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Kızılırmak River

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River
—°1
Kızılırmak River (Turkey)

Weather…

The Kızılırmak is the longest river flowing entirely within the borders of Turkey, spanning a total length of approximately 1,355 kilometers. It originates in the eastern Anatolian highlands at Mount Kızıldağ in Sivas Province and empties into the Black Sea, forming a vast delta near the town of Bafra. Known in antiquity as the Halys, it famously marked the boundary between the Lydian and Median empires and later served as a significant administrative border. Its name, which translates to 'Red River,' is derived from the iron-rich silt and clay that colors its waters, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall and flooding. The river's drainage basin covers about 78,180 square kilometers, accounting for nearly ten percent of Turkey's total land area. Today, the river is a vital resource for the national economy, supporting large-scale hydroelectric projects like the Altınkaya and Hirfanlı dams and providing irrigation for fertile agricultural plains.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C66811162023242117128
Rain mm734757434238191839596985

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
The river can be accessed at many points across Central and Northern Anatolia, such as near Sivas or at the Black Sea delta. Major roads follow the river's course for long stretches.
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Best season
Spring features the most impressive water levels, while autumn is good for hiking along the northern banks. In summer, the inland sections can become very hot and dry for outdoor activities.
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Terrain & paths
The terrain varies from deep gorges and reservoirs in the upper reaches to vast, flat alluvial areas in the delta. Riverside paths are mostly accessible but can be unpaved in some sections.
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What to bring
Light, breathable clothing and comfortable hiking shoes are sufficient for exploring the river. Near the delta, mosquito repellent is highly recommended due to the extensive wetlands.
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Parking
Parking is available in towns along the river or at specific viewpoints and picnic areas. In the delta region, there are designated parking zones for visitors of the nature reserve.
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Safety
Do not underestimate the current; swimming is dangerous in many places and often prohibited. In canyon areas, be alert for rockfalls and rapidly rising water levels during rainy weather.
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Time needed
A visit to significant spots like historical bridges or the delta takes 2 to 4 hours. A boat trip or an extended hike along the banks can occupy half a day to an entire day of travel.

Geography

Coordinates
41.71670, 35.95000

Facts

  • The total length of the river is 1,355 kilometers.
  • Its drainage basin covers approximately 78,180 square kilometers.
  • The river flows through provinces including Sivas, Kayseri, and Kırşehir.
  • The Altınkaya Dam has an installed capacity of 700 MW.
  • The ancient name Halys means 'salt river' in Greek.
  • The delta near Bafra is an internationally recognized Ramsar site.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Black Sea CoastBlack Sea Coast20 km · WExplore →
KörfezKörfez44 km · NWExplore →
LimanLiman49 km · SExplore →
Mimar SinanMimar Sinan50 km · NWExplore →
DenizevleriDenizevleri52 km · NWExplore →
SamsunSamsun57 km · NWExplore →
CumhuriyetCumhuriyet85 km · SExplore →
SinopSinop93 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Kızılırmak River (1)

Bafra Burnu📍 landmark

A lighthouse at Cape Bafra, near the mouth of the Kızılırmak River.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is special about the Kızılırmak?
It is the longest river flowing entirely within Turkey.
Can you go boating there?
Guided tours are offered on some sections.
Is the surrounding area good for hiking?
Yes, there are beautiful nature trails along the banks.
What is nearby?
Many historic sites and welcoming villages.
When should you visit the river?
In spring and summer during the green season.
Kızılırmak River: where is it located?
Kızılırmak River is located in Turkey.
Kızılırmak River: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.
Kızılırmak River: why is it worth visiting?
The Kızılırmak is the longest river flowing entirely within the borders of Turkey, spanning a total length of approximately 1,355 kilometers.
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Nearby cities

Sivas — Kızılırmak River (Turkey)
Sivas
Sivas is a historical transport hub in Central Anatolia and is famous for its 13th-century Seljuk architecture.
Körfez — Kızılırmak River (Turkey)
Körfez
Körfez is a vibrant coastal area along the Black Sea in Turkey, offering long sandy shores and lively promenades.
Liman — Kızılırmak River (Turkey)
Liman
Liman, situated along the Black Sea coast in Turkey's Samsun province, offers a wonderful blend of maritime activity and natural coastal …
Mimar Sinan — Kızılırmak River (Turkey)
Mimar Sinan
Mimar Sinan is a vibrant coastal neighborhood in Atakum, Samsun, offering beautiful sandy stretches along the Black Sea coast.
Denizevleri — Kızılırmak River (Turkey)
Denizevleri
Denizevleri is a popular seaside neighborhood in Samsun's Atakum district, celebrated for its wide beaches and lively coastal promenade.
Samsun — Kızılırmak River (Turkey)
Samsun
Samsun is one of the most important port cities on the Turkish Black Sea coast.

Nature

Black Sea Coast — Kızılırmak River (Turkey)
Black Sea Coast
A lush green, humid, and steeply sloping coastal region where the Pontic Mountains meet the stormy sea directly.