Lake Salda, in the Yeşilova district of Burdur province, is known as “the Maldives of Turkey” for its white shores and turquoise water. NASA compared minerals on its shore with Jezero Crater on Mars, so the lake is also known to scientists.
Where it is and how to get there
- From Denizli Çardak Airport: about 55 km, 50 minutes. The closest airport to the lake.
- From Pamukkale: about 1.5 hours, so you can visit both on the same day.
- From Denizli city centre: about 1.5 hours.
Public transport to the lake is limited; you can take a bus to Yeşilova and a taxi from there, but it takes time. Most visitors come by car, on a tour or with a transfer from Çardak Airport to Lake Salda.
Can you swim in Lake Salda?
The lake has been a special environmental protection area since 2019. On its best-known shore, the White Islands, entering the water, swimming and using the beach have been banned since 2020. There are designated entry points around the lake where swimming is allowed. Rules can change, so follow the signs on the shore, do not go into the water where it is not marked, and take care where there is no lifeguard.
When to go
- June to September: best for swimming; the water is cool.
- Spring and autumn: fewer people and lovely for photos, but the water is cold.
- The turquoise is brightest on sunny days, around midday.
What to bring
Water shoes (the shore is hard and slippery in places), sunscreen, a hat and water. There is little shade around the lake. Because it is a protected area, take your rubbish with you and leave the white stones and sand where they are.
Salda and Pamukkale in one day
Go to Salda early in the morning and head to Pamukkale in the afternoon, or the other way round; ending the day with sunset in Pamukkale is the nicest option. For a guided day, see our Lake Salda tour, and for Pamukkale, our Pamukkale and Hierapolis guide.