Yanartaş (Chimaera)
Natural flames emerging from rock fissures in Lycia, believed to be the source of the Chimera myth.
Yanartaş, also known as Mount Chimaera, is a hillside where methane and other gases seep through cracks in the rock and ignite, creating small, perpetual flames. These flames have been burning for thousands of years, visible both day and night but most dramatic after dark. The site is located near Çıralı, in the Kemer district, surrounded by pine forest.
Ancient writers like Pliny the Elder and Strabo described this phenomenon, and many believe it inspired the legend of the Chimera — a fire-breathing monster with a lion's head, a goat's body, and a serpent's tail. The natural gas vents line a rocky slope about 300 meters above sea level, and a short hike from the entrance leads you through the woods to the flames.
A visit here is especially popular at night, when the fire stands out against the dark landscape. There are no facilities at the top, so bring water, wear sturdy shoes, and carry a torch for the path. The entrance fee is 50 TL, and the site is open until late.
“See the eternal flames that inspired the myth of the Chimera, burning naturally for millennia.”
Go at dusk to watch the flames glow against the darkening sky; bring a strong torch for the return walk through the forest.
Steep, uneven path through the forest; not wheelchair accessible and difficult for those with mobility issues.
Good to know
- Is Yanartaş (Chimaera) free to visit?
- TL 50. Night visit is traditional; bring a torch for the forest path.
- How long should you spend at Yanartaş (Chimaera)?
- ~1h
- When is the best time to visit Yanartaş (Chimaera)?
- Evening
- Is Yanartaş (Chimaera) wheelchair accessible?
- Steep, uneven path through the forest; not wheelchair accessible and difficult for those with mobility issues.
