City of Side: Adler Canyon & Selge Guided Tour with Transfer

Discover the Adventure in Antalya’s Natural and Historic Treasures

The City of Side offers a memorable day trip with the Adler Canyon & Selge Guided Tour with Transfer. Priced at $40 per person and lasting around 5 hours, this experience takes you deep into Turkey’s stunning landscapes and ancient history. Starting with hotel pickups from Side between 08:30 and 09:15, the tour includes visits to Selge Ancient City, a walk through Tazi Canyon, and a relaxing swim in the Köprüçay River.

This tour is well-suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor scenery, historical sites, and scenic drives. The guides are known for their expertise and multilangual skills, making the journey informative and engaging. Keep in mind that the tour involves some walking at the stops and is not designed for very young children or those with mobility issues.

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Key Points

• Price: Just $40 per person for a comprehensive 5-hour excursion
• Includes: Hotel pickup and drop-off, local lunch, and a qualified guide
• Highlights: Selge Ancient City, Tazi Canyon, Köprüçay River
• Duration: About 5 hours with flexible starting times
• Languages: Guides speak English, German, Russian, Turkish
• Not suitable for: Children under 5 years, pregnant women, or those with mobility problems

Starting Point: Hotel Pickup in Side

The tour begins with hotel pickup from Side hotels, with transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle. Guides provide initial information en route and set the tone for a day filled with natural beauty and historical insights. The drive lasts approximately 57 minutes to reach the first stop, giving time to enjoy the landscape and listen to informative commentary about the region.

Visiting Selge Ancient City: A Journey Through Time

Selge Ancient City lies 11 km from the Taurus Mountains’ peak, and the visit lasts around 50 minutes. The site was once a thriving city during the Hellenistic period, with a history dating back to 2000 BC when it was part of the kingdom of LYDRA. Over time, it came under Macedonian rule, and later the Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman empires.

Visitors can explore remnants like the ancient theater and walk through the ruins where once up to 20,000 people lived. The location offers spectacular views, emphasizing the significance of Selge in ancient trade and military history. The guide shares stories of its golden age, when the city’s products were transported via the river, connecting with nearby sites like Perge and Ancient Side.

Lunch by the Köprüçay River: Local Flavors and Scenic Views

After exploring Selge, the tour offers a lunch break with a local meal prepared by experienced chefs. The restaurant is positioned at the river’s edge, providing views of the Taurus Mountains and the Köprüçay River. The meal is a highlight for many, with fresh ingredients and traditional Turkish flavors.

Following lunch, the group has time to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. This stop combines cultural nourishment with lovely scenery, making it a perfect chance to unwind before the next adventure.

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Exploring Tazi Canyon: Turkey’s Largest and Most Spectacular

The Tazi Canyon, considered Turkey’s biggest canyon, is a 410-meter-high natural marvel. It measures 40 meters wide and was formed during the glacial age. Recognized as a World Heritage site and first-degree protected area, Tazi Canyon is a must-see for lovers of dramatic landscapes.

The visit includes a photo stop and a walk along the rim, offering breathtaking views of the canyon’s steep walls and lush surroundings. The guides emphasize the geological history and natural beauty of the area, making it a highlight of the tour. The scenery here impresses with its scale and pristine condition.

Scenic Breaks and Photo Opportunities Along the Route

Throughout the day, the tour makes several photo stops at scenic points, including Adam Rocks and viewing hills overlooking the Taurus Mountains. These pauses are perfect for capturing memories, with plenty of natural beauty and landscape vistas. The guides provide commentary about the region’s geography and history, enriching the experience.

A natural tea and coffee break at a village Café offers a chance to relax, sample local beverages, and enjoy a peaceful moment before heading back to Side.

Comfortable Transport and Friendly Guides

The entire trip is supported by comfortable transportation, with air-conditioned buses ensuring a pleasant ride. The guides are praised for their multilingual abilities (English, German, Russian, Turkish), extensive knowledge, and friendly manner. They share interesting facts about each site, making the journey both educational and enjoyable.

Reviewers consistently mention the timely pickups, smooth transfers, and the professional attitude of the drivers and guides. The group size tends to be manageable, making it easy to ask questions and interact.

Duration, Pacing, and Practical Considerations

The total duration of the tour is approximately 5 hours, with the scheduled pickup between 08:30 and 09:15 and return between 18:00 and 18:30. The stops are well-paced, providing enough time at each site without feeling rushed. The tour involves some walking, especially at Selge and Tazi Canyon, so wearing comfortable shoes is recommended.

While the tour is suitable for most travelers, it’s not recommended for children under 5, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility impairments due to walking and uneven terrain.

Benefits and Unique Aspects of the Tour

What makes this trip stand out is the combination of natural landscapes, ancient ruins, and scenic drives. The inclusion of Selge’s archaeological site and Tazi Canyon’s geological wonders offers a well-rounded exposure to Turkey’s history and nature. The local lunch enhances the experience, providing authentic flavors in a stunning setting.

Many reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides, especially their ability to speak multiple languages and share detailed stories. The scenic views and photo opportunities are frequent favorites, along with the professional transportation and well-organized itinerary.

Final Thoughts: A Rich Mix of Nature and History

This Adler Canyon & Selge Tour delivers a balanced day of sightseeing, nature, and history. It offers excellent value at $40, with included lunch and transfers. The guides’ expertise and the scenic beauty of the stops make it a popular choice for those seeking a manageable yet fulfilling adventure.

While it’s not suited for very young children or those with mobility issues, travelers who enjoy outdoor exploration and historical sites will find this trip rewarding. The tour’s pacing, extensive commentary, and variety of stops ensure you get a comprehensive taste of the region’s natural grandeur and ancient past.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 5 hours, including pickups, site visits, and return.

What is included in the price?
Hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, and a professional guide speaking multiple languages.

Are drinks included?
No, local drinks such as beer, wine, sodas, tea, and coffee are not included.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under 5 years or for those with mobility issues.

What stops are part of the tour?
Stops include Selge Ancient City, Köprüçay River for lunch, Tazi Canyon, and scenic photo stops.

Can I take photos at each site?
Yes, many photo stops are scheduled, and they are perfect for capturing the landscapes and ruins.

What guides speak?
Guides operate in English, German, Russian, and Turkish.

Is there a possibility for activities like ziplining?
Some reviews mention the option to take a zipline (paid separately), but it is not detailed as part of the main tour.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve online, with options to reserve now and pay later, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour.

Would I recommend this tour?
Absolutely, especially for those interested in Turkish history, scenic landscapes, and outdoor adventures.

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