Green Canyon: Side Jeep Safari with Lunch & Waterfall & Boat Trip

If you’re considering a day filled with adventure, stunning scenery, and a splash of fun, the Green Canyon: Side Jeep Safari with Lunch & Waterfall & Boat Trip might just be what you’re after. This group tour from Side, Turkey, packs in a variety of activities that allow you to experience the area’s natural beauty in a lively, engaging way.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s an excellent value — around $25 per person, with a full day’s worth of activities included. Second, the combination of off-road jeep safaris, boat trips, and waterfall visits offers a balanced mix of adrenaline, relaxation, and breathtaking views.

That said, it’s not a perfect fit for everyone. Be prepared for some dusty, noisy jeep rides, and note that the tour can be quite energetic and wet—so packing accordingly is a smart move. It’s ideal for those who love outdoor adventures, nature, and don’t mind getting a little muddy or soaked along the way. If you’re traveling with kids or looking for a more relaxed experience, this might require some extra planning.

This tour is best suited for adventure seekers, families with older children, or groups wanting a fun, action-packed day that explores some of Turkey’s most beautiful natural spots. Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect and how to make the most of this lively excursion.

Key Points

• Affordable price for a full day of activities and scenic sights.
• Variety of experiences including jeep safaris, boat trips, waterfalls, and lakes.
• All logistics taken care of with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
• Active and fun-filled, with opportunities to swim, canoe, and enjoy water fights.
• Be prepared to get wet and dusty—a core part of the adventure!
• Great for thrill-seekers and nature lovers looking for a lively day out.

The Booking and Planning Experience

This tour costs around $25 per person, making it an accessible option for most travelers. It’s popular enough that most participants book about 18 days in advance, so planning ahead is wise if you want a spot. The tour spans about 7 to 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without rushing.

The tour employs group transportation, with pickups offered from Side hotels, which makes logistics simple. You’ll be part of a group of up to 50 travelers, which keeps the atmosphere lively but not overwhelming. The mobile ticket feature also means no fuss with paper tickets—just show up with your phone.

The Day Unpacked: What to Expect

Start with Green Canyon & Green Lake

The adventure kicks off early, with pickup around 8:30 am. The first stop is the Oymapnar Dam, where you’ll get a quick 15-20 minute window to snap photos of the Green Canyon and Green Lake. This spot is often praised for its stunning scenery, and the waterway here is the core of the entire experience.

Here, we loved how the tour seamlessly mixes sightseeing and activity. The boat trip on Green Lake, included if you opt for the trip, lasts about an hour, and it offers a chance to enjoy the calm waters and lush surroundings. Many reviews mention how relaxing and scenic this part is—perfect for a break from the more adrenaline-fueled moments. Plus, there’s a swim break in the lake, so pack your swimsuit and towel!

Midday Visit to Manavgat Waterfall

Next, a brief stop at the Manavgat Waterfall—a popular site and a photo-friendly spot. The stop lasts around 20 minutes, giving you just enough time to snap some pictures and appreciate the cascading water. Note that the waterfall entrance isn’t included in the ticket, so if you want to go closer or walk around, you’ll need to pay the entrance fee separately.

Off-road Jeep Safari & Green Lake Lunch

The highlight for many is the jeep safari through the Taurus Mountains, which takes you off the beaten path into rugged, scenic terrain. The jeeps are older models, which some reviews mention as a bit rickety and without seat belts, but that’s part of the charm and adventure. Expect some bumps, dust, and lots of water fights—drivers and guides often encourage playful antics, making it a lively experience.

One reviewer described the water fights as “great fun,” with jeeps splashing each other, and others loved the adrenaline rush of driving through rough terrain. Just be aware—this isn’t a quiet, smooth ride, so if you’re sensitive to noise or rough roads, it might not be ideal.

The tour includes a lunch at Green Lake, which many find surprisingly good. The meal is described as healthy, filling, and tasty, offering a nice break after the off-road excitement. You’ll also have the option to canoe or swim, making the stop at Green Lake quite versatile.

