Side: Adler and Eagle Canyon Day Trip with Lunch

If you’re considering a day out in the Antalya Province and want a taste of both nature’s drama and some local history, this Adler and Eagle Canyon tour might just be worth your time. We’ve looked into it, and while we haven’t done this exact experience ourselves, the details paint a picture of a well-rounded day packed with scenic views, outdoor activity, and a good value for its modest price.

What really catches the eye here are the breathtaking landscapes—deep ravines, towering cliffs, and striking red-rock formations—paired with a riverside lunch that sounds simple but satisfying. The fact that it’s a full 8-hour adventure makes it appealing for those who want a comprehensive taste of the Taurus Mountains without the hassle of planning multiple trips. However, it’s worth noting that this tour involves some driving and walking, so it’s best suited for people comfortable with a full day of outdoor activities.

One of the things we love is the expert guidance and panoramic views from the open-top cabrio bus, which promises a relaxed yet immersive way to experience the landscape. Plus, the inclusion of a visit to the ancient city of Selge adds a touch of history to the natural beauty. The main consideration? This trip might not be the best choice if you’re looking for a very relaxed, slow-paced day, or if mobility is an issue, since there’s some walking and hiking involved.

This tour looks like a solid pick for travelers craving a combination of adventure, scenery, and cultural insight—especially if you’re on a budget and want a full day exploring Turkey’s stunning Taurus Mountains with a friendly guide along the way.

Key Points

• Stunning landscapes: Deep ravines, towering cliffs, and red-rock formations make Adler and Eagle Canyons visually impressive.
• Good value: For $28, you get an 8-hour excursion covering multiple highlights, including lunch and sightseeing.
• Guided experience: Knowledgeable guides enrich the trip with insights on geology, wildlife, and history.
• Comfortable transport: Travel in an open-top cabrio bus offers excellent panoramic views.
• Active portions: Expect some walking and a short hike, suitable for those able to hike but not for those with mobility issues.
• Ideal for explorers: Great for travelers who love outdoor scenery, a bit of history, and a full-day adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-depth Look at the Experience

Starting Out: The Scenic Drive from Side

Your day begins with a pickup from your hotel or designated location in Side or Alanya. From there, it’s about a 2-hour drive through the Taurus Mountains. We think the journey itself is part of the charm—riding in a comfortable, open-top cabrio bus means you’re getting a panoramic preview of the changing landscape, with cool mountain air and views that make the drive fly by.

This initial stretch is more than just transportation; it’s a chance to get excited about what’s ahead. You’ll pass through small villages and see the countryside unfold in front of you—an intro to Turkey’s natural beauty that sets the tone for the day.

Adler Canyon: A Natural Wonder

On arrival at Adler Canyon, you’ll spend about 45 minutes exploring this stunning spot. The canyon’s most notable features are its dramatic red-rock formations—striking against the blue sky—and the tranquil natural pools where you might dip your feet or just soak in the scenery. This stop is perfect for photography, especially if you’re into capturing vivid landscapes.

Your guide will share insights about the geology and local wildlife, giving you a little context about how these impressive formations came to be. It’s a good mix of light activity and sightseeing, suitable for most people, but be sure to wear comfortable shoes because there’s some walking involved.

Riverside Lunch: Simple, Tasty, Scenic

Next up is a lunch break by the Koprucay River. The meal isn’t elaborate but offers classic Turkish fare like grilled chicken, rice, and salad, served in a picturesque setting. Vegetarian options are available, which is good news for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions.

The riverside atmosphere makes this more than just a meal; it’s a relaxing break, with the sound of flowing water and views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a chance to recharge and enjoy a taste of local cuisine without it feeling rushed.

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Eagle Canyon: More Jaw-Dropping Views

Post-lunch, the trip continues to Eagle Canyon, which is renowned for its breathtaking vistas of deep gorges and towering cliffs. Here, you’ll take a short hike to the canyon’s edge, giving you a chance to marvel at the panoramic views and capture some photos of the rugged landscape.

This part of the tour is particularly popular among nature lovers and photographers because of the biodiversity and dramatic scenery. The guide will likely point out interesting features and perhaps some wildlife, making this a highlight for many.

