City of Side: Rafting, Jeep, Quad, Zipline + Tazi Canyon

If you’re looking for an adventure-packed day in Turkey’s Antalya Province, the City of Side tour offers a mix of adrenaline, nature, and family-friendly fun. It’s a full-day experience that promises excitement without requiring prior experience, making it ideal for families or groups seeking a taste of outdoor thrill amidst stunning scenery. We particularly appreciate the combination of scenic views and easy-to-follow guides, which make this tour accessible and enjoyable for almost everyone.

One of the standout features is the full day of activities, from rafting in Köprülü Canyon to optional zipline rides and safaris. The included lunch by the riverside adds a relaxing break, giving you time to soak in the natural beauty. On the flip side, some might find the packed schedule a bit intense if they prefer a more leisurely pace. Still, this tour suits those eager to make the most of their time and experience multiple adventures in one day.

If you’re after an active, family-friendly outing that balances thrill with comfort, this tour will likely hit the mark. It’s especially good for travelers who want the safety and expertise of certified guides while exploring some of Turkey’s most scenic spots.

Key Points

• Full-day adventure combining rafting, optional ziplining, jeep, and quad safaris.
• Suitable for ages 4 and up, making it a great family outing.
• No experience or swimming skills needed, thanks to professional guides and safety equipment.
• Includes a riverside open buffet lunch, with vegetarian options available.
• Flexible combo options available to customize your day.
• Hassle-free logistics with hotel pickup and drop-off.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Köprülü Canyon

Our journey begins with convenient hotel pickup in Side, which means no fuss about transportation. Once we arrive at Köprülü Canyon, a well-known national park in the Taurus Mountains, the beauty of this spot becomes clear. Towering cliffs, lush forests, and the crystal-clear Köprüçay River set the stage for a memorable day.

The guides are approachable and fluent in several languages, including English, German, Russian, and Turkish, which helps in making everyone feel comfortable. Their safety briefing is thorough but friendly, and they provide all necessary equipment—helmet, life jacket, paddles—so you can focus on the fun.

The Rafting Experience

The core of this tour is the 14 km rafting route on the Köprüçay River. The route is designed to be safe but still exciting, thanks to a mix of calm stretches and exhilarating rapids. The guides do a great job of balancing safety with fun, encouraging even nervous first-timers to give it a try.

We loved the way the river winds through narrow gorges and surrounding forests—it feels immersive without feeling overwhelming. The stops are well-timed for swimming, photo ops, or just relaxing in nature. The entire rafting session lasts roughly 2.5 to 3 hours, giving ample time to enjoy the water and the scenery.

Multiple travelers mention how the guides’ expertise made the experience smooth and enjoyable: “The guides are knowledgeable and made everyone feel confident, even the first-timers.” The safety measures are clear, and the boats are secure, which adds peace of mind, especially for families with young children.

Family-Friendly Adventure

One of the highlights is that no swimming skills are required, and the activity is suitable for ages 4 and up. This makes it a fantastic choice for families wanting to introduce kids to outdoor adventure in a safe environment.

While some reviews note that the rafting can be physically engaging, most agree that the calm stretches allow for plenty of breaks and photo opportunities. The guides are attentive and keep the group moving smoothly, so even young children or less experienced paddlers stay engaged.

Lunch by the Riverside

After the adrenaline rush, everyone looks forward to the included open buffet lunch. The setting is peaceful, shaded by pine trees, with the sound of the river nearby. The menu features local dishes, and vegetarian options are available, which is a thoughtful touch for health-conscious travelers or vegetarians.

Guests often remark on the quality and freshness of the food, making it a relaxing way to recharge. The restaurant’s location provides a perfect spot to reflect on the morning’s adventures while enjoying the natural surroundings.

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Optional Combo Activities

For those craving a little extra thrill, the tour offers optional combo activities such as:

• Zipline: Fly over the canyon for a bird’s-eye view—an exhilarating way to see the landscape.
• Jeep Safari: Explore rugged mountain trails in a 4×4 vehicle, perfect for more adventurous souls.
• Quad Safari: Drive through forest trails in a quad bike, adding a muddy, fun element.
• Tazi Canyon Visit: Discover the Wisdom Valley, with towering cliffs and panoramic views, a quieter but equally impressive spot.

These add-ons are available during booking or on-site, weather permitting, and are a good way to customize your day. Keep in mind that they are optional and might slightly increase the overall cost, but many find them worth the extra expense for the variety they add.

Detailed Itinerary

• Pickup from Side hotels often occurs in the morning, setting the tone for an active day.
• You’ll be transported to Köprülü Canyon in a comfortable vehicle, with scenic views en route.
• Upon arrival, a safety briefing and equipment distribution prepare you for rafting.
• The rafting adventure lasts approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, with stops for photos and swimming.
• Afterward, enjoy a delicious riverside buffet lunch.
• Optional activities like ziplining or safaris can be added to extend your adventure.
• The day concludes with a return transfer to Side.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour provides a comprehensive package: round-trip transportation, certified guides, all necessary equipment, and a buffet lunch. It’s a hassle-free way to enjoy the outdoors without worrying about logistics.

Drinks are available for purchase at the restaurant, and professional photo services are optional extras if you want keepsake images of your adventure. If you choose to add activities like ziplining or the jeep safari, those are paid separately.

Why Travelers Rate This Tour Highly

The 4.7-star rating reflects many travelers’ appreciation for the knowledgeable guides and stunning views. Multiple reviews praise the guides for their safety-conscious approach and friendly manner. The scenery—towering cliffs and clear waters—creates a spectacular backdrop for adventure.

The family-friendly nature is another highlight; many mention that their kids loved the trip, especially the safe and fun rafting experience. The convenience of hotel pickup and the all-inclusive setup makes it particularly appealing for travelers who want to relax and focus on enjoying the day.

Final Thoughts

This tour strikes a good balance between adventure and comfort, making it suitable for most travelers looking to explore Turkey’s scenic outdoors. With a variety of activities, professional guides, and an emphasis on safety, it offers great value for those wanting to try something different.

If your goal is to experience Turkey’s natural beauty while enjoying some adrenaline, this trip delivers. It’s especially ideal for families, groups, or solo travelers eager for a full-day of fun that includes both relaxation and excitement.

For those who appreciate well-organized experiences with flexible options, this tour will likely leave you with lasting memories—and maybe a few good stories to tell.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transfers from your Side hotel are provided, making logistics simple and convenient.

Is prior rafting experience needed?
No, no experience or swimming skills are required. Guides are certified, and safety equipment is provided.

What is the minimum age?
The tour is suitable for ages 4 and up, making it accessible for most families.

How long does the rafting last?
The rafting segment lasts approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, including stops for photos and swimming.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch?
Yes, the open buffet lunch includes vegetarian options upon request.

Can I add ziplining or safari activities?
Yes, these are optional and can be added during booking or on-site, weather permitting.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
While the tour is family-friendly, the activities involve some physical effort, so those with mobility concerns should check with the provider.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, a change of clothes, sunscreen, and a towel. Photos can be purchased afterward if desired.

What’s the quality of guides?
Guests consistently praise the guides for their friendliness, knowledge, and safety awareness.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if plans change.

This adventure offers a fantastic way to explore Turkey’s rugged landscapes, enjoy water-based fun, and add a dash of adrenaline to your trip. Whether you’re traveling as a family or seeking a memorable outdoor experience, it’s a day well spent in the Antalya region.

You can check availability for your dates here: