Recently becoming one of the important centers of nature tourism, Hakkari offers visitors a variety of attractions, including glacial lakes, plateaus, glaciers, waterfalls, and wildlife. As the number of tourists increases, the city's economy is also developing. Hakkari attracts tourists with its winter tourism and natural beauty.
Situated at an altitude of 1720 meters, Hakkari, largely composed of mountainous terrain and noted for its pristine nature and beauty, has recently become a significant center for nature tourism.
Hakkari, with its newly discovered hidden gems, offers visitors the opportunity to experience a variety of attractions in one place, including glacial lakes, plateaus with unique landscapes, glaciers, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
Recently, groups of visitors have been arriving in the city through tour companies to explore the natural beauty, go hiking, and visit historical sites to learn about the region's culture, nature, and history.
The increase in the number of tourists each year has also contributed to the development of the local economy and social life.
Governor and Acting Mayor Ali Çelik stated that the city, with its natural beauty, mountains, streams, and valleys, hosts numerous visitors.
Emphasizing the significant tourism activity in recent years, Çelik said: "Until 2016, the annual average number of tourists visiting our city was around 40,000. Since then, the number of tourists has increased each year. As of last year, 110,000 people visited our city. This is a significant development. Our total annual overnight stays have now reached around 170,000. These are just the ones coming for tourism purposes. These figures show us that Hakkari offers opportunities for various tourism activities due to its geography, natural beauty, and cultural values. Winter tourism is a major aspect. Mountaineers, rafters, campers, and adventure enthusiasts show significant interest in Hakkari. This is gratifying for us. We are in a unique region with its ecosystem and natural beauty. Our main goal is for everyone to share these beauties, and for this to translate into employment opportunities that provide added value to the local people."
"This was the first, but it won't be the last."
Tourism professional Güray Mustu mentioned that he came to the city with a group of tourists from Mersin and that they were amazed by the region's unique geography.
Mustu, who previously toured the Black Sea, Marmara, and other regions, said, "We wanted to explore Hakkari as well. We came to show people the beauty of the region. This was the first, but it won't be the last. There will be more visits. The visitors witnessed the beauty, nature, and warmth of the people here. I had often come to the Eastern Anatolia Region, but this was my first time here. I was captivated. I thank the people of this region very much. Our guide is also from here, and he is introducing us to the area in the best way possible."
Şeyma İsmail, who came from Iraq, also expressed her admiration for Hakkari's unique scenery, saying, "Those who haven't been here before should come and see it. We were welcomed very well. Everyone is hospitable. I've been to many places, but this one is entirely different."
Chase Johnson from the USA said, "I really liked the city. The mountains and the people here are amazing. Everyone is trying to be helpful. It's a beautiful place. We are happy to have come here."