Meke Crater Lake
A striking volcanic crater lake in Turkey, known for its unique 'lake within a lake' formation, often dry and covered in salt.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, better light
Meke Crater Lake
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A striking volcanic crater lake in Turkey, known for its unique 'lake within a lake' formation, often dry and covered in salt.
"Stunning. Don’t miss it, a place that could well be an Icelandic landscape but no, it's Turkey."
Check Water Levels Before You Go
Water levels vary greatly. Some visit to find a dry salt flat, others a lake. :informationdeskperson:
Bring Your Own Supplies
No facilities on-site. Pack water, snacks, and sun protection. :water_wave:
Quick Facts
Rating
4.2 · 383 reviews
Type
Natural Feature
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Crater's Unique Formations
The main crater
Witness a striking volcanic crater with islands, often described as the 'evil eye pearl' of Turkey.
+1
Salt Flats and Volcanic Landscape
Surrounding crater floor
Explore the stark beauty of dried lakebeds and volcanic rock formations, especially captivating when covered in salt or snow.
+2
Panoramic Views from the Rim
Crater rim
Climb the small volcanic cone for breathtaking panoramic views of the crater and the surrounding Konya steppe.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Water Levels Can Vary Dramatically
+1Access and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Water Levels Before You Go
Water levels vary greatly. Some visit to find a dry salt flat, others a lake.
Bring Your Own Supplies
No facilities on-site. Pack water, snacks, and sun protection. :water_wave:
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain can be uneven and rocky, especially around the crater.
Consider Drone Photography
Aerial shots offer a unique perspective of the crater's scale and formations.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Water Levels Before You Go
Water levels vary greatly. Some visit to find a dry salt flat, others a lake.
Bring Your Own Supplies
No facilities on-site. Pack water, snacks, and sun protection. :water_wave:
Wear Sturdy Shoes
The terrain can be uneven and rocky, especially around the crater.
Consider Drone Photography
Aerial shots offer a unique perspective of the crater's scale and formations.
Combine with Karapınar
Easily accessible from Karapınar, which has more services and is a good starting point.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the unique volcanic landscape and geological formations of Meke Crater Lake, often describing it as stunning and otherworldly. However, many note the significant issue of the lake frequently being dry due to groundwater depletion, leading to disappointment for some expecting a water-filled crater. +1
"I like the place although in summer there is no water in the "lake'. The crater is interesting. It is very easy tó get there by car from Karapinar."
Gabriella Seye
"It is not a lake anymore, apparently because of wrong use of ground water by surrounding farmers, and has lost much of its beneficial status for nature. The government should work fast and hard to protect Türkiye's nature, because it is rich and unique in the world, but faces many threats. The place itself is great and magical, but as with many things in nature, it's humans that destroy its beauty."
Joey Bom
"Stunning. Don‘t miss it"
Ramon Klingbeil
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Meke Crater Lake is located about 90 km from Konya city center, near Karapınar. The easiest way to reach it is by car. From Karapınar, follow signs towards the lake; the road is generally accessible, though the final approach might be on a volcanic track.
Public transport directly to Meke Crater Lake is limited. You would typically need to take a bus to Karapınar and then arrange local transport or a taxi to the crater. Renting a car is the most convenient option for independent travel.
The coordinates for Meke Crater Lake are approximately 37.678846, 33.633455. This can be helpful for navigation if you are using GPS or a mapping app.
The main road leading towards the vicinity of Meke Crater Lake is generally paved. However, the final approach to the crater itself might be on a rougher, unpaved volcanic track, especially if you're exploring off the main path.
Yes, many travelers with campervans and RVs visit Meke Crater Lake. The surrounding area offers space for parking, and the landscape is well-suited for overland adventures.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Currently, there is no official entrance fee mentioned for Meke Crater Lake. It is generally considered a natural site accessible to visitors without a ticket.
As a natural attraction, Meke Crater Lake does not have set opening or closing hours. It is accessible at any time, though visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and visibility.
No, advance booking is not required for Meke Crater Lake as there is no admission fee. You can visit spontaneously.
There are no specific visitor restrictions mentioned, but it's important to respect the natural environment. Avoid littering and stay on designated paths where possible to preserve the site.
While it's a significant natural phenomenon, information on official protected status varies. Some sources suggest it's a natural park, while others highlight environmental concerns due to groundwater depletion.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The water level at Meke Crater Lake is highly variable. Due to groundwater depletion from surrounding agriculture, it has often been dry or significantly reduced, appearing as a salt flat. Check recent social media posts or local reports for the most up-to-date conditions. +1
The primary activity is sightseeing and photography. You can explore the crater rim, walk around the dried lakebed, and admire the unique volcanic landscape. It's a place for quiet contemplation and appreciating natural geological formations.
It is generally safe to walk around the crater, but the terrain can be uneven and rocky. Wear sturdy shoes. If the lakebed is wet or muddy, exercise caution. Always be aware of your surroundings.
Dress in layers as temperatures can change. Comfortable walking shoes are essential due to the terrain. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) is highly recommended, especially during warmer months.
No, there are typically no facilities such as restrooms, cafes, or shops directly at Meke Crater Lake. Visitors should come prepared with all necessary supplies.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offer the best light for photography, creating dramatic shadows and highlighting the textures of the volcanic landscape. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly stunning.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the crater and surrounding landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details on the islands or distant formations. Drones offer incredible aerial perspectives.
The rim of the crater provides excellent vantage points for panoramic shots. Exploring the dried lakebed can reveal interesting salt formations and textures. The small volcanic cone in the center is also a key feature.
Drone photography is popular here and offers spectacular views. Ensure you are aware of any local drone regulations before flying.
Its otherworldly appearance, unique geological formations, the contrast between the crater and the surrounding flat steppe, and the potential for dramatic salt crusts or snow cover make it highly photogenic.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit