Butterfly Valley (Kelebekler Vadisi) is a hidden gem nestled beneath towering cliffs a few nautical miles south of Fethiye, accessible only by boat or a steep hiking trail . The lush canyon stretches roughly 3 km long and 350 m deep, with two waterfalls, a sandy-and-pebble beach, and abundant wildlife—including over 100 butterfly species during peak season.

Fethiye to Butterfly Valley:

Getting There & Activities

• Boat access: Regular shuttle boats depart from Belcekız Beach (Ölüdeniz), or you can anchor via private Turkish gulet.

• On-site options: Swim in idyllic turquoise waters, hike to see waterfalls, camp under the stars, relax in shade among nature

• Best time to visit: June–September—for butterfly spotting and warm waters

🚤 Planning a Day Trip on a Gulet

Many operators offer full-day shared cruises departing from Fethiye or Ölüdeniz. These typically include:

• Scenic stops at Butterfly Valley, Aquarium Bay, St. Nicholas Island, Camel Beach, and Blue Lagoon.

• Onboard lunch, swimming breaks, snorkeling, and optional paragliding in Ölüdeniz

• Duration: ~8 hours with hotel transfers.

• Price: Around €60–70 per person

⛵ Gulet Cruises: Fethiye to Butterfly Valley Itineraries

1. Mini-Blue Cruise (2–3 days)

Ideal for those seeking a short escape. Typical itinerary:

• Day 1: Fethiye → Boncuklu Bay

• Day 2: Butterfly Valley → Ölüdeniz → St. Nicholas Island

• Optional stops: Kas, Kekova, Simena Castle

Benefits include cozy cabins, air-conditioning, full board, onboard activities (snorkeling/kayaking) and a laid-back vibe

2. 3–4 Night Fethiye–Kekova Loop

Covers Butterfly Valley on day 2. Stops include Blue Lagoon, Gemiler Island (St. Nicholas), Kas, Sunken City of Kekova & Simena Castle

3. 6–7 Night Extended Cruises

For deeper exploration:

• Includes Butterfly Valley, Oludeniz, Gemiler, Kas, Kekova & Demre

• Typically run Saturdays, full board with A/C cabins, cooking classes, snorkeling & kayaking

   

Why Renting a Private Gulet

• Total privacy and flexible schedule

• Personalized itinerary: longer stays, extra anchoring time

• Ideal for families, groups, special occasions

What’s Included?

• Air-conditioned cabins with ensuite bathrooms

• Crew (captain, cook, deckhand)

• Full-board meals + snacks, freshwater, fuel, harbor fees

• Standard leisure gear: snorkeling sets, kayaks, paddleboards

• Extras: beverages, entry fees, crew tip (5–10 €/pp/day)

Booking Tips

• Peak season (June–August): book 3–4 months ahead

• Check repair regimen and holiday insurance.

• Shoulder seasons (May, September–October): fewer crowds, moderate weather
  

Highlights:

• Nature immersion in Butterfly Valley

• Adventure stops: snorkeling, kayaking, paragliding

• Cultural ruins: Tomb of Amyntas, Simena Castle

• Relaxed gulet experience with A‑C cabins, fresh Turkish cuisine

✅ Quick Checklist: Book Your Gulet Trip