Floating islands

Three plant-based islands float independently across Lake Aksakal, forming a natural platform that moves when weight is applied to one side.

The floating islands emerged in 2003 and received natural monument status from Turkish authorities, marking their ecological importance in the region.

Local residents of Bingöl Province share traditional knowledge about the floating islands through generations, integrating them into regional identity.

The natural monument spans 38,400 square meters and requires a short walk from the Bingöl-Muş highway D.300 to reach the observation points.

The islands support multiple shrubs and ash trees, with their roots binding to soil masses that maintain buoyancy on the lake surface.

Inception: 2003

GPS coordinates: 38.97236,40.94530

Latest update: May 11, 2025 06:42