Side: Electric Catamaran Cruise, Waterfall, Seleukia, Mosque

Explore Side’s Scenic Waterways and Ancient Ruins on an 8-9 Hour Guided Tour

This $25 guided tour from Side, Turkey, offers a satisfying mix of natural beauty, history, and leisure. It covers Green Canyon with a 1-hour catamaran cruise, visits the Manavgat Waterfall, the Seleukia ruins, and the Manavgat Dam. The tour also includes round-trip hotel transfers, a Turkish lunch, and the chance to enjoy fishing, canoeing, and cruising on the Green Lake.

While most stops are included in the price, the waterfall entrance fee of 6 Turkish Liras is paid separately. The tour starts at 8:30 am and runs for approximately 8 to 9 hours. This excursion appeals to those seeking a relaxed yet engaging day out, combining scenic views, historical sites, and outdoor activities, all with the convenience of organized transportation and expert guides.

Key Points

• Affordable price of $25 per person with hotel transfers included
• Includes a 1-hour catamaran cruise on Green Lake
• Visits to Manavgat Waterfall, Seleukia ruins, and Manavgat Dam
• Lunch with fish or chicken, rice, salad, and fresh fruit at Gölba Restaurant
• Guides provide insights into local history, culture, and nature
• Tour departs from Side at 8:30 am, with flexible cancellation policy

The Tour Begins at Kulliye Camii for a Short Mosque Visit

The day kicks off with a brief stop at Kulliye Camii, a local mosque, which takes about 20 minutes. This stop offers an opportunity to view the mosque’s architecture and learn about its significance. As the visit is short and free, it serves as a gentle introduction to the area’s cultural landscape before heading further afield.

Manavgat Waterfall: A Refreshing Natural Stop

Next, the tour visits the Manavgat Waterfall, a scenic spot where water cascades down in a lively display. Visitors spend around 30 minutes here to take photos and enjoy the refreshing spray of the falls. An entrance fee of 6 Turkish Liras applies, which is paid on-site. While this stop is relatively short, it provides a picturesque break in the day, with plenty of photo opportunities.

Discover the Ancient Roman Ruins of Seleukia

The Seleukia ruins offer a glimpse into ancient Roman history. No admission fee is required for this visit, which lasts about 30 minutes. The site features well-preserved ruins and panoramic views, giving visitors a sense of the area’s past importance. The guide discusses the historical context, making this a fascinating stop for history enthusiasts.

Manavgat Dam and Green Lake Views

A 15-minute photo break at the Manavgat Dam provides spectacular views of Green Canyon and Green Lake. The dam’s vantage point offers excellent opportunities for photos of the surrounding landscape. This stop is brief but highly scenic, setting the mood for the upcoming boat cruise and outdoor activities.

Green Canyon: Scenic Catamaran and Lunch at Gölba Restaurant

The highlight of the tour is a 1-hour catamaran cruise on Green Lake, also known as Green Canyon. The boat glides across the calm waters, offering stunning views of the lush surroundings. The cruise is relaxed and provides ample opportunity for photos and enjoyment of the scenery.

Following the cruise, the group visits Gölba Restaurant, which overlooks Green Lake. Here, a Turkish lunch is served, with options of fish or chicken, accompanied by rice, salad, and fresh fruit. This meal adds a satisfying touch to the day and offers a chance to unwind amid nature.

Activities on Green Lake Waters

After lunch, the afternoon is dedicated to fishing, canoeing, and cruising on Green Lake. These activities allow for a leisurely exploration of the waterway and a chance to enjoy the fresh air and scenic vistas at your own pace. The tour provides the equipment and guidance needed for these outdoor pursuits, making it accessible for most travelers.

Transport and Group Size

The tour is operated by Seven Tours and includes air-conditioned vehicle transfers from your Side hotel. The group size is capped at 49 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience. The multi-lingual guides share insights about each stop, making the trip informative and engaging.

Practical Details and Booking Considerations

The tour departs promptly at 8:30 am, and confirmation is received at booking. Travelers can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for changing plans. The tour is suited for most travelers, with near public transportation access and most participants able to join.

Tour Feedback Highlights

While the overall rating is 4.3 out of 5 based on 19 reviews, the praise centers on knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and delicious food. Reviewers appreciate the friendly and supportive staff, especially the guide, Achmed, who is noted for being very knowledgeable and funny. Some reviewers mention minor issues such as English language quirks and the waterfall entrance fee not being included in the initial price, but these do not overshadow the overall positive experience.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This Side guided tour offers excellent value, combining scenic outdoor activities, ancient ruins, and cultural highlights within a manageable time frame. The inclusion of hotel transfers and lunch simplifies logistics, making it an easy choice for travelers who want a hassle-free day. The scenic boat cruise and outdoor water activities make this a memorable adventure, especially for those who appreciate nature and history.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This tour is ideal for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a balanced day of sightseeing and relaxation. The outdoor activities and scenic stops appeal to nature lovers, while the history and culture elements cater to those interested in local heritage. It is suitable for most mobility levels, with comfortable transportation and short stop durations.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Day in Side

For $25, this tour offers a comprehensive experience of Side’s natural beauty and historical sites. The Green Canyon cruise, waterfalls, and Seleukia ruins create a varied itinerary that appeals to a wide range of interests. The professional guides and delicious lunch add to the overall value, making it a convenient choice for visitors seeking an active yet relaxed day.

While some stops are brief, the scenic views and outdoor activities compensate with memorable moments. This tour suits travelers who want to enjoy nature, history, and local cuisine, all without the need to plan complex arrangements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, hotel transfers are included with air-conditioned vehicles.

What is the cost of the waterfall entrance fee?
The waterfall entrance fee costs 6 Turkish Liras, paid separately on-site.

How long is the catamaran cruise?
The catamaran cruise lasts about 1 hour, offering ample time to enjoy the scenery.

What meals are included?
A Turkish lunch with fish or chicken, rice, salad, and fresh fruit is included at Gölba Restaurant.

Are drinks or photos included?
No, drinks and photos are not included in the tour price.

Can I cancel the tour if needed?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, the tour’s short stop durations and comfortable transportation make it suitable for most participants.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour involves some walking and outdoor activities; travelers with mobility issues should consider this.

What language do guides speak?
Guides are multi-lingual, ensuring clear explanations throughout the day.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made 16 days in advance on average, but early reservations are recommended to secure a spot.