Upper Düden Waterfall: The Cave You Walk Behind

The Upper Düden Waterfall, in Antalya's Kepez district, is a captivating nature park famous for the cave you can walk behind. At this spot, water spills down over rocks and visitors can pass through the cave behind the falls to look out from behind the sheet of water. It is surrounded by shady plane trees and walking paths, and with its closeness to the city centre and its cool air, it is a favourite escape on hot summer days.

What to See

What makes Upper Düden unique is the natural cave formed behind the waterfall. Following the path, you enter this cave and pass right behind the falling water; watching from inside the rock while the water runs like a curtain in front of you is an unforgettable experience. The humid coolness of the cave contrasts with the heat outside and offers a refreshing pause.

The area around the waterfall is a landscaped park. Walking paths, bridges and rest areas set in the shade of century-old plane trees make it ideal for families and photography lovers to spend time. The lush greenery, combined with the sound of running water, creates the feel of an oasis in the middle of the city.

How to Get There

Upper Düden lies to the north of Antalya's city centre, toward Kepez. It is possible to reach the area by municipal buses and shared minibuses (dolmuş) from the centre; it's good to check current lines for stop locations. There is parking at the park entrance for those arriving by car.

Although it is relatively easy to reach, planning your tram or bus connections in advance saves time. Most city tours include this waterfall in their programme; however, coming independently lets you spend as much time in the park as you like.

When to Go

The waterfall flows most fully in spring and early summer, when melting snow increases the volume. In the summer heat, the park fills with people seeking to cool off, and it is especially busy on weekends. For a calmer visit, you can choose weekday morning hours. In autumn, the yellowing leaves lend the park a completely different colour.

Practical Tips

The paths to the cave can be wet and slippery, so non-slip, comfortable shoes are essential. As the inside of the cave is dim, step carefully. Bringing a light layer can be useful in the cool air of the cave. There are shaded areas for those who want to picnic in the park; but remember to follow the site's rules and leave nature clean.

Can you really walk behind the waterfall at Upper Düden?

Yes, this is exactly Upper Düden's most famous feature. There is a natural cave behind the waterfall, and the arranged path takes you through it. You look out at the falling water from behind, as if from behind a curtain of water. Since the ground can be wet, you need to walk carefully.

Upper Düden or Lower Düden — which should you see?

The two are completely different experiences. Upper Düden, inland in Kepez, offers a cool nature walk with its cave and shady park. Lower Düden, in Lara, spills into the sea from the cliffs and is watched by boat. If you have time, seeing both completes Antalya's water landscapes.

Is it suitable to go with children?

Yes, the park is suitable for families with children; there are wide walking paths and shaded rest areas. However, it is important to keep children under close watch at the cave entrance and on the wet ground by the water. Comfortable shoes and a change of clothes will make an enjoyable family outing easier.

After spending time in the cool shade of Upper Düden, you can keep discovering Antalya's other waterfalls, parks and nearby hidden corners with FindAntalya's guides and maps.