Alanya: Green Canyon Boat Tour & Nature Escape

Thinking about taking a boat trip to Green Canyon? You’re not alone. This tour offers a relaxing escape into Turkey’s lush landscapes, combined with the thrill of boat riding and the chance to enjoy local cuisine. We’ve looked into what makes this experience worthwhile — and what might give you pause — to help you decide if it’s right for your Turkish adventure.

What we love about this tour is how it balances stunning scenery with comfortable logistics. First, the views from the scenic lookout of Oymapnar Dam and the lake are genuinely breathtaking — perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in nature’s calm. Second, the laid-back boat trip on the lake gives you a chance to unwind, listen to the water, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. However, a potential consideration is the duration — nine hours can be a long day, especially if you prefer a more compact sightseeing experience. Still, this tour is ideal for travelers who love nature, scenic drives, and a gentle pace.

If you’re after an authentic, nature-focused day outside the busy city streets, this tour suits travelers of all ages who enjoy relaxing on the water, scenic viewpoints, and a hearty lakeside lunch. It’s also a good choice for those who want a mix of light activity and plenty of downtime to take in the landscape.

Key Points

• Stunning views from the viewpoint of Oymapnar Dam and the surrounding landscape.
• Relaxing boat trip on the calm waters of Green Lake, perfect for unwinding.
• Lakeside lunch with scenic views, offering a taste of local cuisine.
• Lakeside activities like fishing and canoeing are available for those interested.
• The guide’s knowledge about the dam and nature adds educational value.
• The tour is flexible with pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in Alanya.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

This tour kicks off with a hotel pickup in Alanya, which is a real plus for convenience. The comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle takes approximately 1.5 hours to reach Oymapnar Dam, giving you a chance to enjoy the scenery along the way. The drive itself is part of the experience — Turkish countryside rolling by, with lush plantations and forested hills giving you a taste of the region’s natural beauty.

Once you arrive at the dam, you’ll get a chance to see the engineering marvel of Oymapnar Dam, Turkey’s fifth largest. The guide will share insights about how the dam functions and its significance, adding an educational element to the trip. Standing at the scenic viewpoint, you’ll understand why this spot is a favorite for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Next, the boat trip begins on the tranquil waters of Green Lake. We loved the way the boat moves slowly, allowing you to admire the lush greenery that surrounds the lake. The calmness of the water and serenity of the environment create a perfect setting for relaxation or light conversation. Passengers have noted the fantastic views of plantations and forests that stretch along the water’s edge — it’s the kind of scenery that forces you to put down the camera just to take it all in.

After the boat ride, you’ll stop at a scenic lakeside restaurant. The meal is typically described as a delicious local lunch, served with spectacular views of the lake, making it more than just a meal — it’s part of the experience. The menu might include traditional Turkish dishes, and soft drinks are included, though alcohol isn’t — so if you’re craving a beer or wine, you’ll need to buy it separately.

Following lunch, there’s time for lakeside activities like fishing or canoeing, depending on your interest. Otherwise, you can simply relax on the shores, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. This part of the tour is ideal for unwinding after a busy travel schedule and enjoying the quiet beauty of nature.

The return journey takes you back to Alanya, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel. The entire experience lasts around 9 hours, so it’s a full day out but packed with diverse highlights.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides who make the trip both informative and engaging. “The guide’s insights about the dam and the area made the experience much more meaningful,” one traveler noted. Others highlight the stunning views as the main draw: “You can’t beat the scenery — it’s truly breathtaking,” said another.

Some reviews mention the relaxing pace and the gentle boat ride as the perfect way to escape the hustle of the city. The lakeside lunch also receives favorable comments: “The food was simple but delicious, with a view that made it even better,” according to a recent visitor.

A few travelers pointed out the longer duration, which could be tiring if you prefer quick excursions, but most felt the balance of activities and downtime was well-managed. The inclusion of soft drinks and entry fees adds to the perceived value, making this a fairly comprehensive package.

Practical Details: Transportation, Pricing, and Timing

The pick-up service is included, with travelers asked to wait at the hotel’s main entrance or security point about 5 minutes before departure. Transportation is air-conditioned and comfortable, essential for the roughly 1.5-hour drive to the dam area.

Pricing appears to be reasonable considering the full-day itinerary, boat trip, lunch, and entry fees. It offers a good balance of value, especially for those looking for a relaxed day immersed in nature without the hassle of organizing multiple activities separately.

The tour duration is approximately 9 hours, but check availability for the specific starting times, as they can vary. Be prepared for a full day — bring essentials like a sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape from city life. It’s perfect if you appreciate scenic views, gentle boat rides, and lakeside dining. Families, couples, and solo travelers who enjoy relaxing days in natural settings will find this tour a good fit.

It also works well for travelers who want to learn a bit about regional engineering and enjoy some lakeside activities. However, if you’re looking for intense adventures or a very quick trip, this might not be your best choice.

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The Sum Up

This Green Canyon boat tour from Alanya offers a peaceful, scenic day immersed in nature. It’s well-rounded with beautiful viewpoints, a relaxing boat ride, and a tasty lakeside meal that elevates the whole experience. The knowledgeable guides and calm environment make it a solid choice for those wanting to unwind and enjoy Turkey’s natural beauty.

While the full-day format might be a bit lengthy for some, it’s ideal for travelers craving a gentle, nature-focused excursion. The inclusion of soft drinks, entry fees, and convenient hotel pickup adds to its value, making it a practical and memorable outing.

In summary, this tour is best for travelers seeking a scenic, relaxing experience with some light activities and plenty of opportunities to take in Turkey’s lush landscapes. It’s a chance to slow down, breathe deeply, and enjoy the natural wonders just outside Alanya.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Alanya to Oymapnar Dam?
It’s approximately 1.5 hours in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, giving you a nice chance to enjoy the scenery on the way.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, the boat trip on Green Lake, lunch at a lakeside restaurant, soft drinks, and entry fees for the dam area.

Are there activities I can do at the lake?
Yes, you can enjoy lakeside activities like fishing and canoeing, or simply relax and soak in the peaceful surroundings.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed pace and scenic nature suggest it could be enjoyable for families. Check with the provider if you have specific needs.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen to stay comfortable during the day.

Are alcoholic drinks included?
No, alcoholic drinks are not included, so if you want some, you’ll need to purchase them separately.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your schedule.

This Green Canyon experience delivers a well-balanced, authentic taste of Turkey’s natural beauty, making it an excellent choice for a tranquil day out. Whether you’re after stunning vistas, gentle water adventures, or simply some time in the fresh air, it’s worth considering during your stay in Alanya.

You can check availability for your dates here: