Side: Full-Day Mix Tour to Green Canyon with Boat & Lunch

If you’re planning a day out around Antalya’s charming surroundings, this Full-Day Mix Tour to Green Canyon with Boat & Lunch could be just what you need. We’ve gathered the scoop on what this trip offers, so you can decide if it matches your travel style. From scenic boat rides to cultural visits, this tour packs in diverse experiences into around 7 hours of adventure.

Two things that really stand out are the stunning views you’ll enjoy at Green Canyon and the delicious lakeside lunch. Both promise memorable moments and good value—especially if you’re into nature and relaxed sightseeing. However, some may find the schedule a bit tight or the activities not tailored for those looking for a more leisurely or in-depth experience. It’s definitely suited for travelers who want a well-rounded day of sightseeing without missing out on key highlights.

For anyone who loves a mix of natural beauty, cultural sights, and a touch of adventure, this tour offers a balanced introduction to the area’s highlights. It’s particularly great if you’re short on time but want a snapshot of both nature and local culture.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary: Combines cultural sites, scenic viewpoints, nature, and a boat trip.
• Comfortable transport: Travel in a cabrio bus, making the journey more enjoyable.
• Great for nature lovers: The Green Canyon and Green Lake provide stunning scenery.
• Includes a lakeside lunch: Enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine in a peaceful setting.
• Optional visits: Entry to the zoo and Manavgat Waterfalls are extra, giving flexibility.
• Suitable for most travelers: With some walking involved, not ideal for mobility-impaired.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour kicks off with an easy pick-up from your hotel, followed by a scenic hour-long ride in a cabrio bus, which adds a fun, open-air vibe to the journey. The first stop is the central Külliye Mosque in Manavgat, where you’ll have around 25 minutes to explore or snap photos of this impressive structure. It’s a quick stop but gives you a glimpse of local architecture and history.

Next, you’ll enjoy a short 10-minute photo stop at the Aquaduck viewpoint, which offers some lovely views on the way to Seleukia. This is a perfect moment to take in the scenery and get some photos of the landscape stretching out before you.

Then, it’s time for a 15-minute break at Oymapnar Dam. This spot offers a chance to stretch your legs and appreciate the engineering marvel while soaking in some fresh air. Not far from here, you’ll arrive at Green Canyon, renowned for its dramatic scenery. Another brief 15-minute stop allows you to capture the vistas and get ready for the highlight — the boat cruise.

The boat trip on Green Lake is the main event. Lasting around an hour, you’ll glide across calm waters surrounded by lush greenery. The boat ride is relaxing and offers plenty of photo opportunities, making it ideal for nature lovers or those who simply want a peaceful moment on the water.

Following the cruise, you’ll enjoy a lunch at a lakeside restaurant. This is a nice break that combines good food with a tranquil setting. Expect to savor traditional Turkish dishes, which many reviews mention as a definite highlight.

After lunch, there’s a quick 30-minute visit to a local zoo (entry fee extra), giving you some time to see local animals — though this is optional. On the return trip, you’ll stop at the Manavgat Waterfalls, a charming spot for photos and a chance to relax before heading back to your hotel.

The Highlights in Detail

The Cultural Stop at Külliye Mosque

This grand mosque in Manavgat is a significant cultural landmark. With 25 minutes to explore, you can appreciate its architecture or capture some photos. It’s a snapshot of local religious and architectural heritage, offering a different perspective from the natural scenery.

The Viewpoint at Aquaduck

A 10-minute stop may seem brief, but the views from the Aquaduck lookout are worth it. The scenery here sets the tone for the rest of the day, giving a taste of the area’s natural beauty. Expect panoramic vistas that are excellent for photos.

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Oymapnar Dam Break

This 15-minute pause provides a chance to admire engineering and enjoy the outdoors. It’s a practical stop to stretch or grab some quick photos before continuing.

Green Canyon and Green Lake

The canyon itself is a highlight, with impressive cliffs and lush greenery. The boat cruise allows you to relax and take in the landscape from the water. Many find this the most memorable part of the trip, especially if you appreciate tranquil natural settings.

Tip: The boat tour might not be suitable for seasickness-prone travelers, as it involves some time on the water, but it’s generally calm.

Lakeside Lunch

The lakeside restaurant offers a genuine taste of Turkish cuisine. Many reviews praise the delicious food and the peaceful setting, making it a perfect recharge spot during the day. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal option, especially if you enjoy dining surrounded by nature.

Manavgat Waterfalls

A lovely spot for photos and a brief relax before heading back. Entry is optional and costs around 1.5 EUR, so you can choose whether to stop or skip depending on your interest and energy levels.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour lasts about 7 hours, making it a full but manageable day.
• Transportation is in a cabrio bus, adding an open-air element to your journey.
• Pickup is included, with guests asked to wait 10 minutes before the scheduled time.
• The tour operates in English and German, so language support is available.
• Entry fees to the zoo (4 EUR) and Waterfalls (1.5 EUR) are not included, so budget extra if you want to visit.
• Be prepared for some walking and outdoor exposure. Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and water are recommended.
• The boat trip may not be ideal for those prone to seasickness, but most find it relaxing and scenic.
• If you’re traveling with children or have mobility issues, keep in mind that some walking may be involved, and the boat ride isn’t suited for everyone.

What Reviewers Say

With a 4.5-star rating from just two reviews, this tour has caught the attention of travelers who appreciated the scenic views and the mix of activities. One reviewer simply said, “War nicht schlecht,” which translates to “not bad,” indicating it’s a decent experience. Others have highlighted the stunning views and delicious food, making it clear that the natural scenery and good meals are the standout features.

Strengths Highlighted

• The scenic boat trip on Green Lake is described as relaxing and beautiful.
• The lunch at the lakeside restaurant is often praised as a highlight, especially if you enjoy Turkish cuisine and peaceful settings.
• The viewpoints and photo stops are appreciated for their stunning vistas.
• The overall diversity of the itinerary suits those who want a mix of culture, nature, and leisure.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour caters well to travelers looking for a well-rounded day that combines cultural sights, natural beauty, and a relaxed pace. It’s particularly suitable for those who enjoy scenic boat rides, photography opportunities, and delicious local food. If you’re after a leisurely yet comprehensive introduction to the Side region, this could be a good pick.

However, if you have mobility challenges, dislike boat rides, or want a more in-depth or personalized experience, you might find this tour somewhat limited. Also, those sensitive to seasickness should consider whether the boat cruise suits them.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from designated locations, traveling in a comfortable cabrio bus.

How long is the boat cruise?
The boat ride on Green Lake lasts approximately 1 hour, offering a peaceful cruise through beautiful surroundings.

Are the entrance fees to the Waterfalls and zoo included?
No, these are optional extras. The Waterfalls cost around 1.5 EUR and the zoo about 4 EUR, payable if you choose to visit.

What should I bring for this tour?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended to make the most of your day.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, it’s generally suitable for most travelers. Keep in mind that some walking is involved, and the boat ride may not be suitable for very young children or those prone to seasickness.

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

Final Thoughts

This Full-Day Mix Tour to Green Canyon offers a balanced taste of natural beauty, cultural sights, and local flavor. The combination of scenic viewpoints, a peaceful boat cruise, and a lakeside Turkish lunch makes it an appealing option for those wanting to see the highlights of Side and its surroundings without a hectic schedule.

While it might not satisfy travelers seeking in-depth exploration or a private experience, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a relaxed, varied day out. The views and tranquil moments, especially at Green Lake and the canyon, stand out as memorable parts of the trip.

If you’re after a well-organized, scenic tour that offers a good mix of nature, culture, and good food, this one could very well meet your expectations. Just remember to pack smart, have your camera ready, and be open to a day filled with beautiful vistas and tasty bites.

You can check availability for your dates here: