Arapapıştı (İnceğiz) Canyon

Located on the borders of Aydın, Denizli, and Muğla provinces, Arapapıştı Canyon (Arapapıştı Kanyonu), also known as İnceğiz Canyon, is a natural wonder to be discovered and one of the key spots suitable for domestic tourism. The Arapapıştı Canyon, formed by the abrasion of the Akçay River, which feeds the Kemer Dam (Kemer Barajı) located in Aydın's Bozdoğan district, offers a unique feast of nature, featuring a depth of 380 meters and a length of 6 kilometers. It is one of the rare areas where history and nature blend seamlessly, showcasing the ruins of the ancient period and remarkable natural formations. The canyon, located between two lakes in the Akçay Valley (Akçay Vadisi), was a sanctuary for people seeking solitude for religious life since ancient times. Around the canyon, you can see city ruins from the Ancient Period, including Körteke Castle (Körteke Kalesi) in the village of Körteke, surrounded by neighboring villages, and remnants of the ancient Carian city of Xyatis. Recently, a mysterious rock tomb estimated to be 2,500 years old and of Persian origin was discovered. When the water level in the dam is lowered, the “sıra inler” caves, shaped by the waters of Akçay, and the historical Kemer Bridge (Kemer Köprüsü), constructed by the armies of Alexander the Great, become visible. You can participate in 1.5-2 hour boat tours organized within the Arapapıştı Canyon. As an alternative way to explore the canyon, trekking along the pathways is also an option. Either way, this magnificent natural wonder provides unique photo opportunities from various points.