Turkey's New Canyon and Thermal Hotspots Boost Tourist Visits

The "Kırmızı Periler Diyarı" in Narman, Erzurum, with its striking red‑toned valleys, is being compared to the U.S. Grand Canyon and is drawing both domestic and international tourists, especially photographers and adventure travelers.

On the border of Akören and Bozkır districts in Konya, the Mavi Boğaz Kanyonu was designated a nature park in 2021. Covering about 530 ha and stretching roughly 35 km, the canyon features the Çarşamba River whose water colour shifts with the seasons, making it a popular spot for camping, caravanning and nature sightseeing.

In Diyarbakır’s Çermik district, officials are gearing up for the upcoming thermal‑tourism season. Meetings with hotel and pension owners aim to raise service standards and improve facilities to attract more local and foreign visitors.

Pamukova yayla in Sakarya, situated at 780 metres altitude, offers an artificial lake surrounded by pine forests. The scenic setting and tranquil atmosphere have made it a favoured destination for hikers, photographers and those seeking a natural retreat.