Turkey's unique canyons enthrall visitors

By Volkan Kasik

MALATYA, Turkey (AA) - The canyons around the Euphrates River in eastern Malatya province are becoming a new favorite tourist destination for nature lovers.

The region, which has steep cliffs formed by breaks in geological periods, is seen as a breakpoint for those who want to get away from the stress of urban life.

The canyons located around the river passing between Malatya and Elazig, have fantastic nature, wildlife and unique flora and fauna.

The width of Saklikapi canyon, which runs along the valley floor of 3 miles (4.5 kilometers), falls to 1.5 feet (0.5 meters) in some places and leaps up to 650 feet (200 meters) in others.

Another ravishing canyon is Karaleylek which is 121 feet (40 kilometers) long.

The canyon has trout facilities, steep cliffs, karst cave formations, historic cave settlements, trees growing from caves and bird species.

Malatya Governor Aydin Barus said the archaeological digs proved people have lived here since the 7000s, before Christ.

"The region is not only home for the ancient civilizations but also a natural wonder that should be brought to the fore with its natural features," he added.

“We need to bring in this place to the tourism sector,” he said. "We especially need to attract the people who love adventure, hiking and water sports to this region.”

* Writing by Fahri Aksut