If you’re looking for a way to shake up your trip to Antalya and get your adrenaline going, whitewater rafting in Koprulu Canyon might just be what you need. This tour, operated by TOURMANIA, promises a day packed with excitement, impressive views, and a tasty river-side meal. We’ve seen plenty of reviews and details, and here’s the lowdown to help you decide if it’s worth your time.
What really appeals to us about this trip is the combination of adventure and scenery. The chance to paddle down 14 kilometers of rapids and soak in the natural beauty of Turkey’s Koprulu Canyon is a pretty compelling combo. Plus, everyone seems to enjoy the professionalism of the guides and the well-organized nature of the tour.
On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the activity is physically demanding and not suited for everyone—think good footwear, some light swimming, and a taste for getting wet. It’s also not recommended for young children under 5, pregnant women, or those with back problems. If you’re flexible on your plans and ready for an active day, this could be a fantastic choice.
This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who want more than just sightseeing. If you’re up for splashing through rapids, enjoying panoramic views, and eating a filling meal in the great outdoors, it could be a memorable addition to your trip.
Key Points
- Adventure-filled experience with 14 km of whitewater rapids to conquer
- Stunning panoramic views of Koprulu Canyon and Taurus Mountains
- All necessary equipment and safety guidance are included, making it accessible for most
- Lunch by the river offers a relaxing break amidst the adrenaline
- No swimming skill needed, but participants should be comfortable with water activities
- Good for travelers with an active streak and those who enjoy natural scenery
What to Expect: An Honest Breakdown of the Day
The day starts with a hotel pickup in Side, which is pretty straightforward thanks to the included transportation. The ride to the starting point is in an air-conditioned bus, making the journey comfortable, especially if you’re coming from the heat of the city. Once you arrive at the base camp, the staff hands out all the gear you’ll need—helmet, life jacket, paddle, and suitable shoes. This setup means you don’t have to worry about bringing your own equipment, which is a plus.
Before hitting the water, you’ll get a quick safety briefing. This is important because, even if you’ve never rafted before, the guides are experienced and will ensure everyone understands how to handle the rapids. The guides speak English, German, and Russian, so communication typically isn’t an issue.
The core activity involves paddling through turbo-charged rapids, drops, and holes. The reviews highlight how engaging and challenging this part can be, but also how much fun it is to battle the waves and splash around. One reviewer even noted, “Perfect Karim was our captain and it was perfect,” indicating the guides are friendly and professional, which helps everyone feel confident.
During the trip, there are a couple of scenic stops, including a chance to swim in crystal-clear spring water in calmer sections of the river. These breaks give you a moment to relax, snap pictures, or just enjoy the views. The highlight, of course, is the experience of navigating through the whitewater, which is both exhilarating and a little tiring.
Lunchtime marks a well-deserved rest. The meal is served riverside, giving you a chance to refuel and chat about the morning’s adventures. Most reviews find the food satisfying, and it’s included in the price, offering good value considering the full day’s activity.
After lunch, the adventure continues until you reach the end of the 14 km route. The tour usually lasts between 8 and 12 hours, depending on group size and pace. This lengthy duration makes it a full-day experience, so be prepared for a day packed with activity.
The Experience: A Closer Look
The journey through Koprulu Canyon offers more than just the thrill of rafting. The views are often praised—passage through the canyon shows off Turkey’s rugged beauty, with towering cliffs and lush greenery. Several reviewers mention the “breathtaking scenery,” which makes the wet and wild parts even more memorable.
The guides seem to be a highlight for many travelers. “Friendly, knowledgeable, and professional,” is a common description, with Liam praising Karim specifically. Good guides are essential in making a sometimes challenging adventure feel safe and enjoyable, and it sounds like TOURMANIA’s team hits the mark here.
The equipment provided is noted to be of good quality and included in the price, which simplifies the planning. Rafting shoes are available for rent or purchase at the camp if you don’t have suitable footwear—something to remember if you plan to wear sandals or flip-flops, which are not allowed.
While most reviews are positive, one review pointed out the lack of COVID precautions by staff or travelers, so if you’re concerned about health safety, it might be worth considering this aspect.
Cost and Value: Is It Worth It?
The tour price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, all equipment, an experienced guide, insurance, and lunch. When you think about it, this makes for a pretty hassle-free day. The included meals and gear boost the overall value, especially considering the length of the trip.
Since the tour is about 8 to 12 hours, you’re essentially paying for a full day of adventure—something that most people find worth the cost when factoring in the scenery, guide expertise, and the fun of navigating Turkey’s famous rapids. You might find cheaper options, but then you’d likely need to arrange your own transport, gear, and food, which can add up.
The availability of a “reserve now, pay later” option adds flexibility, which is handy if your plans aren’t set in stone just yet.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who want more than just a sightseeing day. It suits those with a decent level of fitness, since paddling and getting wet is part of the fun. It’s a good choice if you enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable in water, though no swimming ability is necessary.
If you’re traveling with kids, the minimum age is 6, and children need to be accompanied by an adult. But it’s not suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or people with back problems.
Those who appreciate stunning natural landscapes paired with adrenaline will find this trip a memorable highlight. It’s also a solid pick for groups or families who want an active, fun-packed day—just keep in mind the physical aspect and the length.
More Great Tours NearbyFAQs
Do I need previous rafting experience?
No, previous experience isn’t required. The guides provide safety instructions beforehand, and the activity is suitable for beginners.
Is swimming necessary?
No swimming ability is needed, but you should be comfortable getting wet and wearing a life jacket. There are stops for swimming and relaxing in calmer water sections.
What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, water shoes, and quick-dry clothing. Avoid sandals or flip flops, as they’re not allowed.
Are the guides friendly and professional?
Yes, reviews consistently mention guides being knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful, which makes the adventure more enjoyable.
How long does the tour last?
Expect a full-day experience, generally between 8 and 12 hours, including transfers, the activity, and lunch.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Children aged 6-12 can participate if accompanied by an adult. It’s not recommended for children under 5.
What about COVID safety precautions?
One review noted a lack of precautions, so if you’re concerned, it’s something to keep in mind. The staff are not explicitly mentioned as taking extra COVID measures.
Side: Koprulu Canyon Whitewater Rafting with Lunch
“Perfect karim was our captain And it was perfect very Nice service.”
Final Thoughts
If you’re after a combination of adventure and natural beauty, this Koprulu Canyon whitewater rafting tour hits the spot. With knowledgeable guides, all equipment provided, and an exciting 14-kilometer ride through Turkey’s stunning river landscape, it offers a memorable day for those who enjoy an active holiday.
It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want to blend sightseeing with a physical challenge, all while soaking in some of Turkey’s best scenery. While it’s not for everyone—those with health issues or young children might want to look elsewhere—adventure lovers should find plenty to enjoy here.
This tour provides great value for a full day of fun, and the consistent positive reviews suggest it’s a popular choice for visitors eager to add a splash of adrenaline to their trip.
Enjoy your adventure—and don’t forget your water shoes!
You can check availability for your dates here:
