Chimera (Yanartas) Guide
See the natural flames above Cirali: how the fire works, the 30–40 minute uphill walk, why evening is popular, what to bring, and how to combine Yanartas with Olympos and Cirali.
Yanartas is one of the Antalya coast's most unusual natural sights.
Yanartas, also called Chimera or Chimaera, sits on the rocky hillside above Cirali near Olympos. Small flames burn directly from cracks and vents in the rock, fed by natural gases escaping from below ground.
Official GoTürkiye information describes the flames as methane gas emerging from holes in the rock, while Kemer Municipality explains that the fire has inspired local mythology for thousands of years. The site is closely linked with the ancient Chimera story and the cult of Hephaistos, the god of fire and metalworking.
This is not a drive-up viewpoint. Kemer Municipality says visitors reach the flames after roughly a 30–40 minute climb from the entrance. For most travellers, the atmosphere is strongest around dusk or after dark, when the flames stand out clearly against the hillside.
A natural gas fire, not a man-made attraction.
Flames from the rock
Gas reaches the surface through cracks in the hillside and burns in several small flame clusters. The number and strength of visible flames can vary.
The fire keeps burning
GoTürkiye describes Yanartas as an unquenchable fire visible in every season. Wind and daylight can affect how dramatic it looks at any given moment.
The climb is part of the visit
The approach follows a steep, stony route above Cirali. You are visiting a hillside natural site, not a flat paved attraction.
Hephaistos and Lycia
The region was associated in antiquity with Hephaistos, the god of fire, and later became linked with the mythic fire-breathing Chimera.
Why the natural flames became the fire of Chimera.
The Chimera
In Greek mythology, the Chimera was a fire-breathing creature usually described with parts of a lion, goat and serpent or dragon.
Bellerophon and Pegasus
The Lycian king sent Bellerophon to fight the monster. Riding the winged horse Pegasus, he defeated Chimera.
The fire continued
The flames emerging from the mountain became identified with the monster's fire continuing from underground, giving the natural phenomenon its famous name.
Hephaistos
Official tourism information says the Yanartas area was an important cult centre connected with Hephaistos, the ancient god of fire and blacksmiths.
Current municipal information confirms paid entry and a 30–40 minute climb.
Kemer Municipality's current Yanartas page says you can drive to the entrance, then reach the flames by climbing the steps for approximately 30–40 minutes. It also confirms that entrance is paid.
The municipality page does not currently publish live opening hours. Going2Turkey therefore does not present a fixed opening time as guaranteed. Check locally before making a late-night or early-morning trip, especially outside the main summer season.
Daylight makes the walk easier; darkness makes the flames more dramatic.
Arrive before sunset
Starting the climb while there is still daylight makes the path easier to read, then you can see the flames as the sky becomes darker.
Strongest visual effect
The flames naturally stand out more after dark. Plan the descent carefully and do not rely only on ambient light.
Avoid the hottest part of the day
The exposed climb can be uncomfortable in strong summer heat. Later afternoon and evening are usually more practical.
Check weather and access
Wet stone can be slippery. Check current local conditions and do not treat a winter night climb like a simple city attraction.
Yanartas works best as the evening part of a Cirali or Olympos day.
Cirali Beach + Yanartas
Spend the afternoon around Cirali, eat early, then climb Yanartas as daylight fades. This keeps transport simple.
Olympos + Yanartas
Explore Olympos Ancient City during the day, take a break around Cirali, then finish with the flames after sunset.
Chimera night safari from Kemer
This GetYourGuide activity currently combines Cirali Beach, a climb to the Yanartas flames and dinner. Check the live pickup and inclusion details before booking.
Phaselis + Cirali + Yanartas
This can work with your own transport, but do not rush Phaselis. Leave enough energy for the evening uphill walk.
Chimera (Yanartas) questions
Short answers for planning.
What is Yanartas Chimera?
Yanartas is a natural hillside above Cirali where gases escaping through cracks in the rock feed small persistent flames. The phenomenon is linked with the ancient Chimera legend.
How long is the walk to Yanartas?
Kemer Municipality says the climb from the entrance takes approximately 30–40 minutes. The route includes steep stone steps and uneven surfaces.
What are the current Yanartas opening hours?
As reviewed in September 2026, the current Kemer Municipality page confirms paid entry but does not publish live opening hours. Check locally before travelling for a very late or early visit.
Is Yanartas better at night?
The flames are easier to see after dark, but the path is also harder. A good compromise is to start the climb before sunset and carry a torch for the descent.
Can I combine Yanartas with Olympos?
Yes. Olympos Ancient City in the daytime and Yanartas in the evening is one of the most logical combinations around Cirali.
Do I need a tour for Yanartas?
No if you have suitable transport and are comfortable with the uphill walk. A tour can be useful if you are staying in Kemer and want transfers, Cirali and an evening visit organised together.
Mount Tahtali & Olympos Cable Car
Next we move from Cirali's natural flames to the high mountain viewpoint above the Kemer coast.