Türkiye for Eco-Travellers: Epic Earth-Friendly Adventures

As rich in biodiversity and breathtaking backdrops as it is in ancient sites, Türkiye is a treasure trove for green adventurers. From extreme sports to slow cities, Blue Flag beaches and eco-conscious voyages, to wildlife-watching and a wealth of hiking and cycling options, the country is filled with bucket-list experiences that won’t cost the earth —whatever your sustainable travel style. Trek within UNESCO World Heritage sites, get the adrenaline pumping amongst rugged peaks and deep canyons, or enjoy the delights of pristine stretches of coastline — above and beneath the waves. The choice is yours.

From wetlands brimming with birdlife, to sweeping national parks, encompassing forests, mountains, and beaches, Türkiye is bursting with outdoor activity options. Make the most of easy-to-follow day hikes against the beautiful scenery of Cappadocia. Explore rare ecosystems by canoe in İğneada. Watch wild horses run free near the village of Kayseri. And take the action up a notch with kitesurfing around the bays of Bodrum, rafting down the spectacular Dalaman River, and diving amongst shipwrecks near the Mediterranean town of Kaş. Looking for a multi-day adventure? Challenge yourself on one of the country’s legendary long-distance treks, such as the Lycian Way, tracing an ancient 500km route down the Turkish Mediterranean Coast. Prefer to travel on two wheels? Discover the country’s extensive trail network before pausing for the night at a certified Bicycle-Friendly hotel. Whatever your adventure style, Türkiye will leave you wanting more.

Eco-friendly beach holiday on your wish-list? From the rocky shores of the Black Sea to the postcard-perfect hues of the Turkish Riviera and TurkAegean, Türkiye boasts more than its fair share of pristine coastlines — with more than 500 Blue Flag beaches scattered across its diverse regions. Relax on the golden sands of 18km-long Patara Beach, the longest in Türkiye. Camp off-grid at the secluded Butterfly Valley nature reserve, accessible only by boat. Take a boat trip at Dalyan, walk through the Carian tombs to reach the İztuzu beach and swim the day away in the clean waters of this estuary. And take your pick of unspoiled beaches and idyllic coves at Datça Peninsula, where the Aegean Sea meets the Mediterranean. Prefer to head out on the water? Get active at the sheltered lagoon of Ölüdeniz and the buzzing seaside resort of İçmeler. Or set sail by traditional Turkish gulet for a memorable low-impact adventure along Türkiye’s turquoise coasts. Various Blue Voyage routes — including the Turkish Riviera — combine stunning scenery with nature-friendly activities and an unparalleled glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Enjoy slow living, eco-gastronomy, and authentic cultural traditions as you discover Türkiye’s designated Cittaslow (slow cities) at a leisurely pace. From the TurkAegean coast to historic districts in Southeast and Eastern Anatolia, and small settlements nestled in the high-altitude highlands of the Black Sea, this 20-strong network offers eco-conscious travellers a unique way to sleep, eat and explore, sustainably. Base yourself in Seferihisar — Türkiye’s first cittaslow — where streetlights are solar-powered and more than nine Blue Flag-beaches dot its 49 km-long coastlines. Soak in the serenity of Taraklı and its striking Ottoman-era architecture, surrounded by wide expanses of green. Experience the world’s first cittaslow island at Gökçeada, an organic farming paradise, reached by ferry from Çanakkale. And combine thousand year-old ruins with nature-friendly outdoor sports in Akyaka, the cittaslow and the center of the kitesurfing where ancient stone tombs rub shoulders with lush mountains and azure seas. For a responsible multi-stop adventure, Türkiye’s cittaslow network is the perfect jumping off point.