Manavgat Fish Owl Tour: A Unique Birdwatching Experience
Price: € 200 ( $ 234 / € 200 / ₺ 10,280 / £ 173)
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Prices may vary by season. Add-ons, if available, are listed on the next page.
Key Activity Features
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Starting Location: Side
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Available Days: Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
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Total Duration (Including Transfers): 4 Hours
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Guiding & Support: English , Turkish
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Booking Confirmation: Immediate Approval.
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Voucher Type: Both Printed and Mobile Accepted.
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Online Booking: Quick, Easy, and Secure.
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Cancellation policy: Flexible
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Fast-Track Entry: No Waiting in Line.
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Tour ID: 33
Why This Tour Is Worth Choosing
— Europe’s rarest owl species in its only habitat
— Fully licensed and permit-based birdwatching
— Dawn lake or night mountain observation options
— Expert guides with long-term field experience
— Strict wildlife protection and ethical observation
— Designed exclusively for dedicated bird watchers
What to Expect
Discover the Rare Brown Fish Owl Near Manavgat
The Brown Fish Owl is one of Europe’s rarest and most elusive bird species — and its only known European population lives in Turkey. Near Manavgat, within strictly protected wildlife areas, this extraordinary owl survives in remote mountain valleys and freshwater ecosystems. Observing it in the wild is a privilege that requires expert knowledge, legal permits, and deep respect for nature.
Since 2011, Vigo Tours has been organizing licensed, permit-based birdwatching experiences that allow dedicated bird watchers to observe the Brown Fish Owl ethically and responsibly in its natural habitat.
Why the Brown Fish Owl Is So Rare
The Brown Fish Owl is classified as endangered on a European scale — with habitat loss and human disturbance posing the greatest threats to its survival. Its nocturnal behavior, sensitivity to sound and light, and preference for untouched freshwater environments make sightings exceptionally rare.
Turkey — particularly the Antalya, Manavgat, and Akseki regions — hosts the only confirmed European population, making this area uniquely important for conservation-focused birdwatching.
Legal Protection and Wildlife Reserve Rules
The Üzümdere region is a legally protected Wildlife Reserve — entering the area or searching for the Brown Fish Owl without official permission is strictly forbidden by law.
Unauthorized access results in heavy fines and potential legal action.
Vigo Tours:
— Holds a valid birdwatching license
— Arranges all required official permits
— Includes all permits in the tour price
This ensures both your safety and the long-term protection of the species.
Observation Options — Choose Your Experience
Lake Observation — Private Dawn Boat Trip
— Operates with a minimum of 4 participants
— Conducted at sunrise on calm freshwater lakes
— Available seasonally between April and June
— Ideal for observing feeding behavior in low light
Night Observation — Guided Torchlight Walk
— Operates with a minimum of 2 participants
— Starts from 9:00 PM
— Conducted on foot with controlled torchlight use
— Focuses on mountain habitats and river valleys
Both options are designed to minimize disturbance and maximize ethical observation.
Tour Highlights
Natural Habitat Exploration
Observe the Brown Fish Owl in untouched landscapes around Antalya, Manavgat, and Akseki — far from mass tourism and artificial environments.
Expert-Led Birdwatching
Tours are guided by specialists who have been following and studying Brown Fish Owls for many years — ensuring accurate identification and responsible observation.
Silence and Respect
Participants must remain quiet and avoid sudden movements — as owls are extremely sensitive to sound and light.
Flexible Observation Styles
Choose between tranquil lake observation at dawn or nighttime mountain observation using torchlight.
Important Participation Rules
⚠️ This tour is specifically designed for bird watchers.
Friends, family members, or children who are not bird enthusiasts should not join.
This rule exists to:
— Maintain silence and discipline
— Avoid unnecessary disturbance
— Protect the owl’s natural behavior
Tour Details
Duration
— Approximately 5 hours — including transportation
Schedule
— Available on selected dates only — depending on season and wildlife conditions
Activity Level
— Moderate
— Guests with walking difficulties may wait in the vehicle during walking sections
Photography
— Possible but not guaranteed
— Depends entirely on participants’ night photography skills and equipment
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Wildlife Experience
Observing the Brown Fish Owl is not about speed or certainty — it is about patience, awareness, and respect. Every tour is conducted with the highest ethical standards, prioritizing the welfare of the species over visibility.
Vigo Tours offers a rare opportunity to experience one of Europe’s most endangered birds — legally, responsibly, and with expert guidance.
Bird Watching Tours in Side and Demirkazık
Explore birdwatching in Side and join a dedicated 2-day tour to Demirkazık. Learn more at: https://vigotours.com/side-turkey/bird-watching-tour-from-side-turkey and https://vigotours.com/side-turkey/2-day-bird-watching-tour-to-demirkazik
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to observe the Brown Fish Owl on my own?
No — the Üzümdere region is a protected Wildlife Reserve. Entering without official permission is illegal and punishable by fines and legal action.
Are permits included in the tour price?
Yes — Vigo Tours arranges all necessary permits, and they are fully included in the tour price.
Is a sighting guaranteed?
No — this is a wild animal in its natural habitat. Sightings depend on weather, season, and the owl’s behavior.
Can children join the tour?
No — this tour is strictly for dedicated bird watchers only.
What is the best season for lake observation?
Lake observation is available between April and June, when conditions are most suitable.
Is photography allowed?
Yes — but success depends on your night photography skills and equipment.
What should I wear?
Quiet, dark-colored clothing and comfortable walking shoes are strongly recommended.
How physically demanding is the tour?
The activity level is moderate — participants with walking difficulties may remain in the vehicle during walking sections.
Contact Vigo Tours to join this exceptional birdwatching experience near Manavgat — and witness one of Europe’s rarest owls in its last stronghold.
