🏃 Best Ultra Marathon Routes in Turkey + 2025 Race Calendar

Turkey Ultra Marathon Guide 2025: Best Races, Routes & Travel Tips

With its rugged mountains, ancient trails, and breathtaking coastal paths, Turkey is rapidly becoming a must-run destination for ultra marathoners around the globe. From the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia to the dramatic cliffs of the Lycian Way, the country offers diverse terrain, challenging courses, and rich cultural backdrops.

This 2025 guide is built for trail runners, endurance athletes, and travel-hungry competitors who want to explore Turkey’s most iconic races. Whether you’re training for your first 50K or planning a 100-miler in the Kaçkar Mountains, we’ve compiled everything you need to plan, prepare, and run strong—plus where to stay, what to pack, and how to get there.

Let’s dive into the best ultra marathon races Turkey has to offer in 2025.

Top Ultra Marathon Races in Turkey (2025 Calendar)

Turkey’s 2025 ultra marathon calendar is packed with diverse events—from alpine climbs in the Kaçkar Mountains to historic trails along the Aegean coast. Here’s a curated list of the top races, with confirmed and expected dates, key distances, and locations.

Race Date Location Distances Official Site
Bodrun Ultra Marathon Feb 14–15 Bodrum, Muğla 5K–60K Instagram
Efes Ultra Apr 4–6 Selçuk, İzmir 5K–120K efesultra.org
Babadağ UltraTrail Apr 26–27 Fethiye, Muğla 20K–60K babadagultratrail.com
Tahtalı Run To Sky May 9–10 Kemer, Antalya 12K–65K tahtruntosky.com
Kyzikos Ultra May 17 Erdek, Balıkesir 6K–45K kyzikosultra.com
Uludağ Premium Ultra Trail Jul 18–20 Bursa 6K–100K uludagultratrail.com
Kackar by UTMB® Sep 26 Ayder, Rize 20K–100K kackar.utmb.world
Frig Ultra Sep (TBC) Afyonkarahisar 6K–54K frigultra
Cappadocia Ultra Trail® Oct 17–19 Ürgüp, Nevşehir 38K–119K cappadociaultratrail.com
Marmaris Ultra Trail Nov 14–16 Marmaris, Muğla 5K–76K marmarisultratrail.com
Antalya Ultra Dec 26–28 Antalya 5K–85K antalyaultra.com
Turkey ultra marathon guide

Lycian Way Ultra Marathon

This legendary race unfolds along the historic Lycian Way, one of the world’s top long-distance hiking trails. Stretching from Fethiye to Antalya, the route hugs the Mediterranean coastline and passes through ancient ruins, pine forests, mountain villages, and breathtaking cliffs.

  • Location: Fethiye to Çıralı (Antalya region)
  • Distances: Typically 100K, 50K, or multi-stage (~250–280K)
  • Elevation Gain: Varies per route, up to ~6000m in total for stage race
  • Difficulty: Very High – steep climbs, rocky trails, remote checkpoints
  • Landscape: Mediterranean sea views, ancient cities like Patara & Myra, rugged cliffs
  • Highlight: Run through UNESCO-protected ruins and sleep under the stars in multi-day formats

Cappadocia Ultra Trail®

Set in the heart of Anatolia, Cappadocia Ultra Trail is Turkey’s best-known ultra, drawing runners from over 80 countries. The course runs through UNESCO-listed rock formations, fairy chimneys, and ancient cave cities, offering an unforgettable trail experience.

  • Location: Ürgüp, Nevşehir (Cappadocia)
  • Distances: 38K, 63K, 119K
  • Elevation Gain: 100K+ race: ~3700m
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging – long runnable sections + technical valleys
  • Landscape: Volcanic rock formations, vineyards, underground tunnels
  • Highlight: Hot air balloons drift overhead as you run at sunrise

İznik Ultra

İznik Ultra circles the scenic Lake İznik in northwest Turkey, blending challenging elevation with cultural history. It’s one of the oldest ultra marathons in Turkey and offers a balance of runnable trails and demanding climbs.

  • Location: İznik, Bursa
  • Distances: 160K, 90K, 55K, 35K, Mountain Marathon (42K)
  • Elevation Gain: Up to ~4470m (160K)
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Hard – mix of trails, hills, and village paths
  • Landscape: Lake views, olive groves, Roman-era ruins
  • Highlight: Finish line inside historic city walls from 4th century
Turkey ultra marathon guide

Kackar by UTMB®

The first official UTMB® World Series event in Turkey, this 2025 debut brings world-class trail racing to the Kaçkar Mountains in northeastern Turkey. With altitudes exceeding 3000m, technical ascents, and mystical landscapes, this race will quickly become a favorite for serious mountain runners.

