Green Canyon: Catamaran Cruise & Jeep Safari Adventure

If you’re planning a visit to the Antalya region and want to explore beyond the usual beaches and city streets, this tour might catch your eye. It’s a busy, action-packed itinerary that takes you through the rugged Taurus Mountains, past ancient aqueducts, and onto the shimmering waters of Green Lake. Priced at just $27 per person, it promises a full day of adventure, natural beauty, and some well-deserved relaxation.

What we really like about this experience is how much variety it offers—off-road driving, scenic cruising, and waterfalls all wrapped into one. Plus, it’s praised by those who’ve taken it for its helpful guides, stunning views, and the value for money. That said, it’s not for everyone: the off-road sections can be bumpy, and if you’re not into adventure, some parts might feel a bit intense. Though, if you love outdoor excitement and picturesque settings, this trip fits the bill nicely.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour isn’t designed for small children or pregnant women, mainly because of the off-road jeep rides and some physical considerations. It’s best suited for active travelers, families with older kids, or anyone eager to see the natural and historical highlights around Side. Now, let’s dig into what this tour really entails and what you can expect along the way.

Key Points

• Diverse experience: Combines off-road jeep safaris, boat cruises, and sightseeing.
• Stunning scenery: Offers panoramic views of the Taurus Mountains, Green Canyon, and waterfalls.
• Value for money: At just $27, includes multiple activities, lunch, and hotel pickup.
• Family-friendly considerations: Not suitable for very young children or pregnant women.
• Guided professionalism: Well-reviewed for knowledgeable guides and friendly drivers.
• Active adventure: Expect a bit of physical activity and some bumpy rides, so be prepared.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Heart of the Taurus Mountains

This tour starts early, with convenient hotel pickup in Side or nearby areas like Kumköy, Evrenseki, and others. From there, the day kicks off with a 30-minute jeep or SUV ride that gets your adrenaline flowing as you head into the rugged Taurus Mountains. The off-road sections are a highlight, especially if you’re into adventurous drives. Travelers have described these parts as “sharp twists and turns,” with some even mentioning water fights that add to the fun atmosphere.

The rugged terrain isn’t just for thrill-seekers; it’s also your first glimpse of the untouched landscapes that define this part of Turkey. Expect breathtaking views, especially when you reach Oymapnar Dam, a scenic spot where you can snap some photos of the surrounding green depths and tranquil water. Visitors often say this is a quick stop, but one worth making for the scenery.

What the Jeep Rides Feel Like

One reviewer described the jeep rides as “not for the faint-hearted,” with “speeding hills and sharp corners” that keep your heart racing. The water fights that happen between jeeps are a playful touch, adding a splash of humor and fun to an already exciting journey. The guides, such as Kemal and Mustafa, are highly praised for their friendliness and enthusiasm, making these off-road adventures even more memorable.

Visiting Ancient Roman Aqueducts and the Oymapnar Dam

After the adrenaline rush, the tour takes you to the ancient Roman aqueducts, just a brief stop that’s perfect for photos and a bit of history. While not heavily detailed in the reviews, these structures remind visitors of the region’s long and layered past.

Next up is the Oymapnar Dam, a striking construction that offers fantastic views. Here, visitors have reported a “photo stop with free time” to soak in the scenery. It’s an ideal spot for a quick breather and to admire the engineering marvel nestled in nature.

Green Lake: The Highlight of the Day

The star of this tour is undoubtedly the Green Canyon and Green Lake. After the scenic drive, you’ll hop onto a catamaran cruise that lasts about an hour. This is a relaxing break from the rougher parts of the day, giving you time to enjoy the peaceful waters and stunning surroundings.

The boat ride is often described as “refreshing,” especially with the chance to take a swim in the crystal-clear lake waters. This part of the tour is perfect for unwinding, and the lake’s tranquil scenery is truly a feast for the eyes. Plus, at the lakeside restaurant, you’ll be treated to a delicious open buffet lunch that many reviewers have called “tasty” and “good value,” especially considering it’s included in the price.

Swimming in Green Lake, as one traveler put it, is “refreshing after the dusty roads,” making it a welcome reprieve during the busy day. The boat trip also offers some great photo opportunities, whether you’re snapping the lush green surroundings or capturing the serene lake.

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Manavgat Waterfalls: Nature’s Final Touch

To round out the day, the tour stops at the Manavgat Waterfalls, a popular and picturesque site. Here, visitors can enjoy a 30-minute free time to walk around, take more photos, or simply soak in the sound of rushing water. It’s a peaceful spot that gives a different perspective of the region’s natural beauty—ideal for some last-minute reflections or a quick shower if you get caught in the spray.

Practical Details and Considerations

The entire tour lasts about seven hours, making it a substantial half-day or full-day activity, depending on your pace and interests. The price of $27 per person is quite reasonable, especially given the variety of experiences packed into the itinerary. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, the jeep safari, catamaran cruise, lunch, and a driver, which adds to the convenience and overall value.

Not included are drinks, photos (which you might want to buy if you love to remember your trip), and the entrance fee for the waterfalls. Be prepared with sunglasses, swimwear, and a face mask if you want to stay comfortable during the off-road sections. Also, note that children under 3, pregnant women, and people with heart problems are advised not to participate, as the tour involves some physically demanding parts.

The guides speak English and German, making communication straightforward. If your hotel is in the older part of Side, the meeting point is in front of the “Side Anadolu Türkü Evi,” with details sent a day before.

Authentic Traveler Perspectives

From actual reviews, it’s clear this tour earns high praise. Mario, for instance, called the guides “amazing” and the team “a fun bunch,” with the added fun of water fights and “Spider-Man,” which you’ll understand once you’re there. Nichola highlighted the thrilling off-road rides, “sharp twists and hills,” and the overall entertainment value, emphasizing the delicious lunch and refreshing swims.

Kelly summed it up as a “10/10” experience, noting the good value, lots of fun, and delicious food. These reviews reflect the tour’s strengths: good guides, exciting rides, beautiful scenery, and tasty meals.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure lovers who don’t mind getting a little dusty or wet. It’s also well-suited for those who want a balanced blend of outdoor activity, scenic beauty, and relaxation. If you enjoy beautiful lakes, waterfalls, historical sites, and lively group activities, you’ll likely have a good time.

However, those with mobility issues, small children, or pregnant women might find the jeep rides too rough or the physical exertion unsuitable. It’s also worth noting that the tour is not just about sightseeing—it’s a lively day with lots of movement and interaction, so a good level of energy helps.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a fun, affordable, full-day adventure in the Antalya area—combining off-road excitement, scenic boat rides, and natural waterfalls—this tour offers a solid package. It’s especially appealing if you value good guides, delicious meals, and stunning views. The reviews speak to its popularity and overall satisfaction, making it a reliable choice for those wanting to explore Turkey’s beautiful landscapes beyond the usual tourist spots.

Just remember, it’s a busy day with some physical activity involved, so come prepared for some bumps, splashes, and lots of fresh air. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or on a family adventure (with older kids), this experience will likely leave you with plenty of memorable moments—and maybe a few stories about the water fights!

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally not recommended for children under 3, and the off-road jeep rides might be too intense for very young kids. Older children who enjoy outdoor adventures could find it a fun experience, but check with the tour provider if you have specific concerns.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the tour price. You might want to bring bottled water or purchase drinks at the waterfall or lakeside restaurant.

Can I buy photos from the tour?
Photos are not included, but you can buy them separately if you want to keep memories of your trip.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a face mask or protective covering, and maybe a towel. Comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities are recommended.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts about 7 hours, with scheduled stops and activities throughout the day.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s best to reserve your spot ahead of time, especially during peak seasons, and you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour if needed.

If you’re looking for a lively, scenic adventure that combines nature, history, and fun, this Green Canyon tour with jeep safaris and boat rides ticks a lot of boxes. It’s a great way to see a different side of Turkey and create some memorable stories along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here: