Turkey can boast as many as 45 national parks. Moreover, with 5 national parks in Antalya Province, it also boasts the largest number of national parks within a single province. These national parks attract both the country’s residents and its tourists. Namely, by being surrounded by sea and comprising very high mountains, Turkey features biodiverse areas, valuable in terms of scenic landscape and natural value. While for some these can serve as a spot for hiking and relaxing, others can climb mountain peaks, explore gorges and go after the famous UNESCO sites.

Therefore, here is the list of all the national parks in Turkey by region as well as a map for easier navigation!

Table of Contents

Marmara

Uludag National Park

This national park is close to Bursa and Istanbul is Turkey’s favourite ski spot. Besides, the park also has lakes, waterfalls and forests in the Uludag or Great Mountain, whose 2543-meter-high Kartaltepe summit is the highest point of the Marmara region. The mountain and the resort can be accessed by car or by cable car from the Teferruc Station in Bursa. The cable car ride to the ski resort and hotels lasts 20 minutes. Besides, Kadiyayla and Sarialan Plain stops, as well as many other places in the park are suitable for camping or trekking. As for the resort, it offers both cross-country and alpine skiing, chair lifts and three ski lifts. In addition, there is a great view of Bursa from the Bakacak watchtower at Cobankaya.

Yedigoller National Park

Also known as Seven Lakes National Park, Yedigoller is located in the northern part of Bolu Province in Turkey. The lakes that were formed by landslides are Büyükgöl, Deringöl, Seringöl, Nazlıgöl, Sazlıgöl, Incegöl and Küçükgöl. Besides fishing, the park is a spot for trekking and camping. The biodiversity of the park includes the growing fauna of deer, brown bears, wolves, pigs and much more. On the other hand, beech trees, oaks and hornbeams make the park a great colourful view for photos, especially in autumn. A great view is offered from Kapankaya peak, near a deer protection area. The park can be accessed from Bolu or via Yenicaga road, as there is no public transport to the park.

Lake Gala National Park

This national park in Edirne Province in the Marmara Region of Turkey comprises Kucuk Gala and Pamuklu lakes. First declared a nature park in 1991, experts insisted on establishing a national park to protect the area from uncontrolled fishing and bird poaching. Therefore, the park comprises a wetland, a lake and a forest. Moreover, it abounds with around 45,000 birds including geese, ducks and even flamingos and 16 fish species like pike and European eel. So, the best way to visit this national park close to the border with Greece is to birdwatch, cycle, trek or have a picnic.

Ancient Troy National Park

The ancient city of Troy was declared a national park in 1996. It is situated in the Province of Canakkale at the entrance of the Dardanelles. Namely, Troy is present in Greek mythology and literature, more specifically, Homer’s epic poems Iliad and Odyssey. Not only that, the excavations revealed that it is one of the nine cities built on top of each other and that its construction dates back to the Late Bronze Age. Therefore, it’s no surprise that it was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage list in 1998. Besides the cities, tumuli, monuments and tombs, there is a museum situated at Tevfikiye. Accommodation is available in the cities of Canakkale and Ezine.

Marmaris National Park

Marmaris National Park is situated in Mugla Province in southwestern Turkey. Namely, it was established in 1996 to protect one of the most beautiful landscapes where the forest meets the sea. Since it is situated only 6 km from the summer hotspot Marmaris, the park is ideal for refreshing nature walks among the Turkish pine trees and sweetgums which are in fact endemic to this region. There is also a beach where you can swim and many options to cycle. Besides the natural values, the park comprises ancient cities Physkos (Marmaris) and Amos (Hisaronu).

Kuscenneti National Park

Kuşcenneti or Paradise of Birds National Park, established in 1959, attracts many visitors, despite being one of the smallest national parks in Turkey. Namely, it is a world-renowned birdwatching spot in the Marmara region where various streams formed marshes on lake Kus. This freshwater lake is a nesting and migrating spot for birds from Europe and Asia. There are 270 bird species identified in the park, including flamingos, ducks and pelicans. However, there are no facilities in the park – the nearest one is in Sigirciatik. The park can be reached via Balikesir – Bandirma highway.

Mount Kop Defense National Historic Park

This national park in eastern Turkey is located between Bayburt and Altıntaş villages in Erzurum Province. Namely, Kop Mountain is where the Ottoman Army defeated the Russian Army during World War I. The battlefield which is at more than 2400 meters elevation still has traces of gun carriages and trenches. Moreover, there is a monument to the fallen Ottoman soldiers at the summit of the mountain. Besides, with 134 species, the park is one of the richest habitats for butterflies in Turkey and comprises an endangered and endemic flower stachys. There is a simulation of the events, as well as an outdoor restaurant offered to the visitors.

Igneada Floodplain Forests National Park

This national park established in 2007 is situated at Igneada town in the northwestern Marmara Region. Namely, streams from Strandzha Mountain flowing to the Black Sea created rare and valuable floodplain forests and coastal dunes. There are several lakes in the park including Mert, Hamam, Erikli and Saka which was declared a nature reserve. While Mert Lake boasts the biggest fish biodiversity, Hamam and Pedina Lake are a stop for migrating birds. Rich fauna also includes roe deer, wild cats and foxes. In addition, entrance is free and you are welcome to camp and hike anywhere, whether by the lakes or the sea. It is only 27 kilometers from the centre of Kırklareli Province, Demirkoy.

Aegean Region

Dilek Peninsula-Buyuk Menderes Delta National Park

One of the most biodiverse national parks, situated in Aydin Province in the Aegean Region, was established in 1966. It comprises the mountainous Dilek peninsula and the Buyuk Menderes Delta. Namely, it has more than 800 species of plants, 250 species of birds and 45 species of fish, most of the birds and marine life being endangered. Therefore, the park doesn’t allow camping, while activities like hiking, canoeing and picnicking are allowed. Furthermore, there are coves with clear waters suitable for swimming, İçmeler being the most popular one. Not only that, but it also protects Zeus’ Cave and the remains of the ancient Greek settlements Karina, Priene and Miletus. Also, it is accessible by public buses that operate from Kusadasi to Guzelcamli.

Mount Sipylus National Park

Sipylus or Spil Mountain was declared a national park in 1968 to protect its limestone rocks, canyons, valleys and rich flora and fauna. 1,527 meters high mountain is especially known for its wild tulips called Manisa tulips. Besides being a natural attraction, Mount Sipylus has mythological significance – the Weeping Rock represents the Greek goddess Niobe mourning her children. Besides, in the vicinity of the park, there are also ruins of the Manisa Castle overlooking the city. Another site is Suluklu or “Leech” Lake, situated on the east of the national park. As for staying in the park, Alani Plateau has campsites, bungalows, restaurants and picnic areas. The park is situated 24 kilometers away from Manisa and around 50 kilometers from Izmir.

Mount Honaz National Park

Honaz Mountain in Denizli Province in southwestern Turkey was declared a national park in 1995. Namely, it is the highest mountain in the Aegean Region with an altitude of 2,528 meters, suitable for hiking. Besides hiking, common activities in the park include camping, and picnicking, while the park also offers accommodation. The park features springs, like the one near Honaz and rock cemeteries in the ancient city of Colossae, supposedly one of the 6 greatest cities of Phrygia, situated near Aksu Stream. Moreover, the park features flora and fauna diversity, with nearly a thousand plant species, 122 of which are endemic, as well as wild goats, wild boars and rabbits. It is situated near the Denizli-Antalya highway and can be reached by turning at Cankurtaran or from Honaz.

Mediterranean

Beydagları Sahil National Park

This coastal national park that lies in the west Mediterranean province of Antalya encompasses some important historical sights. Namely, the park also bears the name Olympo National park because the pine woods shelter ancient cities Olympos and Phaselis, must-see sights of the ancient ruins (15 min from coastal town Kemer). Besides that, hiking is possible in a small part of Turkey’s most known hiking path, called the Lycian Way. Exactly on the way, you can visit the famous Chimaera flames. The flames are only a walking distance away from the Cirali village and its beach. Therefore, the park is a great place for hiking, mountain biking, camping, canyoning and more.

Altinbesik Cave National Park

This national park is situated in Antalya in southern Turkey, 7 kilometres away from the Ibradi district. Namely, Altinbesik is a horizontal cave that is also the third largest underwater lake cave in Europe named after the hill on the upper side of the cave. Moreover, the cave was formed by the Manavgat River and has three levels on top of each other, of which only the third one is always dry. Furthermore, the best time to explore the stalactites and stalagmites of this astonishing cave are the summer and autumn months. Besides exploring the turquoise waters, Oramana and Urunlu villages in the vicinity are visited for their distinct architecture which is their button houses.

Koprulu Canyon National Park

Koprulu Canyon in the Province of Antalya was declared a national park in 1973. The canyon along the Kopru River is 14 kilometres long and 400 meters high at some points. The amazing landscape makes this national park one of the best spots for photography, as in Tazi Canyon. However, the park is most famous for rafting. One of the sights that can be seen while rafting on the Kopru River is the 2000-year-old Oluk Bridge, built by Romans. The park has beautiful nature including Mediterranean cypress forest, pine and cedar while the river is known for the salmon trout served in restaurants in the area. It is situated 85 km from Antalya, however, many organized tours offer transportation from the surrounding cities.

Yumurtalik Lagoon National Park

Yumurtalik Lagoon in Adana Province was declared a national park in 2005 to protect the delta of the Ceyhan River. Namely, this national park in southern Turkey protects the lagoons, reeds and sand dunes in the area where the Ceyhan River flows into the sea and Yumurtalik Bay. Therefore, it comprises both saltwater and freshwater marshes where threatened sea turtles Carretta Carretta and Chelonya Mydas can be found. Besides being a national park it is also a nature reserve as it is a key point for migratory birds. It is situated 1 hour away from Adana.

Saklikent National Park

Saklikent Canyon was declared a national park in 1996. Namely, the 18-kilometre-long Saklikent or “hidden city” is the longest canyon in Turkey. What’s more, it is 300 meters deep which makes it one of the deepest canyons in the world. However, its deepest points can only be visited after April when the snow melts, so it should be ideal to visit in spring and summer. Besides trekking, the full length of the canyon and the waterfalls can be accessed with guided tours that can include rafting. Besides the canyon, the national park comprises Dumanli Mountain and plateaus. Moreover, the park is situated 50 kilometers from the coastal town of Fethiye.

Lake Kovada National Park

Lake Kovada in Isparta Province in southern Turkey was declared a national park in 1970.

It is around 9 kilometres wide and 7 meters deep lake, ideal for a peaceful getaway. Moreover, it is surrounded by Kasnak Forest known for butterflies and especially oaks. In addition, there is a watchtower in the vicinity of the car park as well as hiking trails. Besides the lake, some 35 kilometres south, there is another popular attraction. Interestingly, it is a nature park – Candir (Yazili) Canyon, situated along the King’s Road, a path known from ancient times. The national park is situated 30 km from Eğirdir and is best reached by car.

Kizildag National Park

Kizildag or Red Mountain in Isparta Province in southern Turkey was declared a national park in 1969. Due to having blue cedar trees, the park is best known to have health benefits for people with respiratory problems. Therefore, hiking the Buyuksivri Hill or simply staying in bungalows, tents or caravans may be of great benefit. Besides the blue cedar, its vegetation includes larch, fir and oak, while 15% of the flora is endemic. Furthermore, the park is home to bird species as well as mammals like mountain goats, deer, bears, rabbits and many more. Interestingly, the park that is situated 6 km from the city centre of Sarkikaraagac is situated north of another national park – Lake Beysehir.

Mount Gulluk-Termessos National Park

This national park in Antalya Province was established in 1970 to protect Mount Gulluk and the city of Termessos. The park also includes the Mecine Canyon and Mediterranean vegetation including red pine, laurel and juniper and rich wildlife including wild goats and deer and many species of birds. On the other hand, the ancient city of Termessos was founded by Pisidians and it comprises city walls, the theatre, Hadrian’s Gate, Gymnasium and Agora. The city which was built at an altitude of 1150 m above sea level was protected by UNESCO. The park has facilities and is situated 34 kilometers from Antalya.

Anti-Taurus Mountains National Park

One of the biggest national parks was established in 1995. Anti-Taurus Mountains, called Aladağlar in Turkish, are the central part of the mountain range that stretches in southern Turkey. Namely, the highest peaks of the whole Taurus mountain range are a perfect spot for climbing but also trekking on designated routes with a view of the steep cliffs.

Some of the many peaks are Demirkazık (3757 m) and Kızılkaya (3771 m) that visitors pair with camping sites in Sokullupınar and Yedigöller. More accommodation is available in villages Büyükçadır and Demirkazık. In addition, five of the Kapuzbasi Waterfalls make an interesting site on the eastern side of the park, reached by the road from Kayseri.

Black Sea of Turkey

Kackar Mountains National Park

Kackar Mountains, situated in the northeast of the country rise above the Black Sea coast. They were declared a national park in 1994 to protect steep rocky cliffs, high mountain plateaus, pastures, glacial lakes, alpine villages and the highest peak of the Black Sea. Thanks to its magnificent scenery with rich flora and streams, the main attraction in the park is hiking, especially on the Ayder Plateau which offers various facilities. Moreover, the site is suitable for birdwatching and camping, especially in Camlihemsin and Dilberduzu. The park can be reached from the surrounding cities of Trabzon, Artvin and Rize.

Kure Mountains National Park

This national park situated in Bartin and Kastamonu provinces in the Black Sea region was established in 2000. Its rich biodiversity is the reason it is classified as one of Europe’s forest hot spots and an eco-tourism centre. Besides forest it is rich in karstic structures like canyons and caves – 100 of them, as well as rivers and waterfalls. The part of the park which is in Kastamonu province comprises the most popular sights – Illica Waterfall, situated in one of the villages in the buffer zone of the park, and Horma Canyon. Moreover, with 36 routes it is perfect to go trekking and explore the park which is covered in snow during winter.

Karagol-Sahara National Park

This national park in Artvin Province in Black Sea Region was established in 1994. Namely, it comprises Karagol lake and Sahara Plateau. Karagol is situated some 45 kilometers from Savsat city centre and is surrounded by beautiful pine and spruce forest. The best way to enjoy the park is camping, as well as renting a boat on the lake. Besides its tourist potential, the park protects wild animals, birds, fish and rich flora. There is a facility on the spot that serves as a restaurant and accommodation. Besides, the area around the River Resat is where each year the Beetroot Festival is held.

Independence Path National Historic Park

A road that stretches through two provinces, Kastamonu and Cankiri, was declared a national historic park in 2018. Namely, the stretch of the road from Kastamonu to Ankara was used during the Turkish War of Independence for transporting weapons and human resources. Moreover, the resources that were transported to Inebolu by boats and then by road to Ankara were crucial for connecting Istanbul with Anatolia. Therefore, 95 kilometres of the road was marked as a walking path of importance. Moreover, there are panoramic spots as well as camping areas within the park. This cultural heritage which was crucial at one point in Turkey’s history extends via Kure, Seyciler and Kastamonu.

Mount Ilgaz National Park

This national park was established in 1976 to protect the natural and recreational value of Ilgaz Mountain on the border of Kastamonu and Cankiri provinces in the Black Sea Region. Bordered on the north by Gokirmak River and by Devrez Creek in the south, Ilgaz Mountain comprises Turkish oak and pine, Scots pine, and spruce accompanied by endemic species. Its rich vegetation and streams also allow a richness of fauna with 30 mammal species including deer, boars and wolves. As for the activities, the park is suitable for cycling and hiking. However, many know it as a winter destination as the park features a ski resort with an 800-meter-long ski slope, chairlift and a surface lift. The park is situated on the D765 highway that connects Ankara and Cankiri on the south and Kastamonu on the north, so it is easily accessible.

Hatila Valley National Park

Hatila Valley in Artvin Province in northeastern Turkey was declared a national park in 1994.

This V-shaped valley with steep sides was formed by the Hatila River on the eastern edge of the Kackar Mountains. It is great for nature photography, especially from the glass observation terrace in Taslica village. Besides the beautiful landscape, its unique features are its geomorphological structure, waterfalls and rich wildlife and vegetation. Interestingly, abundant rainfall created rich Mediterranean vegetation with more than 700 species. The park which is 10 kilometers from Artvin has bungalows and is suitable for camping.

Bogazkoy-Alacahoyuk National Park

This national park in Corum Province was established in 1988 to protect the city Hattusa (Bogazkoy), which was the capital of one of the oldest civilizations in Anatolia – the Hittites. Its remains that date back to the 13th and 14th century BC include city walls, the lion gate, the ground gate, and the written rock. Due to its importance, it has been on the World Cultural Heritage List since 1986. Within walking distance from there, Yazilikaya’s open-air museum was a temple that contains reliefs of Hittite gods, goddesses, kings, queens and animals. Besides the archaeological value, the park has wildlife, as many as 22 mammals and 67 bird species but also various plant species. The park is situated 80 kilometers southwest of Corum from where the sights can be reached by minibuses.

Altindere Valley National Park

Altindere Valley was declared a national park in 1987 to protect the forest, streams and an Orthodox monastery built into the mountain. Namely, the view of the monastery which clings to the steep rock wall and overlooks the mountain forest is truly a breathtaking scene. It was built in the 4th century AD and dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Moreover, the humid climate of the park particularly favours biodiversity. Therefore, flora includes Scotch pine, fir and spruce trees while fauna includes deer, wild goats and bears. As for accommodation, bungalows can be booked inside the park. It is situated 48 kilometers from Trabzon in the province of the same name.

Central Anatolia

Goreme National Park

This national park in the Nevşehir Province in central Anatolia alongside valleys, streams and hills encompasses the famous tourist attraction often referred to as “fairy chimneys”. These rock formations known under the name of The Rock Formations of Cappadocia alongside the Goreme National Park became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. Namely, the area’s rocky formations hide sanctuaries with Byzantine art, and underground settlements, all in the impressive landscape of valleys and mountain ridges. Trekking, cycling and hot-air ballooning are visitors’ favourite attractions. The park is situated between Nevsehir, Urgup and Avanos cities. Also, hotels and restaurants are available, especially in Goreme Village.

Yozgat Pine Grove National Park

Yozgat Pine Grove is located in Yozgat Province in Central Anatolia Region and comprises a pine forest. Interestingly, it was established in 1958 as Turkey’s first national park. Namely, it contains pine species called Caucasian Pine that is only found in the higher parts of the Caucasus Mountains. Besides the fauna including wild cats, eagles and pelicans, the park’s 212 plant species, 30 of which are endemic, make it a very valuable botanical spot. Therefore it’s ideal for trekking and camping. Moreover, the park is situated 5 km from Yozgat and offers various facilities like a restaurant, hotel, café and more.

Sultan Reedy National Park

Sultan Reedy, also named Sultan Marshes in Kayseri Province, is situated in Turkey’s Central Anatolia Region. It is surrounded by mountains which give a great panoramic view for photography lovers. Namely, the park was established in 2006 around Lake Yay and some other lakes, meadows and steppes. Not only is it a natural wonder, but it is a valuable area since it comprises both freshwater and saltwater ecosystems and is a migrating spot for birds. Therefore, activities here include birdwatching, especially while sailing on the lake, and hiking. The park can easily be reached by bus from Kayseri and Yahyali.

Soguksu National Park

Soğuksu National Park which is situated in Ankara province in central Anatolia is an ideal nature getaway location for those living in Ankara. Namely, this national park which was established in 1959 comprises plains and valleys crossed by streams, as well as various hills ideal for hiking and mountaineering, like Osmandede Hill. The forest area mainly contains mainly Scotch and black pines, but the park also has an endemic specie of tulips that can be seen in spring. Moreover, the site is inhabited by bears, wolves and foxes. Furthermore, the park comprises 160 species of birds and even has partridge and pheasant production farms. The park offers various facilities like a hotel, café, museum and bungalows. Furthermore, it can be accessed from the Ankara – Istanbul highway and the closest city is Kizilcahamam.

Battle of Sakarya National Historic Park

This national park in Ankara Province was established in 2015 to protect the areas associated with the Turkish War of Independence. The various areas of the park are situated within the borders of the Polatli and Haymana districts. Namely, the Battle of Sakarya took place from 1919-1922 and was a turning point in the Greco-Turkish War since it started the liberation of Anatolia. The national park within walking distance comprises Sakarya Sehitleri Monument and Museum and the cemetery Sakarya Sehitligi. Only 20 minutes by car from there, at Igciler, there is Mehmetcik Monument alongside the Promotion Center which summarizes this battle and the rest of Turkish history.

Lake Beysehir National Park

Lake Beysehir, the third largest lake in Turkey, was declared a national park in 1993. One of the largest national parks is located between Isparta and Konya, in Konya province. With 153 bird species, it is certainly an important spot for nesting and migrating birds and is rich in flora, wildlife, mammal, fish and reptile species. Interestingly, it comprises a lot of cultural value, Esrefoglu Mosque at Beysehir and Hittite monuments at Sadikhaci being only a few of them. Also, having hotels, cafes and bars on the shores, the park is an important eco-tourism spot. Regarding activities, the park is suitable for hiking, mountain biking, camping, picnicking, as well as boat rides. As for accommodation, the nearest town is Beysehir.

Commander-in-Chief National Historic Park

This national park in western Anatolia was established in 1981 to protect the historical value of Central Anatolia. It is associated with the Turkish War of Independence (1919-1922), more specifically, the last battle of the Greco-Turkish War that took place in the Dumlupinar battleground. The most important one is the Kocatepe Monument in Afyonkarahisar portraying Ataturk marking the start of the battle. Various monuments, cemeteries and a museum are located across Afyonkarahisar, Kütahya and Uşak provinces.

South Eastern Anatolia

Tek Tek Mountains National Park

Established in 2007 and located east of Şanlıurfa in Sanliurfa Province, this national park is mainly visited for its architectural value. Namely, it contains Shuayp Ancient City Ruins dating back to the third and fourth centuries, comprising the remnants of rock structures built on tombs and those of the city walls. About 16 kilometres north of there, Soğmatar Ruins were a centre of Pagan religion and chief god Marelahe. Some 11 kilometres north, there is another site; Senem Cave, with architectural remains from the first centuries of Christianity.

Karatepe-Aslantas National Park

This national park in Osmaniye Province in southern Turkey was established in 1958 to protect an archaeological site. Namely, it includes the banks of the Aslantas dam on the Ceyhan River, situated between the Taurus Mountains and the plains of Cukurova. Some 1,200 meters from the entrance of the park, the Hittite Peninsula boasts a Karatepe fortress. This open-air museum is an ancient settlement of the Neo Hittites from the 8th century. Furthermore, its most important artefact is Karatepe Bilingual, an inscription which was significant for the decryption of the Anatolian hieroglyphs. The park is also suitable for picnicking, hiking and camping in designated areas. As for accommodation, it can be found in the bigger cities around the park, Kadirli and Osmaniye.

Botan Valley National Park

Botan Valley in Siirt Province is the youngest national park in Turkey. It was declared a national park in 2019 to protect the geographical but also historical value of the area. Namely, it comprises the valley of the Botan River that formed a canyon. Furthermore, there are amazing views of the stream. The best one is from Delikli Stone, a perforated stone only 5 kilometres from Siirt that offers an amazing view of this steep canyon. Moreover, Botan Valley is located on the Silk Road which means that many civilizations have left their trace here. As for cultural value, there are churches in Yerlibahçe, Kayabogaz, Kalender and Koçlu villages. As for the activities, the area offers paragliding, rafting and hiking paths through villages around. The park is situated 5 km from the Siirt city centre.

