Fethiye: Buggy Safari Kayaköy Ruins & Gemiler Bay Swim

Summary

Buggy adventure through pine forests, old villages and turquoise bays

You’ll drive your own buggy through pine forests near Fethiye, explore the haunting ruins of Kayaköy village with stories from your guide, and cool off swimming in Gemiler Bay’s clear waters across from St. Nicholas Island. With hotel pickup included, this day mixes adventure with quiet moments you might not expect.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t really know what to expect from a buggy safari in Fethiye — just figured it’d be dusty and maybe a bit silly. But the first thing I remember is the smell of sun-warmed pine needles as we bounced along the track, engines humming under our hands. Our guide, Cem, grinned at us when we stalled the buggy at the start (twice), but he just waved it off — “No problem, you’ll get it!” The air was dry, and my teeth were already gritty from all the dust. I kind of loved it.

We wound through these narrow trails that cut right through thick forest, sunlight flickering over our arms. Then suddenly everything opened up and there was Kayaköy — this whole abandoned Greek village, stone houses with no roofs and wildflowers poking out of windows. Cem told us about why everyone left (I only caught half of it; my Turkish is hopeless), but you could feel something heavy in the silence there. We wandered around for a bit, shoes crunching on gravel, trying to imagine what life used to sound like in those empty streets.

The last stretch down to Gemiler Bay was all twists and bumps — I had to hang on tight so I didn’t rattle my teeth loose. When we finally stopped by the water, I could hear cicadas buzzing and someone playing music from a boat across the bay. The swim felt so good after all that dust; salty water stung my lips but I didn’t care. There were yachts bobbing nearby and St. Nicholas Island just across the way — Cem pointed out where people sometimes snorkel for old pottery shards. We just floated for a while until it was time to head back. I still think about that cool water every time I see red dust on my shoes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Buggy safari and swim at Gemiler Bay

• Hotel pickup and drive to start
• Briefing and test drive
• Drive buggy on off-road trails
• Explore ruins of Kayaköy village
• Drive to Gemiler Bay
• Swim break for 1 hour
• Drive back to start point

Top questions

Do I need a driving licence for the Fethiye buggy safari?

Yes, you need a valid or provisional driving licence (a photo is fine) to drive.

How long does the buggy safari last?

The tour lasts about 3.5 hours including stops.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

Yes, hotel pickup is included before heading to the starting point near Ölüdeniz.

Can children join the buggy safari?

The minimum age is 18 years for drivers; infants can ride in a pram or stroller as passengers.

What do we see on this Fethiye buggy safari?

You’ll drive through pine forests, visit Kayaköy abandoned village, and swim at Gemiler Bay.

Is lunch included during the tour?

No lunch is provided; only swimming time at Gemiler Bay is included.

Are there any health restrictions?

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle, all fees and taxes covered, insurance throughout your adventure, plus plenty of time exploring Kayaköy village and swimming at Gemiler Bay before returning to your hotel.