Kaplumbaga Kayaliklari – Private rock climbing tour for beginners and Intermediates in Istanbul

Kaplumbaga Kayaliklari – Turtle cliffs is the first place for rock climbing near to city center of Istanbul. The area was explored by painter Emin Turan in 2015. Then Sonmez Erkaya and Oruc Karacik started their studies with the idea that this area might be suitable for rock climbing.

The presence of two small turtle during the studies inspired them to name this place. These cliffs are very close to the beach. We usually swim here after a long climbing day in the summer.

As the routes are new, please pay attention to their cleaning and maintenance. Do not try to climb when it is rainy and the rocks are wet. There are currently 10 Sports Climbing Routes in the region. Difficulty levels typically weigh between 5 and 8 degrees.

 No previous experience is necessary to join this trip. Whether you’re a complete beginner or have only climbed indoors, you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve under the guidance of our expert instructors. We handle all the technical details, from knots to belaying, using a safe Top-Rope system. Your only task is to enjoy the climb and the breathtaking valley view.

While we primarily offer small, personalized group tours for an intimate experience, we are also happy to arrange larger events for clubs or corporate teams. Contact us today to check availability for your next adventure in Kaplumbaga Kayaliklari.

Rates

Max 5 people – Contact us to arrange extra guides for larger groups

Group Size	Total Fee	Per Person
1 Person (Solo)	– EUR	– EUR
2 Persons	– EUR	– EUR
3 Persons	– EUR	– EUR
4 Persons	– EUR	– EUR
5 Persons (Max)	– EUR	– EUR

Included Services

What’s Included

Professional Guiding
All Climbing Equipment
Safety Instructions

What to Bring

Comfortable clothes & socks
Sunscreen & Hat
Snacks & Water
Swimsuit (Optional)

Meeting Points

Haciosman Metro Station.

First Time? No Problem!

You don’t need any prior experience or strength to start. We use the Top-Rope system, the safest climbing method worldwide. Your guide will handle all the safety gear while you focus on the fun and the view!

Meeting Point

📍 Where Will We Meet?

Haciosman Metro Station. We will meet here and will go to the area by public transport.

camping

Can I camp in the park to extend my stay?

Yes, absolutely! For those who want to turn their climbing trip into a full outdoor adventure, we offer overnight camping options right in the heart of the national park.

Extended Experience: Camping allows for a guaranteed 2-day climbing program, giving you more time to master the routes and enjoy the nature.
Camping Service: 30 EUR per person.
Gear Rental: Don’t have your own gear? No problem. We can provide a complete camping set (including tent, sleeping mat, and sleeping bag) for an additional 30 EUR.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions:

Who can join? Is it suitable for children?

Our tours are open to everyone, including little adventurers! Rock climbing is a fantastic family activity. No prior experience or “elite” fitness is needed. As long as children are motivated to try, we have routes perfectly suited for different ages and sizes. It’s all about having fun and moving at your own pace.

How long does the trip last?

We offer both full-day excursions and full-weekend options depending on your preference.

When is the best time to visit?

The park is suitable for climbing year-round. However, March-June and September-November are considered the optimal periods for the best weather conditions.

Where is Kaplumbaga Kayaliklari located?

Address: Demirci, 34450 Sariyer/İstanbul. You can find the location on Google Maps here. Entrance to the park is free of charge.

Are there food and shopping options nearby?

There are restaurants around the beach. Food & Beverage might be expensive compared to other places in the city. There is toilet in restaurant near beach.

Can I bring my own climbing equipment?

Yes, absolutely. While we provide all necessary safety equipment, you are more than welcome to use your own gear.

What should I bring with me?

You will need sun protection cream, comfortable outdoor clothes, sturdy shoes, and thin socks. The area is very close to the beach. We usually swim here after a long climbing day in the summer. So its good idea to bring your swim suit and towel along with you if you would like to swim.

What is the cancellation and refund policy?

Cancellations made 48 hours prior to arrival are fully refundable. Please note that refunds are not issued for weather, traffic, or other unforeseeable conditions. We recommend checking the local forecast in advance.

Do I need to know climbing commands?

We use standard climbing calls for safety and communication. We recommend taking a quick look at these commands in advance to ensure better coordination on the rocks.

Ask Guide Availability:

Please check the guide’s availability and confirm a meeting point via WhatsApp before booking. Sönmez Erkaya Whatsapp Number: +905553188029

Booking:

Turtle Cliffs is currently closed and unavailable for use. Therefore, new bookings are not being accepted. Please inquire about alternative locations.

About the Guide – Sönmez Erkaya

Mountaineering Federation of Turkey Trainer (3rd tier certification), Sport Climbing Trainer, Referee and Route Maker (2nd tier certification), He has Emergency First Aid and Rescue certifications, Rafting Trainer and Diving certifications. He has been guiding since 2008.

For many years, he has been continuing mountaineering and rock climbing together. There have been activities in almost all mountains of our country and abroad as follows…
Agri, Resko, Suphan, Aladaglar, Kackarlar, Erciyes, Hasandagi, Sultan Mountains, Giden Gelmez Mountains, Ilgaz, Uludag, Erek, Palandoken, Bolkarlar, Dedegol, Taurus Mountains etc.
Abroad… Korjenevskaya, Ismail Somoni (Ex-name Communism), Peak Lenin, Khan Tengri, Kilimanjaro, Demavend, Elbrus, Kazbek, Mont Blanc, Materhorn, Jungfrau (first Turkish climb), Wissechijen (first Turkish climb).
in 2018 he joined Turkish Alpine Club’s National High Altitude Climbing Team and completed climbing of Korzhenevskaya (7105 m) & Communism peak (7495 m.) successfully.

He is still an instructor and mentor in many institutions, organizations, schools (universities, colleges), associations, sports complexes. His interviews, articles and news have been published in some magazines and newspapers. Rock climbing, education and teaching programs have been broadcasted on nearly 10 TV channels. In places like Ballikayalar, Harmankaya and Zekeriyakoy, he has opened nearly 70 sports routes in climbing sectors.

He is the founder and chairman of Klosdag mountaineering club. He is a father to a girl. The philosophy of himself is based on the principle of “learning and teaching…” He continues his work and development actively.