Close
newsletters Newsletters
X Instagram Youtube

Red valleys draw growing crowds to Narman Fairy Chimneys in eastern Türkiye

Visitors explore the Narman Fairy Chimneys, known as the “Land of Red Fairies,” in Erzurum, eastern Türkiye, May 30, 2026. (AA Photo)
Photo
BigPhoto
Visitors explore the Narman Fairy Chimneys, known as the “Land of Red Fairies,” in Erzurum, eastern Türkiye, May 30, 2026. (AA Photo)
June 01, 2026 05:32 AM GMT+03:00

Visitor traffic has picked up at the Narman Fairy Chimneys in Erzurum, where travelers from different parts of Türkiye gathered on Saturday, May 30, to explore one of the country’s most distinctive natural landscapes.

Known locally as the “Land of Red Fairies,” the site stands out with its red-toned rock formations, canyon-like scenery and wide open valleys, offering visitors a striking setting for photography and outdoor activities.

Visitors explore the Narman Fairy Chimneys, known as the “Land of Red Fairies,” in Erzurum, eastern Türkiye, May 30, 2026. (AA Photo)
Visitors explore the Narman Fairy Chimneys, known as the “Land of Red Fairies,” in Erzurum, eastern Türkiye, May 30, 2026. (AA Photo)

Ancient formations bring visitors to Erzurum’s red landscape

The formations, which date back approximately 300 million years, have become a growing point of interest for domestic travelers. Visitors arriving from different cities walked through the red valleys, took photographs and spent time among the unusual rock shapes that give the area its local name.

The site’s appeal comes not only from its age, but also from the way its color and landscape set it apart from many other natural attractions in Türkiye.

Visitors explore the Narman Fairy Chimneys, known as the “Land of Red Fairies,” in Erzurum, eastern Türkiye, May 30, 2026. (AA Photo)
Visitors explore the Narman Fairy Chimneys, known as the “Land of Red Fairies,” in Erzurum, eastern Türkiye, May 30, 2026. (AA Photo)

Why Narman Fairy Chimneys are called ‘Land of Red Fairies’

The distinctive red color of the Narman Fairy Chimneys comes from the oxidation of iron elements found in sedimentary rocks. This process gives the formations their vivid appearance and creates the red tones that dominate the valleys.

The canyon structure of the landscape is often compared to the Grand Canyon in the United States, which was shaped by the Colorado River. In Narman, the combination of red rock, open valleys, and rugged formations creates a similar sense of scale for visitors exploring the area.

Horseback riding adds to visitor experience

As crowds moved through the site, many tourists stopped to take photos among the red formations, while others joined horseback rides through the landscape.

The route allowed visitors to take in the contrast between red and green tones, which has become one of the defining visual features of the area.

With its unusual geology and growing visitor interest, the Narman Fairy Chimneys continue to stand out as one of Erzurum’s notable natural attractions.

June 01, 2026 05:32 AM GMT+03:00
More From Türkiye Today