Green Canyon Boat Tour w/Lunch From Belek

Exploring the Green Canyon from Belek: A Honest Review

If you’re considering a day trip out of Belek to explore some of Turkey’s stunning natural landscapes, the Green Canyon boat tour might catch your eye. We haven’t personally experienced it, but based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it promises a peaceful journey along a lush reservoir created by the Oymanpinar dam. It’s a solid choice for those wanting a mix of scenic beauty and a laid-back day on the water.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its straightforward approach—combining transportation, a scenic boat cruise, and a Turkish buffet lunch all in one package. Plus, the fact that it’s family-friendly and includes hotel pickup makes it quite accessible. Of course, no experience is perfect, and some reviews point out minor safety concerns and limited commentary during the cruise.

One thing to keep in mind is that if you’re hoping for detailed narration or a more active adventure, this might fall a bit short. Still, for those craving tranquil views and a chance to relax in nature, it’s worth considering. This tour suits travelers who want a hassle-free escape into nature without breaking the bank or spending hours in transit.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Comfort & Convenience: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics easy.
• Beautiful Scenery: Cruising the Green Canyon offers views of lush canyon walls, clear water, and wildlife.
• All-Inclusive Value: Lunch and transportation are included, streamlining the experience.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for travelers with children, offering a relaxed pace.
• Limited Commentary: Expect minimal onboard narration, so bring your own curiosity.
• Safety Concerns: Some reviews mention lack of lifejackets and uneven flooring, so stay vigilant.

A Closer Look at the Green Canyon Boat Tour

When considering a full-day trip from Belek, the Green Canyon tour is a popular pick for its scenic appeal and convenience. The itinerary is designed to give you an immersive experience of this natural marvel, with highlights that include cruising a freshwater reservoir, soaking in peaceful views, and enjoying a hearty Turkish lunch.

Starting the Day: Hotel Pickup and Transfer

The day begins early, with pickup from your Belek hotel around 8:00 am. The transportation is provided by a climate-controlled coach, which is quite a plus, especially if the weather is hot. The 66-kilometer ride takes about an hour, offering a comfortable start to the day as you head toward the Green Canyon harbor.

This part of the trip is straightforward, and most travelers find the transfer seamless. It also means you can relax and avoid the hassle of navigating yourself. The group size caps at around 45 people, keeping it intimate enough to feel personal but large enough to make the logistics smooth.

The Green Canyon Cruise: Nature’s Quiet Corner

Once you arrive at the canyon, the real magic begins. The boat cruise winds through the water, revealing the winding shoreline and towering canyon walls covered in vibrant greenery. The water’s clarity impresses many, allowing you to see fish swimming underneath. The soundscape is filled with bird calls and the gentle lapping of water—creating a truly peaceful atmosphere.

According to reviews, the scenery is often described as “lovely” and “beautiful,” with some travelers noting the refreshing feeling of being in a “secret paradise.” The boat stops at various points, giving you opportunities to take photos, feel the tranquility, and even take a dip in natural spring waters if you’re inclined—though, as one reviewer shared, the water can be quite cold.

The boat ride lasts about five hours, giving ample time to soak in the views, relax, and enjoy the natural surroundings. One notable point from reviews is that the boat is a bit lacking in commentary, so if you’re curious about the history or geology, you might have to do some research beforehand or simply enjoy the silence and natural sounds.

Lunch at Green Lake

After the cruise, the tour includes a delicious buffet lunch at the Green Canyon area. The meal features traditional Turkish cuisine, with soft drinks included. This is a highlight for many, especially since the food is described as “mouth-watering” and well-prepared.

The area around Green Lake is also scenic, giving you a chance to stretch your legs and take in more of the natural beauty. The lunch break lasts about an hour, which is enough to refuel and chat about the morning’s highlights before heading back.

Returning via Manavgat

Post-lunch, the group is driven back to Belek, with a brief stop in Manavgat—another chance to soak in local scenery or grab a quick look at the town. The return journey offers a relaxed way to end the day, leaving you with a sense of calm and refreshment.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviews provide a well-rounded perspective. Many guests praised the scenery, calling it “fascinating” and “great,” especially noting the beauty of the canyon walls and the peaceful environment. The opportunity to swim was a favorite for some, though the cold water kept others from taking a dip. One traveler mentioned that the “environment was beautiful,” and another appreciated the “friendly and helpful” crew.

However, some concerns were raised. A reviewer highlighted the lack of safety measures—mentioning the absence of visible lifejackets and torn flooring, which posed some safety risks. Plus, several comments pointed out the minimal onboard narration, so guests with a keen interest in learning more about the area might find the experience a little quiet.

Pricing at $53.85 per person offers good value when considering the inclusive lunch and transportation. It’s a reasonable price point for a full-day experience that provides scenic views, relaxation, and a taste of Turkey’s natural beauty.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal if you want to escape the busy beaches of Belek and spend a day immersed in nature without overly strenuous activities. It’s great for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a peaceful, scenic outing. If you’re someone who enjoys quiet cruises, wildlife watching, and leisurely meals, you’ll likely enjoy this tour.

On the flip side, if you prefer detailed commentary, active adventures, or safety features like visible lifejackets, you might find the experience lacking. It’s not a tour for thrill-seekers or those wanting an educational deep dive, but rather for those seeking a calm, picturesque day out.

The Sum Up

The Green Canyon boat tour from Belek offers a straightforward, relaxing way to experience one of Turkey’s beautiful natural sites. With scenic views, a comfortable boat ride, and a tasty Turkish buffet, it delivers good value for those craving tranquility and nature. The convenience of hotel pickup and all-inclusive pricing make it an easy choice, especially if you’re looking to avoid complicated logistics.

While it’s not filled with detailed commentary or safety features, the overall experience is generally praised for its stunning scenery and peaceful atmosphere. It’s best suited for travelers who want a laid-back day surrounded by nature, with enough comfort and convenience to make it enjoyable without fuss.

If you’re in Belek and crave some quiet time on the water, this tour could be just the ticket. Just keep in mind the minor safety concerns and the limited onboard narration—bring your own curiosity and camera, and you’ll likely leave feeling refreshed and inspired by Turkey’s natural beauty.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off in Belek, simplifying logistics and saving you time.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, with most of that time spent on the boat cruise and enjoying the surroundings.

Does the tour include lunch?
Yes, a Turkish buffet lunch with soft drinks is included after the cruise, giving you a chance to refuel.

What is the price per person?
The tour costs around $53.85 per person, which includes transport, boat cruise, and lunch.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, it is described as an ideal choice for families, given its relaxed pace and scenic nature.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks (other than the soft drinks at lunch) are not included, so bring your own water if needed.

How many people usually participate?
The tour can have up to 45 travelers, making it a comfortable group size for a shared experience.

Are there any safety concerns?
Some reviews mention the absence of visible lifejackets and torn flooring as safety issues, so stay alert during the cruise.

Can I swim in the canyon?
Yes, there’s an opportunity to take a dip at a natural spring—though the water can be quite cold, so prepare accordingly.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and possibly a towel if you plan to swim. Also, a camera is a must for capturing the beautiful scenery.

This tour offers a peaceful, scenic day that’s especially suited for those looking to connect with nature without the fuss. It’s a practical choice—comfortable, scenic, and fairly priced—perfect for a relaxed day away from the crowds.