A Touch of History: Visiting Selge

Included in the itinerary is a visit to the ancient city of Selge—adding a historical dimension to your day. While the data provided doesn’t go into detail about this site, we can assume it offers ruins or remnants that offer a glimpse into the area’s past.

Returning Through the Mountains

The trip winds down with a return drive through the Taurus Mountains, giving you one last chance to take in the views. The comfortable ride back allows for reflection on the day’s highlights, with passengers often exchanging thoughts and photos.

The Practical Stuff

Duration and Transportation

This is a full-day tour, about 8 hours total, starting from pick-up in Side or Alanya. The transportation, in an open-top cabrio bus, is comfortable and offers great views—perfect for photo-ops. The itinerary includes several stops, each offering a different facet of the landscape, with the total drive time approximately 2 hours each way.

Cost and Value

At $28 per person, we think this tour offers solid value. For that price, you’re getting guided exploration, multiple scenic stops, a riverside lunch, and transportation—covering a lot of ground without additional costs. It’s an affordable way to see some of Turkey’s beautiful natural scenery and historical sites in a day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are the scenic drives, Adler Canyon exploration, the riverside lunch, Eagle Canyon discovery, a visit to the ancient city of Selge, and the guide. Personal expenses, souvenirs, or extra drinks are not included, so budget accordingly.

Accessibility and Suitability

While most people who enjoy outdoor activities should find this manageable, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or babies under 1 year, mainly because of walking and hiking involved.

Real Traveler Insights

One traveler from the Netherlands gave it a full 5-star, calling it a “great trip for little money”. That suggests most guests find the experience rewarding for its price point. The guide’s knowledge and the stunning scenery seem to be the major draws, making it clear that this trip is appreciated for both its value and quality.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re keen on nature, outdoor scenery, and mild adventure, this tour fits well. It’s a good choice for those wanting a full-day experience that combines sightseeing, some light hiking, and cultural history without breaking the bank. It’s also suitable for travelers who enjoy panoramic views and want to learn a little about local geology and history from experienced guides.

However, if you prefer lounging or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. The walking and hiking, though not overly strenuous, do require some effort. And if you’re traveling with very young kids or babies, it’s worth considering the physical aspects of the day.

The Sum Up

This Adler and Eagle Canyon tour offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural sites, and relaxed travel. For just $28, it provides a full day of exploration, topped with engaging guides and breathtaking views. The stops at Adler Canyon and Eagle Canyon are especially memorable, giving you plenty of chances to take stunning photos and enjoy Turkey’s rugged landscape.

The riverside lunch adds a touch of local flavor and a chance to unwind, while the visit to Selge offers a glimpse into the area’s past. It’s a solid option for travelers wanting an active, scenic day that isn’t overly complicated or expensive.

In short, if you’re looking for a straightforward, scenic adventure with friendly guides and good value, this trip is worth considering. It’s best suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities and want to see the Taurus Mountains in a relaxed setting without spending a fortune.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s appropriate for most kids, especially older children who can handle some walking and outdoor activities. Babies under 1 year are not suitable due to the physical nature of the trip.

How long is the drive from Side to Adler Canyon?
It’s approximately 2 hours each way, making the total day around 8 hours including stops and activities.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended. The outdoor nature means you’ll want to protect yourself from the sun and be ready for some walking.

Is vegetarian lunch available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available, alongside the usual grilled chicken and rice.

What kind of transportation is used?
A comfortable open-top cabrio bus offers panoramic views during the drive.

Does the tour include entry to historical sites?
Yes, it includes a visit to the ancient city of Selge.

How much free time do I have at each stop?
Approximately 45 minutes at Adler Canyon, and 45 minutes at Eagle Canyon, enough for exploration and photography.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak English, Russian, German, and Romanian.

Is this tour physically demanding?
It involves some walking and hiking, but it’s generally manageable for most able-bodied travelers. Not suitable for those with mobility limitations.

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

If you’re after a day of scenic views, gentle activity, and cultural insights in Turkey’s mountains, this tour could be a great pick. Just be sure to wear good shoes, bring your camera, and prepare for a memorable journey through some of the most scenic parts of the Antalya region.

You can check availability for your dates here: