Horse Safari in Fethiye

A horse safari in Fethiye is an active day out and a fine way to explore the area around the resort and get closer to these beautiful, intelligent animals. Experienced riders and complete beginners, adults and children of any age can all take part. The tour lasts 4 hours.

The briefing

On arrival at the ranch everyone is given a briefing. It covers the basic safety rules, the finer points of riding and how to handle horses. The instructor runs a masterclass and stays with the group throughout the ride.

All the horses are well trained and specially prepared, with calm and even temperaments. Each rider is matched individually with the animal that suits them best. There is a little time before setting off so that you can get to know your horse.

Route 1: the ghost town of Kayaköy

The way to this remarkable place runs through a pine grove — the cleanest mountain air, scented with pine, and superb views.

Kayaköy is called a ghost town because its people left almost a century ago, in 1923. Before that it was a Greek settlement founded in the eighteenth century. It was called Livissi and was built on the site of the ancient city of Karmylassos. The village emptied after the war, when part of the population died and the rest were deported. The Turks did not want to live there.

Kayaköy was damaged by an earthquake, but many of its buildings have survived well:

• houses — more than three thousand;
• several churches;
• a hospital;
• a school.

The village is built on a hillside, with stone paths. People live nearby, but in handsome, well-kept houses — a striking contrast with the abandoned buildings. Little by little these are being restored.

Route 2: the Ölüdeniz nature reserve

This is the romantic route, with breathtaking views. The resort village lies 15 km from Fethiye. Here is one of Turkey’s national reserves, known as the Blue Lagoon — a remarkable place ringed by mountains on three sides. The highest is Babadağ, the father mountain. Sightseeing trips run at 1.67 km, and paragliders launch from there; you will often see them in the air.

The scenery is at its finest from mid-spring to the end of the year. The flora and fauna are varied, and the pine and cedar forests sit beautifully alongside the sea views and the rocky mountain country.

What to bring

For the ride you should have with you:

• money for personal expenses;
• sun protection — sunglasses, a hat, an SPF cream;
• a camera.

Dress comfortably. Long shorts or trousers are best. Do make sure your footwear is suitable. Helmets are available to hire.

You can book a horse ride in Fethiye through our site. The tour price includes transfers from the hotel and back, insurance and the briefing. Riding is open to any age; children under 6 ride accompanied by an adult, seated in front of them.