Tortum Lake

If you want to see the power of the waterfall, May and June are the best times. During this period, the water volume is at its highest, and it starts to decrease after June. The lake itself can be visited all year round, but in autumn, the changing colors of the surrounding slopes make the scenery even more special. Although the road is open in winter, weather conditions can be variable. It is useful to check road conditions before setting off during snowy periods.

For those going from Erzurum city center by private car, the road is smooth; it is sufficient to follow the Erzurum-Artvin highway. The journey is approximately 100 kilometers from the center, taking about an hour and a half. Those preferring public transport first go to Uzundere by minibus or dolmuş, and then continue to the lake and waterfall area by taxi. If you have your own car, you can stop at several points along the lake to capture the view. Multiple viewpoints emerge along the way.

1-2 hours is enough to stop by the lake for photos and go down to the waterfall to watch it from the viewing terrace. If you plan to visit other points in Uzundere and its surroundings, it would be more comfortable to allocate half a day. This region is generally planned as a stop along the way as part of an Erzurum-Artvin road trip, rather than a separate travel destination.

As you approach Uzundere, the peninsula extending into the lake on the right side offers the most striking shot. The viewing balcony in front of the waterfall is a good spot to capture the foam created by the falling water and occasionally a rainbow. For wide-angle shots showing the lake and the surrounding mountains together, roadside stopping points can be used.

The stairs and walking paths around the waterfall can become slippery in rainy weather, so it is necessary to wear appropriate shoes. Since there may be points without barriers along the lake, be careful, especially when traveling with children. Although it is an area where water sports can be done, such activities may require separate organization or equipment. Entering the water on your own is not recommended.

Tortum Waterfall is at the northern end of the lake and is a natural part of the same visit. Uzundere district center is a nearby option for both accommodation and food and drink. Tea gardens in the region offer an opportunity to sit and relax with views of the lake and waterfall. For those using the Erzurum-Artvin road, Tortum Lake is usually visited as part of a longer Eastern Anatolia route.