Rural landscapes of Bodrum attract 100,000 tourists annually through Safari tours during each season
**Bodrum Embraces Nature-Based Tourism, Boosting Local Economy**
Bodrum, a popular resort town nestled in the southwestern province of Muğla, Turkey, is rapidly becoming a hub for nature-based tourism. This shift towards alternative tourism is not only redefining Bodrum's identity as a travel destination but also contributing significantly to the growth of the local economy and the development of sustainable tourism practices.
Approximately 100,000 tourists explore the region's lush countryside and traditional villages each season through eco and adventure tours. These tours provide direct economic benefits to local communities, creating employment opportunities for guides, boat operators, and hospitality workers, and encouraging local crafts and markets.
One of the most popular activities is the Bodrum Dalyan Tour, a full-day river boat excursion along the Dalyan River, renowned for its natural beauty. The tour includes stops at the famous sulfur mud baths, Turtle Beach, and the ancient King Tombs, offering a blend of relaxation, nature appreciation, and historical exploration.
For adventure seekers, Bodrum’s countryside offers quad biking tours that explore the tranquil, mountainous terrain. These off-road adventures provide an adrenaline-filled way to experience nature away from the crowds.
Day cruises and boat trips are another popular choice, offering a combination of natural sightseeing with leisure activities such as swimming and sunbathing. These tours often include island stops and opportunities for snorkeling or diving.
Bodrum also offers nature hikes and wildlife observation tours, promoting eco-tourism by bringing visitors closer to the region’s diverse flora and fauna. Additionally, adventure parks in Camlık villages offer additional eco-friendly activities for tour itineraries.
Mustafa Demir, regional representative chair of the Association of Turkish Travel Agencies (TÜRSAB), noted that tourists are embracing Bodrum’s natural beauty beyond its beaches. He suggested that with proper marketing, Bodrum could host active tourism for nine months of the year.
Tour prices in Bodrum start at 40 euros ($47) and include lunch, transportation, and all-day activities. This affordability, combined with the wide variety of tours on offer, makes Bodrum an attractive destination for tourists from Europe, Africa, and the Arab world.
As Bodrum continues to evolve as a nature-based tourism destination, it is clear that the benefits extend far beyond the tourist season. The shift towards alternative tourism is not only boosting the local economy but also fostering sustainable tourism practices and a deeper appreciation for Bodrum's rich natural landscapes and cultural heritage.
Tourists in Bodrum take pleasure in various nature-based activities, venturing into the lush countryside and traditional villages for eco and adventure tours, a significant factor contributing to the growth of the local economy. These tours offer an adventure-travel blend of relaxation, historical exploration, and natural appreciation, making Bodrum an appealing tourist destination for eco-conscious travelers.
