Tours & Activities in Altinkum-Didim

Surround yourself with natural beauty on a relaxing river cruise from Dalyan. One of Turkey's most pristine beaches is the destination, with stops at the mud baths and a riverside restaurant en route. Ceren, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘Due to the presence of endangered Loggerhead turtles nesting here, Iztuzu Beach is also known as Turtle Beach. The beach was all set to be developed with new resorts in the 1980s, but luckily conservation was prioritised and instead it remains a sanctuary for the endangered turtles. It's a magical spot with very little human interference.' First, we'll meander down the River Dalyan on an eco-friendly boat – which doesn't harm marine life – and have fun smoothing on the anti-ageing clay at the mud baths. Great for glowing skin, it's believed that Cleopatra visited for a pampering soak in the mineral-rich liquid mud. Finish with a dip in the warm sulphur pool before cruising across the river for a freshly prepared lunch of local dishes. Adding a little history and culture to the mix, you'll continue on the riverboat past Lycian Rock Tombs carved into the cliffs, dating back to 400BC. At the point where the river widens into a lagoon, you'll have the chance to spot birdlife before docking at Iztuzu Beach. The 4km sweep of golden sand divides the river from the sea, a natural oasis which is a true haven for wildlife. Sheltered by mountains, the beach shelves gently into a calm bay where an afternoon of pure relaxation beckons. Round off your day with the return river cruise to Dalyan.

Follow timeworn paths trodden by the ancients during this tour of Ephesus and Sirince. The classical Greek city of Ephesus was the location of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World – the Temple of Artemis. We'll tour the site with a guide, then visit the pretty mountain village of Sirince. Gökhan, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘The Library of Celsus was built as a mausoleum to Tiberius Julius Celsus Polemaeanus, and could hold 12,000 scrolls. Austrian archaeologists restored it in the 1970s to its current state, and it is easy to imagine scholars studying here.'This tour takes you into sun-soaked hills clad with olive groves to discover one of the most extensive and complete archaeological sites in the world. On arrival at Ephesus, you'll follow marble-paved streets to gaze at mosaics in ancient Roman houses and admire epoch-defining buildings such as the Library of Celsus, the Temple of Hadrian and the Grand Theatre. With your guide to explain the historical context, you'll get more from your visit.After a thorough exploration of Ephesus, we'll make our way to charming Sirince. It's a little less ancient, but a sense of yesteryear permeates in this mountainside village. Here, you'll have lunch at a typical restaurant before enjoying some free time to stroll along its cobbled streets. Browse the local shops for a souvenir, sip a genuine Turkish coffee in a café, or seek out the local fruit wine – the pomegranate is a popular one.

Ready to relax? Then escape the hustle and bustle and head out into the Aegean on this relaxing cruise. You'll spend the day gliding along the coastline around Altinkum, passing sandy beaches, seaside resorts and hideaway bays. What's more, you'll enjoy lunch on-board.

Just across the water from Turkey is the Greek island of Kos. Known for its beautiful sandy beaches and classical antiquities, a catamaran ride will take you to its capital, Kos town where you'll have the day to explore on your own.Prepare to be charmed by the town, where ancient and modern sit side by side. Dip into the shops and boutiques in the streets behind the harbour or sip coffees in the square, admiring the huge plane tree – it's said that Hippocrates held lessons under it 2,400 years ago. And admire the sea views from the battlements of the 15th century Knights fortress. History lovers will also want to see nearby Asklepieion. One of Greece's most important classical sites, its marble temples mark where the world's first hospital once stood.Or if you fancy some R&R, take your pick of the town's beaches. It shores are laced with sandy sweeps perfect for getting in some sunbathing and swimming before your catamaran ride back. And remember, you'll need to cross the borders — sometimes with lengthy security and passport checks — between Turkey and Greece in this tour, so valid passport or photo ID is needed.

Colourful sea life and good visibility make Turkey's waters ideal for scuba diving. The seas here teem with tiny fish and there's a good chance of spotting creatures like parrotfish, octopus and even stingrays. So why not zip on a wetsuit and give it a try?

Relax into your holiday and kick-start your tan with a Turkish bath or hamam. These places have existed in Turkey for centuries and for good reason – they're a serious refresher for the mind, body and soul. They're also great for tanning – exfoliating your skin to help boost your bronzing.

This day trip to Kusadasi offers you the chance to discover of the most famous resorts on Turkey's Aegean coast. As well as enticing beaches, you'll find castles, mosques and shopping opportunities to tempt your curiosity. We'll pick you up from your hotel and drop you off in centre, where you'll be free to do as you choose.

If it's thrills and spills you're after, this waterpark will keep them coming. Packed with ornate gardens, sunbed space and plenty of attractions, it's the biggest of its kind in Turkey. Think slides, rides, chutes and pools, there's enough adventure here to keep everyone happy.

One of the best shopping experiences on the Aegean coast is also one of its best-kept secrets. The night market at Mavisehir, a lovely resort on the opposite end of the Altinkum peninsula, is not just a great spot to grab a bargain, it's also buzzing with activity. Browse, haggle, taste and maybe even buy.

Pamukkale is spectacular seen from the ground – but even better with bird's eye views. See one of Turkey's top natural treasures from above with this hot air balloon experience. You'll need to rise and shine well before sunrise, but it's all worth it. Soar over the cotton-white calcium terraces before touching down to visit the Roman ruins of Hierapolis, too.

Buckle up for a family-friendly adventure that's as unique as your crew. This 4x4 tour through Didim features water fights, off-road rallies as well as breaks for swimming. Meet the horses at a local ranch, before tucking into a Turkish feast at lunch. The afternoon continues with more water fun and a stop by a beach to wind down. You'll go home with stories that'll be the highlight of dinner conversations.

Adrenaline seekers will love this quad adventure. After a quick safety briefing, you'll strap in for both on-road and off-road trails and tracks. Spend two hours whizzing through Didim, with a quick break for photos at the Apollo Temple. Choose between a morning or afternoon session, with expert instructors leading the way.

Hop on a catamaran to sail from Turkey to the Greek island of Kos. Explore the island's capital, Kos town, at your own pace – dip into shops and boutiques, sip a coffee by Hippocrates' legendary plane tree, and snap up sea views from the 15th-century Knights fortress. History buffs can't miss the nearby Asklepieion. For a bit of relaxation, choose from the town's beautiful beaches for summing and sunbathing before your catamaran ride back. Don't forget your passport or ID for border checks between Turkey and Greece.