Antalya, Side, Alanya: Green Canyon Day Trip with Boat Tour

If you’re looking for a relaxing yet visually stunning escape from the bustling Turkish coast, the Green Canyon day trip offers a fantastic way to connect with nature. This tour promises turquoise waters, lush greenery, and dramatic rocky slopes, all explored via a comfortable boat cruise. While some travelers have expressed minor concerns about language barriers and food quality, most find this experience well worth the price, especially for the unbeatable scenery and genuine moments in nature.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the breathtaking views of towering cliffs and crystal-clear waters that are perfect for memorable photos. Second, the friendly crew and knowledgeable guides (even if language can sometimes be a challenge) who go out of their way to ensure your safety and enjoyment. Third, the delicious lakeside lunch, often praised for its fresh grilled fish or chicken and tasty salads. On the flip side, some travelers have noted that weather conditions and organizational hiccups could impact the overall comfort, so packing accordingly is wise.

This experience suits travelers who love scenic outdoor adventures, enjoy boat rides, and want a taste of local cuisine in a peaceful setting. Families, groups, or couples seeking a balance of relaxation and visual delight will find it particularly appealing. Now, let’s explore all the details so you can decide if this Green Canyon trip is right for you.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery of cliffs, greenery, and turquoise waters, ideal for photography.
• Comfortable boat cruise with swim stops, allowing you to cool off in crystal-clear waters.
• Lakeside lunch featuring grilled fish or chicken, salads, and local flavors.
• Flexible transfer options from Antalya, Side, Belek, or Alanya, with hotel pickup included.
• Weather considerations matter, especially in winter months when open boats can be chilly.
• Language barriers may exist; guides primarily speak English, Russian, and other languages, but not always German or Polish.
• Good value at $32 per person, including lunch, drinks, and a 2.5–3 hour boat tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: A Day to Remember in Green Canyon

Starting Point and Transfer

Your day begins with hotel pickup from Antalya, Side, Belek, or Alanya, depending on your booking. The transportation is usually via a spacious, air-conditioned bus—a comfortable way to start your journey. Expect the driver to be punctual, and if your group includes folks from different countries, you’ll likely have guides speaking several languages, though not always German on Tuesdays and Saturdays. After a scenic drive, you’ll arrive at the Green Canyon’s gateway, the Oymapnar Dam Harbor. This is where your adventure truly kicks off.

The Boat Cruise: Navigating the Green Waters

Once on board the modern, specially-designed catamaran, you’ll set sail over the calm waters of the reservoir. Expect to enjoy breathtaking views of the towering cliffs and lush greenery that surround you—these are what make Green Canyon so photogenic. Reviewers highlight the friendly crew who work hard to make the trip enjoyable, and many mention the effort put into creating a relaxed atmosphere.

You’ll be encouraged to swim at designated stops, with life jackets prepared beforehand to ensure safety for everyone, including children and non-swimmers. As one reviewer noted, “We had our photos taken on the spot, which we could later buy. A definite plus was the preparation of life jackets for swimming, thanks to which everyone swam during the break despite the great depth.” The water is described as crystalline and refreshing, perfect for cooling off after some sightseeing.

Lunch by the Lake

After a couple of hours on the water, your boat will pull into a lakeside restaurant for a delicious lunch. The menu typically features grilled fish or chicken, accompanied by salads, macaroni or rice, and appetizers. Many guests praise the quality of the food, though some mention that in colder months, meals might arrive slightly cold due to weather conditions. Still, the local flavors and peaceful setting make this meal a highlight.

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More Scenic Exploration and Relaxation

Post-lunch, you’ll reboard the boat to explore more of the canyon’s natural beauty. Depending on weather and group preferences, additional swim stops or sightseeing are possible. Reviewers mention that the boat crew puts in a lot of effort to keep the atmosphere lively and to ensure everyone enjoys their time. The trip is generally well-timed, with most tours lasting about 2.5 to 3 hours on the water.

Returning to Base

As the day winds down, you’ll head back to the starting point, with a scenic drive back to your hotel. Expect to arrive after a full day of stunning vistas, swimming, and good food. Some guests mention the organized pickup and drop-off logistics as smooth, especially when booked through reputable providers.

What to Expect: Practical Details

Transportation and Duration

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off if you select that option, making it hassle-free. The bus ride is scenic and comfortable, setting the tone for the day. The total activity duration is around 6 hours, with 2.5-3 hours spent on the boat cruise alone.

Group Size and Guide

Group sizes vary but tend to be moderate, creating a friendly atmosphere. Guides can be multilingual, speaking English, Russian, Turkish, and Polish. However, some reviews indicate that German guides are unavailable on certain days, which might be a consideration if language is important for your understanding of the trip.

Cost and Value

Priced at $32 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the included boat cruise, lunch, drinks, and transportation. When you compare the price to the quality of scenery and the number of activities, most travelers agree it’s a fair deal. Some mention that alcoholic drinks and chips on the boat are expensive, so bringing your own snacks or drinks might be sensible.

Weather and Clothing

Weather can influence the experience. During winter months, open boats might be chilly, so packing warm clothes, sunscreen, and beachwear is advisable. The tour provider recommends bringing change of clothes, towel, and sun protection to stay comfortable.

Real Traveler Insights and Tips

From reviews, it’s clear that guides are generally friendly and helpful, though language barriers can cause small miscommunications. One reviewer appreciated a Polish-speaking traveler who translated information, highlighting the occasional language gap. The food quality gets mixed reviews—most say it’s good, but some found it greasy or cold if the weather is bad.

Many travelers note that the scenery makes up for minor inconveniences. The swimming stops and lunch in a serene setting are often highlighted as moments worth the trip. Be aware that photographers on the boat are available but are selective about whether they take photos if you decline. Also, shopping stops are included but can be skipped if you prefer.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for nature lovers, families, and couples wanting a peaceful day immersed in beautiful surroundings. If you enjoy boat rides, swimming, and local cuisine, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s also a good option for those wanting a cost-effective way to see the Green Canyon without organizing their own transport or activities.

However, if you prefer guided tours in German or Polish, you might find the language options limited. Also, travelers prone to cold weather should consider the open boats during winter, and those seeking luxury or private tours may find this more basic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included if you choose the transfer option, making the whole process stress-free.

How long is the boat tour?
The boat cruise lasts approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, swim, and relax.

What should I bring with me?
Pack a change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, and beachwear. Also, consider bringing some snacks or drinks, especially since alcohol and chips on the boat tend to be pricey.

Is food included?
Yes, a lakeside lunch with grilled fish or chicken, salads, and appetizers is included, generally praised for its flavor and freshness.

Are drinks served on the boat?
Soft drinks are included with the tour, but alcoholic drinks and chips are purchased separately and are expensive.

Is this tour suitable in winter?
Weather can impact comfort, especially on open boats. In colder months, it’s recommended to wear warm clothes and check weather conditions beforehand.

Can I buy photos of the trip?
Yes, photographers on board offer photos, which can be purchased afterward. Some travelers appreciate this service, while others note they only take photos if you agree.

Final Thoughts

The Green Canyon day trip offers an affordable, visually stunning escape into nature’s quiet corner of Turkey. The combination of a relaxing boat cruise, refreshing swims, and delicious lunch makes it a standout for travelers looking to unwind and take in breathtaking views. While language barriers and weather conditions might pose small challenges, most guests find the overall experience rewarding.

This tour is best suited for nature enthusiasts, families with children, and anyone wanting a peaceful day in the outdoors. It’s a great way to enjoy the Turkish landscape without straying too far from the coast.

If you’re after a memorable day on the water, filled with scenic beauty and good food, the Green Canyon trip could be just what you need. Just remember to pack for the weather, bring some snacks, and prepare to enjoy Turkey’s natural marvels from a boat.

You can check availability for your dates here: