Antalya launches astro tourism initiative

Antalya has launched a new form of alternative tourism known as ‘astro tourism’ to help extend the region's tourist season beyond the traditional sea, sand, and sun model to a full 12 months.

Cem Karaca, the founder of the Sandland Sand Sculpture Festival, introduced the initiative by creating the ‘Astro Safari Caravan.’ This mobile unit is equipped with professional telescopes designed to allow tourists to observe the Sun, Moon, Saturn, Jupiter, and various stars. The project was inspired by the growing interest in space, the presence of a major international observatory in Bakırlıtepe, and the upcoming Space Congress in Turkey.

The inaugural event took place at the Düden Waterfall, where local and foreign tourists participated in Moon observations. The initiative aims to provide unique experiences for visitors and enhance the international promotion of Antalya and Turkey through diverse tourism offerings.