  • Location: Ayder, Rize (Eastern Black Sea Region)
  • Distances: 20K, 50K, 100K
  • Elevation Gain: Up to ~5900m (100K)
  • Difficulty: Very High – steep climbs, high altitude, variable weather
  • Landscape: Glacial lakes, alpine valleys, lush meadows, cloud forests
  • Highlight: Earn Running Stones for UTMB® Mont-Blanc qualification

Efesus Ultra

Run through the ruins of Ephesus, one of the world’s oldest cities. This race blends trail and heritage by guiding runners across ancient Roman roads, vineyards, and olive groves near Selçuk and Şirince.

  • Location: Selçuk & Şirince, İzmir
  • Distances: 5K, 12K, 23K, 42K, 61K, 120K
  • Elevation Gain: Moderate – mix of runnable and technical sections
  • Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate
  • Landscape: Historical ruins, vineyards, hill villages
  • Highlight: Start or finish near the UNESCO-listed Library of Celsus
Turkey ultra marathon guide

Frig Ultra

This mystical trail winds through the ancient Phrygian Valley, a region rich in rock-cut monuments and mythology. A spiritual and cultural experience, it’s ideal for those seeking something less mountainous yet deeply immersive.

  • Location: Afyonkarahisar – Eskişehir – Kütahya
  • Distances: 6K, 12K, 22K, 54K
  • Elevation Gain: Light to Moderate
  • Difficulty: Beginner to Moderate
  • Landscape: Rock carvings, high plateaus, Anatolian countryside
  • Highlight: Run past the Midas Monument and cave dwellings

Aladağlar Sky Trail

A wild and vertical race held in the Aladağlar National Park, this trail brings elite runners to Turkey’s most challenging terrain. Known as the “Alps of Turkey,” it features jaw-dropping cliffs, deep canyons, and glacial ridges.

  • Location: Çamardı, Niğde
  • Distances: 28K, 45K+
  • Elevation Gain: High (2000m+)
  • Difficulty: Very High – remote, rocky, high altitude
  • Landscape: Alpine meadows, granite peaks, snowfields
  • Highlight: Technical sky running experience at over 3000 meters
A mountain runner descending a steep rocky slope in the Aladağlar National Park

Tahtalı Run to Sky

This dramatic race starts at sea level and climbs to the summit of Mount Tahtalı (2365m) on Turkey’s turquoise coast. It’s known for its brutal vertical gain and iconic finish line in the clouds.

  • Location: Kemer, Antalya
  • Distances: 12K, 27K, 65K
  • Elevation Gain: Up to 3500m+
  • Difficulty: Hard – relentless climbs, summer heat
  • Landscape: Pine forests, sea views, summit panorama
  • Highlight: Start on the beach, finish on a mountaintop

Marmaris Ultra Trail

Combining sea breeze and mountain air, this coastal ultra explores the forests and hills above Marmaris. With varying distances, it’s beginner-friendly while offering enough challenge for veterans.

  • Location: Marmaris, Muğla
  • Distances: 5K, 16K, 30K, 48K, 76K
  • Elevation Gain: Moderate to Challenging
  • Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate
  • Landscape: Mediterranean forest, bays, rural villages
  • Highlight: Sunset sections with panoramic sea views

Runfire Salt Lake Ultra Trail

A unique and surreal ultra marathon held on the Tuz Gölü (Salt Lake), one of Turkey’s largest and flattest natural wonders. The vastness of the salt flat makes this race mentally demanding and visually unforgettable.

  • Location: Aksaray Province (Central Anatolia)
  • Distances: 80K, 100 mile, and stage races
  • Elevation Gain: Minimal – flat desert terrain
  • Difficulty: Mentally Challenging – heat, isolation, repetition
  • Landscape: Endless white flats, mirages, open sky
  • Highlight: Night stage over moonlit salt crust

Entry Requirements and Registration Tips

Ultra marathons in Turkey vary in difficulty, terrain, and altitude — so it’s no surprise that race requirements differ as well. Whether you’re eyeing a 20K in the Aegean or a 100K in the Kaçkar Mountains, here’s what you need to know before you register.

Minimum Age Requirements

  • Most races require participants to be at least 18 years old on race day.
  • Shorter distances (5K–12K) may allow 16–17 year olds with parental consent.

Medical Certificate or Health Report

  • For distances over 20K, a (dated within the last 6–12 months) is often mandatory.
  • It must confirm that you are fit to run long-distance or ultra trail races.
  • In Turkish races, the term used is “sağlık raporu”.

Experience or Qualification Requirements

  • Some technical races (e.g., UTMB®-style or alpine events) may require proof of prior finish in a race of similar length or elevation.
  • Kaçkar by UTMB® and Cappadocia Ultra Trail may request past race history or ITRA points for the longest distances.

Waivers & Risk Acknowledgement

  • All races require signing a liability waiver or “participant agreement.”
  • This confirms you’re running at your own risk and understand the medical/environmental challenges involved.

Registration Periods and Deadlines

  • Early bird registrations open 4–8 months before race day and offer lower fees.
  • Most races close registrations 3–4 weeks before the event or when participant limits are reached.
  • Popular races like Cappadocia, Kaçkar, and İznik often sell out early — book fast!

Entry Fees & What’s Included

  • Fees range from €20–€120+ depending on the distance, popularity, and included services.
  • Typical inclusions: race t-shirt, bib, chip timing, on-course nutrition, finisher medal.
  • Premium races may also offer transport, photos, drop-bag handling, and post-race meals.

Where to Register

  • Official race websites are always the safest place to register.
  • Some events use platforms like pulsartiming.com or event.dakik.com for payments and confirmations.
  • Follow race social media pages for announcements, discounts, and last-minute changes.

How to Prepare for an Ultra Marathon in Turkey

Whether you’re tackling technical alpine climbs or flowing forest trails, preparing for an ultra in Turkey means respecting the terrain, the climate, and your limits. Here’s how to show up ready—physically and mentally.

🏋️ Physical Training Tips

  • Back-to-back long runs: Practice running long distances on consecutive days to simulate fatigue and improve recovery.
  • Train on terrain: Match your workouts to your race’s surface—technical rocks for Kaçkar, smooth dirt for Frig, steep climbs for Tahtalı.
  • Weekly vertical gain: Include hill repeats and elevation-focused trail runs if you’re racing in mountainous regions.
  • Don’t ignore strength: Core and leg workouts 1–2x per week improve endurance and injury resistance.
  • Race simulations: Practice night runs, hydration timing, and running with full race gear.

🍝 Nutrition Before, During, and After

  • Before the race: Carb-load for 2–3 days with rice, pasta, fruits; avoid heavy fats or untested foods.
  • On race day: Eat a light, familiar breakfast 2–3 hours pre-race (oats, bananas, toast).
  • During the race: Consume 150–250 kcal/hour via gels, bars, fruit, or nut mixes. Use aid stations wisely.
  • Hydration: Drink to thirst and balance electrolytes—especially in hot regions like Antalya or Fethiye.
  • After the race: Replenish with carbs + protein within 30 minutes. Recovery meals = hummus, grains, smoothies, nuts.

🎒 Essential Gear for Turkish Ultras

  • Trail shoes: Grippy, protective, and suited to either rocky or muddy terrain depending on race.
  • Running vest: Hydration bladder + room for mandatory gear (jacket, headlamp, food, phone).
  • Weather layers: Light waterproof shell, gloves, buff—especially for Kaçkar, Aladağlar, or high-altitude trails.
  • Poles: Recommended for vertical races like Tahtalı and Aladağlar.
  • Headlamp: Required for early starts or night finishers (bring extra batteries).
  • Extras: Sunscreen, anti-chafe balm, electrolyte tablets, emergency foil blanket.

🧠 Mental Strength & Race-Day Focus

  • Expect discomfort: There will be pain, boredom, and doubt. Prepare your mind like your legs.
  • Break it down: Mentally divide the race by checkpoints or hours—not kilometers.
  • Use mantras: “This is what I trained for.” “One more step.” “Stay in motion.”
  • Visualize: Imagine race day the night before—your gear, your pace, your smile at the finish.
  • Adapt: Turkey’s weather can be unpredictable. Be ready to pivot without panic.

🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Wearing new shoes or untested gear on race day
  • Skipping strength training or mobility work during training cycle
  • Over-fueling or under-drinking, especially in hot races
  • Starting too fast or ignoring aid station stops
  • Not reading the race manual (mandatory gear, cutoff times, rules)

Where to Stay and What to See: Travel Guide for Runners

Running an ultra in Turkey offers more than just kilometers — it’s a chance to experience one of the world’s most diverse and storied landscapes. Here’s how to travel smart, recover in style, and explore epic scenery along the way.

✈️ Closest Airports to Major Races

  • Cappadocia (Ürgüp): Nevşehir (NAV) or Kayseri (ASR)
  • Kaçkar (Rize): Rize–Artvin Airport (RZV) or Trabzon (TZX)
  • Iznik: Bursa Yenişehir (YEI) or Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen (SAW)
  • Fethiye / Lycian Way: Dalaman Airport (DLM)
  • Marmaris: Dalaman Airport (DLM)
  • Efesus Ultra (Selçuk): Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB)
  • Antalya Ultra / Tahtalı: Antalya Airport (AYT)
  • Frig Ultra: Afyonkarahisar Bus Terminal (no airport – bus/train access)

🏨 Best Hotel Picks (Runner-Approved)

  • Ürgüp – Cappadocia: Kayakapi Premium Caves, Yunak Evleri (stone cave hotels, recovery heaven)
  • Ayder – Kaçkar: Villa de Pelit, Ayder Doga Resort (near race start, hot springs nearby)
  • Iznik: Limnades Hotel, İznik Askania (by the lake, peaceful setting)
  • Selçuk: Hotel Kalehan, Celsus Boutique Hotel (historic atmosphere + walking distance to ruins)
  • Marmaris: Casa De Maris, Marmaris Bay Resort (ideal for beach recovery)

📍 Top Tourist Highlights by Region

  • Cappadocia: Hot air balloon rides, Göreme Open Air Museum, Love Valley hikes, pottery in Avanos
  • Kaçkar Mountains: Ayder hot springs, Pokut & Gito plateaus, Zilkale fortress, Turkish Black Sea cuisine
  • Lycian Way: Ölüdeniz beach, Butterfly Valley, Patara Ruins, Çıralı Chimera flames, sea kayaking in Kekova
  • Selçuk: Ephesus ruins, Temple of Artemis, Meryem Ana (Virgin Mary’s House), Şirince wine village
  • Iznik: Roman walls, Ayasofya mosque-church, Iznik Gölü lakeside walks, traditional tile workshops
  • Marmaris: Dalyan river cruise, Sedir Island (Cleopatra Beach), Marmaris Marina, forested bike paths

💬 Cultural & Travel Tips

  • Language: Turkish is the official language, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.
  • Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY) — credit cards widely accepted.
  • Transportation: Intercity buses are cheap and reliable; car rental is best for trail races in remote areas.
  • Safety: Turkey is generally safe, but use common sense in big cities or remote areas after dark.
  • Insurance: Get travel insurance that covers endurance sports and mountain rescue (especially for Kaçkar or Aladağlar).
  • Water: Prefer bottled or filtered water outside major cities.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

🏃‍♂️ What is the most iconic ultra marathon in Turkey?

Cappadocia Ultra Trail® is the most internationally recognized, known for its unique landscapes and UNESCO-listed terrain.

📅 When is the best time to run an ultra in Turkey?

Spring (April–May) and Fall (September–October) offer cooler temperatures and ideal conditions for most trail races.

🌄 Is Kaçkar by UTMB® suitable for beginners?

No. The high elevation, technical terrain, and weather changes make it suitable for experienced mountain runners only.

📝 Do I need a medical certificate to join a race?

Yes, most races in Turkey require a valid medical certificate issued within the last 6–12 months, confirming you’re fit to run.

🎽 Are Turkish ultras beginner-friendly?

Yes! Races like Frig Ultra, Efesus Ultra, and Marmaris offer distances from 6K to 20K suitable for newcomers.

📦 Do I need to carry all my supplies?

Yes, most races are semi self-supported. You’ll carry water, nutrition, and mandatory gear between aid stations.

👟 Are trail shoes required?

Absolutely. Many Turkish trails include rocks, mud, and steep climbs — standard running shoes won’t provide enough grip.

🇹🇷 Is it safe to travel and run in Turkey?

Yes. Turkey is generally safe for solo travelers and athletes. Follow basic precautions, especially in remote areas or cities at night.

🛂 Do I need a visa to enter Turkey?

