Green Canyon Boat Trip from Side

If you’re visiting Side and craving a peaceful escape into nature, the Green Canyon boat trip offers an inviting way to enjoy Turkey’s scenic beauty. This full-day adventure takes you through emerald waters, breathtaking landscapes, and offers a mix of relaxation and light activity—all wrapped up in a well-organized package.

What really makes this tour stand out are the stunning views of the Green Canyon, the opportunity to swim in pristine waters, and the friendly, well-coordinated guides who make the experience smooth and enjoyable. The value for money also shines, with a comprehensive itinerary that includes transportation, lunch, and soft drinks, all for $55 per person.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour starts early, at 8:30 am, so you’ll want to be prepared for an active day. If you’re someone who appreciates natural landscapes, comfortable transportation, and a relaxed pace, this trip is ideal. It’s particularly well-suited to those seeking a balance between scenic sightseeing and recreational fun, away from crowded tourist spots.

Good To Know

• Scenic Views: The boat cruise offers spectacular photo opportunities of the Green Canyon and Oymapinar Dam.
• Swim & Relax: A two-hour stop for swimming in the lake promises a memorable, refreshing experience.
• Comprehensive Package: Includes hotel pickup, lunch, drinks, and guide support, providing great value.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides add insight and ensure smooth navigation.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for most travelers, with options for relaxing or more adventurous lake activities.
• Early Start: The 8:30 am departure helps maximize your day in nature.

The Full Experience: A Detailed Breakdown of the Tour

Convenient Pickup and Transportation

The trip begins bright and early at 8:30 am with pickup from your Side hotel. The modern, comfortable vehicles are a big plus, especially after a long flight or a busy morning—no need to worry about arranging transport, because it’s all taken care of. This seamless pickup sets a positive tone for the day, letting you focus on the adventure ahead.

First Stop: Oymapinar Dam Lake

Your journey kicks off with a drive to the Oymapinar Dam, which takes about two hours. This early stop offers a brief but scenic break—perfect for stretching your legs and snapping a few photos of the dam and surrounding landscape. The views here are relaxing and set the tone for the natural beauty you’ll encounter later on. The short stop feels just right; it’s enough to appreciate the engineering marvel without losing momentum.

Exploring the Green Canyon

After the drive, you’ll arrive at the Green Canyon, where the true magic begins. The boat cruise itself is about 14 km long, giving you ample opportunities to marvel at the lush green cliffs and crystal-clear waters. The boat—likely a comfortable, covered vessel—glides smoothly, allowing for unobstructed photos of the scenery.

Multiple travelers emphasize the stunning landscapes and the calm, inviting waters. One reviewer mentioned, “Beautiful place, lovely to swim there,” highlighting how accessible and enjoyable the lake’s environment is. The guides are praised for their friendliness and competence, making sure everyone is comfortable and informed about the sights.

Swimming and Lake Activities

The highlight for many is the two-hour stop for swimming and leisure. The lake’s turquoise waters invite you to cool off and relax. You can swim, sunbathe, or enjoy the optional lake activities like fishing or canoeing, thanks to the equipment available at the restaurant. The reviewer Maud_L mentioned, “Staff were friendly, competent and well coordinated,” which is reassuring if you’re planning to spend a good chunk of time in the water.

Lunch and Free Time

Following the swim, a delicious lunch is served—highlighted by its variety, generous portions, and tasty flavors, according to reviews. Afterward, you’re free to continue relaxing or explore the surroundings. The restaurant’s equipment offers a chance for a bit of adventure, whether that’s fishing or paddling around in a canoe, enhancing the overall value of the trip.

Return Journey: Back to Side

Post-lunch, the boat heads back to the pier, arriving after about two hours of relaxing on the water. The return journey offers more beautiful views, perfect for reflection and capturing final photos. The comfortable vehicles are waiting to take you back to your hotel, making sure your day ends as smoothly as it started.

What Makes This Tour Worth It?

This trip offers a well-rounded experience blending scenic beauty, leisure, and cultural appreciation. The value is especially notable considering the inclusions—hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, soft drinks, and guided commentary—making it a hassle-free day.

The guides, praised for their friendliness and knowledge, help visitors appreciate the landscape and feel comfortable throughout. The stunning views of the canyon and dam, combined with the opportunity to swim and enjoy lakeside activities, make this a truly memorable outing.

Practical Considerations

The tour’s duration of about 8 hours is perfect for those who want to see a lot without feeling rushed. The early start is ideal for making the most of the daylight hours, especially in summer when the weather is warm. The group size, capped at 100 travelers, means you’ll feel part of an intimate experience rather than lost in a crowd.

Pricing at $55 per person offers good value, considering all the inclusions and the high-quality experience. For families or groups, this trip can be a fantastic way to bond over scenic adventures and water fun.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is great for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and families seeking a relaxed yet engaging day out. If you enjoy swimming, scenic boat rides, and exploring natural landscapes, you’ll find plenty to love here.

It’s also suitable for those who prefer guided tours, as the knowledgeable guides ensure everyone is in the loop and comfortable. However, if you’re looking for a highly adventurous or physically demanding activity, this might lean more toward the relaxed side of things.

Final Thoughts

The Green Canyon boat trip from Side offers an impressive blend of spectacular scenery, recreational opportunities, and thoughtful organization. With friendly guides, a delicious included lunch, and the chance to swim in crystal waters, it’s a well-rounded day out that delivers on both natural beauty and value.

The early start and full-day itinerary make it a good choice for travelers wanting to maximize their time. Whether you’re an avid photographer, a family looking for a fun outing, or simply someone eager to experience Turkey’s scenic waterways, this trip checks many boxes.

This tour delivers what it promises: stunning vistas, relaxing water activities, and a memorable day in nature. It’s a safe bet for anyone visiting Side who craves a peaceful, scenic escape with just enough adventure.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs at 8:30 am, allowing you to enjoy a full day of scenic spots and water activities.

Is hotel pickup service included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making logistics effortless.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price of $55 includes lunch, soft drinks, a local guide, and transportation.

How long does the entire trip last?
The trip lasts approximately 8 hours, from pickup to return to your hotel.

Can I swim in the lake?
Absolutely. There is a two-hour swimming stop on the lake where you can relax, swim, or use lake equipment like canoes and fishing gear.

Is this suitable for families?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, with options to relax or enjoy some lake activities. Just check the activity level if you have very young children.

For a relaxed yet scenic day with plenty of opportunities to enjoy Turkey’s natural beauty, the Green Canyon boat trip from Side offers a compelling, value-packed experience. Prepare your camera, swimsuit, and sense of adventure for a memorable escape.