Alanya and City of Side: Whitewater Rafting and Jeep Safari

If you’re looking for an action-packed day that combines adrenaline, stunning scenery, and a taste of local adventure, the Alanya and Side: Whitewater Rafting and Jeep Safari tour might just tick all your boxes. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, plenty of travelers have shared their experiences, and it sounds like a solid way to spend a day exploring Turkey’s beautiful Antalya Province.

What really catches our eye are the two standout activities: an exhilarating raft on the Koprucay River and a rugged Jeep safari through Koprulu Canyon. Both promise to deliver incredible photo ops and some good old-fashioned fun. But, as with anything adventure-related, there are a few considerations to keep in mind—most notably, the need for comfortable shoes, waterproof gear, and a bit of a sense of adventure.

This experience is ideal if you enjoy outdoor pursuits, want to see diverse landscapes, and are happy to spend a full day on the go. It’s especially suited for those traveling with friends or family who are up for a mix of adrenaline and sightseeing. Just keep in mind that it’s not recommended for pregnant women or people with mobility restrictions, so plan accordingly.

Key Points

• Cost-Effective: At around $37 per person, this tour offers great value considering the included activities.
• Varied Activities: Combines exciting rafting with an off-road Jeep safari for a well-rounded day.
• Scenic Drive: The 70 km scenic route to Koprulu Canyon provides a relaxed start and some beautiful views.
• All Equipment Provided: Life vests, helmets, and paddles are included, making it hassle-free.
• Professional Guides: Tour leaders speak multiple languages, and are there to ensure safety and help enhance your experience.
• Flexible Cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

The day kicks off with a hotel pickup in an air-conditioned bus, which is a nice touch, especially if you’re staying in Alanya or Side. From there, it’s about a 70 km scenic drive to Koprulu Canyon—think of it as the warm-up, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy Turkey’s lush landscapes from the window.

Once you arrive at Koprulu Canyon National Park, the adventure really begins. You’ll be provided with all necessary gear, including a life vest, helmet, and paddle, so you can focus on having fun without worrying about safety equipment. The staff are knowledgeable and speak a variety of languages, offering tips and instructions to everyone, regardless of experience level.

Jeep Safari: Off-Road Excursion

The first activity is a 1.5-hour Jeep safari through the rugged terrain. This off-road ride is designed to show you the best of the canyon’s natural beauty, with plenty of photo stops along the way. The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the journey informative and enjoyable. Many reviews mention how stunning the scenery is, with travelers appreciating the chance to see less-visited parts of the park.

Whitewater Rafting: The Main Event

Next up is the rafting experience on the Koprucay River. The trip covers about 7 km of river, which is perfect for a beginner or a casual thrill-seeker. The river’s white water provides enough excitement to get your heart pumping, without being overly intimidating.

One feature that stands out is the midway stop for lunch at a local restaurant. It’s a great chance to refuel and chat with fellow travelers, and reviews often mention the quality of the food as quite good, especially considering the busy day. After lunch, you’ll head back onto the river for the second part of your adventure.

The crew will capture photos and videos of your experience, which is a nice touch, especially if you want to relive the day later. Once you finish, you’ll be transported back to your hotel, tired but happy.

The Value of the Tour

At just $37, the experience is quite affordable for what it offers. It includes pickup and drop-off, all equipment, lunch, and insurance—no hidden costs. While extras like drinks or souvenirs are not included, the overall package delivers a lot of fun for the price.

The tour’s reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides and the value of the experience. One reviewer even called it the “best day of the holiday,” which says a lot about the memorable nature of the activities.

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Practical Considerations

Before booking, consider some of the recommended packing tips: comfortable shoes for walking, swimwear for the rafting, a towel, and a waterproof camera to capture the moments. The tour explicitly states that phones should be left on the bus during rafting for safety reasons, which might be inconvenient if you’re used to always having your device handy but makes sense for safety.

It’s also worth noting that the experience isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with limited mobility, so plan accordingly. The physical nature of the activities and the terrain involved means this is best suited for travelers who are comfortable with some physical activity and outdoor adventures.

Why This Tour Works

What makes this tour appealing is the perfect mix of adventure and scenic beauty. The guides’ knowledge and friendliness come highly recommended, and the chance to see Koprulu Canyon from both a high vantage point in the Jeep and the river below during rafting makes for a diverse experience.

The stunning views and the sense of being in nature are what many travelers rave about, and the photos captured during the trip tend to be impressive. The fact that the tour is well-organized also means less stress figuring out logistics and more time enjoying the activities.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers looking for a one-day escape from the beach or city. It appeals particularly to those who enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable with water and rough terrain. Families with older children or teens might also find it fun, especially with the guided support and safety measures.

It’s less suitable for those with mobility issues, pregnant women, or anyone who prefers low-impact, relaxed sightseeing. If you’re after a laid-back cultural tour, this isn’t it—this is about fun, physical activity, and scenic adventure.

Final Thoughts

The Alanya and Side: Whitewater Rafting and Jeep Safari tour offers a great way to add some adrenaline and exploration to your holiday. It balances the thrill of whitewater rafting with the discovery of Turkey’s rugged landscapes through a guided Jeep safari. The price point makes it accessible, and travelers consistently praise the guides’ professionalism and the stunning scenery.

While it’s not without its practical considerations—like packing waterproof gear and being prepared for physical activity—it’s a great choice for those wanting an active, memorable day in nature. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or family, this tour promises a mix of fun, adventure, and beautiful views.

If you love outdoor pursuits and want to enjoy Turkey’s natural beauty from multiple angles, this experience is definitely worth considering.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, so you don’t have to worry about arranging your own transport.

What should I bring with me?
Pack comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, and a waterproof camera. It’s recommended to leave cellphones on the bus during rafting for safety.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
While specific group sizes aren’t listed, tours run with a professional guide and are designed for small to medium groups, ensuring personal attention.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour is a full day, starting with pickup and ending with drop-off at your hotel, with activities divided between about 1.5 hours of Jeep safari and 7 km of rafting.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally fun for older children, it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly. Consider your kids’ comfort with water and outdoor activities.

What’s the quality of the food during lunch?
Many reviews mention the lunch as being quite good, especially given the remote setting, making it a pleasant break during the day.

Are photos and videos included?
No, photos and DVDs are not included, but the crew will take photos of your experience, which you can purchase afterward if interested.

If you’re craving an adventurous day surrounded by nature’s beauty, this tour offers a good mix of thrills and scenic views at a fair price. Keep your camera handy, and you’re set for a memorable Turkey outing.

You can check availability for your dates here: