Pamukkale (cotton castle) is so named after the white calcified rock formations that stand sentinel above the little town. Unique to this planet, the only other similar rock formations are at Yellowstone Park in the United States. Those rocks are formed yellow and not white, but are of similar origin. Thus you are visiting one of the rarest sights in the world and you will feel that magic even when you see the rocks from a distance.
You will be taken to two ancient sites, the ancient Necropolis and the Roman city of Hierapolis. Both sites, though not as large or well known as their neighbouring Ephesus, are equally as fascinating and well preserved. You will be able to sit in the large Roman theatre and test its accoustics for yourself. The ancient Temple of Apollo is also on this itinerary. There is also the Martyrion of the the Apostle Paul at this site, and so much more.
If your feet are tired and you are in need of a refreshing break, Cleopatras Pool is waiting for you, with its soothing, thermal waters you can relax, queenlike, where the famous lady herself once bathed, when she stayed in Hierappolis. For some this is the highlight of their day and certainly something to brag about when you get home.
In 2024, price of Pamukkale Day Trip is 60 € for adults, 40 € for children between age 4 and 7, free for children under 4 years old.
Type | Age | Price |
---|---|---|
Adult | 8 years and older | €60 |
Child | 4 — 7 years old | €40 |
Infant | 0 — 3 years old | Free |
With your professional English speaking guide at hand you wont miss a thing. Our guides are qualified with a vast knowledge of this area and are ready to answer any questions you may have. The tours start from 09:30 and last until 15:30. You will be picked up form Pamukkale, Karahayit or Denizli City Centre at the start of your tour, by air conditioned transport and greeted on board by your guide for the day. If you are staying in Denizli centre please contact us for more information on how you can join the tour.
Your tour will begin with a visit to the thermal waters at Karahayit surrounded by crimson cliffs that gain their colour from the iron contained within. Here you are welcome to paddle in the water heated by the Earth.
From here you will make your way to the Northerly gate of Pamukkale where you will see the ruins of the ancient city of Hieropolis and pay your respects in the necropolis or cemetery that is filled with well preserved sarcophogi as well as mound graves.
A delicious and welcome buffet lunch will be served after your morning in Hierapolis, of which your Guide will give you details.
Your afternoon will include free time on the travertines if you so wish, swimming and relaxing in the blue pools continually being formed over the rocks. You will see where the calcified water flow will have been deflected to form new rock pools over time. To look out over the Pamukkale region from these rocks will amaze and transport you to a different time in history, knowing that for centuries, since a time before christianity, people have been coming to this amazing city and taking the healing waters and there you are.
As your day draws to a close you will meet your guide at a designated point, in order to return to your coach and your onward journey back to the original pick up point, having experienced the unique experience of Pamukkale, its hidden ancient city and soothing rock pools, a day you are unlikely to forget.
Cost of Pamukkale day Tour is 60 € for adults, 40 € for children between age 4 and 7, free for children under 4 years old in 2024.
Most of the pools are shallow, with a chalky soil. This soil renders them non slippery so therefore easy to accommodate barefoot. Shoes are not allowed when walking on the travertines, nor are flip flops. This helps to maintain their whiteness and attractiveness, and must be strictly adhered to. The rocks are non slippery despite the fact that they look like ice, and are relatively easy for most people to climb. If you do see a green algae in the water or along the slopes, know that this is slippery and should be stepped on with caution, or even avoided.
Younger children may find the rock pool areas difficult so discretion is advised if you are bringing particularly young children with you. This said average 7 year olds are able to run up and down much faster than the average adult!
This tour is suitable for the whole family, singles or groups. Even families with younger children will have a great day out. Age and suitability is discretionary, though it should be mentioned this tour is not for anyone experiencing walking difficulties.
Every day throughout the year numbers and weather permitting. Pick up time at approximate 09:00 and return at approximately 18:00.
Towel and swimsuits for the rock pools and for Cleopatra Pool (optional extra), a good sun cream as you will be exposed to the Anatolian sunshine throughout most of the day. Sunglasses and camera highly advised with so many amazing photo opportunities, and some money for purchasing keepsakes or refreshments, other than your buffet lunch, which is covered in your purchase price.
Transfer to and from your hotel is included, by air conditioned coach and, likewise the services of your professional English speaking Guide and driver. Entrance to Pamukkale plus your open buffet lunch and of course all our tours are fully insured for your peace of mind. Please note that you will be asked to prsent your childs passport at the museum entries. This is to confirm their age nothing more.