City of Side: Green Canyon, Waterfall, Ancient City Mix Tour

Discovering the Side Green Canyon, Waterfall, and Ancient City Mix Tour

If you’re considering a day trip from Side that combines a mix of natural beauty, engineering marvels, and cultural sights, this tour might catch your eye. We’ve looked into it, and it seems like a well-rounded way to spend a day—offering scenic boat rides, impressive dam views, lush waterfalls, and even a peek into local fruit production.

What we particularly like is how varied the experience is. You get to enjoy the calm of Green Lake, marvel at the size of Oymapinar Dam, and take in some refreshing waterfalls—all in one adventure. Plus, there’s plenty of time for fun activities like swimming and jet skiing. On the flip side, a potential snag is that some parts of the tour can go a bit fast, possibly leaving little room to soak in the sights at your own pace.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a mix of relaxation and activity in a single day, especially if you’re into outdoor scenery and cultural highlights. If you’re after a leisurely, laid-back trip or traveling with very young children or those with mobility issues, it’s worth noting the tour’s structure and some of its limitations.

Key Points

• Variety of Attractions: Combines lakes, dams, waterfalls, and local fruit stops for a diverse experience.
• Scenic Boat Ride: Green Lake offers peaceful views and a chance to relax on the water.
• Activities Galore: Swimming, jet skiing, and foam parties keep the day lively.
• Impressive Engineering: Oymapinar Dam provides a glimpse into modern infrastructure.
• Cultural and Natural Mix: Includes visits to a historic mosque and local orange groves.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours, with the option to reserve now and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is a full-day affair, generally lasting about 7 to 8 hours, starting with hotel pickup in Side. The early part of the trip sets the tone with a visit to a historic mosque, which is a nice way to appreciate local architecture and history. It’s a peaceful start that hints at the cultural richness of the region.

Next up is the highlight for many—Green Lake. This enchanting spot features a boat ride on the clear, calm waters, perfect for taking photographs and soaking in the serenity. The boat trip is comfortable and offers a chance to enjoy the lush surroundings. After the boat ride, a delicious lunch is served, often outdoors with views of the lake, making the meal feel like part of the experience rather than just nourishment.

Once fed, the fun continues with a variety of activities at Green Lake. Visitors can swim in the inviting waters or rent a jet ski for a bit of adrenaline. Some reviews mention a foam party, which adds a lively, carefree element that can be particularly memorable. It’s a fun way to cool off and let loose, especially on a warm day.

After the lake, the trip takes you to Oymapinar Dam, an engineering wonder. This impressive structure is a great photo spot and offers insight into the region’s water management and energy production. The size and scale of the dam make it clear why it’s considered a significant feat of modern engineering.

The day isn’t over yet. You’ll visit a charming orange grove where you can learn about local fruit production— and perhaps enjoy a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice, which is a delightful refreshment after a busy morning.

For those who want to extend their adventure, there’s an optional visit to the Manavgat Waterfall, a picturesque cascade that provides a calming end to the day. The sound of rushing water and the natural beauty make it a popular final stop.

The Details: Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

Most of the reviews mention the transport as being a bit old, with some describing the bus as “clapped out” and noisy. While this may affect comfort slightly, it doesn’t seem to detract too much from the overall experience, especially given the scenic stops along the way.

The tour is designed to be flexible, with pickup from hotels and a generally well-structured itinerary. The timing allows for enough stops to enjoy each spot thoroughly, although some reviewers point out that the pace can occasionally feel rushed—particularly at stops like the zoo or waterfalls, where more time to explore would be appreciated.

Group sizes tend to be moderate; it’s not a large bus full of strangers, but the exact number can vary. The tour providers offer services in multiple languages including English, German, Russian, and Turkish, ensuring most travelers can follow along comfortably.

It’s worth mentioning that children might need to sit on laps during transfers if no extra seats are available, and the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or wheelchair users.

Is It Worth the Price?

When evaluating value, consider the variety of sights and activities packed into one day. Entrance fees are included, and the tour offers a good mix of cultural, natural, and leisure experiences. The boat ride, scenic views, and activities like jet skiing add fun elements that otherwise would cost extra if you arranged them independently.

Some reviews praise the tour’s price-performance ratio, noting that while the transport might be basic, the experience itself offers plenty to see and do. The included lunch and stops at noteworthy sites are bonus touches that make this a well-rounded package for the cost.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

One recurring theme in reviews is the friendly and informative guide, often named Ahmet. His enthusiasm and knowledge seem to elevate the experience, making each stop more engaging. Travelers appreciate his efforts, even if some mention language barriers or that the commentary could be clearer.

A few shared minor frustrations—like the boat breaking down during a trip and parts being rushed—reminding us that no tour is perfect. But overall, most seem satisfied with the variety of sights and the friendly atmosphere. The water activities, especially the jet skiing and foam party, get lots of positive mentions and are a highlight for many.

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Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This full-day adventure suits those who love a good mix of scenic beauty, light activity, and cultural sights. It works well for travelers who want a structured day that covers a lot without having to organize each stop individually. If you’re after a relaxing, leisurely day without feeling hurried, be aware that some parts might feel a bit rushed, especially during busy stops.

While not ideal for pregnant women, people with back problems, or wheelchair users, it’s a solid choice for active travelers and nature lovers eager to see a bit of everything. The diverse stops and engaging guide make it a worthwhile option for anyone wanting to maximize their time around Side and its surroundings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup from Side hotels, making it convenient to start the day without extra planning.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 7 to 8 hours, allowing enough time for each stop and activity without feeling overly rushed.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, swimwear, camera, sunscreen, and water. These items help you enjoy the day comfortably and stay protected from the sun.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children may need to sit on laps during transfers if no extra seats are available. The tour isn’t specifically designed as family-friendly, and some activities or parts may not be suitable for very young children.

Are meals included?
Yes, a delicious lunch is part of the experience, typically served at Green Lake. You might also enjoy a fresh glass of orange juice at the grove.

What is the quality of the transportation?
Most reviews mention the bus as being older and somewhat noisy. While not the most modern vehicle, it’s functional and gets you to the sights safely.

All in all, if you’re after an Active, scenic, and culturally engaging day out near Side, this tour offers a solid choice. It combines natural beauty with interesting stops, and the variety keeps things lively. Just be prepared for a busy schedule, and don’t forget to enjoy each moment—there’s a lot to love about this trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: