From city of Side Green canyon Adventure Tour

Traveling to Antalya and looking for a relaxing yet scenic day trip? The Green Canyon Adventure Tour might catch your eye. Offered for around $37 per person, this full-day experience promises boat rides, some cultural touches, and plenty of natural beauty. It’s a popular choice for visitors wanting a taste of Turkey’s lush landscapes without straying far from Side.

What we like about this tour is its straightforward approach — the combination of boat cruising and natural scenery makes for a refreshing escape from the typical beach day. We also appreciate the way it includes hotel pickups, making logistics easier, especially if you’re staying in Side. On the flip side, some reviews hint at a less personal experience, with a feeling of being part of a large group. But if you’re okay with that and enjoy well-organized group outings, this could work well for you.

Keep in mind, as with many tours of this nature, the experience can vary. Some travelers have loved the scenic boat trips and swimming opportunities. Others have expressed dissatisfaction with the level of personalized attention or the quality of the food at a stop. If you’re someone who values intimate, boutique-style outings, this might not be your top pick. However, if you’re after a budget-friendly day that combines adventure, scenery, and some cultural touches, it’s worth considering.

This tour suits travelers who want a balance of sightseeing and relaxation, especially those who enjoy boat rides, nature, and a bit of exploration without overcomplicating the day. It’s ideal for people who don’t mind large groups and are okay with a somewhat structured schedule. Let’s take a closer look at what makes or breaks this experience.

Key Points

• Affordable price point at around $37, offering good value for a full-day outing.
• Includes hotel pickups, reducing logistical stress.
• Focus on scenic boat cruising through the Green Canyon, perfect for nature lovers.
• Opportunities for swimming in the lake, with some stops for relaxation.
• Some reviews highlight a less personal experience, with large groups and minimal guided commentary.
• Varied quality of food and stops; some travelers find the food and arrangements less satisfying.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Tour

This Full-Day Green Canyon Tour is designed to give visitors a solid taste of nature and adventure close to Side. Starting with hotel pickups between 8:20 and 9:15 a.m., the tour operates with a fleet of buses and guides who provide basic background info and keep things moving smoothly.

The main event is the scenic boat ride that stretches over 8.5 miles of Big Canyon and 2 miles of Little Canyon. As you glide across the emerald waters, you’ll get plenty of photo opportunities and chances to take a dip in the lake’s tranquil waters. The lush greenery surrounding the canyon makes the views especially photogenic, perfect for nature enthusiasts.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Pickup and Journey to Green Canyon

Once you’re collected from your hotel, you’ll hop on a bus, likely with other travelers, heading toward Green Canyon. The ride itself is part of the experience, giving a preview of the scenic landscapes you’ll encounter.

Green Canyon Boat Ride

The highlight is the boat cruise, which lasts for several hours. The boat takes you through the 8.5-mile Big Canyon and 2-mile Little Canyon sections, with plenty of time for photos and relaxing. During the cruise, there are a few stops where you can swim in the sparkling lake waters — a chance to cool off and enjoy nature’s quiet beauty.

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Lunch and Breaks

After the boat ride, you’ll enjoy a lunch at a local restaurant overlooking a lake. The mountain and forest vistas make the meal more than just sustenance — it’s a chance to soak in the scenery. The meal’s quality can vary, but the setting makes it worthwhile. There’s also a final swimming break before heading back to Side, ensuring you get one last chance to unwind by the water.

Return to Side

By mid-afternoon, around 3:00 to 3:30 p.m., you’ll be back at your hotel, completing a full day of natural beauty and gentle adventure.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price covers most essentials: guided tour by a certified local expert, entrance fees, roundtrip transportation, and necessary gear and refreshments. You won’t need to worry about logistics or additional costs on the day.

However, alcoholic drinks are not included, so if you’re hoping to enjoy some wine or local spirits, you will need to purchase those separately. Also, note that the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, which is important if traveling with accessibility needs.

The Realities of the Experience

While the tour offers much in terms of scenery and relaxation, it’s not without its downsides. Some reviews paint a picture of a large, somewhat impersonal group. One traveler commented, “The tour was a mass procession. We weren’t told anything,” which might turn off those craving a more intimate experience.

Another review mentions dissatisfaction with the food at the stop, describing it as “awful,” with tables full of cups and minimal presentation. The waterfall stop was also criticized for being dry, with “no water there,” which could be disappointing if you’re expecting a true waterfall.

Despite these critiques, many still found value in the boat ride and enjoyed the natural setting. It’s worth noting that the tour costs less than many other options, which makes it appealing for budget travelers or those wanting a straightforward day out.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy scenic boat rides, swimming in pristine waters, and want an easy, no-fuss day trip from Side, this tour can hit the spot. It’s particularly suitable for travelers seeking outdoor activities but who are okay with larger groups and a somewhat structured schedule.

On the other hand, if you’re after personalized guides or a luxurious experience, this might fall short. The tour’s primary appeal lies in its affordability and natural beauty, rather than exclusive or boutique service.

Final Thoughts

The Green Canyon Adventure Tour from Side offers a solid, budget-friendly way to explore one of Turkey’s scenic natural sites. It’s a good choice for those who prioritize scenery and swimming over personalized service or gourmet food. It’s straightforward, well-organized, and delivers on its core promise of showcasing Green Canyon’s lush landscape.

You’ll love the views and the relaxing boat cruise, especially if you’re prepared for the large-group atmosphere. Just keep in mind that the experience might feel a bit mass-market, and some stops may not meet everyone’s expectations. Still, for the price, it’s a reliable way to enjoy a day out in Turkey’s stunning outdoors.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickups from Side, with departure times between 8:20 and 9:15 a.m., making it easy to join without extra hassle.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat cruise covers approximately 8.5 miles through Big Canyon and 2 miles of Little Canyon, offering plenty of time to relax, take photos, and swim.

What should I bring?
You should bring swimwear and a towel for swimming stops during the boat ride. It’s also good to have some water and sun protection.

Are there any food options?
Yes, lunch is included at a local restaurant with a lake view. However, some reviews mention the food quality might not be exceptional.

Is alcohol included?
No, alcoholic drinks are not included in the tour price, so you’ll need to purchase any drinks separately if desired.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The provided info doesn’t specify, but given the boat and swimming activities, it’s generally suitable for older children who can swim and are comfortable in group settings.

How long does the tour last?
The full-day tour runs for about 5 hours, with return to Side around 3:00-3:30 p.m.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

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

What languages are available for guides?
Guides speak English, German, Turkish, Russian, and Ukrainian.

If you’re after a scenic, relaxed, and budget-friendly day in nature, this Green Canyon tour from Side could be just what you need. Just go in with realistic expectations, and you’ll likely come away with some beautiful memories—and maybe a few good photos to share.

You can check availability for your dates here: