From Alanya: Green Canyon Day Trip with Lunch and Boat Ride

Planning a trip to Alanya and curious about the Green Canyon tour? While we haven’t done it ourselves, we’ve gathered enough insights to give you a clear picture of what to expect. This full-day experience promises a mix of scenic boat rides, swimming in crystal-clear waters, delicious local food, and a peaceful fishing session.

Two things we really like about this tour? First, the chance to see the dramatic landscapes of the Taurus mountains and steep canyons — it’s a feast for the eyes. Second, the quality of the food and the boat experience, which many reviews praise as being both enjoyable and good value for the price.

A potential consideration is the transportation and accessibility. Some reviews mention that the bus ride can be bumpy and uncomfortable, and the stairs leading up to the restaurant might not be suitable for everyone. If you’re looking for a completely smooth, accessible journey, this might be worth noting.

This trip seems best suited for travelers who love nature, relaxed boat days, and scenic drives — especially those who enjoy a good meal and a splash in beautiful waters. If you’re after a day of peaceful exploration without intense hiking or complex logistics, this could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Incredible scenery of canyons, mountains, and turquoise waters
• Relaxing boat ride with multiple swimming stops
• Delicious, freshly prepared lunch overlooking the lake
• Opportunity for fishing in a tranquil setting
• Transportation issues noted by some travelers, so be prepared for bumpy rides
• Good value for money with several activities included in the price

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is the Green Canyon Tour from Alanya?

This tour offers a full-day excursion that takes you into the heart of the Antalya Province’s stunning natural landscapes. Starting with hotel pickup, you’ll head towards the iconic Oymapinar Dam, which provides an excellent photo opportunity of the rugged Taurus mountains. From there, your journey continues to the Green Canyon itself, famous for its steep walls and emerald waters.

Once at the canyon, a boat trip lasting around four hours allows you to cruise through the lake, taking in the breathtaking scenery while stopping to swim or relax in the water. The boat ride itself is a highlight, offering you plenty of chances to cool off in the turquoise waters and capture some memorable photos. Many reviews point out the quality and comfort of the boat, although some mention loud horns that can be a little startling, especially for kids or sensitive travelers.

The Scenic Drive and The Dam

The drive to the canyon is part of the adventure. It takes you through scenic mountain roads, providing plenty of opportunities for photos and just soaking in the landscape. The Oymapinar Dam is a significant feature of the trip, offering a chance to see impressive engineering amidst nature’s beauty.

Travelers often comment on the professionalism of the guides and drivers, describing them as friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. The overall organization of the day is generally praised, with some reviews mentioning the comfortable, air-conditioned bus as a plus — especially in warmer months.

The Boat Experience

Once at the Green Canyon, the boat trip is the core of the day. Expect to cruise for about four hours, with stops to swim in the crystal-clear waters. Several reviews claim the boat ride is smooth and offers stunning views, with plenty of soft drinks available. You might also find some of the reviews mentioning the boat’s loud music, which could detract from the peaceful surroundings if you prefer quiet.

The swimming stops are very well received — many describe them as some of the best water experiences they’ve had, with the water being cool, clear, and inviting. Some reviews even highlight the availability of life jackets, making it accessible for those who are less confident swimmers.

The Lunch Break

After the boat ride, the tour stops at a lakeside restaurant where you can indulge in a hearty meal. Typical options include meatballs, chicken, or fish, served with rice, salads, and cold drinks. The food is often praised for being tasty and fresh, with many reviewers mentioning they enjoyed the traditional flavors and generous portions.

However, a few mention that the restaurant can get crowded, leading to long queues and cold food, so don’t expect a quiet, leisurely meal every time. The restaurant’s setting offers great views, making it a lovely backdrop for your lunch.

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Fishing and Free Time

Post-lunch, you have the option to try fishing on the lake, which many reviews find relaxing and peaceful. Equipment is usually provided, and the scenery makes it a perfect setting to unwind. If fishing isn’t your thing, you can simply enjoy the view or take another dip in the water.

The tour concludes with a scenic boat ride back to the starting point, with a final chance to splash around or take photos. The return trip is about the same duration as the outward journey, with some travelers noting that the bus ride back can be bumpy and, at times, uncomfortable.

Transportation and Accessibility

Some reviews highlight that the bus ride can be quite rough, with older shuttles and sometimes a strong gasoline smell. One reviewer suggested that the journey isn’t ideal for people with mobility issues, as the stairs to the restaurant and boat may be challenging. If you’re sensitive to bumpy rides or have physical limitations, keep this in mind.

Overall Value and Experience

At about $40 per person, many travelers feel this tour offers good value considering the activities included: boat rides, lunch, fishing, and hotel transfers. The reviews consistently praise the professional guides and the well-organized nature of the trip, which helps make it a stress-free day out.

The experience is very much centered on relaxation and scenic beauty. If you’re looking for a day to unwind, enjoy nature, and soak in peaceful waters — this tour fits the bill. However, if you’re seeking a highly educational or adventurous experience with lots of walking or cultural stops, this might not be the best choice.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for nature lovers, those wanting to relax on a boat, and travelers interested in photography and scenic views. It’s suitable if you enjoy swimming in beautiful waters and don’t mind a day that’s mainly about looking at landscapes and enjoying good food.

It’s also quite family-friendly, especially since the boat rides are comfortable and swimming is a major part of the fun, although the stairs and transportation might be a challenge for some.

If you’re after a more adventurous or culturally immersive experience, you might want to explore other options, but for a peaceful, scenic day out, this ticks many boxes.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, including transfers, sightseeing, the boat ride, and lunch.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a 4-hour boat trip, lunch, soft drinks, and fishing equipment.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, photos and videos are not included, and personal expenses like souvenirs or extra drinks are not covered.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Some reviewers mention the stairs leading to the restaurant and boat are not very accessible, and the bus ride can be bumpy. It might not suit everyone.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a towel, sunglasses, and a change of clothes if you plan to swim or get wet.

Is the tour family-friendly?
While mainly suitable for those comfortable with boat rides and stairs, it could be enjoyable for families with children who can handle the outdoor activities and are okay with a day on the water.

Final Thoughts

This Green Canyon tour from Alanya offers a solid mix of scenic beauty, relaxing boat time, and tasty local food. Many travelers appreciate the professionalism of the guides and the chance to see one of Turkey’s most picturesque landscapes without breaking the bank.

It’s best suited for travelers seeking a laid-back day immersed in nature—those who enjoy swimming, boat rides, and good food in a peaceful setting. While it might not be perfect for everyone—particularly those with mobility concerns or looking for a very quiet experience—it’s a memorable way to spend a day outside the usual tourist spots.

If you’re craving an easy, scenic escape and want to see the stunning Green Canyon, this trip could very well be a highlight of your Alanya visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: