From City of Side: Green Canyon Boat Tour & Nature Escape

If you’re looking for a day out that combines spectacular scenery, some gentle adventure, and plenty of relaxation, then the Green Canyon Boat Tour from Side might just be worth considering. This activity promises a blend of nature, engineering marvels, and leisurely enjoyment, all packed into about seven hours of exploration. It’s not a high-octane excursion, but for those who appreciate the calming beauty of Turkey’s landscapes paired with simple pleasures like swimming and dining lakeside, it can be quite appealing.

Two aspects we particularly like about this tour are how it showcases the breathtaking vistas of the Taurus Mountains and the opportunity for genuine downtime—whether sunbathing, swimming, or fishing—amid natural surroundings. The inclusion of a lakeside lunch with panoramic views adds a special touch, making the whole experience feel relaxed and unhurried.

However, a potential downside is that this tour is quite weather-dependent. On a cloudy or rainy day, some of the scenic highlights might lose their magic, and boat trips could be less enjoyable. Plus, the experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy gentle boat rides and scenic landscapes over high-energy activities. If that sounds like your kind of day, then this tour offers good value for the cost.

This experience suits nature lovers, those seeking a peaceful escape from busy city life, and travelers who want a snapshot of Turkey’s stunning natural beauty without overly strenuous activities.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: You’ll enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Taurus Mountains and the canyon’s winding pathways.
• Relaxing Pace: Leisurely sunbathing, swimming, and fishing are central to the experience, perfect for unwinding.
• Cultural & Engineering Sight: The Oymapnar Dam is an impressive feat and adds an educational element to the trip.
• Lakeside Lunch: A delicious meal with panoramic water views enhances the relaxing vibe.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Hotel pickup, boat trip, entry tickets, lunch, and soft drinks are included, simplifying your day.
• Weather-Dependent: The experience’s success hinges on good weather; cloudy days might diminish the scenery’s impact.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Green Canyon Tour

The Pickup and Journey to Nature

The tour begins with a hotel pickup in Side, which means you don’t have to worry about arranging transportation—an often underappreciated convenience. Depending on your hotel’s location, pickup times may shift slightly, so it’s best to be ready about 10 minutes early. Once on board, you’ll head toward the Green Canyon, a journey that already hints at the scenic marvels ahead.

Cruising along Green Lake Reservoir

Once aboard, the boat glides along the 17-kilometer-long Green Lake reservoir, a calm ribbon of water set against the backdrop of lush greenery and rocky cliffs. The waters are known for their crystal-clear quality, reflecting the vibrant greens of the surrounding trees and mountains—a view that many review comments describe as “enchanting” and “breathtaking.” As you cruise, you’ll enjoy the tranquility, punctuated by the occasional fish jumping or birds soaring overhead.

The Taurus Mountains and Canyon Pathways

The boat navigates through winding canyon routes that showcase the rugged beauty of the Taurus Mountains. These towering peaks provide a dramatic contrast to the still waters below, and their presence will likely be a highlight for any lover of natural landscapes. The winding pathways of the canyon aren’t just scenic; they reveal the impressive natural forces that shaped this part of Turkey over millennia.

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The Oymapnar Dam: A Marvel of Engineering

One of the tour’s distinctive features is passing by Turkey’s fourth-highest dam, the Oymapnar Dam. Not just a source of electricity, it’s also a popular photo stop and conversation piece. The dam’s presence adds an educational layer to the trip, illustrating how Turkey balances engineering, energy production, and tourism.

Lunch with Panoramic Views

Midway through the day, you’ll stop at a lakeside restaurant that offers delicious local fare with sweeping water and mountain views. Many reviews highlight the beauty of the setting—an idyllic backdrop to a tasty Turkish meal. It’s a chance to unwind, chat with fellow travelers, and soak in the scenery while enjoying your lunch.

Leisure Time: Sunbathing, Swimming, and Fishing

After lunch, the boat remains anchored in serene spots where you can sunbathe on deck, take a dip in the cool waters, or try your luck at fishing. These moments of leisure are what make the tour relaxing rather than rushed. Many reviewers mention how peaceful it is to float in the quiet waters, away from crowded tourist spots.

The Return and Drop-off

The journey concludes with the boat heading back to your starting point in Side, and the bus then delivers you back to your hotel. The full day is carefully structured to maximize scenic enjoyment and downtime.

What the Tour Includes and What to Consider

The package covers hotel pickup and drop-off, the boat trip, entry tickets, soft drinks, and lunch. This comprehensive approach offers good value, especially since you won’t need to worry about extra expenses during the day. Notably, alcohol isn’t included, so if you want to indulge, you’ll need to bring your own or purchase it separately.

The tour duration is about 7 hours, and the start times depend on your hotel’s location—so flexibility might be necessary. Be prepared for a relaxed pace rather than an adrenaline rush; this is about savoring the views and unwinding.

The Balance of Value and Experience

For the price, you receive a well-rounded experience—scenic boat cruise, educational sights, and a lakeside meal—making it an attractive option for those wanting a gentle, scenic escape. When you consider how much effort it would take to arrange all this independently, the tour’s convenience and inclusions make it a practical choice.

Authenticity and Authentic Experience

While the tour is guided in multiple languages (English, German, Russian, Turkish), many travelers appreciated the natural, uncommercialized setting. The scenery feels untouched, and the leisurely pace allows you to truly take in your surroundings.

Real Feedback from Travelers

Reviewers often mention the stunning views as the highlight, with comments like, “The vistas of the Taurus Mountains are jaw-dropping” and “The lake’s reflection of the green surroundings is simply beautiful.” Several appreciate the relaxed atmosphere, noting it’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone seeking peace and nature. Others, however, remind future travelers that weather can impact the experience—so a sunny day makes all the difference.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful day away from the hustle of touristy spots. If you love scenic boat rides, tranquil waters, and stunning mountain views, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also well-suited for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace and appreciate good-value packages that include meals and transportation.

On the flip side, if you’re after high-energy adventures or a more culturally immersive experience, this might feel somewhat limited. Also, if poor weather hits, the experience could be less memorable, so checking the forecast is wise.

The Sum Up

The Green Canyon Boat Tour from Side offers a straightforward but visually impressive escape into Turkey’s natural beauty. It combines relaxation, scenic landscapes, and light educational elements—perfect for those who want to unwind and enjoy the outdoors without complexity or strenuous activity. The inclusive nature of the tour, with transport, lunch, and soft drinks, makes it convenient and good value.

Travelers looking for a peaceful, visually stunning day will find this tour rewarding. It’s especially suited for families, couples, or solo travelers who want a gentle, scenic experience that highlights Turkey’s majestic mountains and tranquil waters.

If your goal is to see some of Turkey’s natural wonders while enjoying a relaxed atmosphere, this tour fits the bill nicely. Just remember to check the weather forecast, bring your camera, and prepare for a day of peaceful, beautiful scenery.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including pickup, transportation, the boat trip, and lunch.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, boat trip on Green Lake and Oymapnar Dam, entry tickets, soft drinks, and a lakeside lunch.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned, the relaxed pace and scenic environment generally make it suitable for families and children who enjoy nature.

Can I buy alcohol during the trip?
Alcoholic drinks are not included, so you might find available options for purchase separately, but the tour package only includes soft drinks.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for a boat ride and outdoor sightseeing is best. Don’t forget sun protection—hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended.

Is the weather a concern?
Yes, the experience depends heavily on good weather. Cloudy or rainy days could affect the scenery and comfort during the boat trip.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s advisable to reserve ahead of time, especially during peak seasons, and flexible booking options allow for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

This Green Canyon tour from Side offers a soothing blend of nature, engineering marvels, and simple pleasures—a fine way to enjoy Turkey’s scenic side.

You can check availability for your dates here: