City of Side: Taz Canyon & Rafting with Optional Quad+Buggy

If you’re visiting the Antalya region and crave a day that balances stunning natural beauty with a dash of adventure, the Taz Canyon & Rafting Tour offers a compelling option. This tour seamlessly combines guided hiking, white-water rafting, and optional adrenaline activities like ziplining or ATV rides—all within a manageable six-hour window. We’ve looked into the details to help you decide if this is a must-do during your stay.

What we appreciate most about this experience is its value for money—at just $40 per person, it packs in a lot of memorable moments. The second highlight? The professional guides who ensure safety while sharing their love of the landscape. The main consideration? Some activities, like ziplining or buggy rides, are extra charges that you’ll need to plan for if you want that extra thrill. This tour suits those who want an active day in nature, with a good mix of scenic views and adventure, perfect for families, groups, or solo travelers wanting a taste of Turkey’s wild side.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary: Combines hiking, rafting, and optional activities.
• Great value: At $40, including transfers, lunch, and guided experiences.
• Professional guides: Knowledgeable, safety-conscious, with helpful instructions.
• Stunning scenery: Breathtaking canyon views and mountain vistas.
• Flexible options: Optional extras like ziplining, ATV, and buggy rides.
• Convenient logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off included, with scenic drives.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Taz Canyon & Rafting Tour

Imagine a day that starts with cozy hotel pickups, whisking you away from Side into the heart of Turkey’s rugged natural beauty. We haven’t done this tour personally, but from what we’ve learned, it’s an experience tailored for adventure-seekers and nature lovers. It’s particularly appealing because it’s a well-organized, value-packed trip that offers both serenity—via scenic hikes—and adrenaline, through rafting and optional thrill activities.

What makes this tour stand out is its combination of activities. You get to explore the scenic trails of Taz Canyon on a guided hike, which is ideal for those wanting to see Turkey’s natural landscape up close without strenuous effort. The rafting adventure is the highlight, promising about three hours of exhilarating water fun, along with opportunities to cool off during swim breaks. Plus, the ease of hassle-free transfers from Side means you can focus on the experience rather than logistics, making this a stress-free option.

One thing to keep in mind is that activities like ziplining or buggy rides are extra costs—a common feature in adventure tours, but one to budget for if you’re craving that additional rush. The tour is best suited for travelers who want an active day, enjoy beautiful scenery, and don’t mind a bit of physical activity.

What to Expect: A Breakdown of the Day

Morning Pickup and Scenic Drive

Your day kicks off with a comfortable hotel pickup around 09:30 AM. The drive from Side to Köprülü Canyon National Park is scenic, offering glimpses of Turkey’s diverse countryside. Short panoramic stops give you chances to snap photos of mountain ranges and lush landscapes—perfect for nature enthusiasts or anyone wanting a preview of the natural splendor ahead.

Taz Canyon Exploration

Once at the riverside base, a professional guide provides a safety briefing, setting the tone for an exciting and secure adventure. The journey then continues with open-top off-road vehicles climbing into the mountains, leading to the iconic Taz Canyon. These photo stops along the way are particularly memorable—think rugged cliffs, lush greenery, and geological formations that look like they belong on a postcard.

During the guided hike in the canyon, you’ll appreciate the informative commentary from guides who know the area well. Some reviews mention that guides might not accompany guests inside the canyon itself, but they’ll give clear instructions to ensure safety. The experience is perfect for those who enjoy authentic landscapes and geological marvels—without the hassle of navigating alone.

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Lunch and Relaxation

Back at the riverside base, you’ll enjoy a traditional Turkish meal or a picnic if you prefer. The food is generally well-regarded, offering a taste of local flavors amidst a relaxing setting, which is a nice break before the adrenaline kicks in.

Rafting Adventure

The second part of the day is the white-water rafting—about three hours of bouncing and splashing through the river. Guides provide all necessary equipment and thorough instructions, making it accessible even if you’re a first-timer. Several swimming breaks are included for cooling down and soaking up the stunning scenery from the water—something many reviewers find highlights the fun.

The rafting is suitable for most fitness levels, and the guides emphasize safety, which is reassuring, especially for families or beginners. Up for an extra challenge? You can opt for additional activities like ziplining, ATV, or buggy rides, but those are extra costs and should be arranged in advance or at the site.

Return Journey and Reflection

After a busy day, you’ll have time to shower and change before the bus picks you up for the return ride to Side, typically between 5:00 and 6:00 PM. The drive back offers more scenic views, giving you time to reflect on the day’s adventures.

The Real Experiences of Past Travelers

One reviewer shared their positive impression, emphasizing the timeliness of pickup and how smoothly everything was arranged. They appreciated the friendly guides and the opportunity to see “beautiful places in a safari car,” including a zipline for an additional fee. Their advice to bring cash for souvenirs and extras is valuable, as local vendors are friendly and eager to sell handmade items.

Another guest highlighted the stunning mountain views, with a high point reaching around 1000 meters. The included zipline was a memorable feature, especially with a 400-meter-long ride—though it costs extra, many find it worth it for the thrill and views.

Both reviews highlight the value—the price point combines transportation, guided activities, and lunch, making it a cost-effective way to enjoy a full day of adventure near Side.

Transportation and Practicalities

The tour includes round-trip transfers from your Side hotel, easing the logistics. Pickup times are flexible, but generally start around 09:30 AM, with return around 5:30-6:00 PM. The group size varies but tends to be manageable, ensuring you get attention from guides and a friendly atmosphere.

Expect comfortable vehicles, and note that the order of activities might change depending on weather and operational needs. If you’re staying in the Side Ancient City area, you’ll need to meet at a designated point rather than your hotel door—be sure to confirm this when booking.

What to Bring

• Comfortable shoes suitable for hiking and water activities
• Hat and sunscreen for sun protection
• Camera for capturing canyon vistas
• Swimsuit and towel for rafting
• Extra dry clothes and non-slip footwear (available to rent or buy)

What’s Not Included

• Drinks (alcoholic or otherwise)
• Personal expenses like souvenirs or photos
• Additional activities like ziplining or buggy rides, which are optional and extra charges

Restrictions

This tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. Also, smoking and alcohol are not permitted on the bus or at the activity sites.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Turkey’s natural beauty and adventure at an accessible price point. The combination of guided hikes, exciting rafting, and optional extras allows for a customizable experience. The safety record, professional guides, and scenic stops make it a reliable choice for travelers seeking a fun, active day without the hassle of planning every detail.

It’s especially good for families or groups where some may prefer the relaxing hike and spectacular views, while others seek the thrill of rafting or ziplining. The inclusion of lunch and transfers adds to the overall value, making it an efficient way to spend a full day outside of Side.

The Sum Up

For travelers craving a blend of natural beauty and adrenaline, the Taz Canyon & Rafting Tour from Side checks many boxes. Its affordable price, professional guides, and scenic highlights make it a compelling option for adventurous spirits and nature lovers alike. Whether you’re exploring the geological wonders of Taz Canyon or splashing through the white waters, this experience promises a memorable day.

While optional extras like ziplining will cost more, the core package already offers excellent value, with plenty of opportunities to get your heart pounding—without breaking the bank. It’s especially perfect for those who want an authentic taste of Turkey’s rugged landscape in a manageable, well-organized package.

If you’re in Side and looking to combine activity with scenery, this tour could be your highlight.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transfers from your hotel in Side, which makes logistics much easier.

What time does the tour start?
Pickup generally begins around 09:30 AM, with the exact time sent to you a day before. Return to Side is usually between 5:00 and 6:00 PM.

What should I bring for the activities?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, your camera, and if you plan to swim, a swimsuit and towel. Extra dry clothes and non-slip footwear are recommended for after the rafting.

Are there any age or mobility restrictions?
Yes, this tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. It’s best suited for those able to handle some walking, water activities, and optional adrenaline pursuits.

How long is the rafting segment?
The rafting lasts approximately three hours, with several swimming and break points along the way.

Can I do the optional zipline or buggy ride?
Yes, but these are extra costs, and you should request them in advance or on-site. They add an extra dose of excitement to the day.

What is the lunch like?
A traditional Turkish meal is included, typically served at a local restaurant or picnic, offering a good taste of regional cuisine.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, especially for families with children who enjoy outdoor activities. However, be mindful of age and mobility restrictions, and confirm with the operator if unsure.

In short, this tour offers a fantastic day out for those eager to experience Turkey’s natural landscapes and adrenaline activities without fuss. It’s a practical, enjoyable choice for anyone wanting a memorable adventure that balances scenery, culture, and fun.

You can check availability for your dates here: