Gizlikent Waterfall sits in a narrow canyon near Saklıkent Gorge. It is greener and shadier than its better-known neighbour: the walls are damp and a shallow stream runs along the bottom. To reach the falls, you climb down a long wooden staircase into the canyon, then wade 300 metres upstream to the foot of the falls.
How to Get to Gizlikent Waterfall
Gizlikent Waterfall is in Kayadibi village, around 45 km from Fethiye and just a few kilometres from Saklıkent Gorge.
- By car: The drive from Fethiye takes 50–60 minutes via the Saklıkent road. Navigation tip: Searching for the waterfall itself on Google Maps is not always reliable and may send you down minor back roads that do not lead to the site. Instead, set your destination to "Gizlikent Restaurant", which is right by the main entrance, and follow the large yellow roadside signs as you get closer. Parking is available on site.
- By public transport: Take a Saklıkent dolmuş from Fethiye bus station (otogar) and ask the driver to stop at the Gizlikent junction. From there it is a flat walk of about 1 km to the entrance.
Local tip: If you plan to visit both on the same day, start with Gizlikent. It is the shorter visit, and you will have more energy for Saklıkent Gorge afterwards.
Gizlikent Waterfall is one of the regular stops on organised Jeep Safari tours from Fethiye, usually combined with Saklıkent Gorge and other nearby highlights.
Good to know: Our Jeep Safari includes transport from Fethiye and pairs the two canyons in a single full-day route, so there is no parking, dolmuş timing or separate transfer to arrange.
See our Fethiye Jeep Safari including Gizlikent →What to Expect at Gizlikent
The walk at Gizlikent is shorter and less demanding than the one through Saklıkent Gorge, though the path still has steps and uneven stones. You simply follow the water upstream between the canyon walls. It is cold, especially in the shade, though you get used to it within a few minutes.
The walk to the waterfall takes about 10–15 minutes. The canyon narrows towards the end and can look like a dead end, so some people turn back at this point, but the falls are just around the corner. Near the falls, a large fallen tree trunk is a well-known photo spot, and at busy times you may have to wait your turn.
Take extra care close to the waterfall, where the rocks are wet and slippery. The staircase is the only way in or out, so the site is not accessible for wheelchairs, and pushchairs are not suitable either: families with very young children may prefer a baby carrier. The climb back up is harder than the descent, particularly for anyone with knee problems or mobility issues, and in hot weather it is worth going slowly.
The Landscape of Gizlikent
Where Saklıkent is bare limestone, Gizlikent is thick with plant life. Ferns, moss and shrubs cover much of the rock face, fed by the damp air and the constant seepage from the walls. Fig and plane trees lean in from above, and the stream keeps the canyon floor cool through the summer. On the way down, look out for tortoises near the steps or at the water's edge.
What to Wear and Bring
The path through the water is uneven, so wear suitable footwear and clothes that can get wet.
- Footwear: The streambed is covered with smooth, rounded stones and can be slippery. Water shoes with a good grip or sturdy sandals with ankle straps are the best choice, and shoe hire is available at the entrance. Avoid flip-flops, as they slip off easily or catch on the rocks.
- Clothing: Your feet will get wet, and you may get splashed. Swimwear or quick-drying shorts work well. If you plan to stand under the waterfall, bring a change of clothes.
- Changing rooms and lockers: Both are available near the restaurant, along with toilets. Use them before you head down, and leave phones, wallets and car keys locked up to keep them dry.
- Waterproof phone pouch: Essential if you want to take photos near the falls.
- Sunglasses: Put these away before you reach the falls. Spray covers the lenses within seconds, and a dropped pair is hard to find in the stream.
Best Time to Visit Gizlikent Waterfall
The canyon is quietest in the morning, before tour groups begin to arrive around midday. Late afternoon works well too, when visitor numbers drop and the temperature is more comfortable.
April and May are the best months to visit. The canyon is at its lushest, and the waterfall flows more strongly after the winter rains. Bear in mind, though, that after heavy rain the stream can run too high and fast to wade comfortably, or at all.
Zip Line, Food and Souvenirs
Zip Line Over the Valley
A zip line starts near the entrance and crosses the valley, with the forest spread out below. It is best ridden before the canyon walk, while you are still dry. Tickets cost £10 per person at the restaurant, which is also where you should check the age restrictions and the 120 kg maximum weight limit before you ride.
Food and Souvenirs
The restaurant sits among pine trees just by the entrance, with mountain views, and serves fresh trout, handmade gözleme (a thin stuffed flatbread) and other regional dishes. Just outside it, try tava dondurması: a cream base poured onto a chilled metal plate, then chopped and rolled as it freezes, and served with seasonal fruit. A few roadside stalls sell local honey, olive oil and spices, alongside magnets and small handmade crafts.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do you need at Gizlikent Waterfall?+
Most visitors spend about 45–60 minutes, including the walk through the stream and time at the waterfall. Allow longer if you plan to eat at the restaurant afterwards.
When is Gizlikent Waterfall open?+
The site is generally open from April to October. Even in season, heavy rain can raise the water level enough to make the stream walk difficult or impossible, so it is worth checking conditions before you travel, particularly in April and October.
Can you swim at Gizlikent Waterfall?+
The pool beneath the waterfall is quite small. Most people wade through the stream and stand under the falls rather than swim.
Do you need water shoes?+
Water shoes or sturdy sandals with ankle straps are strongly recommended, as the stones in the stream are smooth and slippery. Shoe hire is available at the entrance.
Is Gizlikent suitable for children?+
Yes, but children need suitable footwear and should be supervised throughout, as the streambed is rocky and uneven.
Can you visit Gizlikent without going to Saklıkent?+
Yes. Gizlikent has its own entrance and car park, and the visit takes about an hour, so it works either as a short stop on its own or as an add-on to Saklıkent Gorge.
How much is the zip line at Gizlikent?+
The zip line costs £10 per person. Tickets are sold at the restaurant.