Boat Trip and Water Activities

If you’ve selected the boat trip option, you’ll enjoy about an hour on Green Lake, cruising or just relaxing on the water. Several travelers mention how peaceful and beautiful the scenery is from the boat, and it’s a nice way to cool off and pause from the high-energy jeep ride.

Afternoon and Wrap-up

After the boat and lake activities, the tour heads back to the starting point, with plenty of memorable moments to reflect on. Many reviews rave about the guides, who are described as funny, accommodating, and full of energy—making the entire day more enjoyable.

What Travelers Love Most

Based on reviews and the tour details, several aspects stand out:

• The knowledgeable guides who keep things lively and ensure everyone feels included. One reviewer even called the guides “Batman and Spiderman” for their fun personalities.
• The spectacular scenery of Green Canyon, Green Lake, and the Taurus Mountains. Photographers especially appreciate these stops for their postcard-worthy views.
• The value for money — with a mix of activities, transportation, and meals included, many find the $25 price tag hard to beat.
• The fun and playful nature of the jeep safaris, with water fights and off-road thrills adding to the experience.

Some Downsides to Note

While most reviews are glowing, a few mention safety concerns about the old jeeps and absence of seat belts. Also, the tour can be loud, dusty, and wet — so it’s not suited for those who prefer calmer, more predictable outings. The noise levels, especially with loud music and water fights, might be overwhelming for some.

Another consideration is the optional waterfall entrance fee, which isn’t included—so if you want to get closer or explore more, you should budget for that separately.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventurous trip is perfect for active travelers, families with older children, or groups who love nature and excitement all rolled into one day. If you enjoy being outdoors, don’t mind getting a little dirty or wet, and want to experience some of Turkey’s most beautiful natural sights in a lively, social setting, this tour will suit you well.

However, it’s less ideal if you’re traveling with very young children or looking for a quiet, relaxing day. The high-energy, sometimes chaotic vibe and physical activity make it less suitable for those seeking a calm escape.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Green Canyon: Side Jeep Safari with Lunch & Waterfall & Boat Trip offers a fantastic mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and good value. The tour is lively, playful, and packed with memorable moments that many travelers cherish long after the trip ends. It’s especially appealing for those who want to see Turkey’s outdoors in a hands-on way—whether that’s splashing water during jeep water fights or enjoying a peaceful boat ride.

While not perfect for everyone—particularly if safety or serenity is your priority—it’s a lively, energetic adventure that’s hard to match for the price. Be prepared for a day of fun, laughter, and plenty of water, and you’ll likely come away with stories worth sharing.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, for Side hotels, pickup and drop-off are included, making the logistics straightforward. Just make sure your hotel is listed as a pickup point.

How long does the tour last? The full experience takes about 7 to 8 hours, starting around 8:30 am and wrapping up in the late afternoon.

What’s the price? It’s approximately $25 per person, which many find to be good value considering the number of activities and meals included.

Are the jeeps safe? The jeeps are older models, and some reviews note a lack of seat belts and safety concerns. Be prepared for a bumpy ride.

Can I buy photos of the trip? Yes, photos and videos are available for purchase, usually around 30-40 euros for a USB stick with the footage.

Is swimming allowed? Yes, there are swim breaks at Green Lake, and you can swim or paddleboard if you wish.

What should I bring? Pack comfortable clothes, a towel, sunscreen, water shoes if you want to swim, and extra clothes or a plastic bag for wet items.

Can I cancel the booking? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

Are drinks included? No, drinks are not included. You’ll need to buy water or other beverages separately.

Is this tour family-friendly? It’s suitable for older children and active families, but keep in mind the energetic nature and possible safety concerns with the jeeps.

If you’re craving a day full of action, stunning views, and a chance to laugh and splash your way through Turkey’s beautiful outdoors, this tour could be your next favorite adventure. Just pack your sense of humor and a towel!