The Best Known Waterfalls in Turkey

Straddling the continents of Europe and Asia, Turkey’s captivating landscape is surrounded on three sides by the Black, Mediterranean, and Aegean Seas. This mountainous land, known as Türkiye, is divided into seven regions, each boasting its own unique geography. Yet, one common element ties them all together – the breathtaking waterfalls in Turkey.

These natural wonders, varying from tall, cascading marvels to gentle, serene flows, echo the country’s diverse terrain and climate. Each waterfall tells a story of geological transformations, seasoned by centuries of wind, water, and weather. Together, they add a remarkable dimension to Turkey’s vast topography, demonstrating that the country’s charm extends far beyond its coastline, reaching deep into its verdant forests and rugged mountains. In the heart of these landscapes, the waterfalls of Turkey serve as a testament to the country’s unexplored wild beauty, awaiting discovery by those who seek to venture off the beaten path.

Join us as we explore Turkey’s best waterfalls, region by region.

Famed for its golden beaches and mesmerising blue sea, Western Turkey is home to some of Turkey’s best waterfalls. Güney Waterfall, on the slopes of Mount Cindere in Denizli, offers an enchanting sight as ice-cold mountain water sprays over moss-covered mounds, cascading down a 66-foot sheer drop. Other must-see waterfalls in this region include Toparlar and Turgut Waterfalls in Muğla.

The northern coastal area of the Black Sea, with its high plateaus, dense forests, and rainy climate, hosts some of the most impressive waterfalls in Turkey. Towering at 541 feet, Ciro Waterfall in Yusufeli district of Artvin is believed to be Turkey’s tallest waterfall. Other awe-inspiring falls in the area include the 430-foot Güzeldere Waterfall and Saklıkent Waterfall. Additionally, the 30 cascades of Erfelek or Tatlıca Waterfalls in Sinop Province and the four-stepped Bulut Waterfall in Rize are equally captivating.

From the Taurus Mountains to the Mediterranean Sea, this region is a tourist haven, especially around Antalya. Manavgat Waterfall, one of the most popular waterfalls in Antalya, may only stand 13 feet tall, but its wide crest and powerful stream make it among the most famous waterfalls of Turkey. The Düden Waterfalls, comprised of Dudenbaşı (upper) and Karpuzkaldıran (lower), offer unique experiences, with the latter descending directly into the Mediterranean. Sabun Çayı Waterfall in Osmaniye, featured in the James Bond film Skyfall, and Tarsus Waterfall in Mersin, created by Roman Emperor Justinian.

Home to Istanbul, the Marmara region showcases picturesque Turkish waterfalls like Suuçtu Falls along the River Menderes. Surrounded by oaks, pines, and beech trees, this 125-foot cascade provides fresh water to the region. Another gem is Sakarya’s Maden Waterfall, named after an old mine nearby.

Though landlocked and lacking beaches, Central Anatolia’s waterfalls more than compensate for it. Yerköprü Falls, with its lush wall of water plunging into turquoise pools, and the numerous sprays of Kapuzbaşı Waterfall in Aladağlar National Park are prime examples of the region’s natural beauty and Turkey’s best waterfalls.

Eastern Anatolia’s plateaus and mountains house some of the country’s most significant landmarks, including Mount Ararat and Lake Van. The region’s splendour extends to its waterfalls, like the Muradiye Waterfall, which is known to freeze in winter, and Tortum Waterfall in Erzurum, cascading down a mossy rock face from around 160 feet. Darende Günpınar Waterfall in Malatya, with its 150-foot drop, is another captivating sight.

This historically significant region is rich in natural wonders. In Gaziantep, Sakçagözü Waterfalls create a captivating scene reminiscent of a Tolkien novel, as their myriad streams carve a crooked course down 230 feet of mossy rocks. Meanwhile, the rugged landscape of Diyarbakır in the Çermik district boasts the rushing waters of the Şeyhandede Waterfall.

Turkey’s diverse landscape is dotted with awe-inspiring waterfalls, each offering a unique experience for visitors. From the towering heights of Ciro Waterfall in the Black Sea region to the enchanting sea dive of the Düden waterfalls in Antalya, the waterfalls in Türkiye are a testament to the country’s abundant natural beauty.