Rock climbing in Turkey is an exciting sport opportunity as the country offer an incredible mix of geography. For rock climbers, it’s a dream destination with a diverse range of climbing spots that cater to all skill levels. From the towering limestone walls in the heart of the country to sun-drenched sport climbing near the Mediterranean coast, Turkey's climbing scene is both vast and varied.
11 Rock Climbing Destinations in Turkey
1. Aladaglar National Park
Aladaglar, the birthplace of Turkish climbing, is renowned for its vast mountainous terrain with over 60 peaks exceeding 3,000 meters. The park offers diverse climbing styles, including the stunning Kazikli Ali Vadisi, which boasts over 350 sport routes on conglomerate limestone, ranging from 5.9/5c to challenging projects at 5.14a/8b+.
Climbing Type: Alpine, multi-pitch, and sport climbing
Best Months: March to December for sport climbing; May to November for multi-pitch
Number of Routes: 450 sport routes, 65 multi-pitch routes (trad, mixed, and alpine sport)
Route Recommendations: Ali Baba (5.10d/6b), Suskunlar (5.12c/7b+), Parmakkaya Classic (5.9), Uc Muz (5.13b/8a)
2. Kapikaya
Located between Antalya and isparta, Kapikaya offers a serene and historical climbing experience. The area is surrounded by pine forests and ancient ruins, providing a unique atmosphere for climbers. The crag features bolted routes on limestone, with challenging pitches on the eastern wall of the pass.
Climbing Type: Sport; both single and multi-pitch
Best Months: April to October
Number of Routes: 100+
Route Recommendations: Kistepsi (6c+), Kapikaya multi-pitch routes
3. Kaynaklar
Just a short bus ride from Izmir, Kaynaklar is a popular climbing spot with a welcoming atmosphere. The annual climbing festival organized by Dokuz Eylul University draws thousands of climbers each spring. The crag offers a wide range of routes, making it an ideal destination for climbers of all levels.
Climbing Type: Single-pitch sport climbing
Best Months: March to June; September to November
Number of Routes: Approximately 230
Route Recommendations: Caylak (5.10b/6a), Cin Mahallesi (5.11a/6b+), Karsiyaka (5.11d/7a)
4. Geyikbayiri
Geyikbayiri is one of Turkey’s premier climbing destinations, located just outside of Antalya. The area is home to over a thousand routes on Mediterranean limestone, catering to all skill levels. The vibrant climbing community and range of accommodations make it a must-visit for any climbing enthusiast.
Climbing Type: Sport climbing
Best Months: September through April
Number of Routes: 1,300+
Route Recommendations: Saxophone (5.10d/6b+), Jaja City (5.12a/7a+), Power Slave (5.12b/7b)
5. Citdibi
A rising star in the Antalya region, Citdibi offers long, endurance-testing routes with stunning tufa formations. The area is still developing, with many challenging routes over 35 meters in length. Climbers can stay at the nearby Masal Refuge, which offers cabins and camping facilities.
Climbing Type: Sport climbing
Best Months: Late August to December; April to June
Number of Routes: About 87
Route Recommendations: Woman in Paradise (5.11c/6c+), James Caro Wedding Present (5.13c/8a+)
6. Bafa Golu (Bafa Lake)
Bafa Golu is Turkey’s top bouldering destination, known for its granite boulders scattered around the picturesque lake. The area offers problems for all levels, from V0/3 to V14/8b+, making it a perfect spot for both beginners and advanced climbers.
Climbing Type: Bouldering
Best Months: October through April
Number of Boulder Problems: About 1,000
Recommended Problems: By the Way (V3/6a+), Raki Hangover (V5/6c), Human Robot (V10/7c+)
7. Sarikaya
Sarikaya, near Izmir, is a newer crag still being developed, offering long routes on high-quality limestone. The area is perfect for summer climbing, with unpolished rock and a range of grades from beginner to advanced.
Climbing Type: Sport and trad
Best Months: April to October
Number of Routes: 125
Route Recommendations: Mercimami (5.9/5b), Yaz (5.10/6a), Dharma (5.13b/8a)
8. Goreme National Park
The rock formations in Goreme vary in difficulty, with routes ranging from 5.8/5a to 5.12c/7b+. The climbs here are not just about physical challenge; they also offer a deep connection to the region’s rich history. imagine scaling a rock face only to find ancient frescoes painted by early Christians hidden in a cave.
Climbing Type: Sport and trad climbing
Best Months: April to October
Guidebook: Local guidebooks available in Göreme
Number of Routes: 150+
Route Recommendations: "The Monk" 5.9/5c, "Chimney Crack" 5.11a/6b, "Fairy Tale" 5.12c/7b+
9. Uchisar
The climbing routes in Uchisar are known for their variety and the breathtaking views they offer. Whether you're tackling a bouldering problem or a sport route, the sight of hot air balloons drifting over the fairy chimneys at sunrise will make your climb unforgettable.
Climbing Type: Sport and bouldering
Best Months: March to November
Guidebook: Local guides
Number of Routes: 80+
Route Recommendations: "Eagle’s Nest" 5.10b/6a, "Skyline" 5.11b/6c, "Castle Crack" 5.12a/7a+
10. Cavusin
Climbing in Cavusin is like stepping back in time. The routes here are challenging, but the real reward is the sense of history you get as you navigate through centuries-old structures carved into the rock.
Climbing Type: Sport and trad
Best Months: April to October
Guidebook: Available locally
Number of Routes: 50+
Route Recommendations: "Saint George" 5.10a/6a, "Monastery Wall" 5.11c/6c+, "Hidden Chapel" 5.12b/7b
11. Ortahisar
Ortahisar’s climbing routes are spread across its rugged terrain, offering a mix of easy and challenging climbs. The peaceful atmosphere and the village’s traditional charm make it a great spot for climbers looking to enjoy both nature and culture.
Climbing Type: Sport
Best Months: May to October
Number of Routes: 40+
Route Recommendations: "Quiet Valley" 5.9/5b, "Hidden Treasure" 5.10c/6b, "Castle Wall" 5.11b/6c+
Turkey's rock climbing scene is diverse, offering something for everyone. Whether you're looking for challenging multi-pitch routes, scenic bouldering, or sun-drenched sport climbing, Turkey has it all. Combine this with the country's rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, and welcoming people, and you have a destination that should be on every climber's list.