What’s Included in the Price
- Price: Night observation requires a minimum of 2 participants
- Price: Lake observation requires a minimum of 4 participants
- Transfers: A maximum of 4 participants can be accommodated
- Food and beverages
- Hotel accommodation
- Additional persons
Pickup Information
Meeting Point
Important Information Before You Go
Discover the Brown Fish Owl Near Manavgat with Vigo Tours
Experience the rare opportunity to observe the Brown Fish Owl (Ketupa zeylonensis) in its natural habitat with expert guidance and licensed tours by Vigo Tours.
Tour Highlights:
- Night Observation: Conducted with specialized lantern light to maximize viewing success.
- Licensed and Permitted Tours: Operated under official permits from Türkiye Nature Conservation and National Parks authorities.
- Boat Observation: Early morning tours on the dam lake to locate nesting sites near Manavgat.
- Controlled Viewing Environment: No camera flashes or personal torches to minimize disturbance.
- Expert Guidance: Experienced guides lead ethical and effective observation sessions.
⚠️ Important Notes:
- Following the guide and maintaining silence is crucial for a successful observation.
- Unauthorized entry into owl habitats is prohibited and can result in penalties.
- Observation by boat on the lake starts at sunrise and concludes no later than 08:30 - 09:00.
Observation Details:
- Night Tours: Lanterns are used for discreet observation, ensuring minimal disruption to the owls.
- Lake Tours: Begin before sunrise and focus on one or two nesting areas, depending on initial success.
- Photography: Flash photography is prohibited; results depend on night shooting skills.
- Habitat: Brown Fish Owls are found in Antalya, Manavgat, and Akseki surroundings.
Why Vigo Tours?
- Possesses an observation license for all permit-required areas.
- Contributes to conservation through observation taxes for each participant.
- Provides respectful and memorable wildlife encounters.
Discover the elusive Brown Fish Owl with Vigo Tours. Reserve your spot now for an unforgettable experience!
Tour Program & Schedule
Fish Owl Observation Tour – Explore Ketupa Zeylonensis in Its Natural Habitat
Discover the majestic Brown Fish Owl (Ketupa zeylonensis) in its natural surroundings near Manavgat. Choose from two observation options: an early morning boat tour on the serene dam lake or a nighttime lantern-guided walk along a mountain stream. The tour locations are carefully selected based on seasonal conditions and the behavior of the owls, ensuring the best chance for sightings. Join this unique experience to witness one of Europe’s rarest bird species in its habitat.
Prices & Availability
02 January 2026 / 15 December 2026 - Price
| Location | Night Obs. XX | Lake Obs. XX |
|---|---|---|
| Side | € 200.0 | € 450.0 |
| Add-ons / Extras | Price |
|---|---|
| Add. pers. night obs. | € 50.0 |
| Add. pers. lake obs. | € 100.0 |
WhatsApp?
Contact us quickly via WhatsApp!Have a question?
Hello, Thank you very much for contacting us. We did 1 of our last 3 tours by boat on the lake, and 1 male adult, and a juveline were seen at the mouth of the nest (May 24). On the edge of a stream in the mountains, 2 juveniles were seen in the last 2 tours (Wednesday at 21:15 and last night at 21:45). It is difficult but not impossible to see fish owls for about 2 weeks when the chicks hatch in early May (from May 5). For 2 pairs on the lake; Their habitat was slightly damaged but they were not affected by the wildfire. They just became harder to see for a while. Now the situation appears to be back to normal. Best regards, Vigo Tours
Arto Ahvenainen
(4.8)
Hi Thanks Mehmet for a good tour. Unfortunately the fish owl did not show this time. However the tour was fun and we did try a lot.
Martin Rey Pellitero
(3.0)
Great effort from the guide, he picked us up at 19h and we returned 03:30, but he failed to locate owl
Reply from Vigo Tours: Thank you very much for your review!
Thank you very much for your feedback. We would like to kindly clarify that the guide did indeed take you to the exact location where the owl had been observed previously, and thanks to his torchlight and experience, the owl was successfully located and seen during the tour. We're very glad you had the chance to witness this rare bird, and we truly appreciate your participation in the experience.
Fantana Ciprian
(5.0)FIsh Owl
I booked the Brown Fish Owl night tour for mid July. The guide was punctual and it is clear that he knows his birds. After a search of app 2.5 hours a bird (or perhaps 2 different individuals) has been spotted twice and offered good views. An amazing experience with a mythical beast. Recommended for bird afficionados.
Michael Noonan
(5.0)
Fantastic trip! After a bit of work we managed great views of this wonderful bird. Well worth the price, everything very well organised
Mike King
(5.0)Brown Fish Owl night tour
Although ultimately unsuccessful we had a good evening looking for Brown Fish Owl with Mehmet. The owl had just gone missing for a few nights which was no fault of anyone. Mehmet searched with my wife and I until midnight trying very hard to find the owl for us. Even Scops Owl wasn't responding probably due to the cold. I will return soon and will use Vigo Tours again.
Mark Mckeown
(5.0)
Mehmet knows his stuff and has great regard for the welfare of the Brown Fish Owl. Hello tried very hard for us to see it and we did
Tom chinnick
(5.0)Brown fish owl
Excellent This trip really did live up to expectation. The weather was not great, but my guide persevered and we got brilliant views and photographs of BFO. Extremely friendly, knowledge guide- highly recommended Thank you
Gabriel Leite
(5.0)Great guide and tour
Ótimo tour. O guia muito esforçado. Não parou até encontrarmos a coruja. Ainda paramos em outros locais e vimos mais duas espécies. Conhece muito bem a região.
Yusuf Caner
(5.0)Amazzzinng
Owls are awesome. Thanks vigotours!
9 Overall Rating
Total: (9 Review)
9 Review Summary
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