Marmaris is not only known for its beaches and nightlife but also stands out as a destination for nature sports and outdoor activities. Surrounded by pine forests, mountain trails, canyons, waterfalls, and hidden coves, this region offers countless opportunities to connect with nature.
Whether you’re seeking a high-adrenaline ATV safari tour or a peaceful nature walk, Marmaris and its surroundings provide options for all ages and preferences. In this guide, you’ll find detailed information about nature sports in Marmaris, camping areas, hiking routes, and more.
Our Picks of the Best Tours
Marmaris National Park
There are officially 33 national parks in Turkey. Marmaris National Park is one of the most popular among them. Every part of the land surrounding Marmaris is worth exploring, especially for eco-tourism and nature enthusiasts.
Starting from the sixth kilometer of Marmaris, the park covers a vast area. It’s a favorite spot for hiking, trekking, mountaineering, cycling tours, horseback riding, hunting, forest camping, and jeep safari tours, with many local businesses offering these services.
The northwest section of Marmaris has a reddish tone due to the oxidized rocks, while the forested areas are an essential part of the landscape. The region is dominated by the typical Mediterranean vegetation.
The area is covered with pine, oak, and plane trees, offering a cool escape in the middle of summer, perfect for nature walks and outdoor adventures.
For mountaineering lovers, the hills near Cennet Island are ideal, especially with their peaceful atmosphere and nearby beach, making it a great place to relax as well.
Marmaris National Park also includes the ancient cities of Physkos and Amos, making it a good alternative for those interested in historical tours. Remnants of the Caria civilization in the area are worth seeing.
Within the park, there are also many designated camping and picnic areas for visitors.
Top Nature Sports and Outdoor Activities in Marmaris
You can enrich your Marmaris vacation by joining exciting nature sports and outdoor activities like jeep safaris with 4×4 vehicles, horseback riding, quad and buggy safaris, mountain biking, forest and canyon hikes, trekking, mountaineering, paintball, and karting.
No Regrets Booking Advice
Biking Tours and Mountain Bike Trails in Marmaris
Marmaris cycling routes offer unique views and various difficulty levels for both road cyclists and mountain bike (MTB) enthusiasts. There are plenty of bike rental points in the area, and guided cycling tours are highly popular.
Popular Routes
Marmaris – Beldibi – İçmeler: Smooth ride on asphalt. Suitable for intermediate cyclists.
Turunç – Amos – Kumlubük: Challenging route with sea views, including climbs and descents.
Marmaris – Karacasöğüt: Natural trail with both asphalt and dirt paths.
Rentals and Tours
Daily and hourly bike rentals are available in Marmaris center and around İçmeler.
Guided tours include planned routes, equipment, and technical support.
MTBs are available for mountain trails, along with helmets, spare tires, and pumps.
Hiking and Trekking Routes in Marmaris
Hiking trails in Marmaris cater to all skill levels. Surrounded by mountains, forests, sea-view paths, and village roads, the region is ideal for walking enthusiasts. Spring and autumn are the best seasons for hiking.
Featured Trails
Marmaris – İçmeler Coastal Path: Easy, scenic trail right by the sea. Perfect for morning walks.
Amos Ancient City Trail: Located near Turunç, this trail combines historical ruins and sea views.
Bozburun – Söğüt – Taşlıca Trails: Longer routes through nature with quiet coves and rural landscapes.
ℹ️ Good to Know
Trails vary by difficulty, offering options from beginners to experienced hikers.
Most paths go through forests, making summer walks cooler and more comfortable.
Some routes have weak phone signals—downloading maps in advance is advised.
Jeep Safari Tours in Marmaris
Marmaris jeep safari tours are one of the most exciting ways to explore nature. Perfect for those seeking adrenaline, these tours follow adventurous routes through forest roads, mountain slopes, village paths, and dirt tracks in 4×4 vehicles.
Tour Highlights
Popular routes include Bozburun, Turgut Village, Orhaniye, and Bayır Village.
Observe village life along the way and stop at natural water sources.
Water fights add extra fun to the tour.
Led by guides, usually starting in the morning and ending in the afternoon.
Lunch is often included in the tour price.
Who is it for?
Great for families, friend groups, and anyone wanting to spend a day surrounded by nature.
It’s not an extreme ride; routes are safe and monitored by guides.
ATV and Quad Safari Tours in Marmaris
Marmaris ATV – Quad safari tours are exciting outdoor adventures conducted with single or double-seater vehicles along forest paths and dirt tracks. These guided, moderate-speed tours boost adrenaline while allowing you to explore nature.
️ Popular Areas
Trails available in Armutalan, Kızkumu, and Değirmenyanı.
Easy but muddy and fun routes on natural terrain.
Tours typically last 1 to 1.5 hours and are led by guides.
Who Can Join?
Ideal for friend groups and couples.
Great for those looking for a safe yet exciting experience.
Horseback Riding Tours in Marmaris
Horseback riding tours in Marmaris offer a different way to enjoy nature. You can explore the coastline, forests, and rural areas on horseback.
Routes and Details
Horse farms are located in Çiftlik, Hisarönü, and Çamlı.
Short rides are available for children and families.
Longer trails combine forest and beach routes.
Basic training and safety equipment are provided at the horse farms.
Go-Karting in Marmaris (Karting Experience)
Go-kart tracks in Marmaris offer a fun and competitive activity for speed enthusiasts. These tracks are suitable for both adults and children, making them ideal for friendly races among travel companions.
Where to Go?
The Armutalan area is home to Marmaris’ most popular karting tracks.
Some venues offer night lighting, so you can enjoy racing in the evening too.
Who Can Join?
Special karts are available for kids aged 7 and up.
Great for families or groups of friends looking for a fun mini tournament.
Rafting Tours on the Dalaman River
Rafting in Dalaman River is one of the top adventure and nature tours from Marmaris, organized as a day trip. It’s one of the most well-known rafting courses in Turkey, appreciated for both its natural beauty and trail quality.
Route & Water Flow
The 12 km rafting route lies between Köyceğiz and Ortaca.
It’s a moderate difficulty course guided by professional instructors.
Summer is the best time with ideal water levels for rafting.
Getting There
Daily transfer-included tours depart from Marmaris in the morning.
The full experience takes about 7–8 hours round trip.
Turgut and Orhaniye Waterfalls
The waterfalls in Marmaris offer a peaceful escape into nature. These spots attract many visitors in summer with their shady hiking trails and cool waters.
Highlights
Turgut Waterfall: You can swim in natural pools, and the surroundings are great for short hikes.
Orhaniye Waterfall: A quieter option, perfect for camping or photography.
️ You’ll find local products, handmade jewelry, jams, and natural soaps sold nearby. There are picnic tables and rest areas around the falls.
Canoeing and Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) in Marmaris
Canoeing and SUP in Marmaris are perfect for those who prefer peaceful, nature-focused activities. The shaded rivers and calm bays make ideal settings for these water sports.
♀️ Where to Go?
Azmak River in Akyaka: Great for SUP with calm waters and lush surroundings.
Hisarönü Bay: Suitable for canoeing or SUP on gentle sea waters.
Best times are early morning or sunset. Rental centers in the area also offer guided tours with full equipment.
Paragliding and High-Adrenaline Experiences
Paragliding near Marmaris is a bucket-list activity for adrenaline seekers. Although there are no direct flights from central Marmaris, nearby high-altitude areas offer access to professional flight operators. The most popular option is the day trip to Fethiye’s Babadağ.
Flight Details
Transfers from Marmaris to Fethiye’s launch point depart in the morning.
The flight from 1,900 meters offers 25–30 minutes of stunning views over Ölüdeniz.
All flights are tandem with experienced pilots, and photo/video options are available.
ℹ️ Typically for ages 4 and up; weight limits range from 100–110 kg. It’s a unique way to blend nature and adventure in one unforgettable activity.
Camping and Nature Stays in Marmaris
For those wanting to fully connect with nature, campgrounds in Marmaris offer both tent and caravan accommodation. You can spend the night under the stars, especially in seafront areas.
⛺ Popular Campsites
Bonjuk Bay: An off-grid escape for alternative lifestyle seekers.
Amazon Camp: Tranquil site ideal for silence and solitude.
Çubucak Forest Camp: A family favorite with showers, toilets, and electricity.
✅ Good to Know
Most campsites allow easy access to swimming, hiking, biking, and canoeing.
Reservations are recommended in summer due to limited space.
Respect camp rules, keep areas clean, and follow quiet hours.