Astım Cave

The region becomes quite crowded in the summer months; especially during July-August, the Narlıkuyu area is packed with holidaymakers. Since the inside of the cave is cool and humid all year round, you will find a refreshing atmosphere inside no matter how hot it is outside. April-May and September-October are periods with fewer crowds and when you can comfortably visit the surrounding caves and coastline. In winter, closing time is moved to 17:00; therefore, avoid setting off late in the afternoon.

Astım Cave is approximately 85-86 km from Mersin city center and 23 km from Silifke district center. By Car: From Mersin, proceed on the D-400 highway towards Silifke and descend towards the coast at the Narlıkuyu sign. The road is smooth and an easy route to drive. By Public Transport: Silifke Koop vehicles operate on this route. From Mersin bus station, you can first go to Silifke, then to Narlıkuyu. Renting a car or taking a taxi in Narlıkuyu can also be preferred.

Visiting Astım Cave alone takes a short time; therefore, it is logical to plan a full day by combining it with other areas in the vicinity. Start with the Heaven and Hell Caves; these two caves are only 600 meters apart. Confirm at the entrance whether the ticket you purchased there is also valid at Astım Cave. In the afternoon, you can spend time by the sea in Narlıkuyu Bay and have lunch with the village's famous fried mussels and fresh seafood. Since there are multiple caves and archaeological sites in the region, it is also possible to visit Kız Kalesi if you have enough time.

Narlıkuyu is known as one of the places where the best fried mussels in Turkey are made. Small restaurants in the village offer fresh mussels, fish, and seafood. There is a cafe at the cave entrance; however, choosing restaurants in the village for a meal will be both a tastier and more economical option. On your way back to Silifke, you can also find the region's famous yogurt and cheese at the village markets along the road.

The entrance of the cave and the upper part of the iron stairs offer beautiful shots when natural light filters in. The stalactite and stalagmite formations inside contain interesting details for close-up shots. Since flash may not always be sufficient, a lens with a wide aperture or a phone tripod will make your job easier. At the exit of the cave, the view of Narlıkuyu Bay also offers a valuable spot for photography.

The iron stairs inside the cave can be damp and slippery; visitors particularly warn about this. Choose non-slip, closed-toe shoes; descending with sandals or high heels can be dangerous. Since the inside of the cave is cool, it is advisable to bring a light cardigan even in summer. Not touching the stalactites and not damaging them in any way is important for both the protection of the cave and legal obligations. Since the cave is relatively short, adjust your expectations accordingly if you have visited the Heaven and Hell Caves before.

Müzekart holders can enter the cave for free. Visitors report that when a combined ticket is purchased with the Heaven and Hell Caves, no additional fee is paid for Astım Cave; however, confirm whether this practice is current before you go. Apart from entrance fees, the cafe at the cave entrance and souvenir expenses are the main items that can affect your budget. It is possible to complete the day with a reasonable expense by choosing small fish restaurants for lunch in Narlıkuyu.