Narman Peribacaları

Narman Fairy Chimneys are geological formations located in the Narman district of Erzurum Province, Türkiye. The area is situated approximately 90 kilometers from the city center of Erzurum, at the 7th kilometer of the Narman-Pasinler highway. Covering an area of about 6300 hectares, the fairy chimneys are easily accessible and lie very close to the town of Narman.

Narman Fairy Chimneys (Erzurum Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism)

Geological Formation and Characteristics

The Narman Fairy Chimneys were formed approximately 2.5 to 3 million years ago through the erosion of sediments deposited by rivers into a basin, shaped over time by wind and water erosion. This formation process occurred entirely naturally, without human intervention, and has been preserved to the present day. The primary materials in the region consist of sandstone, conglomerate and siltstone layers from the Neogene (Upper Miocene) period.

The reddish coloration of the fairy chimneys results from the oxidation of iron (Fe₂O₃) within the sedimentary layers. As a result, the soil and the chimneys themselves exhibit a distinctive reddish hue. The diverse patterns and shapes formed by wind and water erosion make the Narman Fairy Chimneys unique.

Natural Protection and Status

The Narman Fairy Chimneys were officially registered as a “Qualified Natural Protection Area” on 20 November 2019 under Ministry Decree No. 273461. This decision was made in accordance with regulations published in the Official Gazette No. 30223 on 27 October 2017, ensuring the area’s protection. The coordinates and parcel information of the registered natural site are publicly available at www.says.gov.tr.

Geographical Location and Access

The Narman Fairy Chimneys are located south of the Narman district, in the northeastern part of Erzurum, at the 7th kilometer of the Narman-Pasinler highway. Access to the area, approximately 90 kilometers from the city center of Erzurum, is provided by public transportation departing from Şükrüpaşa Neighborhood. The region is surrounded by the districts of Oltu, Şenkaya, Sarıkamış, Horasan, Pasinler and Tortum.

Narman Fairy Chimneys (Erzurum Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism)

Tourism Potential and Protection Status

Noted for its resemblance to the Grand Canyon shaped by the Colorado River in the United States, the Narman Fairy Chimneys were declared a “Natural Monument” in 2018. In 2019, they were officially registered as a “Natural Site Area” by the Ministry of Environment and Urbanization. This area, consisting of three major valleys totaling 62 kilometers in length, is protected under national park principles.

The region has been developed for tourism through contributions from the Erzurum Governorship, Metropolitan Municipality, Narman Municipality, Northeastern Anatolia Development Agency and Atatürk University. In recent years, infrastructure investments have included hiking trails, rest areas, day-use facilities, camping zones and restaurants. Festivals and promotional activities held during the summer months have led to increased numbers of both domestic and international tourists.

Nature Activities and Events

The area offers nature-based activities such as ATV and bicycle tours, and horseback safaris. During the tourism season, weekends see approximately 400 to 500 domestic and 100 to 200 international visitors. Additionally, plans are underway to organize football and volleyball tournaments as well as camping events. Measurements are also being conducted to assess the feasibility of paragliding.

Narman Fairy Chimneys (AA)

^Attraction for Photographers and Nature Enthusiasts

Especially during spring and snowy winter months, the landscape created by the contrast of red and white colors makes this area a preferred destination for nature observers and photographers. Known as the “Land of Red Fairies,” the region attracts attention not only as a visitation site but also for its prominent geomorphological structures visible in the open air.

Narman Fairy Chimneys (Erzurum Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism)

Narman Fairy Chimneys are one of Türkiye’s significant geological formations. Distinct from similar structures in Cappadocia due to their sedimentary composition, this area holds potential for tourism, education and cultural research. It is particularly popular among nature photographers, geology researchers and travelers seeking alternative routes.