Fethiye in Winter: Adventure Activities and Tours

Winter Adventure Activities: An Introduction

In winter Prime Turist runs four activities in Fethiye: tandem paragliding from Babadağ (weather permitting), the ATV safari, horse riding in Ovacık and the Rhodes ferry from Fethiye. Paragliding and hiking take on a different feel in winter, while our boat trips, jeep safari and other tours run only from April to October. On clear days visibility is excellent, although the weather changes more often than in summer. In this guide we look at each winter adventure activity in Fethiye in turn, and you'll see why winter is a particularly enjoyable time for paragliding and hiking.

Can You Do a Fethiye Jeep Safari in Winter?

Fethiye safaris are busy and hot in summer. Our jeep safari does not run in winter, though: it runs every day of the season from April to October. If you want a safari without the heat and the crowds, choose April–May or September–October.

In winter the countryside around Muğla turns completely green. The rain brings the vegetation back to life and creates better chances for spotting birds and wildlife. You can explore this green landscape on foot in winter; our jeep safari starts again in April.

In season the jeep safari starts early in the morning, with hotel pickup at around 08:30. The programme covers the ancient city of Tlos, Saklıkent Gorge, the Gizlikent waterfall, Yakapark and the mud bath, and the guides add stories about the area's history and culture.

Tip: if you join the jeep safari in April or October, dress in layers and bring a change of clothes, because there are water fights along the way. Wear comfortable clothes so you can move around and take photos in the jeep.

Paragliding in Fethiye in Winter

Paragliding is Fethiye's most famous adventure activity. Flights run in winter too, whenever the weather allows; the most reliable flying conditions are generally between April and November.

On clear winter days the air is crisp and visibility can be superb, so as you fly over Fethiye the sea, the mountains and the coastline are especially sharp. Winter weather is more changeable, though, so flights are moved more often than in summer.

In winter there is much less traffic in the sky. In summer the sky over Ölüdeniz is full of paragliders, while in winter there are far fewer, so the experience feels more personal and peaceful. It's easier to chat with your pilot, and there's more time for photos.

In winter, flight times depend on the weather on the day, and we confirm your time with you.

Note: the weather forecast matters a lot in winter, as conditions can change quickly. Check the 5–7 day forecast before you book and follow the advice you are given. If the weather isn't suitable, your flight is moved to another time or day.

Fethiye Hiking Routes in Winter

Hiking is the most accessible adventure activity in Fethiye. Hot and hard work in summer, it is at its best in winter, when the mountain trails around Muğla show their finest side.

The trails around Babadağ, which rises to 1,969 m, are especially popular in winter. Without the summer heat walking is more comfortable and you need less water, but in mid-winter the upper slopes can see snow and ice, so check conditions before you set off.

There are hiking routes all around Fethiye. The coastal paths around Ölüdeniz are easy to moderate; the Lycian Way, which starts at Ovacık above Ölüdeniz, offers longer stages with sea views; and there are routes leading down to hidden bays.

In winter you can arrange a walk with a local guide yourself, and groups are smaller, which makes for a more personal experience. Guides can tell you about the plants and wildlife along the way, as well as the history and geography of Fethiye.

Route · Difficulty · Duration · Winter suitability

Babadağ summit · Moderate to hard · 5–6 hours · Very good

Ölüdeniz coastal paths · Easy · 2–3 hours · Excellent

Lycian Way, Ovacık–Faralya stage · Moderate · About 5–6 hours · Good

Hidden bays · Easy to moderate · 3–4 hours · Very good

Off-Road Adventure on a Fethiye Jeep Safari

The jeep safari is Fethiye's most popular group activity, but it doesn't run in winter: our jeep safari runs every day from April to October. There are water fights along the way, so bring a change of clothes.

The jeep safari heads inland from Fethiye. With Prime Turist the stops are the ancient city of Tlos, Saklıkent Gorge, the Gizlikent waterfall, Yakapark and the mud bath. At the start (April–May) and end (September–October) of the season these places are less crowded, so you get a more relaxed and authentic experience.

The jeeps travel in a convoy, and the guide gives you information at the stops about the area's geology, history and culture. There is enough time at each stop for photos.

The jeep safari does not run in the winter months (November–March). Busy in summer, the tour offers a calmer day out in April–May and September–October, and the guides help you notice how nature changes with the seasons.

In short: on the jeep safari the guides show you places you'd struggle to reach on your own, from the ancient city of Tlos to the cool waters of Saklıkent Gorge. In the quieter months of the season, these discoveries feel even more special and personal.

Can You Do Boat Trips and Water Activities in Winter?

A boat trip is the best way to see Fethiye from the sea. Our boat trips do not run in winter, though: the 12 Islands boat trip, the Ölüdeniz boat trip and the other classic routes run only from April to October.

The sea is cool in winter, noticeably colder than in summer, and not really for swimming; it's nicer to enjoy it from the shore on a coastal walk, where you may also spot seabirds.

As there are no boat trips in winter, you can explore the bays near Fethiye on foot along the coastal paths. Our boat trips start again in April. Once the season begins there's a swim at every stop, although on cooler spring days the swims tend to be short.

Prime Turist's boat trips run every day of the season, but only from April to October. There are no boat trips in winter; during this time paragliding (weather permitting), the ATV safari, Ovacık horse riding and the Rhodes ferry carry on. In season, the crew know the character of each bay and where it's safe to swim.

Our scuba diving trips also run only from April to October; there are no dive trips in winter. In season the water around Fethiye is usually clear, and the dive instructors explain what you're seeing underwater.

Preparation and Tips for Winter Activities

To enjoy adventure activities in Fethiye in winter you need to prepare properly. The weather is different from summer, so choosing the right clothes and kit matters.

Dressing in layers is the golden rule. Mornings can be cold, but the temperature changes during the day. Your base layer should wick away sweat, your mid layer should keep you warm and your outer layer should be windproof. Shoes should be waterproof with a non-slip sole.

Water activities may need special kit. If you want to swim on your own in winter, a wetsuit and gloves make it much easier. On boat trips between April and October, life jackets are carried on board. For paragliding, dress warmly: it's much colder at the take-off on Babadağ than down by the sea, and the pilot provides the flying equipment.

Sun cream is needed in winter too, as sunlight reflected off the sea and snow can damage your skin. Sunglasses protect your eyes from the wind, and a waterproof bag keeps your valuables safe.

Health-wise, a check-up with your doctor before winter activities is a good idea. If you have a heart condition, high blood pressure or another chronic illness, tell your guide or pilot. Colds and flu are also more common in winter.

Good sleep and food before an activity are very important. Your body uses more energy in winter, so have a light but nourishing breakfast before you set off. You may drink less than in summer, but make sure you drink enough.

Follow your guide's instructions closely. In winter the weather can change quickly, and guides make the safety calls. Please respect any decision to cancel or postpone a tour.

Who it's for: winter adventure activities are ideal for travellers who want to escape the summer heat and crowds, enjoy a more personal experience and get out into nature in the quieter season.

Conclusion

There are fewer adventure activities in Fethiye in winter than in summer, but in some ways winter has the edge. Fewer crowds, clear air, a calm sea and green countryside make it a great time for an active break.

Paragliding and hiking take on a different feel in winter, while our boat trips, jeep safari and other tours run only from April to October. Winter is a good time to explore the natural beauty and culture of the Muğla region in more depth.

In winter Prime Turist offers tandem paragliding from Babadağ (weather permitting), the ATV safari, Ovacık horse riding and the Rhodes ferry from Fethiye; our boat trips, safari and other tours start again in April. Experienced pilots and safety equipment are provided, and current prices are shown clearly on the website. Start planning your winter adventure in Fethiye.

Fethiye Tourism Guide

Paragliding Safety Standards

Hiking and Trekking Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

What adventure activities can you do in Fethiye in winter? In winter Prime Turist's paragliding flights (weather permitting), ATV safari, Ovacık horse riding and the Rhodes ferry carry on, while our boat trips, jeep safari and other tours run only from April to October. You can also go hiking on your own; it's a lovely time to enjoy the quiet beauty of nature. With milder temperatures than in summer, being outdoors is more comfortable.

Can you go paragliding in Fethiye in winter? Yes. Flights run all year round whenever the weather allows; the best period is between April and November. In winter there are more days when the weather isn't suitable for flying, and on those days your flight is moved to another time or day.

Which hiking routes are good in Fethiye in winter? The trails around Babadağ are great for winter walkers, though the upper slopes can see snow in mid-winter. The cooler weather makes longer treks comfortable, and the paths starting around Ölüdeniz are ideal for enjoying the quiet beauty of nature in winter.

What should we bring for winter activities? Dress in layers to keep warm. A waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes and a hat are essential. Carrying water and energy bars, putting on sun cream and checking the forecast in advance will make your day safer and more enjoyable.