Morgedik Barajı – A Hidden Gem in Van, Turkey
Discover the serene beauty of Morgedik Dam, the perfect off‑the‑beaten‑path destination for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone craving a peaceful escape in Eastern Turkey.
Introduction
If you think Turkey’s travel highlights are limited to Istanbul’s mosques, Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys, or the turquoise coast of Antalya, think again. Nestled in the rugged landscape of Van Province, Morgedik Barajı (Morgedik Dam) offers a tranquil lakeside setting framed by dramatic mountains and dotted with cascading waterfalls just a short drive away. Whether you’re on a road‑trip across Eastern Anatolia, a bird‑watching adventure, or a cultural tour of historic Van, a stop at Morgedik Dam adds a refreshing splash of natural wonder to your itinerary.
About Morgedik Barajı
- Location: Delicay, Van, Turkey
- Coordinates: 39.162031 N, 43.636583 E
- Type: Dam (hydroelectric/irrigation) – details on height and altitude are not publicly disclosed.
Morgedik Barajı was constructed as part of Turkey’s ambitious water‑resource development program aimed at supporting agriculture and providing renewable energy to the Van region. While the dam itself is modest compared to the massive Keban or Atatürk dams, its surrounding reservoir has become a beloved spot for locals and travelers alike.
The dam’s name, “Morgedik,” comes from the nearby village of the same name, which has a long history of pastoral life and traditional Van culture. Over the years, the reservoir has transformed the valley into a lush oasis, attracting a variety of bird species—especially waterfowl and raptors—making it a prime location for bird‑watching enthusiasts.
Because the dam is relatively new and not heavily commercialized, you’ll experience a genuine slice of Turkish countryside life, far from crowded tourist hotspots.
How to Get There
By Air
The nearest major gateway is Van Ferit Melen Airport (VAN), located about 90 km (≈ 1 hour 15 min drive) from Morgedik Barajı. The airport handles daily flights from Istanbul, Ankara, and other Turkish cities.
By Car
Rent a car at the airport or in Van city centre—this is the most flexible way to explore the region.
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From Van Airport:
- Head east on D.100 toward Van city centre.
- Follow signs for Van‑Erciş (E80) and continue for roughly 70 km.
- Take the D.965 exit toward Delicay; the road winds through picturesque valleys.
- After about 20 km, you’ll see signage for Morgedik Barajı on the right-hand side. -
From Van City Centre:
- Drive east on D.965 toward Erciş.
- Turn left onto the local road to Delicay after passing the İshak Pasha Mosque area.
- Follow the narrow but well‑maintained mountain road for 15 km; the dam’s reservoir will appear on the horizon.
Public Transportation
- Dolmuş (shared minibus): Daily dolmuş services run from Van’s main bus station to Delicay. Ask the driver to drop you off at the “Baraj” stop.
- Taxi: Taxis can be hired for a round‑trip; negotiate a fixed price (≈ 150‑200 TRY) before departure.
Parking & Facilities
A small, free parking lot sits just beside the dam’s visitor area. There are basic picnic tables, a restroom building, and a small kiosk selling tea and local snacks.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Weather | Why Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (April‑June) | Mild temperatures (12‑22 °C), blooming wildflowers | Ideal for photography, bird‑watching, and comfortable hikes. |
| Summer (July‑August) | Warm (25‑30 °C) with occasional thunderstorms | Perfect for a cool dip in the reservoir; early mornings are still pleasant. |
| Autumn (September‑October) | Cool, crisp air (10‑18 °C), golden foliage | Waterfalls are at peak flow after summer rains; fewer tourists. |
| Winter (November‑March) | Cold (0‑5 °C) and possible snowfall | The dam takes on a magical, snow‑capped backdrop—great for serene landscape shots, but some roads may be icy. |
Top recommendation: Late spring (mid‑May to early‑June) offers the best combination of comfortable weather, vibrant flora, and active wildlife.
What to Expect
Scenic Views
The reservoir stretches over a gentle valley, its surface mirroring the surrounding peaks. Early morning mist often lifts off the water, creating ethereal photo opportunities. The dam’s concrete structure contrasts nicely with the natural surroundings, giving you a sense of modern engineering meeting ancient landscape.
Activities
- Picnicking: Bring a blanket, local cheese (Van’s famous “kaymak”), and enjoy a lakeside lunch.
- Fishing: The reservoir is stocked with carp and trout; a fishing license can be obtained locally.
- Bird‑watching: Look for white‑storks, greylag geese, and occasional golden eagles soaring overhead.
- Photography: Sunset over the dam, reflections of the mountains, and the nearby waterfalls provide endless creative material.
Atmosphere
Morgedik Barajı is not a commercial tourist park; you’ll find a quiet, laid‑back vibe. Locals sometimes gather for evening tea, and you may hear traditional Kurdish or Turkish folk songs drifting across the water. Respect the peaceful setting—keep noise low and dispose of waste responsibly.
Nearby Attractions
Within a 15‑km radius, several spectacular waterfalls cascade down the volcanic slopes of Van Province. They’re perfect for a day‑trip after exploring the dam.
| Distance | Attraction | Highlights | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15.3 km | Unnamed Waterfall #1 | Small but crystal‑clear plunge pool; ideal for a quick dip. | Google Maps |
| 15.5 km | Unnamed Waterfall #2 | Surrounded by pine forest; great for short hikes. | Google Maps |
| 15.5 km | Unnamed Waterfall #3 | Multi‑tiered cascade; excellent for macro photography of mosses and lichens. | Google Maps |
| 15.6 km | Unnamed Waterfall #4 | Wider fall creating a misty spray—perfect for rainbow shots on sunny days. | Google Maps |
| 15.6 km | Muradiye Şelalesi | The most famous waterfall in the area, featuring a series of dramatic drops and a historic stone bridge nearby. | Muradiye Şelalesi – Wikipedia |
Tip: The waterfalls are most impressive after a spring rain or early autumn shower when water flow is strongest. Pack sturdy shoes and a waterproof jacket for slippery trails.
Travel Tips
- Carry Cash: Small villages around the dam rarely accept credit cards. ATMs are limited, so bring enough Turkish Lira for meals, snacks, and any entrance fees (most sites are free).
- Dress in Layers: Weather can shift quickly, especially in the mountains. A light jacket and a hat are essential year‑round.
- Stay Connected: Mobile coverage is decent in Van city but can be spotty near the dam. Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) before you leave.
- Respect Local Customs: When you encounter locals, a friendly “Merhaba” (hello) goes a long way. Dress modestly when visiting nearby villages or mosques.
- Safety First: The dam’s edges are steep; keep children close and avoid swimming near the concrete spillways.
- Leave No Trace: Bring a reusable water bottle and trash bag. The area’s natural beauty relies on responsible tourism.
- Photography Gear: A wide‑angle lens captures the sweeping reservoir, while a telephoto lens helps isolate wildlife. A small tripod is handy for low‑light sunset shots.
- Timing: Arrive early (sunrise) to beat any occasional crowd of local picnickers and to catch the soft morning light on the water.
Final Thoughts
Morgedik Barajı may not appear on the typical “Turkey travel bucket list,” but that’s exactly why it feels like a secret treasure. The combination of a calm lake, panoramic mountain scenery, and a cluster of nearby waterfalls makes it an ideal base for a day of exploration or a peaceful overnight stay in a nearby guesthouse. Add it to your Van itinerary, and you’ll discover a side of Eastern Turkey that few travelers get to experience.
Ready to plan your adventure? Pack your camera, hit the road, and let Morgedik Dam’s tranquil waters and surrounding wonders refresh your travel spirit. Safe travels!
