Introduction
If you’re eyeing a relaxing day on Turkey’s Turkish Riviera, the Green Canyon boat trip offers a peaceful escape into nature’s calmer waters. This five-hour cruise provides a chance to take in stunning scenery while enjoying the simple pleasures of swimming and fishing, with lunch included to keep you energized. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer an easy, organized outing that combines natural beauty with a touch of adventure.
What makes this tour particularly appealing are the knowledgeable guides who help you appreciate the area’s highlights and the spectacular views of the emerald waters and lush surroundings. The convenience of hotel pickup and air-conditioned transport means you won’t have to worry about logistics. However, potential travelers should note that the overall trip length can stretch beyond the advertised 5 hours, depending on conditions, or that facilities like toilets may be less than perfect at times.
This experience suits those who want a taste of the Turkish Riviera’s natural charm without the hassle of planning individual excursions. It’s best for travelers who enjoy a leisurely day on the water, with opportunities to swim, fish, and indulge in a hearty lunch without breaking the bank.
Key Points
- Convenient pickup and transportation make for a stress-free start and end to the day.
- Spectacular views of Green Canyon from the boat create memorable photo opportunities.
- The tour offers swimming and fishing, perfect for active and curious travelers.
- Lunch options include meat, chicken, or fish, served with rice and salad.
- The tour is cost-effective, especially considering the included meals and activities.
- Some reviews highlight longer-than-expected durations and basic facilities, which are worth considering.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Turkish Riviera.
The Itinerary in Detail
Starting Point and Transport
The journey begins with hotel pickup from Side or nearby areas, ensuring a hassle-free start. The bus ride takes you to the Oymapnar Dam, which itself is worth a quick stop for photos before heading to Green Canyon. This prelude sets a scenic tone, as you get a glimpse of the dam’s impressive structure and the lush surroundings.
Green Canyon: The Main Attraction
Upon arriving at Green Canyon, it’s hard not to be captivated by the crystal-clear turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs. The boat trip here lasts around 5 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and activities. The boat itself is comfortable and well-suited for sightseeing, with plenty of space to relax and take photos.
The highlight is, of course, cruising along the canyon’s twisting waterway, which offers stunning views of the eroded cliffs and lush vegetation. Many travelers mention the knowledgeable guides who share insights about the area, enhancing the experience with local stories and facts.
Swimming and Fishing
The boat anchors at spots where you can swim in the lake’s calm, turquoise waters—a refreshing break from the sun and a prime chance for photography. Expect to be in the water for a good while, as the water temperature is inviting and the scenery picturesque.
Fishing is another activity included in the trip, which adds a leisurely, almost timeless quality to the day. Many reviews note that fishing here is relaxing and enjoyable, with some even taking home their catch as a souvenir.
Lunch and Rest at Green Lake
After the boat trip, you’ll stop at a nearby spot called Green Lake, where a delicious lunch awaits. The meal options—meatballs, chicken, or fish—come with rice and salad, and you can drink tea, coffee, mineral water, or soft drinks. This makes for a good, filling meal, especially after all the activity.
Return Journey
Post-lunch, travelers can try more fishing if they wish. The return to the departure point takes about two hours, passing through scenic areas that many travelers find just as enjoyable as the main cruise. A few reviews mention the trip extending longer than planned, but most agree that the scenery and activities make up for the extra time.
What Travelers Love About the Tour
Many reviews praise the stunning views of Green Canyon, describing the scenery as “beautiful” and “enchanting.” The boat guides are often called knowledgeable and friendly, adding value to the experience by sharing local insights and making the journey more engaging.
The opportunity to swim in the clear waters and fish in the peaceful lake resonates with outdoor-loving travelers. Several mention that the lunch was tasty and served in a relaxed atmosphere, making the trip feel well-rounded and satisfying.
Points to Consider
Some travelers express frustration over the longer-than-expected duration—reaching almost 9 hours rather than 5. This can be tiring, especially if you’re on a tight schedule. Plus, the facilities at some stops, like toilets, might be less than ideal, so packing some tissues or hand sanitizer could be wise.
On top of that, while soft drinks are included on the boat, additional drinks or ice-cream at the restaurant are not included, which might be an extra cost to consider if you want more refreshments.
How the Experience Offers Value
At $30 per person, this tour offers a considerable value given the length of the cruise, the included lunch, and activities like swimming and fishing. The all-in-one package takes care of transportation, guided commentary, and leisure activities, removing the hassle of planning a day independently.
That said, the value depends on your expectations—if you’re looking for a shorter, more tightly scheduled trip, the actual duration might surprise you. But for those wanting a relaxed, scenic day with plenty of natural beauty and a bit of outdoor fun, this tour hits the right notes.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This excursion is perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a laid-back pace and outdoor activities. It’s especially suited for those interested in photography, as the scenery lends itself to stunning shots, and for anyone wanting to escape the busy beaches for a day into cooler, greener waters.
If your priority is seeing the Green Canyon with knowledgeable guides and enjoying the natural environment at a relaxed pace, this trip will satisfy. However, travelers seeking a very quick trip or with very limited time should note the possible length and plan accordingly.
The Sum Up
In essence, the Green Canyon boat trip provides a gentle yet rewarding experience of Turkey’s natural landscapes. It combines scenic cruising, swimming in pristine waters, and a tasty, included lunch for a reasonable price. The tour’s highlights—stunning vistas and friendly guides—make it a memorable outing.
While the overall length can be longer than initially advertised, most travelers find the scenic beauty and relaxed atmosphere justify the extra time. It’s an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy nature without a strenuous schedule or hefty price tag.
This tour offers excellent value for travelers who prioritize authentic scenery, outdoor fun, and ease of access. It’s especially suited to those wanting a leisurely day immersed in the tranquility of Turkey’s lakes and canyons, with plenty of opportunities to swim, fish, and simply soak in the views.
FAQ
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a 5-hour boat trip at Green Canyon, lunch with options of meat, chicken, or fish, a tour guide, swimming in the lake, fishing, and non-alcoholic soft drinks on the boat. Transportation from your hotel is also included if you select that option.
How long does the trip last?
The advertised duration is around 8 to 9 hours, although the boat cruise itself is about 5 hours. Some reviews mention the trip extending beyond 9 hours, depending on conditions and stops.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and some cash if you want to buy additional drinks or ice-cream at the restaurant. It’s also good to have tissues or hand sanitizer, as facilities at some stops may be basic.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, travelers with children have participated, notably those traveling with small kids, as the pace is relaxed and activities are gentle.
How is the transportation arranged?
Most travelers are picked up from their hotels in Side or nearby areas, with air-conditioned buses making for a comfortable journey to the starting point.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for changing travel plans.
If you’re after a serene day amid Turkey’s scenic lakes and canyons, this boat trip to Green Canyon could be just the thing. It balances scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and easy organization—perfect for travelers wanting a straightforward, memorable outing in the Turkish Riviera.