Side Rafting Tour in Koprulu Canyon National Park

Side Rafting Tour in Koprulu Canyon National Park: An Adventurous Day Out for Thrill Seekers

The Side Rafting Tour in Koprulu Canyon National Park offers an exciting escape into Turkey’s natural beauty combined with adrenaline-pumping water sports. Priced at $26 per person, this adventure spans 5 to 8 hours, making it a full-day activity suitable for those eager to experience Turkey’s outdoor thrills. The tour departs from Side and nearby locations, with a professional guide team leading you through 14 kilometers of rafting on the Koprucay River—a major highlight of Turkey’s outdoor activities. The tour is rated 3.9 out of 5, reflecting a generally positive experience, especially for its value and stunning scenery.

While the long transfer journey might be a consideration, the comfortable air-conditioned buses help make the trip more pleasant. This tour is ideal for adventure lovers of all ages, with medium-level rapids rated as level 3, offering a perfect mix of fun and safety. Children over 2 years old and pregnant women are not recommended to participate, but everyone else can look forward to an exciting day immersed in nature.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Affordable price at $26 per person for a full-day rafting adventure.
• Duration ranges from 5 to 8 hours, including transfers, breaks, and lunch.
• Rafting covers 14 km along the Koprucay River with medium-level rapids (level 3).
• The tour begins at the historic Roman bridge within Koprulu Canyon National Park.
• Includes professional guides, all necessary equipment, and a buffet lunch.
• Transfers are comfortable and air-conditioned, with pickup from hotels in Side and nearby.

Meeting Point and Transportation in Side

The tour kicks off with hotel pickups starting around 08:00 am in Side or surrounding areas, depending on the chosen option. After a 45-minute bus ride, travelers arrive at Koprulu Canyon, where the adventure truly begins. The shuttle vehicles then take a 15-minute scenic drive to the Roman bridge, the historic starting point of the rafting route. The comfortable air-conditioned buses help ease the long transfer, making the journey manageable even for those concerned about travel time.

Exploring Koprulu Canyon National Park and the Roman Bridge

The tour’s first stop is the Roman bridge, a significant historical site that adds a touch of ancient history to the outdoor adventure. The guide provides detailed instructions and safety equipment—helmets, life jackets, paddles—to prepare everyone for the ride. The natural beauty of Koprulu Canyon is a key highlight, with opportunities for photos, swimming, and relaxing amidst verdant surroundings.

Walking along the river, travelers witness the canyon’s impressive landscape, which offers a perfect backdrop for memorable photos. The cool river temperature of 12°C makes swimming during breaks both refreshing and invigorating. The narrow width of 12 meters and depth of 1-2 meters create ideal conditions for an exciting raft ride.

Rafting Experience on the Koprucay River

The rafting adventure unfolds over 14 km, divided into two 7 km sections. The first part covers 7 km of exciting rapids, with each boat guided by a dedicated instructor. The medium level (level 3) rapids offer a thrilling yet manageable experience, making it suitable for beginners and those with some rafting experience.

After a swimming and rest break, the group continues with the second part of the route, enjoying more adrenaline-fueled moments. The river’s width and depth create an exciting environment where paddling and teamwork shine. The professional guides ensure safety and help visitors get the most out of this fun-filled activity.

More Great Tours Nearby

Scenic Breaks, Swimming, and Photos

Throughout the tour, there are plenty of opportunities for resting and swimming in the cool river waters, making the day both active and relaxing. The natural surroundings of Koprulu Canyon provide a picturesque setting for photos that capture the rugged beauty of the canyon, the Roman bridge, and the river landscape.

The entertaining animations during breaks add a lively touch to the experience, keeping energy levels high and spirits bright. The refreshing swimming stops are especially appreciated during hot days, offering a cool reprieve from the sun.

Lunch Break and Refreshments

Midway through the day, participants enjoy a buffet lunch served in the park. The lunch menu features delicious chicken skewers, rice, pasta, and seasonal salads, providing the necessary fuel for the remaining adventure. The lunch break lasts about an hour, giving everyone time to relax and socialize.

Following lunch, the group watches a slideshow presentation of the photos taken during the day, allowing everyone to relive their favorite moments. It’s a nice touch that adds a personal keepsake to the day’s memories.

Additional Activities and Optional Purchases

Apart from rafting, there is an optional zipline available for purchase, with 10 ziplines to choose from. While not included in the base price, this add-on allows for extra thrills at an additional cost. Visitors should bring swimming suits, water shoes, towels, sun cream, and extra T-shirts for comfort during water activities.

It’s recommended to avoid bringing valuables or metal jewelry, which could pose safety issues or be lost during rafting or swimming. Participants are encouraged to bring some cash for drinks, photos, and videos beyond the included lunch.

Return and Drop-off Locations

After a 45-minute bus ride back, the tour concludes with drop-offs at up to five locations, including Gündodu, Çolakl, Köprülü Kanyon Milli Park, Side, and Kzlot. The expected arrival time at accommodations is around 7:00 pm, depending on hotel location and traffic conditions.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The highlight of this tour is the chance to conquer 14 km of rafting through the stunning Koprucay River, with expert guides ensuring safety. The historic Roman bridge and the natural beauty of Koprulu Canyon make it more than just a water sport; it’s an immersive nature experience. The value for the price, including lunch, equipment, and transportation, makes this a solid choice for adventure enthusiasts.

While the long transfer may be a downside for some, the comfortable buses and well-organized schedule help mitigate this. The adventure level is perfect for families with children over 2 (not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility or heart issues). The guides’ professionalism and the stunning scenery are often praised, making this a memorable outdoor activity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this rafting tour suitable for children?
Children over 2 years old can participate, but pregnant women, and individuals with mobility or heart problems, are advised not to join.

What should I bring for the tour?
Participants should bring swimming suits, water shoes or sandals, towels, sun cream, and an extra T-shirt. It’s best to avoid valuables and metal jewelry.

How long is the entire tour?
The total experience lasts 5 to 8 hours, including transfers, breaks, rafting, and lunch.

Are there additional costs beyond the $26 price?
Optional zipline rides are available for purchase; drinks, photos, and videos are also extra.

What safety equipment is provided?
All necessary helmets, life jackets, paddles are included, and guides give detailed instructions to ensure safety.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This Side Rafting Tour in Koprulu Canyon offers a well-organized, affordable, and scenic outdoor adventure perfect for those eager to enjoy Turkey’s natural landscapes while feeling the thrill of white water rafting.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby