Marmaris to Dalyan: River Cruise, Turtle Beach & Mud Baths

Summary

From Marmaris to Dalyan river boats, mud baths and turtle beaches

You’ll float down the Dalyan River from Marmaris with a local guide, slather yourself in warm mud baths (and probably laugh at yourself), relax on Turtle Beach where loggerhead turtles swim close by, and pass under ancient Lycian tombs carved into stone cliffs. Lunch is included — plus hotel pickup so you don’t have to stress about getting there.

What’s the experience like?

“Wait, are those actually turtles?” That’s what I blurted out when our guide pointed at the water near Iztuzu Beach — and sure enough, two loggerheads popped their heads up like they were checking us out too. We’d started early from Marmaris (the pickup was right on time, which honestly surprised me), and by the time we reached the Dalyan River, the air already smelled like salt and reeds. There’s something about gliding along that water — the boat engine is just a low hum, but you can hear birds arguing in the rushes if you listen. Our guide, Emre, kept tossing out little facts about Kaunos and ancient tombs carved into the cliffs. He had this way of telling stories that made me want to look everything up later.

The mud bath was… well, slimier than I expected. Everyone laughed at my face when I slipped getting in (I’m still finding bits of dried mud in my sandals). It’s supposed to be good for your skin — Emre said even locals come out here for it. Rinsing off in the sulfur pool after felt weirdly refreshing though. Lunch was simple but hit the spot: grilled chicken and fresh tomatoes with bread that tasted almost smoky from the grill. There was this older couple from Izmir at our table who insisted we try their homemade olives — salty and sharp, nothing like what you get back home.

I didn’t expect to feel so small floating past those Lycian rock tombs. They’re just there above you — silent and a little haunting. The light hits them differently as you drift by; I tried to take a photo but honestly it doesn’t capture it. On the way back toward Marmaris, everyone got quiet for a bit — maybe tired or just letting it all sink in. If you’re wondering about logistics: yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included (ours was smooth), and lunch is part of it too. The day trip from Marmaris to Dalyan packs more into one day than I thought possible… still thinking about those turtles.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dalyan river cruise and beach visit

• Depart from Marmaris
• Sail to Iztuzu Beach
• Relax on Turtle Beach
• Visit Lycian Rock Tombs
• Explore Dalyan River
• Experience Dalyan mud baths
• Pass by Ancient City of Kaunos
• Return to Marmaris

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Marmaris to Dalyan?

The full-day tour lasts around 8-10 hours including hotel transfers.

Is lunch included on this Dalyan river cruise?

Yes, a traditional lunch is included during the tour.

Do you see turtles at Iztuzu (Turtle) Beach?

You have a good chance of spotting loggerhead turtles at Iztuzu Beach.

Are hotel pickups available for this tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off from Marmaris are included.

Can anyone join the mud bath experience?

The mud bath is suitable for all physical fitness levels.

What sites do you visit during this day trip?

You visit Dalyan River, Turtle Beach (Iztuzu), Lycian Rock Tombs, Kaunos ruins, and enjoy mud baths.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Marmaris, all river boat rides between stops along the Dalyan River, entry to the famous mud bath pools (yes — towels help), a traditional Turkish lunch served riverside with fresh ingredients, plus stories and guidance throughout from a local expert before returning in the evening.