Tortum Waterfall
Waterfall Impressive waterfall and canyon in Erzurum Province
A broad waterfall on the Tortum River in Erzurum province with viewing platforms and picnic areas. Visitors photograph the cascade, walk nearby trails and visit the adjacent plateau and lake.
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Tortum Waterfall (Tortum Şelalesi) is a high river cascade in Erzurum Province in eastern Turkey and a notable local natural attraction. The waterfall is fed by the Tortum River and lies downstream of a reservoir and dam.
The site is known for a large, dramatic drop visible from roadside viewpoints and platformed picnic areas; flow and appearance vary seasonally and with reservoir releases. Nearby viewing points overlook the narrow canyon and the downstream river valley, offering photo opportunities and short walks.
The waterfall is a natural feature that has been affected by infrastructure development in the 20th century when a dam and reservoir were built upstream for hydroelectric and water management purposes. The reservoir reduced the waterfall’s continuous flow, so seasonal releases and high-water periods now determine its full appearance.
Located in Erzurum Province in northeastern Anatolia, the falls sit in a rugged river valley roughly 90 kilometres northeast of the city of Erzurum. The immediate landscape is a mix of river canyon, reservoir shoreline, and roadside picnic areas providing viewing access.
- Best time to visit: Most impressive in spring when snowmelt and reservoir releases increase flow; parts of the fall can freeze in winter and form striking ice formations.
- Access and viewpoints: Access involves short walks from parking or roadside viewpoints; local picnic areas and platforms provide the main viewing spots.
What to See #
- Tortum Waterfall: A natural cascade on the Tortum River that historically formed a single high drop; flows are highly seasonal and depend on releases from the dam upstream.
- Tortum Lake and dam: A mid-20th-century dam and reservoir upstream that altered the waterfall's natural flow and created Tortum Lake; reservoir management affects the waterfall's appearance and volume.
- Canyon and viewing points: A narrow canyon and nearby picnic viewpoints that provide vantage points for seeing the falls and the surrounding limestone landscape.
Tips for Visiting Tortum Waterfall #
- Plan a visit in spring (late April-June) when snowmelt and rains make the falls fullest; in late summer and autumn flows can be much reduced.
- Expect a short walk from the roadside viewpoint rather than a long hike-arrive by car or local bus to the Uzundere/Tortum area and use the official lookout spots for the safest, best-placed views.
Best Time to Visit Tortum Waterfall #
Best visited in late spring to early summer (May-July) when snowmelt boosts the waterfall and access is easier.
Weather & Climate near Tortum Waterfall #
Tortum Waterfall's climate is classified as Cold Semi-Arid - Cold Semi-Arid climate with warm summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -6°C to 29°C. Moderate rainfall (599 mm/year).
January
January is the coldest month with highs of 2°C and lows of -6°C. Moderate rainfall (49 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of -4°C. Moderate rainfall (46 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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March
March is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 0°C. Moderate rainfall (44 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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April
April is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (57 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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May
May is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 9°C. The wettest month with 63 mm of rain and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 12°C. The wettest month with 63 mm of rain and partly cloudy skies.
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 29°C and lows of 16°C. Moderate rainfall (38 mm).
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August
August is the warmest month with highs of 29°C and lows of 15°C. Moderate rainfall (32 mm).
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September
September is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (34 mm).
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October
October is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 7°C. Moderate rainfall (60 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 2°C. Moderate rainfall (57 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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December
December is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of -2°C. Moderate rainfall (56 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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