Green Canyon Boat Trip and Bus Safari Tour w/Lunch

For those seeking an affordable yet diverse day trip from Side, the Green Canyon Boat Trip and Bus Safari Tour with Lunch offers a well-rounded experience for just $29.03 per person. With an approximate 8-hour duration, this tour combines scenic boat cruising, cultural visits, and stunning natural sights, making it ideal for travelers eager to experience Turkey’s countryside and waterways without breaking the bank. The tour’s inclusion of lunch, hotel pickup, and drop-off adds convenience, especially for visitors staying in Side. While the trip garners a high 91% recommendation rate, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention language barriers and the importance of being prepared for a busy schedule.

The tour is perfect for adventurous daytime explorers, especially those interested in discovering the Taurus Mountains, Green Lake, and the iconic waterfalls of the Manavgat River. It also suits visitors wanting a combination of Leisure, culture, and nature, with the chance to visit a village mosque and a small zoo as optional stops. The group size is limited to 27 participants, which helps maintain an intimate and engaging atmosphere. This tour promises a full-day itinerary filled with varied sights, lively commentary, and scenic moments.

Key Points

• Affordable price of $29.03, including lunch and transportation
• 8-hour full-day experience from Side, Turkey
• Includes a catamaran cruise on Green Lake with fun bubbles and sightseeing
• Travel through the Taurus Mountains with a knowledgeable guide
• Cultural stops at a local village mosque and optional visit to a small zoo
• Final stop at a waterfall on the Manavgat River with stunning views
• Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics smooth and hassle-free

Departure from Side with Hotel Pickup

This tour departs promptly at 8:30 am from your hotel in Side, with pickup included. The tour company, Tourmania, arranges convenient transportation on a specially-designed bus that drives through the Taurus Mountains. The small group size of up to 27 participants ensures a comfortable experience, and the mobile ticket option makes logistics simple. Most travelers find the pickup timings and meeting arrangements straightforward, making the start of the day stress-free.

Scenic Drive Through the Taurus Mountains

The journey begins with a scenic drive through the Taurus Mountains, where your guide shares stories about the region’s history and culture. The landscape is lush and hilly, setting an ideal scene for the day ahead. The guide’s insights are frequently praised for being friendly and informative, providing context for the natural and cultural sites ahead. This drive also offers a chance to settle into the day and enjoy the views before reaching Green Lake.

Green Lake Catamaran Cruise: Fun and Relaxing

Arriving at Green Lake, the highlight is the catamaran cruise. The boat glides smoothly across the calm waters, offering beautiful views of the surrounding natural scenery. The boat features bubbles for added fun, and the honk at Green Canyon Tunnel is often a favorite humorous moment among visitors. The cruise lasts long enough to appreciate the tranquil environment, with plenty of photo opportunities, making it a peaceful yet lively part of the day.

Lunch at a Lakeside Restaurant

Following the boat trip, the tour takes you to a local restaurant by the lake for lunch. Many reviews highlight the freshly prepared meal as a notable part of the experience. The included lunch offers good value, with enough variety to satisfy different tastes. The lakeside setting provides a relaxing backdrop, making the meal a pleasant break before continuing the sightseeing.

Visiting a Village Mosque

After lunch, the tour continues with a visit to a village mosque, offering insight into Turkish religious traditions. The guide explains the significance of the mosque and its architecture, providing a cultural perspective that enriches the overall experience. This stop provides a quieter moment and offers excellent photo opportunities of traditional Turkish architecture.

Optional Small Zoo Visit

There is an optional stop at a small zoo, which visitors can visit at their own expense. Though not included in the base price, this stop appeals to animal lovers or families with children. The zoo offers a brief chance to see local animals and learn about wildlife in the region, adding a slight variation to the day’s itinerary.

Scenic Waterfall on the Manavgat River

The final sightseeing stop is at a waterfall on the Manavgat River. This picturesque location is praised for its impressive views and offers a chance to stretch your legs and take photos. The waterfall’s natural beauty leaves many with memorable images of the day’s adventure. This stop caps off the sightseeing portion before returning to Side.

Return Journey and Hotel Drop-Off

The bus departs from the waterfall in the early afternoon, heading back to Side. The drop-off at your hotel completes the full circle, ensuring a comfortable end to a busy day. The pacing of the stops is well-managed, with most being around 30 minutes, giving a good balance of sightseeing and rest.

Tour Reviews and Experience Highlights

The major praise from past participants centers around the knowledgeable, friendly guides and the value for money. Many comment on how the lunch is freshly prepared and satisfying, and how the scenic boat cruise adds a relaxing element. The diversity of stops—from cultural visits to natural sights—is appreciated, although some reviews note that English explanations can be brief. The tour is seen as informative, fun, and well-paced, especially for those keen on seeing multiple highlights in one day.

Practical Tips for Participants

Since drinks are not included, bringing water or snacks is advisable, especially on hot days. The tour is suitable for most fitness levels, though some walking at stops like the waterfal may be needed. Travelers should be prepared for a busy schedule but will find the pacing generally comfortable. The meeting point near public transportation and hotel pickup makes this tour accessible for visitors staying in Side.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour Most

This full-day adventure suits families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a value-packed experience with a mix of scenery, culture, and nature. The cost-effective price combined with diverse activities makes it appealing for those who want to see a lot without having to plan multiple excursions on their own. It’s particularly good for first-time visitors to Side who want a broad overview of the region’s natural beauty and cultural sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Side are included, making the start and end of the day hassle-free.

What does the tour include?
The tour includes a catamaran cruise on Green Lake, lunch at a lakeside restaurant, a bus safari through the Taurus Mountains, and visits to a village mosque and a waterfall. An optional visit to a small zoo is available at your expense.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the tour price. It’s recommended to bring water or other beverages.

How long is the boat cruise?
The exact duration isn’t specified, but the catamaran cruise is a key highlight of the day, offering scenic views and fun moments.

Is this tour suitable for children or older adults?
The pacing and accessibility make it suitable for most ages, though some walking at stops like the waterfall may be required.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

This Green Canyon Boat Trip and Bus Safari Tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and natural sights, all at a reasonable price. It appeals most to those wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free day exploring Side’s surrounding regions, with the convenience of included transportation and lunch.