Green Canyon Boat Trip from Side

Imagine cruising along a 14 km stretch of crystal-clear waters, surrounded by towering green cliffs and lush landscapes—sounds like a postcard, right? That’s exactly what the Green Canyon boat trip from Side offers. This full-day adventure promises a blend of spectacular scenery, relaxing swimming stops, and a taste of local hospitality, all tailored for travelers seeking authentic experiences close to nature.

What makes this tour stand out? We’re impressed by its professional guides who enhance the journey with local insights and its unmatched natural beauty, which sticks with you long after the day ends. On the downside, the entire trip spans about 8 hours, so it’s best suited for those prepared for a full day out and about. Still, if you’re looking for a serene escape from the crowds with plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to swim in emerald waters, this tour fits the bill.

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a relaxing yet engaging outing that includes cultural highlights like the Oymapinar Dam. It also offers good value by combining transportation, a guide, lunch, and activities into one package. Let’s walk through what you’ll experience, and why it might be the highlight of your stay in Side.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery along a 14 km boat cruise through Green Canyon
• All-inclusive with lunch, soft drinks, and equipment for lake activities
• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off for a hassle-free day
• Swim in emerald waters and enjoy free time at the lake
• Knowledgeable guides enhance your understanding of the area’s natural features
• Balanced pace perfect for relaxed sightseeing and photos

What to Expect From the Green Canyon Boat Trip

The Starting Point: Easy Pickup and Comfortable Transport

Your day begins early at 8:30 am with a hotel pickup in Side. The modern, comfortable vehicles make the journey to the Green Canyon smooth and stress-free. This is particularly helpful if you’re staying outside the main tourist areas, as it saves you the hassle of organizing transport. The entire trip is geared towards making sure you arrive relaxed, ready to enjoy the day.

First Stop: Oymapinar Dam and Lake

The first glimpse of the area is at the Oymapinar Dam, a significant hydroelectric structure that forms the lake where your adventure begins. Here, you get a brief break—just enough to take some photos and stretch your legs. This stop is free of charge, giving you a chance to appreciate the engineering feat and the tranquil waters before heading into the canyon.

Cruising Through Green Canyon: Spectacular Views and Relaxation

The main event is the boat cruise through the 14 km stretch of Green Canyon. We loved the way the boat smoothly glides past towering green cliffs, creating a sense of serenity and awe. The boat itself is comfortable, with plenty of space for photos and lounging, making it perfect whether you want to sit back or snap some shots of the dramatic landscape.

During the cruise, you’ll get ample time for photos, and the guides are known for their friendly, informative commentary, helping you understand the area’s geology and history. The scenery is absolutely breathtaking, and the crystalline waters invite you to imagine how beautiful it must be to swim here.

Swimming Break and Lake Activities

After the two-hour cruise, it’s time for a swim in the lake’s turquoise waters—a highlight of the trip. The water’s clarity makes it a perfect place for a refreshing dip, and the calm surroundings allow for moments of peaceful reflection.

If you’re feeling more energetic, the restaurant near the lake provides equipment for fishing and canoeing. According to reviews, many guests find this downtime to be the most memorable part of the day—floating in nature’s pool surrounded by lush greenery was described as “unforgettable” by happy travelers.

Lunch and Free Time

A well-prepared, tasty lunch awaits after your swim. The meal is described as “varied and plentiful,” with some reviews praising the good quality and generous portions. Afterward, you can relax by swimming again or exploring the area at your leisure.

Return to Side

The boat returns to the pier after about two hours, where comfortable vehicles are waiting to transport you back to your hotel. The entire experience takes roughly eight hours, making it a full but manageable day of sightseeing and relaxation.

Authenticity and Value

This tour offers a genuine taste of Turkey’s natural beauty. It’s well-rated, with a perfect 5-star average from 30 reviews, and a 100% recommendation rate. Guests have praised the knowledgeable guides and the stunning vistas, which are the true highlights.

At $55 per person, the trip provides great value considering the inclusions—hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, soft drinks, and a full day of scenic enjoyment. The fact that it’s booked on average 11 days in advance suggests strong demand, so planning ahead is wise.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

The tour’s itinerary is structured to maximize your time in the water and the scenery. The stops are well-paced: brief at the dam, a longer cruise, and plenty of leisure time at the lake. The group size is capped at 100 travelers, which means it’s lively but not overcrowded.

The tour includes transportation in modern vehicles, making the journey comfortable and efficient. You’ll be accompanied by an English-speaking guide who enhances your understanding of the area, making the experience both informative and enjoyable.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviewers have consistently praised the spectacular views and the friendly, competent staff. One said, “Staff were friendly, competent and well coordinated,” emphasizing the smooth operation of the trip. Several noted that the lunch was tasty and plentiful, making the day even more enjoyable.

The swimming break is often highlighted as an unforgettable highlight, with travelers describing it as “beautiful” and “lovely to swim there.” This indicates that the natural setting truly lives up to expectations.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy scenic boat rides, photography, and swimming in pristine waters, this trip is perfect. It’s equally suited for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxing day immersed in nature. The inclusion of hotel pickup makes it convenient for those staying in Side, while the moderate pace ensures you won’t feel rushed.

This tour might not be ideal if you prefer active adventure or want multiple stops with cultural sightseeing beyond the dam and natural landscape. But for those seeking a peaceful, scenic escape, the Green Canyon boat trip offers a memorable day.

The Sum Up

This Green Canyon boat trip from Side delivers a well-balanced, authentic experience of Turkey’s stunning natural scenery. For a reasonable price, you get comfortable transportation, a knowledgeable guide, a delicious lunch, and plenty of time to soak in the views and enjoy swimming in emerald waters. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a mix of relaxation, photo opportunities, and a touch of adventure—all wrapped into a single day.

While the full-day format requires a bit of energy, the payoff is a memorable slice of natural beauty that’s hard to match elsewhere. Whether you’re a nature lover, photography buff, or just after a peaceful escape, this trip offers genuine value and authentic experiences in the Turkish landscape.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire trip takes about 8 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and free time.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off in Side, making it very convenient.

What is the price per person?
The tour costs $55.00 per person, which includes lunch, soft drinks, and activities.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a camera for photos. Extra clothes might be useful for after swimming.

Can I participate if I don’t swim?
Absolutely. You can enjoy the boat cruise, scenery, and lunch even if you prefer not to swim.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, the relaxed pace and scenic environment make it family-friendly. Just ensure children are comfortable with water activities.

This trip is a fantastic way to experience Turkey’s natural beauty in a relaxing, well-organized setting. With stunning vistas, friendly guides, and a peaceful lake for swimming, it’s a day that many travelers remember fondly.