Many countries can enter visa-free or via e-visa. Check your country’s requirements at evisa.gov.tr.

💧 Is tap water safe to drink?

Tap water is treated, but bottled or filtered water is recommended, especially during travel or races.

💡 How should I train for vertical trail races?

Include weekly hill intervals, stair workouts, and long runs with elevation gain to build climbing strength and technique.

🌡️ How hot can it get during races?

Summer races in Antalya, Marmaris, and the Salt Lake can reach 30–35°C (86–95°F). Hydration and sun protection are key.

📦 Are drop bags allowed?

Some races (like Cappadocia Ultra Trail) offer drop bag services for long distances — check the race manual beforehand.

🧪 Can I buy energy gels or sports drinks in Turkey?

Yes. Many outdoor and running stores stock brands like GU, Hammer, and Tailwind. Pharmacies may carry electrolytes.

📱 Will I have mobile signal on the course?

In most populated areas, yes. But in the Kaçkar Mountains, Aladağlar, or remote trails, signal may drop. Offline maps help.

🌙 Do any races include night running?

Yes. Cappadocia Ultra and Salt Lake stage races may run through the night — bring a strong headlamp and backup batteries.

📷 Can I take photos during the race?

Of course! Just yield to runners if you stop. The landscapes are too good not to capture.

🧼 Are there showers or changing areas after the race?

Some major races (like UTMB® Kaçkar or Cappadocia) provide showers and clean-up areas post-race. Check event guides.

📩 Where do I find official updates?

Follow each race’s official website and Instagram/Facebook for announcements, maps, and weather alerts.

🧠 Quiz: How Well Do You Know Turkey’s Ultra Trails?

  1. Which Turkish ultra marathon is part of the official UTMB® World Series?
    A) Efesus Ultra B) Kaçkar by UTMB® C) Iznik Ultra D) Uludağ Premium

  2. What is the highest elevation gain among major Turkish races?
    A) 4470m B) 5900m C) 3700m D) 3200m

  3. Which race takes place in a UNESCO World Heritage site?
    A) Marmaris Ultra B) Cappadocia Ultra Trail C) Frig Ultra D) Antalya Ultra

  4. Which region hosts the “Run to Sky” race finishing at 2365 meters?
    A) Fethiye B) Aladağlar C) Kemer D) Rize

  5. Which ancient city do runners pass in Efesus Ultra?
    A) Troy B) Side C) Ephesus D) Miletus

  6. Which race includes overnight stages across salt flats?
    A) Frig Ultra B) Salt Lake Ultra Trail C) Babadağ Ultra D) Kaçkar by UTMB®

  7. What is typically required to enter a 50K+ ultra in Turkey?
    A) A passport B) UTMB® membership C) A medical certificate D) Race insurance only

✅ Quiz Answers

  • 1: B) Kaçkar by UTMB®
  • 2: B) 5900m
  • 3: B) Cappadocia Ultra Trail
  • 4: C) Kemer
  • 5: C) Ephesus
  • 6: B) Salt Lake Ultra Trail
  • 7: C) A medical certificate

📢 Share Your Score!

🎥 Video Suggestions

Experience the atmosphere of Turkey’s most iconic ultra marathons through these official race videos. From volcanic landscapes to alpine wilderness, these trails are as cinematic as they are challenging.

Kaçkar by UTMB® – Alpine Adventure in Northeast Turkey

Step into the newly added UTMB® World Series event where runners conquer high-altitude ridges, glacial valleys, and dramatic weather. Welcome to the Kaçkar Mountains.

Cappadocia Ultra-Trail® – Running Through Fairy Chimneys

Watch this stunning race as runners traverse the magical landscapes of Cappadocia, passing through ancient valleys, tunnels, and otherworldly rock formations.

Runfire Salt Lake Ultra – Endless Flat, Endless Challenge

Run across one of the largest salt flats in the world. This surreal ultra offers extreme isolation, moonlit nights, and meditative solitude.

✍️ Final Thoughts

Turkey’s ultra marathon scene is no longer a hidden gem—it’s a growing global destination for trail runners seeking adventure, heritage, and raw nature. From the clouds of Kaçkar to the caves of Cappadocia and the cliffs of the Lycian Way, these races offer more than just distance. They offer story.

Whether you’re planning your first international race or chasing UTMB® stones, this guide should give you a strong foundation. Now it’s your turn to choose a trail, register, and start training. The Turkish trails are calling. Will you answer?

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