Yanartaş (the Chimaera), near Çıralı, is one of Turkey’s most unusual natural wonders: flames that have burned on their own from cracks in the rock for thousands of years. They are fed by natural gas seeping from underground, which ignites on contact with the air and has burned without going out since antiquity. This guide covers the legend, how to get there, the best time to visit and tips for a day trip from Kemer.
Yanartaş at a glance
- Location: Near Çıralı (Kumluca district), inside Olympos Beydağları National Park
- From Kemer centre: About 40 km south by car
- Walk: A 20–30 minute climb on a stony path from the car park
- Best time: After sunset, when the flames look most dramatic
- Entry: Inside the national park; check current fees and opening times before you go
Why don’t the flames go out?
The flames burn on natural gas, mainly methane, seeping from cracks in the rock and igniting when it meets the air. Because the gas flow is constant, the flames have burned for thousands of years. Their number and size change over time: some are small, others larger and more vivid.
The legend of the Chimaera
The site takes its ancient name from the Chimaera of Greek mythology, a fire-breathing monster with a lion’s head, a goat’s body and a serpent’s tail that terrorised ancient Lycia. The hero Bellerophon, riding the winged horse Pegasus, defeated the monster and trapped it underground. The flames rising from the earth were believed to be the Chimaera’s breath. Ruins from antiquity can also be seen near the flames.
How to get there
From Kemer, drive south towards Tekirova and Kumluca and take the turn-off down to Çıralı. From the Yanartaş car park a stony path climbs up to the flames. It is moderately steep, so take care when the light is low. Many Çıralı and Olympos tours add Yanartaş as an evening stop.
Visiting tips
- Go in the evening: The flames are at their best after sunset. Bring a torch or phone light for the walk down in the dark.
- Footwear: The path is stony and steep; wear closed shoes with grip.
- Water and a layer: The climb is warm, but evenings cool down.
- Respect the site: Cooking over the flames or leaving rubbish damages the area; follow national park rules.
- Make a day of it: Olympos and Çıralı beach in the afternoon, Yanartaş in the evening.
Nearby
- Olympos and Çıralı: An ancient city in a wooded valley and a long, quiet beach.
- Mount Tahtalı: The Olympos cable car to 2,365 metres, worth a stop on the way back.
- Lycian Way: The trail passes close by.
From Kemer to Yanartaş
Kemer Royal Beach Hotel is in Kemer town centre, about 250 metres from the sea. Our reception can arrange tours covering Olympos, Çıralı and Yanartaş. See our rooms or check availability.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Yanartaş?
Near Çıralı in Antalya province, inside Olympos Beydağları National Park, about 40 km south of Kemer.
When is the best time to visit?
After sunset, when the flames are most striking. Bring a light for the walk back.
Is the walk difficult?
It is a moderate 20–30 minute climb on a stony path from the car park.
Why do the flames burn?
Natural gas seeps from cracks in the rock and ignites on contact with the air. The flow is constant, so the flames never go out.