City of Side: Sapadere Canyon & Alanya with Cable Car Option

If you’re staying in Side and craving a day filled with natural beauty, local culture, and panoramic views, this tour promises a memorable experience. It’s a well-rounded day trip that combines impressive scenery, a taste of Alanya’s vibrant atmosphere, and a touch of adventure — all for around $36.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the chance to hike through the spectacular Sapadere Canyon with its waterfalls and lush surroundings. Second, the optional cable car ride up to Alanya Castle offers stunning vistas and a taste of local history. Third, the free time in Alanya allows for independent exploration, whether you want to relax on Cleopatra Beach or snap photos of the Red Tower.

That said, the drive from Side to Alanya and Sapadere is around 105 km, which means long bus rides that might be tiring for some. Also, the Goblin’s Cave visit is an optional extra fee — so budget accordingly if you want to include that. This experience suits travelers looking for a mix of nature, culture, and flexibility, especially those comfortable with moderate walking and outdoor activities.

This experience made our article of 13 Fantastic City Tours In Side.

Key Points

• Natural beauty: Hike through stunning Sapadere Canyon with waterfalls, wildlife, and scenic viewpoints.
• Cultural highlights: Explore Alanya’s landmarks, including the Red Tower and Cleopatra Beach during free time.
• Optional activities: Cable car to Alanya Castle and Goblin’s Cave visits are available for a small extra fee.
• Value for money: At $36, the tour offers a comprehensive day combining transportation, lunch, and guided insights.
• Long travel time: Expect around 2 hours each way from Side, suitable for those with patience and snacks.
• Authentic experiences: Enjoy local cuisine and potentially see colorful birds and butterflies in the canyon.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey Begins: Pickup and Transport

Your day starts early with hotel pickups from Side, with times around 9:00 am, depending on your location. The group is transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus, which is essential for the roughly 105 km drive to Alanya. The long journey means you’ll want to bring some snacks or have breakfast beforehand, as there’s no mention of food stops during the drive.

Once you arrive, the real adventure kicks off at the Sapadere Canyon, a highlight where natural scenery takes center stage. The trip is designed to be flexible, with opportunities for sightseeing, wildlife spotting, and photos.

Hiking Through Sapadere Canyon

The core of this tour is the hike through the canyon, which offers a fantastic chance to see waterfalls, lush greenery, and possibly colorful birds and butterflies. The canyon’s formation from erosion over years creates a dramatic landscape that’s both accessible and awe-inspiring.

One review from Vanessa notes, “the water was incredibly cold but beautiful,” highlighting the refreshing nature of swimming in the mountain mineral waters that trickle down from the Taurus Mountains. The trail isn’t overly strenuous but does require comfortable shoes — some parts involve walking on uneven surfaces or climbing stairs.

A key point about the canyon is that it’s a genuine outdoor experience. Be prepared for varying weather — rain gear might be wise — and don’t forget your camera for the stunning viewpoints.

Optional Visit to Goblin’s Cave

For those interested in exploring further, Goblin’s Cave offers a quick underground adventure. There’s an entrance fee, and the cave itself is small, with just about 30 minutes to explore as recommended by a reviewer. It’s a fun, quirky addition if you’re into caves or local legends, but not essential if you prefer more canyon hiking or relaxation.

Lunch Break: Local Cuisine and Rest

After working up an appetite, everyone stops at a local restaurant for a hearty lunch featuring chicken or trout, served with rice and vegetables. Vanessa appreciated the meal, calling it “delicious and plentiful,” which is a good sign that the food is a genuine, satisfying break from outdoor activity.

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The Cable Car Option and Alanya’s Sights

Post-lunch, you have two choices: continue exploring Alanya on your own or take the cable car ride up to Alanya Castle. This option provides breathtaking views of the city and the sea, and is a popular highlight for many travelers.

However, some reviews mention a hiccup here. Tomá shared that they booked with the cable car option but were told upon arrival that their trip was without it due to a mix-up. While they received a partial refund, this highlights the importance of double-checking your booking if the cable car is a priority.

If you do go up with the cable car, you’ll spend your free time at the top exploring Alanya Castle, taking photos, or relaxing on the terraces. Alternatively, if you skip it, you still get a taste of Alanya’s vibrant city life during the 2 hours of free time, with options to visit Cleopatra Beach, the Red Tower, or just wander the shops.

Free Time in Alanya

This segment is perhaps the most flexible part of the day. You can choose to relax on the beach, stroll through the streets, or snap pictures of iconic landmarks. Some travelers, like Vanessa, enjoyed the opportunity to shop or explore at their own pace.

A tip: keep an eye on your watch so you don’t miss the bus back, as the return journey starts in the late afternoon. The group usually departs around 5:00 pm, heading back to Side with plenty of memories and photos.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

For just $36, this tour packs quite a punch. You get to see stunning natural landscapes, enjoy local cuisine, and experience Alanya’s vibrant city life, all with the convenience of transportation, guides, and some optional activities.

It’s especially good for outdoor lovers who enjoy hiking and scenic views, as well as those who want a balanced mix of nature and culture. The long drive might be a drawback for some, but if you’re prepared for that, it’s a small price for a full day of exploration.

This trip is best suited for those who enjoy outdoor adventures, scenic hikes, and authentic cultural experiences. It’s ideal for travelers who don’t mind a longer bus ride and who want to explore beyond the beaches of Side. If you’re keen on experiencing local wildlife, waterfalls, and panoramic city views, this day trip hits the mark.

While not perfect for those with mobility issues or limited stamina, it offers a wonderful taste of what the Antalya region has to offer in a single day.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The trip involves hiking through a canyon and walking on uneven surfaces, so children should be comfortable with outdoor activity and moderate walking.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned bus, lunch, a professional guide, entrance to Sapadere Canyon, and the cable car to Alanya Castle if selected.

Can I visit Goblin’s Cave?
Yes, visiting Goblin’s Cave is optional and incurs an additional fee. It’s a small cave with about 30 minutes recommended for exploration.

How long is the drive from Side to Alanya?
Expect about 2 hours each way, covering approximately 105 km, so bring snacks or breakfast to stay energized.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, camera, rain gear, and cash are recommended. Pets are not allowed.

What if I want to do the cable car but it’s not available?
Check your booking details carefully, as some travelers have experienced issues. If it’s a key part of your plan, confirm your option before the day.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
No, it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the nature of the activities.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included. Make sure to bring some water or purchase beverages during the stops.

What time does the tour start and end?
Pickup times vary by location, starting as early as 8:20 am from Gündodu and ending around 9:40 am from Kzlot. The day concludes with return to Side in the late afternoon.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

This tour offers a balanced mix of nature, adventure, and city exploration for a reasonable price. You’ll love the breathtaking canyon views and the opportunity to explore Alanya independently. It’s particularly suited to travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and want to see a different side of Turkey’s Antalya Province.

While the long drive and optional extra fees might be considerations, the overall value and authentic experience make this a compelling choice for a day outside of the usual beach scene. Whether you’re snapping photos of waterfalls, wandering Alanya’s streets, or simply soaking in mountain views, this trip is sure to leave lasting impressions.

You can check availability for your dates here: