Uzunçayır Barajı – The Hidden Hydroelectric Gem of Mazgirt, Tunceli

Explore the serene waters, rugged landscapes, and authentic Turkish village life that surround one of Turkey’s lesser‑known dams.

1. Introduction

If you’ve already checked off the fairy‑tale terraces of Cappadocia, the turquoise coast of Antalya, and the bustling bazaars of Istanbul, it’s time to turn your compass toward the quiet, unspoiled heart of Eastern Turkey. Nestled in the district of Mazgirt, Uzunçayır Barajı (Uzunçayır Dam) is a modest yet striking hydro‑electric reservoir that offers travelers a rare blend of engineering marvel, natural beauty, and cultural immersion. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a road‑trip aficionado, or simply someone who loves to wander off the beaten path, Uzunçayır Barajı is the perfect backdrop for your next adventure.

2. About Uzunçayır Barajı

A Brief History

Built as part of Turkey’s ambitious push to harness renewable energy, Uzunçayır Barajı and its accompanying hydro‑electric power plant were commissioned in the early 2000s. The dam sits on the Kızılırmak River’s tributary system, creating a reservoir that supplies clean electricity to the surrounding provinces. While the exact height of the structure remains undocumented in public sources, the project is celebrated locally for its contribution to regional development and for stabilizing water supplies for agriculture in Mazgirt.

Why It Matters

Renewable Energy – The hydro‑electric plant at Uzunçayır Barajı helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels, aligning with Turkey’s national energy strategy.
Economic Boost – The dam’s construction generated jobs and improved infrastructure, benefitting nearby villages.
Ecological Balance – The reservoir has become a haven for native fish species and migratory birds, adding a layer of biodiversity to the rugged Anatolian landscape.

For a deeper dive into the technical details, the Turkish Wikipedia entry provides a concise overview: Uzunçayır Barajı ve Hidroelektrik Santrali.

3. How to Get There

By Air

The nearest commercial airport is Erzincan Erkin Aksaray Airport (ERC), roughly 150 km (≈ 2‑hour drive) from Mazgirt. From the airport, rent a car or arrange a private transfer to the city of Tunceli (about 120 km north).

By Bus

Intercity buses run regularly from major hubs such as Ankara, İstanbul, and Erzurum to Tunceli. The Tunceli bus terminal is a short taxi ride away from the city center.

By Car

Driving is the most flexible way to explore the region:

From Tunceli – Follow the D885 highway westward for ~30 km.
Turn onto the local road to Mazgirt – The sign reads “Mazgirt / Uzunçayır Barajı.”
Continue for another 12 km – You’ll see the reservoir on the right, framed by rolling hills and pine‑covered slopes.

The entire journey from Tunceli to the dam takes about 45 minutes on a well‑maintained asphalt road. If you’re coming from Erzincan, the route via the D300 and D885 highways offers scenic mountain passes and several rest stops with traditional tea houses.

Public Transport Tips

Dolmuş (minibus) services run between Tunceli and Mazgirt several times a day; ask the driver to drop you off at the “Baraj” (dam) entrance.
Local taxis are inexpensive and can be hired for a round‑trip, especially if you’re traveling in a small group.

4. Best Time to Visit

Season	Weather	Why Visit
Spring (April‑June)	Mild temperatures (12‑22 °C), wildflower blooms	Ideal for photography, bird‑watching, and picnics by the water.
Summer (July‑August)	Warm to hot (25‑35 °C), occasional thunderstorms	Perfect for a cool dip in the reservoir; evenings are pleasant for a lakeside tea.
Autumn (September‑October)	Crisp air (10‑18 °C), golden foliage	The surrounding oak and pine forests turn amber—great for hiking and sunset shots.
Winter (November‑March)	Cold, occasional snow (0‑5 °C)	The dam takes on a tranquil, almost mystical look; snow‑capped peaks create dramatic panoramas.

Peak visitor season is spring and early autumn, when the weather is comfortable and the landscape is at its most colorful. If you prefer solitude, aim for late autumn or early winter—just pack warm layers.

5. What to Expect

The Landscape

Approaching Uzunçayır Barajı, you’ll be greeted by a glimmering blue‑green reservoir that mirrors the surrounding limestone cliffs. The water level fluctuates seasonally, revealing rocky shorelines in summer and a broader lake surface in spring. Pine forests climb the hillsides, and scattered village farms dot the outskirts, offering a glimpse into traditional Anatolian life.

Activities

Photography & Sunset Watching – The dam’s reflective surface creates stunning mirror images, especially at golden hour.
Picnicking – There are designated grassy spots near the dam’s edge; bring a Turkish “çay” (tea) and some “simit” (sesame bagels).
Birdwatching – Look for white‑throated kingfishers, European rollers, and seasonal migratory waterfowl.
Light Hiking – Short trails wind around the reservoir, leading to viewpoints that overlook the dam’s spillway.
Cultural Interaction – The nearby village of Mazgirt hosts a modest market on Saturdays where you can sample local cheeses, honey, and hand‑woven textiles.

Facilities

Parking – A small, free parking lot sits near the main viewpoint.
Restrooms – Basic facilities are available, maintained by the local municipality.
Information Board – A bilingual (Turkish/English) plaque explains the dam’s construction and its role in the regional power grid.

While the site is not a commercial tourist resort, its simplicity is part of its charm. Bring your own snacks, water, and a sturdy pair of shoes for the uneven paths.

6. Nearby Attractions

Uzunçayır Barajı sits in a cluster of small dams and natural sites that are perfect for a day‑trip itinerary. Here are the closest points of interest (distances measured from the dam’s main overlook):

Attraction	Distance	What to See
Unnamed Dam 1	5.4 km	Small spillway, ideal for a quick photo stop.
Unnamed Dam 2	8.0 km	Scenic walking trail along the reservoir’s edge.
Unnamed Dam 3	8.2 km	Picnic area with panoramic views of the valley.
Unnamed Dam 4	8.8 km	Historical stone bridge crossing a tributary.
Unnamed Dam 5	10.1 km	Viewpoint overlooking the confluence of two rivers.

Tip: Since these dams are not heavily marketed, you’ll often find local guides in Mazgirt who can take you on a “dam‑tour” and share stories about the region’s water management history.

Other nearby highlights (within a 30‑km radius):

Mazgirt Castle Ruins – Perched on a hilltop, offering sweeping vistas of the Tunceli plateau.
Munzur Valley National Park – A protected area famous for its rugged cliffs, crystal‑clear streams, and traditional Kurdish villages.
Ovacık Hot Springs – Natural thermal pools ideal for a relaxing soak after a day of exploring.

7. Travel Tips

Tip	Details
Dress in layers	Weather can shift quickly, especially in spring and autumn.
Carry cash	Small villages may not accept credit cards; Turkish Lira is preferred.
Respect local customs	When visiting villages, ask permission before photographing people.
Stay hydrated	Even in cooler months, the altitude and dry air can cause dehydration.
Bring a portable charger	Mobile coverage is spotty near the dam; a power bank keeps your devices alive for navigation and photos.
Check dam water levels	During the dry summer months, the reservoir may be lower, affecting the visual impact.
Hire a local guide	They can point out hidden viewpoints, share folklore, and navigate the unmarked trails safely.
Leave no trace	Pack out all litter; the area is a fragile ecosystem that relies on responsible tourism.

Final Thought

Uzunçayır Barajı may not appear on the typical Turkey travel checklist, but that’s exactly why it’s worth discovering. Its tranquil waters, rugged surroundings, and genuine local atmosphere provide a refreshing contrast to Turkey’s crowded tourist hotspots. Pack your camera, hit the road, and let the quiet power of this dam and its landscape recharge your own sense of wonder.

Happy travels!