Aziz Paulus Yolu (St. Paul Trail)
Stretching approximately 500km, Aziz Paulus Yolu begins near Perge, close to Antalya, and extends to Yalvaç near Lake Eğirdir (Eğirdir Gölü). The 27-day trail is named after St. Paul as it approximately follows the route he took on his first missionary journey to Anatolia.
This hike is ideal for those keen to explore Türkiye’s rich history and culture – the route takes hikers through well-preserved Roman roads, where the remains of ancient aqueducts can be seen, and passes through traditional Turkish villages.
Along the way, you’ll also encounter beautiful canyon views as you cross the stunning Köprülü Kanyon Milli Parkı. The best time to embark on this hike is during the spring and autumn when the temperatures are mild.
It’s recommended for experienced long-distance hikers. Remember to dress conservatively when passing through rural villages.
Likya Yolu (Lycian Way)
One of Türkiye’s most famous hiking routes, Likya Yolu is a 540km coastal trail stretching from Fethiye to Antalya.
Hikers pass through the dramatic cliffs of Babadağ, see the dreamy Blue Lagoon (Ölüdeniz), and explore hidden ruins such as Letoon and Xanthos, which date back to the Lycian civilisation.
The trail also leads to Butterfly Valley (Kelebekler Vadisi), home to over 80 species of butterflies, and Patara Beach, known for its golden sand dunes and nesting sea turtles.
Ideal for intermediate and advanced hikers, this route is best enjoyed in spring and autumn to avoid the intense summer heat.
Kaçkar Dağları (Kaçkar Mountains)
Ready for an adventure through lush alpine scenery? The Kaçkar Dağları National Park is one for the mountain lovers with its green plateaus, glacial lakes, and mist-covered peaks.
Trails wind through traditional yaylas (highland villages) such as Ayder Yaylası, where wooden houses dot the hillsides, and locals sell freshly made cheese and honey to passers-by.
Hikers will also find deep valleys, wild rhododendron forests, and the pristine Deniz Gölü, a mountain lake at an altitude of 3,200m. This trail is suited for experienced hikers and mountaineers, with the best hiking months between July and September for consistent weather.
Ağrı Dağı (Mount Ararat) Summit Climb
Ağrı Dağı is Türkiye’s highest peak at 5,137m and is one of the most challenging routes in the country.
Hikers ascend through rocky ridges, pass snow-covered plateaus, and eventually reach the summit, where they are rewarded with sweeping views of Armenia, Iran, and the vast Anatolian plains.
The mountain is associated with the biblical story of Noah’s Ark, as it’s said to be the ark’s final resting place after the Great Flood. Due to the extreme altitude and unpredictable weather, this climb is recommended only for those with high-altitude trekking experience.
A permit is required, and you must be accompanied by a local guide for safety. Weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains, so bring appropriate clothing – your guide will be able to recommend the right gear to bring. Visit between July and September.
Efeler Yolu (Efeler Way)
The recently launched Efeler Way is one of the most rewarding trails in Türkiye, a remarkable 500km route that offers an immersive journey through İzmir’s rich cultural and natural landscapes.
Starting in the Bornova district and ending at the House of the Virgin Mary near Ephesus, the route takes in the Bozdağ and Aydın mountain ranges and connects 28 villages along ancient paths.
Each of these villages offers the chance to rest and recuperate after a long day walking, but also an opportunity to delve into the local culture. Trekkers can pick up handcrafted glass evil eye beads in Nazarköy (one of the route’s early stops), which are believed to ward off negative energy. Meanwhile, Birgi, listed among the United Nations World Tourism Organization’s ‘Best Tourism Villages’ in 2022, is filled with fascinating monuments, including ancient tombs, the Great Mosque and Çakırağa Mansion.
Completing the entire Efeler Way typically takes about a month, with each day's stage ending in a new village. Dedicated hikers can get a Efeler Way Passport, get it stamped in each village they visit and receive a gold seal when they’ve completed the whole route.
Karia Yolu (Carian Trail)
Southwestern Türkiye’s Carian Trail is the ultimate opportunity for hikers to get off the beaten track. One of the country’s longest and most spectacular hiking routes, it takes in sea views along the breathtaking Aegean coastline, rugged mountains, and several significant archaeological sites.
Divided into several sections including the Bozburun Peninsula, Gulf of Gökova, and Carian Hinterland, the trail offers a mix of coastal walks, pine forests, and challenging mountainous terrain. The route is named after the ancient inhabitants of southwest Anatolia, and along the way, hikers can explore the ruins of ancient Carian cities Hyda, Amos, and Knidos.
Although some sections of the trail are suitable for day hikes, completing the entire route is a challenge that can take 30 to 46 days, depending on pace and route. Spring and autumn are the best times to hike, offering mild temperatures and blooming landscapes.
Aladağlar Milli Parkı (Aladağlar National Park)
Located in Central Anatolia, Aladağlar is a world-class beauty spot, featuring towering cliffs, deep gorges, and breathtaking valleys.
The Cimbar Kanyonu offers a heart-pounding start to many trails, with its sheer limestone walls rising hundreds of metres high.
The park is also home to Kapuzbaşı Waterfalls, which cascade down from the cliffs in a spectacular show. Hikers aiming for the Demirkazık Summit will be rewarded with an epic sunrise above the rugged terrain.
Perfect for rock climbers, trekkers, and nature-loving photographers, the best time to visit is between June and October.