Kemer: Jeep Safari to Olympos Beach & the Flames of Chimaera

Traveling to Turkey’s Antalya Province offers a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural sights, and this jeep safari from Kemer promises a lively blend of adventure, history, and stunning scenery. While it’s not a deep historical tour, it’s perfect for those eager to get their feet dirty off-road, witness extraordinary natural phenomena, and relax on the beach—all in one day.

What we really love about this experience is the off-road thrill through lush countryside, the refreshing swim at Olympos Beach, and the chance to see the eternal flames of Chimaera up close. Plus, the friendly guides add a layer of genuine warmth, making the journey more than just sightseeing. A potential downside is that the hike to Yanarta involves a 1000-meter mountain path, which might be a challenge for travelers with mobility issues or who aren’t keen on walking.

This tour suits adventurous travelers, families with kids (who can handle the hike), or anyone looking for a mix of natural wonders and scenic drives in a day. If you’re after a comprehensive cultural experience, you might want to explore other options, but for a fun, active day with plenty of photo opportunities, this promises a memorable outing.

Good To Know

• Adventure and Comfort: Off-road jeep rides combined with relaxing beach time.
• Natural Wonders: Witness the fiery flames of Chimaera and enjoy scenic countryside.
• Flexibility: Optional visit to ancient ruins (extra cost) allows personalized experiences.
• Meal Options: Delicious Turkish dinner with a choice of grilled fish or chicken.
• Ideal Duration: A well-paced 7-hour tour, perfect for a full-day adventure.
• Practical Tips: Bring swimwear, comfortable shoes, and cash for extras.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Jeep Safari Experience

This tour kicks off with a hotel pickup in Kemer, where you’ll be greeted by a friendly driver-guide. The group size isn’t specified, but reviews suggest a comfortably small, personable experience rather than a crowded bus. The vehicles are clearly marked with the tour company logo, making it easy to find your ride. Expect a roughly 10-minute scenic drive before your first photo stop—an excellent chance to snap some shots of the surrounding mountains and countryside.

The Jeep Adventure Through Scenic Countryside

The highlight of the drive is the off-road safari, where you’ll feel the thrill of bouncing over unpaved paths amidst lush greenery and rugged terrain. This is a fun way to shake up the usual sightseeing routine and get closer to Turkey’s natural landscape. The driver guides are knowledgeable, providing tidbits of information about the local flora, fauna, and history, adding depth to your journey without turning it into a lecture.

Olympos Beach: Relaxation and Optional Ruins Visit

Arriving at Olympos Beach, you’ll get around 80 minutes of free time, which is plenty to swim in the clear waters, soak up the sun, or use the showers and restrooms available nearby. Many reviews mention that the water is perfect for a quick cool-down after the jeep ride. The beach itself has a charming, relaxed vibe that invites lounging with a good book or just enjoying the scenery.

If you’re interested, there’s an optional visit to the ancient city of Olympos. Entrance costs about 10 Euros and includes a short English, German, or Russian language introduction. Some travelers found this to be a worthwhile add-on, especially with a guide pointing out the notable ruins, while others preferred to stay on the beach. Keep in mind that this optional stop isn’t included in the base price, so it’s an extra expense and time consideration.

The Flames of Chimaera: A Natural Fire Show

Next up is the guided hike to Yanarta (Chimaera), a natural phenomenon where eternal flames flicker from cracks in the rocks. The 1-hour hike involves walking about 1000 meters up and down the mountain, which some find invigorating, others might find tiring. The path is well-trodden but uneven, so sturdy shoes and a sense of adventure are recommended.

Many reviews describe the flames as “one of those rare sights you won’t forget”, especially at dusk when the flames glow vividly against the darkening sky. The guide provides safety tips, and the experience is more about witnessing a mysterious natural occurrence than a difficult climb.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Scenic Off-Road Ride & Dinner in Ulupnar

After the hike, the group enjoys another off-road drive through scenic rural areas, giving a sense of Turkey’s countryside away from tourist spots. The tour then concludes with a delicious dinner in Ulupnar, where you can choose between grilled fish or chicken served with salad. Drinks are extra, so don’t forget some cash.

Many travelers comment that the quality of the meal is good, especially considering it’s included in a day tour, and the setting is casual yet charming. The evening wraps up with the driver returning you to your hotel around 10:00 PM, ending a full day of activity.

Practical Details & Tips for the Tour

• Transportation: Comfortable jeep or SUV, with clear branding for easy identification.
• Duration: Around 7 hours, including all activities and travel time.
• Start Times: Check availability for specific pickup times.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes for hiking, swimwear, sunscreen, hat, camera, water, and cash for extras.
• Age & Mobility: Not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or respiratory or heart problems.
• Language: Guides speak English, Russian, Turkish, and German.
• Cost: The main tour price offers excellent value, especially with included transportation, beach time, and dinner. Extra expenses include entrance fees to ruins and drinks.
• Cancellation: Full refund available if canceled at least 24 hours before the tour.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Details

One of the standout features of this tour, according to reviews, is the friendly, informative guides who often share personal stories and local insights. Guests particularly appreciated how guides kept the group engaged during the drive and provided safety tips at Yanarta, making the experience both educational and safe.

The scenic countryside isn’t just a backdrop; it’s a genuine part of the adventure. The off-road sections are praised for their spectacular views, with some reviewers mentioning how the landscape changes from lush green to rugged mountains, providing excellent photo opportunities.

Many travelers also highlighted the balance of activities—a perfect mix of relaxing beach time, active mountain hiking, and exciting off-road riding. This variety keeps the day interesting and caters to those who prefer a dynamic itinerary.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This jeep safari offers a well-rounded day filled with natural wonders, scenic rides, and authentic Turkish hospitality. It’s an excellent choice if you’re seeking adventure without sacrificing comfort, and if you’re curious about the mysterious flames of Chimaera. The included dinner is a bonus, especially for those who want a hearty, flavorful meal after a day of exploration.

The tour is particularly suitable for those who enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable with walking and some uneven terrain. Families with energetic kids or groups of friends will find it a fun, engaging outing. If your goal is to see key highlights of the region in one day, this experience ticks many boxes.

However, travelers with limited mobility or those wanting a more historically focused or cultural tour might want to consider other options. The emphasis here is on natural scenery and adventure rather than in-depth history.

FAQ

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour provides a jeep or SUV that’s well-marked and driven by professional guides, ensuring a smooth ride through the countryside.

How long do I spend at Olympos Beach?
You’ll have about 80 minutes of free time to swim, relax, or explore the nearby facilities.

Is the visit to the ancient city of Olympos included?
No, it’s an optional activity with an entrance fee of around 10 Euros. The tour offers a short English, German, or Russian explanation if you choose to go.

How difficult is the hike to Yanarta?
The hike is about 1000 meters, involving walking up and down mountain paths. It’s manageable for most, but not suitable for those with mobility issues.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, camera, water, and cash for extra expenses like drinks or entrance fees.

Are drinks included in the dinner?
No, drinks are paid separately, so carry some cash if you want beverages with your meal.

Is this tour suitable for young children?
Generally, yes, but keep in mind the mountain hike and off-road rides, so children should be physically capable and comfortable with these activities.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women or people with health issues?
No, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments, or those with respiratory or heart conditions.

To sum it up, this jeep safari from Kemer is a lively and diverse adventure that highlights some of Turkey’s most captivating natural sights. It’s best suited for travelers who love a mix of activity, scenic beauty, and authentic local experiences—delivering a day full of memorable moments at a reasonable price.

You can check if your dates are available here: