City of Side: Green Canyon Boat Trip & Bus Safari with Lunch

The City of Side: Green Canyon Boat Trip & Bus Safari with Lunch offers a compelling mix of natural beauty and cultural sights, all within an 8-hour adventure in the Antalya Province. Priced at only $20 per person, this tour is designed to showcase some of the most picturesque landscapes of southern Turkey, including the famous Green Lake, the spectacular Green Canyon, and the charming villages of the Taurus Mountains. With a rating of 4.4 based on 288 reviews, it clearly appeals to travelers seeking a well-rounded day filled with scenic views and cultural insights. A notable highlight is the cabrio bus driving through fragrant orange gardens and offering panoramic countryside views, followed by a relaxing catamaran cruise across the tranquil Green Lake. The inclusion of lunch at a local restaurant and stops at traditional villages make this experience both enjoyable and authentic.

While the tour offers excellent value and a variety of activities, it involves a full day of traveling, which might be tiring for some. The timing typically starts with hotel pickup around 09:00, and the tour wraps up at approximately 18:00 with drop-offs at the same five pickup locations. The tour is ideal for those interested in scenery, nature, and Turkish culture, especially travelers who appreciate a mix of outdoor activities and local cuisine.

Key Points

• Full-day experience exploring the Green Lake, Green Canyon, and Taurus Mountains
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a cabrio bus safari, boat trip, and lunch
• Price set at just $20, offering good value for money
• Stops at traditional villages and scenic viewpoints, with optional visit to a zoo for an extra fee
• Guided tour available in English and German, with knowledgeable guides
• Duration of around 8 hours, with a mix of driving, sightseeing, and relaxing activities

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The Scenic Drive Through Taurus Mountains on a Cabrio Bus

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel, usually around 09:00, followed by a drive through the Taurus Mountains. The specially-designed cabrio bus provides sweeping panoramic views of the lush countryside and orange gardens along the route. As you travel, the guide shares insights into the area’s geography and culture, making the journey as informative as it is scenic. This part of the tour appeals to those who enjoy comfortable sightseeing with plenty of photo opportunities.

Traveling through fragrant orchards and rolling hills, travelers get a glimpse of rural life in southern Turkey. The bus ride also offers a chance to appreciate the natural landscape and understand how the surrounding area has formed over time. This part of the experience sets the tone for the day, building anticipation for the upcoming sights.

Exploring the Green Lake by Catamaran

A highlight of the tour is the cruise across the Green Lake on a catamaran. The one-hour boat trip offers a relaxing way to see the surrounding nature from a fresh perspective. The calm waters reflect the vibrant greenery and provide a peaceful backdrop to the boat ride. The cruise is suitable for all ages and offers ample opportunities for photos, making it an ideal break from the bus journey.

This part of the tour emphasizes scenic beauty, giving visitors the chance to observe the lush environment and perhaps spot local birdlife. The boat cruise adds a leisurely element to the day, balancing the bus safari with a peaceful water experience.

Lunch at a Local Restaurant Near Green Lake

After the boat trip, the tour includes a lunch stop at a local restaurant close to the Green Lake. This is a chance to enjoy traditional Turkish cuisine in a relaxed setting. While specific menu details are not provided, reviews mention the value for money and the generous variety of activities, indicating that the meal is likely hearty and authentic.

The lunch break allows for rest and refreshment before continuing with more sightseeing. It also provides an opportunity to interact with local hosts and learn a bit about regional cuisine. The restaurant’s proximity to the lake ensures that diners can enjoy scenic views while eating.

Visiting Traditional Villages and a Mosque

The tour continues with visits to local villages in the Taurus Mountains, where guided walks and sightseeing give insight into traditional Turkish rural life. One of the stops includes a village mosque, which offers a chance to learn about religious traditions and local customs.

The tour’s stops at villages are appreciated for their authentic atmosphere, though there is a note that more time could enhance the experience. The guides are knowledgeable and helpful, making these visits both educational and culturally enriching.

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The Spectacular Green Canyon and Waterfalls

One of the most striking sights is the Green Canyon, sometimes called the Breezes of Culture and Nature in some references. The boat cruise inside the canyon showcases impressive cliffs, lush vegetation, and crystal-clear waters. This area is often compared to other famous canyons but offers a unique Turkish twist.

The tour also features a photo stop at the Manavgat River waterfall, where visitors can admire the flowing water and take photos. These stops highlight the diverse landscapes in the region, providing plenty of photo opportunities and moments of reflection.

Optional Visit to a Small Zoo

For those interested, the tour offers an option to visit a small zoo at an additional fee. Some reviews mention concerns about the condition of animals and the ethics of supporting such facilities, especially the display of drugged baby lions. This stop is entirely optional, allowing travelers to skip it if preferred.

The zoo visit is brief and provides a glimpse into local animal life, but travelers should consider their own views on animal welfare before participating.

Cultural Insights at the Manavgat River and Beyond

The Manavgat River provides a scenic backdrop for the waterfall stop and offers a chance to observe local life along the riverbanks. The tour’s pacing is relaxed enough to appreciate these natural and cultural sights without feeling rushed, according to reviews.

The journey back to Side is comfortable, with frequent stops and leisurely driving. The tour concludes with drop-offs at the same five pickup locations, around 18:00.

Practicalities and Tour Logistics

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, saving travelers the hassle of finding meeting points. The cabrio bus safari and boat cruise are the main activities, with lunch included to keep the day well-paced. The tour is guided in English and German, ensuring clear explanations and insights throughout.

While the tour involves a significant amount of driving, the stops are well spaced, and the group size is manageable. It’s suitable for a wide range of travelers, including those with mobility concerns, as indicated by positive reviews about staff assistance.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

Travelers who appreciate scenic landscapes, authentic cultural experiences, and relaxing boat rides will find this tour appealing. It suits those looking for good value and a full-day itinerary that combines outdoor activities with cultural insights. The moderate pace and variety of stops make it ideal for first-time visitors to Side or Antalya Province who want a rundown of the region’s natural beauty.

Final Overview of the Green Canyon & Bus Safari Tour

This affordable and diverse excursion offers a well-balanced day exploring Green Lake, Green Canyon, and the Taurus Mountains. The boat cruise and cabrio bus ride provide scenic highlights, while the visits to villages and the mosque add cultural depth. The lunch at a local restaurant enhances the experience with regional flavors.

While it involves considerable travel time, the value for money, guide expertise, and variety of activities make this trip a worthwhile choice for those eager to see Turkey’s stunning landscapes and experience its rural charm. It’s especially suited for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts who enjoy a full-day adventure in beautiful surroundings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of this tour?
The tour is priced at $20 per person.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, starting around 09:00 and ending at 18:00.

What activities are included?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a cabrio bus safari, a boat trip on Green Lake, and lunch at a local restaurant.

Are there any optional extras?
Yes, visitors have the option to visit a small zoo for an additional fee.

How accessible is the tour for travelers with mobility issues?
Positive reviews mention staff assistance for those in wheelchairs, suggesting it is accommodating, but travelers should confirm specific needs.

What languages are available for the guides?
Guides speak English and German.

Is there a chance to see wildlife or natural features?
Yes, the Green Lake, Green Canyon, and Manavgat River waterfall offer natural scenery and wildlife observation.

Can I bring my own drinks or photos?
Drinks are not included, and photos/videos are optional and not included in the tour price.

What is the best time to book this tour?
Availability varies, so check specific dates; booking in advance is recommended to secure a spot.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, given the variety of activities and manageable pace, it is suitable for families, though some stops may require walking or standing.

What should I wear on this trip?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are advised, especially for walking in villages and sightseeing stops. Flip-flops are okay but can be rough at times during the bus ride.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made through the provider, TOURMANIA, and you can reserve now & pay later for flexible planning.

This tour offers a great blend of natural beauty, cultural insight, and leisurely activity, perfect for those wanting to explore the diverse landscapes of southern Turkey at an excellent price point.

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