Side: Green Canyon Jeep and Boat Tour with Lunch

Exploring the Green Canyon Jeep and Boat Tour: A Friendly Guide

If you’re considering a day trip in the Antalya region, the Green Canyon Jeep and Boat Tour offers a lively and scenic way to escape the city buzz. Based on numerous glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, this tour seems to hit that sweet spot of adventure, culture, and relaxation. While we haven’t taken it ourselves, the consistent praise suggests it’s a solid choice for travelers craving a full day of exploration and fun.

One thing we love about this experience is its affordability—around $20 per person, it offers quite a lot for the price. The variety of activities, from off-road jeep safaris to boat trips in Green Lake, means you’re not stuck doing the same thing all day. Another plus is the friendly, knowledgeable guides—they seem to make the trip engaging and informative, adding genuine value to the journey.

A potential consideration is the terrain and weather—the jeep rides are bumpy, and the open-air vehicle might be chilly or dusty depending on the season. Packing appropriately (think hats, scarves, and sturdy shoes) will ensure you enjoy the experience without discomfort. It’s also worth noting that the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those with mobility issues, so check your personal comfort level before booking.

This tour seems best suited to those looking for an energetic, all-in-one day out that combines natural beauty, cultural insights, and a bit of adventure. Nature lovers, curious explorers, and anyone wanting a memorable day outside the usual tourist spots will likely find plenty to enjoy here.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Affordable price: At around $20, it offers great value considering the mix of activities.
• Diverse experiences: Jeep safaris, boat trips, waterfalls, and cultural stops keep the day lively.
• Excellent guides: Many reviews praise guides for being knowledgeable, friendly, and fun.
• Stunning scenery: From Green Canyon to mountain views, the visuals are a highlight.
• Comfort and logistics: Pickup and drop-off are included; plan for bumpy rides and outdoor conditions.
• Family-friendly considerations: Not explicitly geared towards kids, but some reviews mention family enjoyment.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The Green Canyon Jeep and Boat Tour is a well-rounded experience offering a mix of nature, culture, and fun. The journey begins early, with hotel pickup, so you’re not stressing about transportation. Once in the convoy of jeeps, you’ll head into the Taurus Mountains, where the views of Green Canyon are genuinely striking. We loved the way guides shared insights about local villages and traditions—these little stories added richness to the experience.

The off-road part of the safari is where the tour really comes alive. Expect dust, some splashes of water, and plenty of bumpy moments—these rides are for those who enjoy a bit of adventure. Several reviews mention how fun and exhilarating the drives are, especially with a skilled driver behind the wheel.

The stops at Sartlar and Iklar villages are a nice touch, giving a glimpse into local life. Guides seem to do a good job explaining traditions and routines, making these moments educational as well as scenic. If you’re into waterfalls, the visit to Manavgat Waterfall is a peaceful break that many find relaxing—it’s a perfect spot to unwind and take photos.

The highlight for many is the boat trip across Green Lake, which offers a peaceful contrast to the rougher jeep rides. With the option to swim in the lake, it’s an inviting chance to cool off and enjoy nature up close. The boat ride, lasting about an hour, adds that extra touch of serenity and scenic beauty to the day.

Lunch at Green Lake is another popular aspect. Many reviewers mention the meal as delicious and plentiful—an added bonus considering the trip’s budget-friendly price. While drinks at lunch aren’t included, you’ll have the chance to purchase beverages, so bringing some cash or card is advisable.

A Typical Day: From Mountain Views to Lake Serenity

The day kicks off early with pickups from multiple locations in the Side area, which makes it convenient regardless of where you’re staying. Once aboard the jeeps, the adventure begins with a scenic drive through the Taurus Mountains. You’ll likely feel the thrill during the off-road sections, bouncing along dirt paths with spectacular views all around. The guides keep the mood lively, sharing stories and interesting facts about the region.

The first major stop is Oymapnar, where you can relax with hot drinks like coffee or tea, nibble on local snacks, and enjoy some free time. This is a good chance to stretch your legs and take in the mountain air. Then, you’ll pass Green Canyon itself—taking photos and soaking in the scenery. Many reviews rave about the breathtaking vistas here, making it worth a few stops for photos.

Next, there’s a visit to Oymapnar Dam, a spot perfect for more photos and a quick look at the engineering marvel that is the dam. You’ll have some free time here, and it’s a good opportunity to appreciate the scale of the landscape. The tour then moves to Gölba Restaurant & Hotel for lunch—an ample meal that many find satisfying, with positive remarks about the quality.

After lunch, the journey continues through small villages like Deirmenli Köyü Yolu and Bucakeyhler, where you can enjoy more scenic views and short visits. The last stops are mainly for photos and soaking in the atmosphere before heading back to your hotel, completing the full day’s itinerary.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package offers excellent value, especially considering the inclusions:

• Transportation by Jeep: This is the core experience, taking you through rugged terrain and scenic routes.
• Tour guide: Knowledgeable guides seem to be a highlight, making the trip informative and fun.
• Boat tour at Green Lake: An hour of calm water cruising, with a chance to swim—if you select this option.
• Lunch at Green Lake: A substantial meal that many reviews praise.
• Activities like fishing and water slides: Small extras that enhance the experience.

However, keep in mind that drinks at lunchtime aren’t included, so bring your own or plan to buy beverages on-site. Also, the waterfall entrance fee isn’t included, so if you want to visit the waterfall, you’ll need to pay that separately.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Real Experience: What Travelers Say

Looking at the reviews, a common theme is enthusiasm for guides and drivers. For instance, reviewers consistently mention guides by name, praising their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to keep everyone entertained. Quotes like “Johnny Cash was hilarious and kept everyone entertained” and “Felix made our jeep journey so fun” show how much guides can elevate the experience.

Another theme is the scenery and adventure. Many mention how breathtaking the views are, especially at Green Canyon and the mountain stops. The off-road rides are described as “exhilarating” and “extreme,” which appeals to those who enjoy a bit of thrill.

The value for money is another point many emphasize. For roughly $20, you get a full day with multiple activities, food, and transportation—all delivered with friendly service. These reviews suggest that most travelers feel they received excellent value, especially considering the well-organized nature of the trip.

The food and drinks also receive positive comments: many mention the lunch as tasty and generous. The boat trip is highlighted as peaceful and scenic, providing a perfect break from the more energetic jeep rides.

One interesting note from reviews is how well the trip is suited for groups; both families and solo travelers seem to enjoy the lively, friendly atmosphere created by the guides and fellow travelers.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who loves adventure and scenic landscapes, this tour offers a lively way to explore the Antalya region’s natural beauty. It’s especially appealing if you’re interested in mixing cultural insights with outdoor activity—guides sharing stories about local villages enrich the experience beyond just sightseeing.

The value for money makes it a practical choice, especially for budget-conscious travelers who want a full day of exploration without breaking the bank. The variety of stops keeps things interesting, and the combination of jeep safaris with a relaxing boat trip creates a well-rounded day.

However, be prepared for bumpy rides and outdoor conditions. If you’re sensitive to dust, don’t enjoy rough terrains, or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. Also, those who prefer a more relaxed, less adventurous day may want to consider other options.

This tour seems to be a fantastic option for energetic travelers, nature lovers, and anyone wanting to experience a slice of local life and stunning scenery in a single, fun-filled day.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is available from all hotels in Side, Turkey, making it very convenient to join.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, with starting times varying depending on availability.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and comfortable shoes. It’s also good to have a hat or scarf to protect against dust and sun.

Is it suitable for children?
While many reviews mention family enjoyment, the tour involves off-road driving and outdoor activities that may not be ideal for very young children or those with special mobility needs.

Are drinks included at lunch?
No, drinks are not included, so you may want to bring some cash or cards for beverages.

How physically demanding is the jeep ride?
It involves off-road driving over uneven terrain, which can be bumpy and dusty—so it’s better suited for those comfortable with outdoor adventure.

Can I swim in Green Lake?
Yes, you have the opportunity to swim in Green Lake if you choose the boat option, which many travelers find relaxing.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some peace of mind if plans change.

To sum it up, the Green Canyon Jeep and Boat Tour offers a memorable, well-organized day that combines scenic beauty, cultural insights, and lively fun. It’s best suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities and want a good value adventure in beautiful surroundings. With friendly guides, stunning views, and a variety of experiences, it’s easy to see why so many travelers rate it highly.

You can check availability for your dates here: