A Friendly Guide to the Green Canyon Excursion from Side
If you’re looking for a relaxing day trip that combines stunning nature with some light adventure, the excursion to Green Canyon from Side might just fit the bill. This tour offers a 3-hour boat cruise through one of Turkey’s most picturesque landscapes, plus opportunities to swim, fish, and enjoy a hearty lunch. It’s a neat way to escape the busy city life and soak in some tranquility.
What we really like about this experience is how well-organized it appears—hotel pick-ups and transportation in air-conditioned buses make it smooth from start to finish. The second thing that stands out is the knowledgeable guides, who speak multiple languages and help make everything clear and enjoyable. That said, it’s not a tour for adrenaline junkies, as it’s more about relaxation and taking in nature at a gentle pace. Also, keep in mind that the activities like fishing and swimming depend on the weather and your own interests—they’re optional but encouraged.
If you’re someone who appreciates serene scenery coupled with easy-going activities, this trip will suit you. Families who want a calm, scenic outing or travelers craving a day of gentle water-based sightseeing will find it appealing. It’s less suited if you’re after high-intensity adventure or if you prefer a more flexible, freeform exploration.
Key Points
- Convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off make it easy to join without extra hassle.
- The guided tour ensures you’re well-informed about what you’re seeing.
- The boat trip is the highlight, offering three hours of peaceful cruising through Green Canyon’s stunning scenery.
- Swimming, fishing, and lunch are included, adding variety to your day.
- The tour is priced at $35 per person, which offers good value considering the boat trip, lunch, and transport.
- The multilingual guides (English, German, Russian, Turkish) cater to diverse guests and improve the overall experience.
An In-Depth Look at the Green Canyon Tour

For broader city exploration in Manavgat, we've covered these other tours
Starting the Day: Hassle-Free Pickup
The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup, which is a big plus if you prefer not to worry about transportation logistics. You simply wait at your hotel’s front entrance, and a comfortable, air-conditioned bus will take you to the starting point. This is especially helpful in a busy tourist area like Side, where navigating local transport can sometimes be tricky.
The ride itself is part of the relaxed vibe, giving you a chance to settle in and chat with your guide. The collection of tour tickets on the bus might seem like a small detail but shows the organized approach that River Quad Safari takes to ensure everything runs smoothly.
What to Expect at Green Canyon
Once you arrive, the real highlight begins with a 2-hour boat trip across the tranquil waters of Green Canyon. This section of the tour is designed to allow you to sit back and enjoy the scenery, which is often described as calming and scenic. Expect lush greenery, towering cliffs, and a peaceful ambiance that’s perfect for taking photos or simply unwinding.
According to reviews, the boat trip is very well-organized and enjoyable. One happy traveler mentioned, “Organisatorisch hat alles super geklappt. Der Green Canyon sieht toll aus.” The boat is typically open-air, so be prepared for the sun if you’re visiting in warmer months.
Activities: Swimming and Fishing
During the cruise, there are opportunities to swim and fish. If you love water activities, you’ll appreciate the chance to dip into the clear waters or try your luck at fishing. Although these activities are optional, many find them to be a nice addition to the trip rather than the main focus. Remember, the success of fishing depends on the day’s conditions and your own patience, but the chance to cool off in nature is often appreciated.
More Great Tours NearbyLunch: A Tasty Break
After the boat cruise, everyone is treated to a delicious lunch at a local restaurant with picturesque views. The food is described as good, and many reviews mention the “gutes Preis-Leistungsverhältnis” (good value for money). The setting makes the meal more than just sustenance—it’s part of the overall relaxing experience, giving you time to chat with fellow travelers and enjoy the scenery.
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Bringing It All Together: Return Journey
Once the afternoon winds down, the bus takes you back to your hotel, ending the day on a relaxed note. The comfort of the ride and the well-organized schedule mean you’ll arrive back with plenty of time to relax or explore more.
Is This Tour Worth the Price?
At $35 per person, this tour offers solid value. The inclusion of hotel transfer, the boat cruise, lunch, and the guidance of multilingual guides makes it an easy decision for many travelers seeking a hassle-free day out. The actual boat trip alone would typically cost more if booked independently, so the bundled package feels like a fair deal.
The reviews echo this sentiment, with travelers saying, “Gutes Preis-Leistungsverhältnis,” which translates to good value for money. It’s a straightforward, relaxed way to spend a day immersed in nature without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy scenic, calming activities like boat cruises and nature viewing. If you’re in Side and want to spend a relaxed day away from bustling crowds, this is a good choice. It’s also suitable for those who like the idea of combining sightseeing with a simple outdoor activity like swimming.
It’s less ideal if you’re after high-adrenaline adventures or want a very flexible schedule. Since activities such as fishing depend on luck and weather, if those are your priorities, you might find this tour a bit predictable. However, the organized approach and knowledgeable guides make it a dependable choice for a comfortable day trip.
From city of Side : Excursion to Green Canyon
“Organisatorisch hat alles super geklappt. Der Green Canyon sieht toll aus. Das Mittagessen war gut. Gutes Preis – Leistungsverhältnis.”
FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a convenient option, especially if you want to avoid organizing your own transport.
How long is the boat trip?
The boat trip lasts approximately 3 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy the scenery, swim, or fish at your own pace.
What languages do the guides speak?
Guides are available in English, German, Russian, and Turkish, ensuring clear communication for a diverse group of travelers.
What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $35 per person, which includes transportation, the boat trip, lunch, and soft drinks.
Are there any optional activities?
Yes, renting kayaks isn’t included but could be available at your own expense. Swimming and fishing are optional during the boat trip.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps some extra money if you want to buy souvenirs or rent a kayak. Towels are usually provided or available at the lunch spot.
Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, the gentle pace and natural scenery make it suitable for travelers of all ages who enjoy calm outdoor activities.
How is the weather?
The tour runs in most weather conditions, but, as always, check the forecast and dress appropriately for sun or rain.
Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, adding flexibility to your planning.
What is the duration?
The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, including pick-up, the boat cruise, lunch, and return to your hotel.
Final Thoughts
If your idea of a great day involves relaxing on a boat, soaking in beautiful scenery, and enjoying a tasty meal without any hassle, this Green Canyon tour from Side checks those boxes nicely. It’s straightforward, well-organized, and offers good value for what you get. The combination of natural beauty, gentle water activities, and friendly guides makes it an experience worth considering.
While it’s not a tour for thrill-seekers or those craving a highly flexible schedule, its calm vibe and scenic setting make it perfect for travelers looking to unwind and connect with nature. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or even with family, this trip can serve as a peaceful retreat from the usual sightseeing hustle.
If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, and reasonably priced day out in Turkey’s stunning landscape, the Green Canyon excursion from Side might be just what you’re looking for.
You can check availability for your dates here:More City Tours in Manavgat
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