Alanya: Green Canyon Boat Tour & Nature Escape

If you’re after a peaceful retreat into nature with a touch of adventure, the Green Canyon Boat Tour from Alanya might catch your eye. It’s a full-day experience that promises stunning mountain vistas, a relaxing boat ride, and a chance to unwind by the water. We’ve looked into what this tour offers, and if you’re thinking about it, here’s what you should know.

Two things we really like about this experience are the scenic views of the lake and the knowledgeable guides who make the trip both informative and engaging. The boat trip itself looks like a highlight, offering calm waters to enjoy the surrounding greenery and mountain scenery. Plus, the opportunity to relax at a lakeside restaurant, with options for lakeside activities, adds a nice touch of variety.

A possible consideration is the length of the tour, which is about nine hours—definitely a full day. If you’re not a fan of long outings or have limited mobility, this might feel a bit heavy. Also, keep in mind that alcohol isn’t included, so if you’re looking to enjoy drinks with your meal, you’ll need to plan accordingly.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate nature, enjoy boat trips, and want a break from city sightseeing. It’s also a good pick if you’re traveling with others who prefer a mix of relaxing scenery and light activities. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy calm, scenic experiences will find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Scenic Views: The trip offers fantastic vistas of Green Canyon, Oymapnar Dam, and lush landscapes.
• Relaxing Boat Ride: The calm waters of the lake make for a peaceful trip, ideal for unwinding.
• Lakeside Lunch: You’ll enjoy a meal at a scenic restaurant, with the chance to appreciate the natural surroundings.
• Activities & Relaxation: Options for lakeside activities like fishing and canoeing are available, or you can just kick back.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable hosts speak multiple languages, making the experience accessible and informative.
• Value for Money: The tour includes transport, boat trip, lunch, and entry fees, offering a well-rounded day out.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Green Canyon Boat Tour

How the Day Begins

The journey starts with hotel pickup in Alanya, which is a nice convenience. The ride to Oymapnar Dam takes about 1.5 hours, giving you time to relax and enjoy the sights along the way. The route offers views of the surrounding landscape, giving you a taste of the area’s natural beauty even before you arrive.

Once you reach the dam, you’ll have a chance to appreciate the impressive engineering behind Turkey’s fifth-largest dam. Guides usually provide insights into its construction and purpose, transforming a simple sightseeing stop into a mini lesson on local infrastructure.

The Green Canyon Experience

The highlight is undoubtedly the boat trip on the lake. The waters are calm, and the scenery around you is lush and inviting. Expect to see plantations and forests stretching into the distance. The boat trip lasts long enough to enjoy the tranquility but isn’t overly lengthy—just enough to soak in the environment without feeling bored.

Multiple reviews praise the stunning vistas during this part of the tour, with one stating, “The views are incredible, and the boat crew was very friendly and informative.” The guides’ multilingual abilities (English, German, Russian, Turkish) make it easy to understand the significance of what you’re seeing.

Lunch and Lakeside Relaxation

After the boat ride, you’ll be taken to a lakeside restaurant. Here, the meal is usually quite satisfying, with plenty of options for all tastes. The setting is relaxed, with beautiful views of the lake—perfect for a tranquil lunch. The menu typically includes Turkish dishes, and soft drinks are included in the price.

Post-lunch, the lake invites you to do some light activities like fishing or canoeing. If you prefer to just relax, that’s perfectly fine too—many reviews mention how peaceful and calming the environment is.

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Additional Activities

The tour also offers optional lakeside activities. Some travelers enjoy fishing or paddling around in a canoe, adding a bit of fun to the relaxing atmosphere. If you’re someone who likes to keep busy, this is a nice bonus, but if you just want to sit back and soak up the surroundings, no one will bother you.

Returning to Alanya

After a leisurely afternoon, you’ll be transported back to your hotel in Alanya. Keep in mind that the entire experience spans about nine hours, so it’s best suited to those with a full day to spare.

What’s Included and What You Should Know

The tour price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, the boat trip, lunch, and entry fees. It’s a convenient package that takes care of most logistics, leaving you free to enjoy your day. Keep in mind that alcoholic drinks are not included, so if you want a beer or wine with your meal, bring your own or purchase it at the restaurant.

Given the comprehensive nature of the tour, the cost offers reasonable value—especially considering the transportation, guided insights, and meals included. Travelers have noted that the guides are very knowledgeable, which enhances the overall experience.

Practical Tips

Be sure to bring a sun hat, sunscreen, swimwear, towel, and a camera to capture the scenery. The tour involves some outdoor time, so comfort and sun protection are key.

Group Size and Language

The experience is hosted by guides speaking multiple languages, making it accessible if you’re not fluent in Turkish. Group sizes are not specified but tend to be moderate, allowing for a more personal experience.

Honest Take: Pros and Cons

The Pros

• Beautiful scenery throughout the day, perfect for nature lovers.
• Relaxing boat ride that’s both calming and scenic.
• Informed guides who enhance the understanding of the area.
• Lakeside lunch with great views, offering a genuine taste of local fare.
• Activities like fishing and canoeing provide extra fun or relaxation options.

The Cons

• The long duration might be tiring if you’re not used to full-day tours.
• No alcoholic drinks included, which could be a downside if you’re hoping to enjoy some wine or beer with your meal.
• The weather can influence the experience—hot sunny days mean bringing plenty of sunscreen; rainy weather might dampen the outdoor portions.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for nature enthusiasts and those looking for a peaceful escape from the more crowded tourist spots. It’s a good fit for travelers who enjoy boat rides and scenic views, and who appreciate a leisurely pace. It’s also suitable for anyone interested in learning about the area’s engineering feats, thanks to the guide’s insights into the dam.

While it’s not specifically tailored for families with young children, active kids who enjoy being on the water might find it fun. Seniors or less mobile travelers should consider their comfort with the long ride and outdoor activities.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 9 hours, with a 1.5-hour ride from Alanya to the dam.

What’s included in the price?
Hotel pickup and drop-off, boat trip, lunch, soft drinks, and entry fees are included.

Are alcoholic drinks available?
No, alcohol is not included in the tour, so you may want to bring your own if desired.

Is the boat trip scenic?
Absolutely. Expect stunning views of the lake, lush greenery, and mountain ranges. Many reviews highlight the beauty of the scenery.

What should I bring?
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen), swimwear, towel, camera, and comfortable outdoor clothing.

Can I participate in water activities?
Yes, options like fishing and canoeing are available if you want to get a little more active.

Is this suitable for children?
While not specifically designed for young children, active kids who enjoy being on the water may find it enjoyable. Keep in mind the full-day length.

What about weather considerations?
Good weather will enhance your experience; bring appropriate clothing and sun protection, especially on hot days.

Final Thoughts

The Green Canyon Boat Tour from Alanya offers a well-rounded day out for those wanting to enjoy Turkey’s natural beauty without too much hustle. The combination of scenic views, a peaceful boat ride, and lakeside relaxation makes it a solid choice for anyone craving a nature-focused escape. The knowledgeable guides and included meals add value, though be prepared for a full-day commitment.

If you’re seeking a calming, scenic experience that combines gentle adventure with nature and good company, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want to see a different side of Turkey—away from bustling beaches and historic sites—and instead enjoy tranquil waters and lush landscapes.

Remember: Always check availability and start times in advance, and consider your own pace and preferences before booking. With a bit of planning, this trip can be a memorable highlight of your time in Antalya Province.

You can check availability for your dates here: