

Most travelers reach Kekova from Kas or Demre.

From Kas:

• About 1 hour drive to Ucagiz village
• Best base for winter travel

From Demre:

• Shorter drive
• Limited winter services

Ucagiz village is the main harbor for Kekova boat tour departures.

What Does a Winter Kekova Boat Tour Include?

Swimming stops are usually skipped. The focus is history and landscape. A typical winter tour includes:

• Sunken City viewing zone
• Simena village harbor
• Lycian rock tombs along the coast
• Scenic bays for photos

Are the Lycian Ruins Visible in Winter?

Yes. Cold water reduces algae. Stone blocks and stairs appear sharper. Morning light offers the best contrast. Calm weather is the main factor.

Travelers who want more than a short visit often choose a multi day sea journey. 7-Day Gulet Cruise: Fethiye – Kekova – Fethiye offers one of the most comfortable ways to explore the Lycian coast. This route connects Fethiye, hidden bays, ancient harbors, and the Sunken City of Kekova. The cruise allows slow travel. Each day brings a new coastal view. Guests see Lycian ruins from the sea, stop at quiet villages, and enjoy long sailing hours without rushing.

Lycian Ruins Turkey and the Lycian Way

Travelers searching for Lycian ruins Turkey often ask about the Lycian Way. This famous trail runs through the heart of ancient Lycia and connects ruins, coastal cliffs, and mountain villages. The trail stretches over 500 kilometers along the Mediterranean coast. It links Patara, Kas, Kekova, Demre, and many lesser-known sites. Many Lycian tombs and ruins are reachable only on foot. Walking the Lycian Way gives context to Kekova. It shows how the Lycian civilization lived between mountains and sea.

When Is The Best Time To Walk The Lycian Way?

Best Seasons

• March to May
• Late September to early November

Spring offers green views and mild temperatures. Autumn brings warm air and fewer hikers.

Seasons to Avoid

• June to September due to heat
• December to February due to rain and slippery paths

Summer heat can exceed 35°C. Winter rain makes stone paths unsafe in higher sections.

FAQ

Is Kekova Suitable for Children?
Yes. Winter tours are calm and short. No swimming is required. Stable weather is the only requirement.

Is Kekova a UNESCO Site?
The Sunken City of Kekova lies within a protected cultural landscape connected to UNESCO World Heritage values. Strict preservation rules protect the ruins and prevent damage.

How Long is a Winter Boat Tour?
Around 1.5 to 2.5 hours.

Are Group Tours Available?
Rare in winter. Private tours are best.

Is Kekova Worth Visiting without Swimming?
Yes. The ruins are the main highlight.

Do You Need a Guide?

For short hikes near Kekova, self-guided walks work well. For multi-day routes, guides help with:

• Weather-based route planning
• Historical context
• Luggage transfers
• Combining hiking with boat access

The Sunken City of Kekova feels more authentic in winter. Quiet water. Clear ruins. No pressure. When combined with the Lycian Way, this region offers one of the most meaningful ways to explore Lycian ruins Turkey. If you want help arranging a private Kekova boat tour, Lycian Way sections, or a multi-day coastal plan, contact us to design a smooth and relaxed experience for your 2026 trip.