Turkey holiday warning over popular tourist activity

British tourists have been warned to take care while taking part in adventure outdoor tourism in Turkey.

The UK Government urged tourists to take precautions while doing extreme sports, jeep safaris, water sports and while using a quad bike or moped.

All of these popular activities come with risks and tourists will need to make sure they have the appropriate travel insurance to take part.

Tourists should also make sure that they are using a reputable operator with a licence and the correct equipment.

Holiday operators should be able to recommend reputable companies in the area but tourists should also exercise caution.

Extreme sports

The FCDO advice states: “If you do an extreme sport, check that adequate safety precautions are in place. British nationals have been injured and killed doing extreme sports.”

• Only use reputable operators
• Make sure you are given full instructions and training before your activity
• Make sure your travel insurance covers you for all your activities

Jeep safaris

The FCDO states: “Jeep safaris can be dangerous, there were a number of reported accidents in 2023.”

• Make sure you use a reputable company who have adequate health and safety procedures
• Always check that activities are covered by your insurance

Quad biking and mopeds

British tourists need to have specific travel insurance that covers quad biking and they should always read the small print of their policy.

• Make sure you are given full instructions and training before your activity
• Insurance sold by the hire company usually only provides third party insurance so tourists will likely be charged for any damage to the rental vehicle and can be arrested if they don’t pay.
• Tourists need a valid driving licence with at least category A1 to use a moped
• Make sure the vehicle is in good condition and drivers and passengers must wear helmets. Failure to do so could invalidate insurance and police could fine tourists and take their licence.

Water sports

Book activities at a licensed water sports centre.

• Make sure paperwork is completed
• Ask for a safety demonstration
• Make sure you know how to call for help
• Obey warning signs and flags on beaches
• Follow instructions from lifeguards and observe flags on beaches
• Follow local advice if jellyfish and urchins are present