Side, Alanya: Green Canyon Boat, Waterfall&Orchards Mix Tour

Exploring Turkey’s Natural and Cultural Treasures on the Green Canyon & Waterfalls Tour

This side of Turkey offers a mix of stunning scenery, lively local culture, and engaging experiences, and the Side, Alanya: Green Canyon Boat, Waterfall & Orchards Mix Tour is a well-rounded way to enjoy it all. Although we haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s particularly suited for those who enjoy nature, scenic views, and a dash of local culture, all packed into a single day.

What draws us in? First, the beautiful boat cruise on Green Lake promises tranquil moments and great photo opportunities. Second, the chance to visit Manavgat Waterfall and Orange Groves offers both scenic beauty and a taste of authentic local agriculture. Lastly, the comfortable transport in open-top cabrio buses helps maximize the sightseeing experience.

However, a potential consideration is the length of the day — it runs about 7 to 9 hours, and some reviews mention it can feel quite long, especially for those with limited patience or tight schedules. Still, if you’re up for a full-day adventure that combines leisure, culture, and nature, this tour might suit you best.

This experience works brilliantly for families, nature lovers, or anyone interested in understanding more about the region’s landscapes and local life. If you’re seeking a balanced mix of sightseeing, light adventure, and culture, you’ll find this tour provides good value for money.

Key Points

• Natural Beauty: Experience the serenity of Green Lake and the impressive Green Canyon.
• Cultural Sights: Visit the elegant Manavgat Mosque to admire local craftsmanship.
• Family-Friendly: Includes a mini zoo, making it fun for all ages.
• Culinary Experience: Enjoy a delicious local lunch with authentic flavors.
• Comfort & Style: Travel on open-top cabrio buses for panoramic views.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, ideal for flexible travel plans.

A Well-Rounded Day Out: What to Expect from the Tour

At the core of this experience is a carefully curated itinerary designed to give you a taste of Turkey’s natural wonders and cultural highlights. It starts with the Manavgat Waterfall, a peaceful spot where you can enjoy the soothing sound of flowing water and take some photos. Though the waterfall itself isn’t large, the lush surroundings and fresh air create a calming introduction.

Next, you’ll move on to orange groves, an iconic feature of the region that fills the air with citrus scent. Reviewers note that this stop is charming but sometimes disappointing — orchards may be closed or the stop brief, with some guests mentioning they only had about 20 minutes to browse or buy souvenirs. If you’re keen on seeing fruit trees in full bloom or picking fresh oranges yourself, it’s worth confirming whether the orchards are accessible during your visit.

The highlight is undoubtedly the Green Canyon, one of Turkey’s natural marvels. You’ll cruise on a 1-hour boat trip on Green Lake, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush greenery. The boat ride is appreciated for its peaceful vibe, as one reviewer pointed out, “The boat cruise on Green Lake was a highlight — serene and scenic, perfect for relaxing and snapping photos.” The calm waters and scenic vistas make it a perfect spot to unwind.

The Oymapinar Dam is also part of the journey, offering a look at impressive engineering that supports regional water needs. While not a full tour of the dam itself, viewing it from afar provides insight into the area’s infrastructure.

Then comes the visit to Manavgat Mosque, a newer but elegant place of worship. Known for its architecture and peaceful atmosphere, it offers a brief but meaningful cultural experience. This stop is particularly appreciated for its tranquil ambiance and craftsmanship.

An appealing feature of the tour is the open-top cabrio buses, which not only offer a sense of adventure but also allow unobstructed views of the landscapes passing by. This mode of transportation makes the journey feel more immersive and less like just riding in a bus.

The day wraps up with a delicious local lunch, often praised for its authentic flavors. Many reviewers have highlighted how good the meal was, describing it as a chance to enjoy regional specialties and culinary heritage. This meal is a nice touch, balancing the scenic and cultural elements of the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Authenticity and Value of this Tour

Considering the price point, this tour offers solid value. It combines multiple experiences — boat cruise, cultural visits, nature stops — into one package. The inclusion of transportation in stylish open-top buses enhances the experience, making it feel more special than a standard coach trip.

Most importantly, the tour guides seem to be a highlight. Reviewers mention guides like Ahmed and others as knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive, contributing to a more engaging experience. This personal touch makes all the difference when navigating unfamiliar destinations.

However, there are some limitations. The length of the day can be tiring, especially since the trip starts early (around 8:30 a.m.) and ends late in the afternoon. For some, especially those not used to long tours, that might be a drawback. Also, the language barrier was noted by some guests who booked in Russian, as there were only a limited number of guides speaking Russian, with some information only translated partially.

Another point to consider is that some stops may feel a bit pointless or rushed, such as the fruit orchard visit, where the orchards might be closed or just a quick stop for souvenirs. For travelers seeking a more leisurely pace or in-depth culture, they might find certain sections less satisfying.

The tour’s flexibility—with options to cancel 24 hours in advance and book now, pay later—makes it more accessible for spontaneous plans or uncertain schedules.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This tour is particularly well-suited for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a comprehensive day out without the hassle of planning each stop. It offers a blend of outdoor scenery, cultural insights, and light adventure, making it perfect for those who prefer a balanced experience. If you’re after beautiful photo opportunities, enjoy relaxing boat rides, or want to see key sights in the region, this trip hits all those marks.

The delicious local lunch is an added bonus, giving you a taste of regional flavors without the need to hunt down restaurants. Plus, the mini zoo provides a fun break, especially for kids or animal lovers.

While the tour might not satisfy those looking for deep historical exploration or highly specialized activities, it offers an authentic and enjoyable snapshot of the area. It’s an ideal choice if you want a well-organized, scenic, and culturally enriching day that balances sightseeing with relaxation.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring sun protection: a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essential, especially on the open-top buses.
• Pack swimwear and a towel if you plan to enjoy the boat cruise or swimming in the lake.
• Comfortable clothes are recommended, as you’ll be on your feet for a good portion of the day.
• Camera: You’ll want to capture the stunning views at every stop.
• Be prepared for a long day: Starting early, pacing yourself, and staying hydrated will help you enjoy it fully.
• Check whether the orchards are open during your visit if this stop is important to you.
• Note that smoking is not allowed on the tour, so plan accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation in open-top cabrio buses, a 1-hour boat cruise on Green Lake, and a delicious regional lunch. Entrance fees and drinks are not included.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 7 to 9 hours, with the starting times varying based on availability. Expect a full day of sightseeing and travel.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s generally family-friendly, especially since it includes a mini zoo and scenic outdoor stops. However, keep in mind the length of the day and bring essentials like water and snacks.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund, making it flexible for changing plans.

Are there any language restrictions?
Guides speak English, German, Russian, and Turkish. Some reviews noted limited translation for Russian speakers, so it’s helpful to clarify language preferences at booking.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen), swimwear, a towel, camera, water, and comfortable clothes. Outside food and drinks are not allowed.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of the stops and transport.

To sum it up, the Side & Alanya Green Canyon, Waterfall & Orchards Mix Tour stands out as a well-organized, scenic, and culturally enriching day trip. It offers a good mix of natural beauty, cultural sites, and fun activities, all at a price that delivers value. Perfect for those wanting a comprehensive look at Turkey’s landscape and local life, this tour is best for travelers prepared for a full day of exploration and relaxation. If scenic boat rides, lush landscapes, and authentic regional experiences appeal to you, this trip will likely be a highlight of your Turkey adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: