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Description
Ihlara Valley is a spectacular canyon carved by the Melendiz River, creating a rare mix of flowing water, tall cliffs, woodland, and sheltered valley habitats in the heart of Central Anatolia. This combination makes it one of the richest birding areas in the region.
The river and dense vegetation attract species such as virtavästäräkki, koskikara, kuningaskalastaja and silkkikerttunen. The canyon walls and open skies are excellent for raptors, with hiirihaukka, arohiirihaukka, pikkutuulihaukka and occasionally huuhkaja recorded in the area. Woodland and scrub along the trail host birds like mustarastas, talitiainen, sinitiainen, pähkinänakkeli, punarinta, harmaahaikara, ruokokerttunen and various warblers. During spring and autumn migration, the valley becomes a natural corridor for many passage species.
What makes Ihlara Valley special is its contrast. You walk deep below the plateau, surrounded by steep rock walls and greenery, with constant bird activity along the river. The sound of flowing water, shade from trees, and dramatic scenery make birding here immersive and rewarding.
Details
Access
Ihlara Valley is located in Aksaray Province, around 40 km from Aksaray city centre. The main entrances are near Ihlara village and Belisırma village. By car, the valley is easy to reach, with well-marked roads and parking areas at the main entrances. Parking is available near the stair access points leading down into the canyon. Press P on the map for directions.
Public transport runs between Aksaray and Ihlara village, but services may be limited. From Ihlara or Belisırma village, you can walk directly to the valley entrances.
The valley is best explored on foot. The walking route follows the river through the canyon and includes steps, dirt paths and wooden walkways. For birdwatching, allow 3–4 hours, especially if you want to move slowly and scan cliffs and riverbanks. The walking route shown on the map is about 7 km there and back.
Terrain and Habitat
River , Valley , Canyon/cliff , Scattered trees and bushes , Wetland , GrasslandConditions
Hilly , Rocky , WetCircular trail
YesIs a telescope useful?
Can be usefulGood birding season
Autumn , Spring , SummerBest time to visit
Autumn migration , Spring migration , SpringRoute
Unpaved road , Narrow trail , Wide pathDifficulty walking trail
Average walkAccessible by
FootBirdwatching hide / platform
NoExtra info
Early morning is the best time for birding, before visitor numbers increase. Some sections of the path can be slippery, especially near the river, so sturdy walking shoes are recommended. Water, snacks and sun protection are useful, even though much of the trail is shaded.
Ihlara Valley is also an excellent location for bird photography, combining close views of river birds with dramatic canyon backgrounds. The area is popular with hikers, but the length of the valley means it rarely feels crowded once you move away from the main entrances.
Links
- Google Maps – Ihlara Valley
- Aksaray tourism information
- Aksaray region on eBird
- Ihlara Vadisi eBird hotspot