Munzur Valley National Park

Munzur Valley National Park (Munzur Vadisi Milli Parkı) is Turkey's largest national park, covering 42,000 hectares in Tunceli Province, eastern Turkey. Established in 1971, it protects the spectacular alpine landscape of the Munzur Mountains with deep canyons, waterfalls, turquoise rivers, and diverse wildlife including ibex, brown bears, wolves, and golden eagles. The park is a haven for hikers, campers, and nature lovers.

The climate is alpine-continental with cool summers and cold, snowy winters. The best time to visit is June to September. Spring (May–June) brings wildflower blooms, while autumn offers pleasant hiking temperatures.

By Plane

Erzincan Airport (ERC, 100 km north, 2 hr) or Elazığ Airport (EZS, 150 km south, 2.5 hr). Both have flights from Istanbul.

By Train

No railway access. The nearest stations are in Erzincan or Elazığ.

By Car / Road

The park is accessed from Tunceli city, which is on the D885 highway. The park entrance is about 10 km west of Tunceli. A private vehicle is essential.

The park has unpaved roads suitable for high-clearance vehicles. Once inside, travel is on foot along marked and unmarked trails. Local guides are available in Tunceli.

• Munzur River — A turquoise river flowing through the canyon with crystal-clear water.

• Mercan Valley — A stunning side valley with waterfalls, trout streams, and traditional Zaza villages.

• Munzur Waterfall — A scenic waterfall accessible by a short hike.

• Kırkmerdiven (Forty Stairs) — A historic stone staircase carved into the canyon wall.

• Wildlife — The park is one of Turkey's best places to see ibex, wolves, and bears in the wild.

• Hiking on trails ranging from short walks to multi-day treks.

• Camping along the river or in the high alpine meadows.

• Trout fishing with a permit.

• Photography of canyons, waterfalls, and wildlife.

• Visit traditional Zaza-Alevi villages within the park boundaries.

Bring your own food for multi-day trips. Basic meals may be available at some village homes within the park.

Stream water is plentiful but should be treated or boiled before drinking. Bottled water is available in Tunceli.

• Camping — Wild camping is permitted in designated areas along the river. Bring all gear.
• Budget — Basic village guesthouses may be available in some settlements within the park.

Supplies and outdoor gear should be purchased in Tunceli before entering the park. Local honey and butter from village farms are available.

• Tunceli (10 km east, 15 min) — Provincial capital with services and accommodation.
• Ovacık (50 km northwest, 1.5 hr) — Mountain town and alternative park access point.
• Pülümür Valley (60 km north, 1.5 hr) — Scenic valley with rock formations and stone bridges.