Manavgat Oymapinar Lake Fish Owl Sunrise Tour

Early Morning Observation on Oymapinar Lake

This sunrise program takes place on Oymapinar Lake, located near Manavgat, within one of the most dramatic canyon landscapes in southern Türkiye. The lake, surrounded by steep cliffs and forested slopes, provides ideal nesting conditions for the Brown Fish Owl (Ketupa zeylonensis).

The lake observation season generally begins around 15 March and ends around 15 July. During this period, Fish Owls remain close to their nesting areas along the rocky lake edges. Outside these dates, the probability of seeing Fish Owls on the lake is extremely low.

This tour is specifically designed around that seasonal window and is not comparable to regular sightseeing boat trips.

How the Observation Is Conducted

Boat-Only Access to Nesting Areas

The tour is conducted by boat at first light. The nesting cliffs visited during the program cannot be accessed by land. There are no walking paths or road connections to these sites.

From the pier, reaching the first nesting area takes approximately 30 minutes by boat. The second nesting area is about 45 minutes further from the first site.

Both areas are visited during the tour, depending on observation success and conditions.

Sunrise Timing

Departure takes place at dawn, when the lake is calm and the light is still soft. The tour concludes no later than 08:30.

Silence is essential during the entire observation period.

Flash photography is strictly prohibited in the low light conditions of early morning.

Smoking is allowed only in the lower section of the boat and must be done in a controlled manner.

Why This Is Different from Regular Boat Trips

On regular daily boat tours operating on Oymapinar Lake, Fish Owls are rarely observed. Those tours are not planned around nesting zones or sunrise timing.

This specialized program is structured specifically to reach known nesting areas at the right time of day.

Participation and Logistics

The tour operates with a minimum of 4 participants. It can also be organized with fewer participants provided that the equivalent of 4 participant fees is paid.

Transfer from the Side region is included for up to 4 participants in the guide’s vehicle.

If the group exceeds 4 participants, additional guests may arrive with their own vehicles by following the guide’s car to the pier.

Meals are not included.

Tea, coffee and water are served on board as part of the program.

FAQ

When is the Fish Owl lake season?

Approximately 15 March to 15 July. Outside this period, sightings on the lake are highly unlikely.

Can nesting areas be reached by land?

No. All nesting areas visited during the tour are accessible only by boat.

What time does the tour end?

The tour finishes no later than 08:30.

Is flash photography allowed?

No. Flash photography is not permitted.

Is a sighting guaranteed?

No. This is a wild species in its natural habitat. Observation depends on environmental conditions and owl behavior.