Akyaka: Steppes, Rivers and History

Akyaka district is a destination for travellers who want to explore wide-open landscapes and striking natural sites. It lies at an altitude of 1,477 metres; vast plains and steppes shape the landscape. Winters are cold, while summers are hot and dry. This distinct contrast between the seasons provides a practical framework for planning your trip: before choosing a holiday apartment in Akyaka, consider which weather and landscapes you prefer for your stay.

Rivers and Border Landscape

The Kars Çayı and Karahan Çayı flow through the district and empty into the Arpaçay Reservoir east of Akyaka, on the border with Armenia. The district has a 52-kilometre border with Armenia. Its centre is 13 kilometres from the Doğu Kapı border gate, which connects Turkey with Armenia. The rivers, reservoir and border location offer different points of reference for understanding the district’s geography.

Akyaka Canyon: Trails and Nature Experiences

Akyaka Canyon is in Akyaka district and is about ten kilometres long. It runs between the villages of Şahnalar and Kayaköprü and has hiking trails and picnic areas. The canyon was opened to visitors in 2021 at the initiative of the Akyaka District Governor’s Office. A report from 2021 describes nature walks and family picnics; another report from 2021 mentions rafting on the Kars Çayı in the canyon area. If you are planning a visit to the canyon, check current access and the availability of the activity you are interested in beforehand.

Kız Kalesi and Akyaka’s History

Nearby, Kız Kalesi is located in the village of Tignis (Kalkankale), within Akyaka district. Today, only a pile of stones remains; at the beginning of the 20th century, it was almost intact. The structure is likely to date from the reign of I. Smpad Pakraduni (890–914). The contrast between its former condition and what remains today makes the castle’s transformation tangible.

The name Akyaka also has a specific historical connection: in 1961, Kızılçakçak district adopted the name Akyaka, which it still bears today. This name change and the likely dating of Kız Kalesi shed light on different periods of regional history.

Choose the Focus That Suits Your Trip

When looking for a holiday apartment in Akyaka, it helps to consider the main focus of your trip. If you are primarily interested in Kız Kalesi, Tignis (Kalkankale) is the specific place to look for. For the canyon, the relevant locations are the villages of Şahnalar and Kayaköprü, between which it runs. Compare the location of your accommodation with the places that interest you most.

Discover more destinations: Yukarıdamlapınar, Çolaklı, Sarıkamış, Kağızman, Kars, Yenice, Dağpınar, Selim

Return to the main travel overview: Kars.