Green Canyon Cruise and Cabrio Bus Guided Tour

Thinking about a day out that mixes natural beauty, a touch of history, and some fun on the water? The Green Canyon Cruise and Cabrio Bus Guided Tour from Side could be just what you’re looking for. With a solid 5-star rating and glowing reviews, this trip offers a chance to see some of Turkey’s best scenery without breaking the bank. It’s a well-rounded mix of nature, culture, and lively group activities, making it ideal for families, curious travelers, or anyone eager to get a taste of the Turkish countryside.

What we especially like about this tour is its value for money—for under $20, you get a full day of sightseeing, including hotel pickup, lunch, and various stops that showcase Turkey’s picturesque landscapes and historical sites. Plus, the friendly, knowledgeable guides seem to make the experience both informative and fun. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that some reviews mention the transportation amenities are not exactly luxurious, and entrance fees are not included, which could add a bit to your total cost.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure, culture, and scenic views. If you’re looking for a relaxed day with plenty of photo opportunities and some active moments, you’ll likely find this trip well worth your time.

Key Points

• Affordable full-day experience blending nature, culture, and fun activities.
• Pickup and drop-off are included, making logistics easy.
• Guide’s knowledge and friendliness add value and enjoyment.
• Boat cruise around the Green Lake offers a relaxing break.
• Stops at historical sites and scenic waterfalls enrich the journey.
• Suitable for families and travelers with moderate physical fitness.

What to Expect on the Tour

This tour from Side is designed to give you a comprehensive taste of local scenery and history in a single day. It begins early, at 8:30am, with hotel pickup, so be ready to start your adventure with a comfortable ride through the Taurus Mountains. The group is kept reasonably small, with a cap of 27 travelers, helping ensure a more personalized experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Adventure-Park Manavgat Oymapinar

Your day kicks off with a visit to the Adventure Park, where you’ll spend about an hour exploring or just soaking in the surroundings. The park’s admission fee is included, and this stop sets the tone with some light activity and fun. It’s a lively start, and many reviews mention it’s a great way to warm up for the day ahead.

Stop 2: Oymapinar Dam

Next, you’ll visit the Oymapinar Dam, another hour-long stop that offers impressive views of the dam and surrounding landscape. The fact that this stop includes free admission means no extra costs, and the scenery here is often described as striking. One reviewer appreciated the beautiful waterfalls seen along the way, which highlights how scenic these stops can be.

Stop 3: Seleukeia Antik Kenti

Then, a visit to the Ancient City of Seleukeia (Lybre) adds a touch of history to your day. This site is free to explore and provides a glimpse into Turkey’s ancient past. Reviewers have called it a “beautiful view” and a “great cultural addition” to the trip, making it a worthwhile stop for history buffs or those wanting a break from the mountains.

The Green Canyon & Catamaran Cruise

The highlight is the 2.5-hour boat cruise around Green Lake. You’ll glide across the glittering waters, enjoying the stunning views of lush green surroundings. Many reviews mention the beautiful scenery and refreshing swims during the trip. The boat is a catamaran, offering stability and comfort, with plenty of space for relaxing or snapping photos. This segment is often praised for its tranquility and scenic beauty.

Additional Highlights

The lunch included is usually a simple but tasty meal, providing good value, especially if you’re traveling on a budget. The guides are described as friendly and informative, adding context to each stop, which enhances the overall experience.

Transport and Group Size

The transportation, notably the Cabrio Bus, is unique — designed to give you an open-air ride that makes the scenery even more enjoyable. While reviews don’t specifically criticize this aspect, some travelers noted the comfort level might vary. The tour caps at 27 guests, creating a friendly atmosphere where everyone can get a good look or ask questions.

What Reviewers Say

The consensus among travelers is overwhelmingly positive, with many emphasizing the beautiful landscapes, expert guides, and value for money. One reviewer praised the “great people” and the “atmosphere”, adding that the water fight activity was “something amazing.” Another highlighted the good care, food, and service, making the tour feel like a well-organized day of fun and learning.

However, a few reviewers have noted that entrance fees are not included—you might need to pay extra at certain stops, such as the waterfalls, which is typical for tours like this. Also, some mentioned that the amenities are basic, and travelers should be prepared for dust and dust masks during mountain drives.

Analyzing the Value

For $17.79 per person, this tour offers a lot—transport, guide, lunch, and multiple stops that would cost quite a bit if booked separately. The combination of scenic drives, cultural sites, and relaxing boat trips makes it a cost-effective way to explore Turkey’s natural beauty. The inclusion of hotel pickup saves hassle, especially if you don’t want to worry about transportation logistics.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re traveling with family or friends and want a full-day experience that mixes adventure with relaxation, this tour fits the bill. It’s also ideal for travelers who prefer guided trips to self-driving, as the route is well-organized with plenty of interesting stops. Those with moderate physical fitness will find it manageable; walking around the sites is generally not strenuous, but be prepared for some hills and uneven terrain.

Final Thoughts

This Green Canyon Cruise and Cabrio Bus Tour from Side offers an engaging, visually stunning, and budget-friendly day out in Turkey. The highlights—beautiful mountain scenery, historical sites, and a peaceful boat ride—are well complemented by the friendly guides and well-organized itinerary. While some amenities are modest and entrance fees extra, the overall value and authentic experiences make it a trip many will remember fondly.

Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply looking for a lively day with new friends, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s perfect for those who want to see the Turkish countryside without complicated planning, and who enjoy a mix of activity and relaxation.

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour offers free hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient to start and end your day.

How long is the boat cruise? The catamaran cruise around Green Lake lasts approximately 2.5 hours, providing plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Are entrance fees included? No, entrance fees for stops like waterfalls are not included, so you should budget a small extra amount for those.

What should I bring? Consider bringing a bandana or scarf for dusty mountain roads, along with sun protection and water. The boat ride is quite relaxing, so pack your camera and a sense of adventure.

Is this trip suitable for children? Yes, the tour is family-friendly and many reviews mention kids having a great time, especially during the water fight.

What are the main highlights? The scenic drive, the Oymapinar Dam, Seleukeia Ancient City, and the boat cruise are the key highlights.

How much walking is involved? The stops generally involve light walking; travelers with moderate fitness should be comfortable.

What’s the tour price? The full package costs about $17.79 per person, which includes most activities and lunch.

Are drinks included? No, drinks are not included, so bring your own or purchase at stops if desired.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Turkey’s natural beauty and history at a reasonable price. It’s a fantastic option for travelers eager to see more of Turkey’s scenic and cultural treasures without the hassle of independent planning.