White Water Rafting with Lunch

Thinking about adding some adrenaline to your holiday in Side, Turkey? This white water rafting tour offers a solid dose of excitement, with scenic views and a laid-back vibe. It’s an experience that promises both fun and awe-inspiring nature, supported by experienced guides who keep safety and enjoyment front and center.

What really draws us to this trip are two things: first, the value for money—at just around $34, you get a full six hours of adventure, including gear, lunch, and insurance. Second, the scenic journey through the Taurus Mountains and the chance to raft along a 14 km stretch of rapid waves. That said, a couple of points are worth considering before booking, like the early start time and the fact that you don’t get photos included.

Whether you’re after a family-friendly outing (if your kids are up for it), a fun day with friends, or just want to tick off a must-do adventure in Turkey, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s straightforward, lively, and offers enough excitement even if you’ve never rafted before.

Key Points

• Affordable price with all essentials included, making it good value for a full-day adventure
• Scenic drive through the Taurus Mountains, setting the tone for a memorable day
• Professional guides ensure safety and enhance the experience
• No prior experience needed—perfect for beginners or those seeking a fun thrill
• Includes lunch by the river, offering a relaxing break amid nature
• Limited group size (max 15 travelers) for a more personalized experience

What to Expect on the Rafting Tour

This tour kicks off early, with a pickup around 6:00 am, so be prepared for an early start. The journey from your resort to Koprulu Canyon is part of the adventure, passing through the stunning Taurus Mountains which are a highlight just for the views alone. Once you arrive at Koprucay Canyon National Park, it’s straight into gear-up mode. You’ll get your life-jacket and helmet, and the guides will give you a quick safety briefing—don’t worry, they’re experienced and friendly, making even nervous first-timers feel comfortable.

Once suited up, you’ll hop into your raft, which can hold up to 12 people at a time. The main part of the experience is the 14 km stretch of rapid waves, where you’ll paddle through rapids and enjoy the thrill of navigating the mountain river. The adrenaline rush here is real, but the guides are there to ensure safety and help you have fun. If you’re traveling with friends or family, you’ll love the communal vibe of rafting together—it’s a team effort, and everyone gets to participate.

As you glide past the Oluk Bridge—an ancient yet resilient structure—you’ll get some fantastic photo opportunities. After the rafting, you’ll unwind at a peaceful spot along the river for a scenic lunch. The meal is included, and it’s a perfect way to relax and soak in the fresh Cyprus trees and river sounds. Many reviews mention how much they valued this break—an unexpected highlight amid the excitement.

Following lunch, there’s time to explore the park further or just kick back and enjoy nature’s calm. The whole trip lasts around 6 hours—you’ll be back at your hotel by late afternoon, ready to relax after an active day.

The Value of This Experience

At just $33.74 per person, this rafting adventure offers impressive value. It includes transportation, gear, lunch, and insurance, making it a hassle-free way to spend a day outdoors. No hidden charges, and the small group size (up to 15 travelers) adds a layer of intimacy and personalized attention.

Some reviewers appreciate the professional guides and the well-organized logistics, which make the entire day smooth from start to finish. Given that no previous rafting experience is necessary, this is accessible for most, provided you’re in good physical shape.

Keep in mind, drinks and photos are not included, so if snapping pics is a priority, you might want to bring your waterproof camera or smartphone in a protective case. Also, the early start can be a challenge for some, but it tends to be worth it when you’re back early enough to enjoy the rest of your day.

Highlights and Potential Drawbacks

Highlights

• The scenic drive through the Taurus Mountains offers beautiful moments even before the adventure begins
• The professional guides are knowledgeable, ensuring safety without sacrificing fun
• The 14 km rapid river provides plenty of adrenaline, suitable for beginners and experienced rafters alike
• The included lunch by the river is a simple but welcome break amidst the action
• The small group size enhances the experience—more attention from guides and better camaraderie
• The value for money in terms of cost, inclusions, and the length of the activity

Drawbacks

• The early pickup time (6:00 am) might not suit everyone’s schedule
• No photos or DVD options are included, so you’ll need to bring your own camera if you want memories captured
• Some travelers noted a less-than-ideal journey to the site, but many found it worthwhile considering the overall experience
• The physical demands mean you should be reasonably fit, especially if you’re paddling through rapids

Real Traveler Insights

One reviewer shared, “We went on the Jeep Safari, White Water Rafting, and Zip Line combo. The price was great and a full day of fun. The journey there was the only downside but was worth it.” This reflects how some find the transport a bit lengthy but consider the experience worthwhile.

Another mentioned, “We had an amazing day! The rafting, zip line, and monster safari were brilliant. Everyone was super friendly, and it was fantastic value for money!” It’s clear that the friendliness of guides and good organization make a difference.

However, not all reviews are glowing. One traveler expressed frustration over last-minute pickup info, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and patience. While this is a rare complaint, it’s worth keeping in mind that early mornings require some planning.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This rafting trip suits travelers looking for an adventure-packed day without breaking the bank. It’s ideal if you’re new to rafting, as no experience is needed, but you should be reasonably fit and comfortable in water. It’s a good choice for those who appreciate scenic drives and want a well-organized, small-group outing.

It’s not necessarily perfect for travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer a more relaxed, sightseeing-only experience. Also, if photography is a priority, plan to bring your own waterproof camera, since photos are not included.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes round-trip transportation, rafting gear (life jacket and helmet), lunch, and insurance. It’s a full package that covers most essentials for a safe and enjoyable day.

Do I need previous rafting experience?
No, previous experience is not required. The guides are professional and will provide instructions. The main focus is on fun and safety.

What should I wear or bring?
Dress for outdoor activity—wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting wet. Bringing a waterproof camera or phone case is a good idea if you want photos. Also, consider sunscreen, sunglasses (with a strap), and a hat.

How long does the trip last?
The entire experience runs about 6 hours, from pickup at 6:00 am to return later in the afternoon.

Is the trip suitable for children?
While it’s not explicitly labeled as family-friendly, it is suitable for those comfortable with water activities. Check with the provider if you’re traveling with children, especially regarding age and fitness requirements.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing some flexibility if needed.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a thrilling yet affordable day out in Turkey, this white water rafting tour delivers a lot of bang for your buck. The combination of scenic mountain views, lively rapids, and a relaxed riverside lunch makes it a well-rounded adventure. The guides’ professionalism and the small group size add to the overall positive vibe, making it more than just a quick thrill.

While the early start and the lack of included photos might be minor inconveniences, they don’t diminish the genuine fun and value this trip offers. It’s ideal for those looking to tick off a bucket list activity, experience Turkey’s natural beauty, and enjoy a lively day with friends or family.

In the end, this experience stands out as a practical, enjoyable, and reasonably priced way to add some adventure to your trip. Just come prepared for some splashes and a lot of smiles.

Remember: Always check current conditions and confirm details directly with the provider before booking, as things can change. Happy rafting!