Green Canyon Boat Trip with Lunch From Side

The Green Canyon Boat Trip with Lunch from Side offers an inviting full-day experience for those looking to explore Turkey’s beautiful lakes and scenic landscapes. Priced at $49.21 per person, this tour spans approximately 8 hours, making it a convenient choice for a relaxed yet lively day out. It includes free hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, and free drinks, providing excellent value in a stunning setting. The tour is well-suited for families and travelers seeking a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and a taste of local cuisine, though it’s good to be aware of some mixed reviews regarding the overall boat experience.

This tour begins with hotel pickups at 8:30 am, simplifying logistics for guests staying in Side. The itinerary features key stops at the Manavgat Dam, the Oymapinar Dam, and the Green Canyon itself, where you’ll enjoy approximately 3 hours exploring the canyon’s emerald waters and tree-lined banks. It’s a half-day adventure that combines sightseeing, aquatic activities, and a delicious lunch at a waterfront restaurant, making for a well-rounded day.

Key Points

• Full-day tour from Side lasting around 8 hours with hotel pickup and drop-off included
• Scenic stops at the Manavgat Dam, Oymapinar Dam, and Green Canyon
• Three hours cruising through the canyon, passing notable sights like the Little Canyon and Oymapinar Dam
• Lunch included, served at a waterfront restaurant, with free drinks provided aboard
• Opportunity to swim in clear lakes, with water temperatures described as perfect for swimming
• Good value for the price, though some reviews mention concerns about boat comfort and safety

Green Canyon and Dam Stops: Exploring Manavgat and Oymapinar

The tour kicks off with visits to the Manavgat Dam and Oymapinar Dam, each offering a glimpse into Turkey’s impressive hydro-engineering. These stops last about one hour each, with free admission, and serve as ideal photo opportunities. Expect to see the green waters and lush surroundings that give the canyon its name, along with the impressive dam structures. These spots are great for those interested in natural scenery and engineering marvels.

While the dams themselves are the focus, some guests note that the drive to these locations can be a bit adventurous, with some parts of the journey described as “abenteuerlich” or adventurous. The scenic surroundings prepare you for the main event—the cruise through the Green Canyon itself.

Cruising through the Green Canyon: Sights and Serenity

The main highlight of the tour is the three-hour boat cruise through the Green Canyon, where travelers glide past tree-lined banks and emerald waters. The scenic lake is framed by the snow-capped Taurus Mountains, creating a striking backdrop. During this time, you can enjoy spectacular views, pass by the Little Canyon, and witness the Oymapinar Dam from the water.

Reviewers appreciate the beautiful scenery and the chance to relax while cruising. Some mention that the cruise itself can feel a little slow or “boring” at times, but the overall visual experience remains a major draw. You’ll also have the chance to swim in the lakes, with water temperatures described as “perfect for swimming”. The cool, clear waters are ideal for a refreshing dip, enhancing the day’s enjoyment.

Lunch at the Waterfront Restaurant: Delicious and Relaxed

A 45-minute stop at a waterfront restaurant provides a chance to refuel and enjoy local flavors. The lunch included in the tour is generally described as very good, with guests appreciating the setting and the food quality. The restaurant’s location offers views that complement the meal, making it a peaceful break from the boat cruise.

The lunch is part of the all-inclusive package, along with free drinks, though some reviews mention that drinks are not included if you want additional beverages outside the provided options. The meal and setting are praised for their value and quality, making it a highlight for many.

Group Size, Guide, and Tour Logistics

The tour is operated by Tourmania and typically accommodates up to 100 travelers. The local guide leads the group, offering insights into the area’s natural features and history. The group size is large but generally manageable, with hotel pickup included, making it convenient for guests staying in Side.

Most travelers find the timing well-paced, starting early at 8:30 am and concluding after about 8 hours. The meeting point is flexible thanks to the hotel pickup service, and the mobile ticket system simplifies entry and organization.

Practical Considerations and Review Highlights

While many find this trip a good value and beautiful experience, some reviews raise safety and comfort concerns, such as dangerous driving or the boat feeling aged. One reviewer specifically cautions about unsafe driving, which is a potential risk to consider.

The boat ride has been described as “a little boring” by some, indicating that expectations for high-energy activities should be tempered. However, the scenery and opportunities to swim and enjoy the landscape remain the main attractions.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour is ideal for families and nature lovers looking for a relaxed day immersed in Turkey’s stunning lakes and canyons. It offers good value for the price, with lunch and transport included. Those seeking adventure and safety should weigh the reviews mentioning unsafe driving or older boats.

The scenic stops and swimming opportunities make it a memorable outing, but it’s best suited for those who enjoy slow-paced sightseeing rather than high-energy activities.

The Sum Up: A Scenic, Relaxing Day with Caveats

The Green Canyon Boat Trip from Side provides a beautiful journey through some of Turkey’s most picturesque natural landscapes. The scenic cruise, dams, and swimming make for a diverse experience, especially considering the lunch and drinks included.

While some reviews highlight safety concerns and limited entertainment during the cruise, many still see this as good value for a relaxing day in nature. It’s particularly well-suited for families or travelers who want a laid-back exploration of Turkey’s lakes and canyons.

Travelers should be prepared for larger group sizes and potentially aged boats, but overall, this tour offers a picture-perfect setting with enough variety to keep you engaged. If you enjoy scenic boat rides with opportunities to swim and appreciate waterfront meals, this trip is worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, free hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the tour, making it very convenient for guests staying in Side.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers lunch, local guide, transportation, and admission to stops like the dams and canyon cruise. Drinks are included during the boat trip but not available for purchase separately.

How long is the boat cruise?
The boat cruise through the Green Canyon lasts approximately 3 hours, offering plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and swim.

Are there any safety concerns?
Some reviews mention dangerous driving and older boats, so it’s advisable to stay attentive and cautious during the trip.

What is the best part of the tour?
Many find the scenic cruise and the chance to swim in the lakes to be the highlights, along with the lunch at the waterfront restaurant.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.