From city of Side: Excursion to Sapadere Canyon

Traveling in Turkey offers plenty of opportunities to explore stunning landscapes and vibrant cities, but if you’re looking to escape the crowds and enjoy some peaceful nature, a trip to Sapadere Canyon might just be the perfect fit. This tour from Side promises a full day of scenic views, interesting stops, and some well-earned relaxation—plus, it’s quite reasonably priced at around $41 per person.

What really caught our eye was the mix of nature and culture, especially the chance to walk through a canyon, visit a cave, and take in the sweeping vistas of Alanya from Seyir Terrace. The inclusion of a nice lunch amidst nature and a free hour to explore Alanya’s lively city center makes it a balanced day out. Of course, no trip is perfect—an aspect to consider is the tour’s 10-hour length, which could be a long day if you’re not used to full-day excursions. Still, this experience would suit travelers who enjoy a mix of natural beauty and cultural sights, especially those who want a taste of the outdoors without too much fuss.

Key Points

• Natural beauty: Explore the hidden gems of Sapadere Canyon’s lush, tranquil landscapes.
• Unique formations: Experience the Dwarf Cave’s intriguing rock formations, a highlight for nature lovers.
• Spectacular views: Marvel at Alanya from Seyir Terrace, 700 meters above sea level.
• Inclusive lunch: Enjoy a hearty meal in a scenic setting during your canyon visit.
• Flexibility: Optional visit to the Dwarf Cave offers a bit of personalized pacing.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, and a professional guide make it a smooth outing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

This day trip kicks off with hotel pickup in Side, where you’ll hop on a comfortable, air-conditioned bus. The journey to Alanya City is straightforward, and once you arrive, the guide will set the scene, sharing interesting tidbits about both Alanya and the natural spots you’ll visit.

First stop: Sapadere Canyon. Here, the highlight is walking through the canyon’s winding trails, surrounded by striking greenery and sounds of flowing water. The walk is accessible for most, and the views are genuinely impressive. The tour includes a lunch at the canyon, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy some local flavors amid nature. The food typically offers a decent variety, and the setting makes it all the more enjoyable.

Next, an optional visit to Dwarf Cave. This attraction is fascinating for those interested in geology or quirky sights—you’ll see the cave’s unique formations, which many find charming. Just keep in mind that entrance to the cave isn’t included in the base price, so if you decide to go, that’s an extra expense.

Following that, you’ll head to Seyir Terrace, perched roughly 700 meters above sea level. The panoramic views here are often a highlight, with sweeping vistas of Alanya’s coastline and the city below. It’s a perfect photo spot and a peaceful place to take in the scenery.

Finally, leisure time in Alanya city center allows you to wander at your own pace—whether you want to browse shops, grab a coffee, or just soak in the lively atmosphere.

The return to Side’s hotels is scheduled around 5-6 pm, giving you a long, full day of exploration but enough time to relax afterward.

The Value of This Tour

At $41 per person, this tour offers a pretty compelling value. It includes lunch, transportation, and a guide—things that can add up if you were to do similar activities independently. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off isn’t to be underestimated, especially if you’re staying in Side and don’t want to worry about navigating transport.

The tour is suitable for a broad range of travelers, including those who prefer not to plan every detail themselves. Plus, with options for multiple languages—Turkish, English, and German—it caters well to international visitors. The inclusion of travel insurance adds peace of mind, and the flexible cancellation policy makes booking low-risk.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

From the reviews we’ve looked at, many travelers appreciated the stunning views and the peaceful atmosphere of Sapadere Canyon. Commenters especially enjoyed the scenic walk and the photo opportunities, often describing the canyon as a peaceful retreat from the busier tourist spots.

One traveler noted, “We loved the way the guide shared information about the area, and the lunch was surprisingly good—very fresh and filling.” That’s a good sign that the included meal isn’t just a quick snack but a proper sit-down meal that complements the experience.

Some reviews mention that the Dwarf Cave is a quirky stop—”definitely worth seeing if you like unusual geological formations,” one said—though it’s not a must-see for everyone, especially if you’re pressed for time or on a tight budget.

A few travelers pointed out that the long day (around 10 hours) might be a bit tiring for some, particularly if you’re not used to full-day excursions. However, most agree that the panoramic views from Seyir Terrace and the chance to relax in nature make it worthwhile.

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes, especially for walking through the canyon or exploring the city center.
• Bring sunscreen and a hat—most of the stops are outdoors with plenty of sun.
• If you’re interested in visiting the Dwarf Cave, be prepared for an extra fee.
• Carry some cash for souvenirs or additional snacks in Alanya.
• Check your hotel pickup time in advance, and be ready at the designated spot.

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Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect if you’re craving a good mix of nature and cityscape without spending too much or planning logistics yourself. It suits those who enjoy scenic walks, panoramic views, and a leisurely lunch in beautiful surroundings. It’s flexible enough for those who want to skip certain stops (like the cave) and just soak up the canyon and terrace views instead.

While it’s a full day, most find it enjoyable—and not overly rushed. It’s also a solid choice if you’re traveling with friends or solo and want a guided experience that covers some of the area’s most picturesque spots.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from hotels in Side. Just wait at the outer main door of your hotel, and the guide will collect you.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts around 10 hours, with the return to Side hotels happening around 5 to 6 pm.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers transportation, a professional guide, lunch at Sapadere Canyon, and travel insurance.

Are drinks included?
No, all drinks are excluded from the tour cost. You should bring extra cash if you want beverages beyond water.

Can I visit the Dwarf Cave?
Yes, a visit to the Dwarf Cave is optional and involves an additional entrance fee, which is not included in the base price.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the walking is straightforward, and the outdoor stops are generally suitable for most ages. Use your judgment based on your child’s interests and stamina.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience provider states that the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s always best to confirm specific needs when booking.

This tour offers a straightforward, scenic, and culturally enriching day out that blends nature, panoramic views, and some light adventure. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photographer, or just looking to see a different side of Alanya and its surroundings, it’s a trip that’s likely to leave you with memorable impressions—and plenty of photos.

You can check availability for your dates here: