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A beach squeezed between high cliffs, a green valley behind it and turquoise sea… Butterfly Valley is on every Ölüdeniz visitor’s list. But its most striking feature is that it isn’t easy to reach: there is no road down to it, and the most practical way is by sea. In this guide we explain every way to get from Ölüdeniz to Butterfly Valley, with the pros and cons of each.
- The easiest way is by boat from Ölüdeniz; the ride takes about 30 minutes.
- Options: scheduled boats, a taxi boat or daily boat tours that stop at the valley.
- There is an entry fee for the valley; it is updated seasonally.
- The steep footpath down from Faralya is dangerous and not recommended.
Where is Butterfly Valley?
Butterfly Valley lies below the village of Faralya (Uzunyurt) near Fethiye, on the coast where Babadağ drops steeply into the sea. South of Ölüdeniz, this cove is the seaward mouth of a narrow valley flanked by high cliffs. It is protected for its natural value and takes its name from the butterfly species seen in the valley, especially in summer.
Option 1: Scheduled boats from Ölüdeniz
In the summer season there are regular boat services from Ölüdeniz to Butterfly Valley throughout the day. Most visitors who go this way spend a few hours in the valley and come back on a later boat.
- Pro: You can stay in the valley as long as you like.
- Watch out: Always find out the time of the last return boat. On rough days services may be disrupted.
Option 2: Flexible transport by taxi boat
The taxi boat is a flexible option for anyone who wants to get to the valley without being tied to a timetable. It is especially practical for small groups and for avoiding the busy hours. It can be planned one-way or return.
- Pro: The time and plan are up to you; less waiting.
- Watch out: Agree on the pick-up time and point for the return.
Option 3: A daily boat tour
Many Ölüdeniz boat tours include Butterfly Valley on their route. The stop in the valley is shorter on these tours, but during the day you also see other coves such as the Blue Cave and Soğuksu Bay. For choosing a route, see our boat tour guide.
- Pro: Several coves and swim stops in one day.
- Watch out: Time in the valley is limited; it may not be enough if you want to walk to the waterfall.
Comparison
| Method | Time in the valley | Flexibility | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scheduled boat | Long (depends on the return boat) | Medium | Those who want to spend the day in the valley |
| Taxi boat | Up to you | High | Small groups, those who want a flexible plan |
| Boat tour | Short stop | Low | Those who want to see several coves |
| Footpath (Faralya) | — | — | Not recommended |
Why isn’t the footpath recommended?
The path down from Faralya village to the valley is very steep and rocky, with sections where you descend with the help of ropes. Even experienced hikers find it difficult, and there have been serious accidents on it in the past. Don’t use this path, especially in the summer heat, without proper footwear and equipment, with children or on your own. The safe way to reach the valley is by sea.
What to do in the valley
- Beach and sea: Swim and relax on the beach at the mouth of the valley.
- Walk to the waterfall: A path leads to a waterfall at the back of the valley. Wear suitable shoes for the slippery stones.
- Watching butterflies: The best time to see butterflies is usually summer. Don’t touch the butterflies and respect their habitat.
- The view: Approaching the valley from the sea, the height of the cliffs is impressive in itself; don’t forget to record the moment from the boat.
When to go
The sea is usually calmer in the morning, and the valley gets busier towards midday. Going on an early boat and returning in the afternoon gives you a more comfortable crossing and a quieter valley. On choppy days the boat ride can be bumpy; if you get seasick, sit at the back of the boat and look at the horizon. For a general month-by-month overview, see our best time guide.
What to bring
- Cash for the valley entry fee (check payment methods in advance)
- Plenty of water and snacks
- Non-slip shoes or water shoes for the waterfall walk
- Sun cream, a hat
- A waterproof case for your phone
As soon as you arrive in the valley, confirm your return time, your phone’s battery and the boat’s pick-up point. Phone signal can be weak in the valley.
Final word
Butterfly Valley is one of the most special stops of an Ölüdeniz holiday, and the most enjoyable way there is by sea. For flexible transport, consider our taxi boat from Belcekız Beach, or our boat tour covering several coves. To see Ölüdeniz’s other highlights, have a look at our 20 things to do in Ölüdeniz.
Planning water sports in Ölüdeniz?