Eastern Anatolia

Mount Ararat National Park

Mount Ararat, also known as Agri Dagi (Mountain) was declared a national park in 2004 to protect the mountain and its flora and fauna, but also some other natural phenomena. Namely, Turkey’s tallest mountain is also the world’s tallest volcanic mountain comprising the 5,137-meter-high Great Ararat peak. Hiking this snow-capped mountain is often the reason why many come to visit. Besides, the park comprises the alleged place where Noah’s Ark first landed after the Flood, situated between Telceker and Uzengili villages. Another site in the park is the 60-meter-deep, second-largest hole in the world which formed after a meteor hit the area in Korhan Plateau. Furthermore, the park is situated within the Igdir and Agri provinces, 11 kilometers from the city of Agri.

Sarikamis-Allahuekber Mountains National Park

This national park, established in 2004, is situated in northeastern Turkey, on the border between Kars and Erzurum provinces. It comprises Scotch pine forests stretching across alpine meadows with 9 endangered species. The fauna in the park includes a richness of wildlife like bears, wolves and rabbits, but also fish and birds. On the other hand, the park is of historical importance. Namely, during the Battle of Sarikamish, thousands of Turkish soldiers died freezing in the Allahuekber Mountains. Also, the park has a hotel and, besides camping and picnicking, it is suitable for winter sports and includes a chair lift and a ski track.

Nemrut Dagi National Park

Nemrut Dağı or Nemrut Mountain, a 2,134-meter-high mountain in the southeastern part of Turkey, was declared a national park in 1988. This mountain, which is a part of the Taurus Mountains, is supposed to be the tomb of King Antiochus. It is famous for its 8-9 meter high statues and tombs dating to the first century BC. Namely, King Antiochus used statues to portray himself, lions, eagles and various Gods. In 1987 the mountain was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Site list since it is an important construction of the Hellenistic period. The park is only accessible in summer and can be reached by road from Adiyaman. Moreover, restaurants and hotels can be found in Kahta and Karadut.

Nene Hatun National Historic Park

This national park of historic importance was established in 2009 to protect a part of Top Mountain. It is situated within the borders of Yakutiye and Palandöken Districts in the centre of Erzurum Province. Namely, the name of the park derives from the woman who led an army during the Ottoman-Russian War, also known as the 93 War. Moreover, the park includes Aziziye and Mecidiye bastions, the Aziziye Monument and the tomb of Nene Hatun. Since it is only 6 kilometres away from Erzurum city centre, it can be reached by bus.

Munzur Valley National Park

Munzur Valley of Munzur mountain range in eastern Anatolia was declared a national park in 1971. Interestingly, it is the largest and the most biodiverse one in Turkey. The Munzur mountains which are of sedimentary and volcanic origin have amazing views of glacial lakes, canyons, springs in the Ovacık Plain, and waterfalls. Moreover, the park is suitable for various activities such as rafting and mountaineering, and most commonly, camping. Since it has a harsh climate it is best visited during summer. However, the park is home to more than 1,500 plant species and diverse fauna among which mammals, fish and birds are the leading ones. It is situated 8 kilometers from Tunceli.

Battle of Manzikert National Historic Park

This historic national park is situated at Manazgirt, historically Manzikert, within the borders of Mus Province in Eastern Anatolia. It was established in 2018 to protect the battleground of the battle between the Seljuks against the Byzantine Empire in 1071 which weakened the Byzantine Empire and allowed the Turkification of Anatolia. The park comprises a monument, a battle animation area and a museum. Furthermore, a 250-meter-long road of conquest, the ceremonial area, the mosque, the meeting and catering area and the parking lot have been included to improve the area and for tourist purposes.

National Parks in Turkey