From Belek: Green Canyon Boat Trip with Lunch and Drinks

Imagine spending a day cruising across a shimmering emerald lake, surrounded by the towering Taurus Mountains and lush greenery. That’s exactly what this Green Canyon boat trip promises — a peaceful escape into Turkey’s stunning natural scenery with plenty of opportunities to swim, relax, and take in breathtaking views.

From the moment you step aboard, you’ll enjoy the smooth ride along the 14 km (8.5 miles) Grand Canyon and the 3 km (2 miles) Little Canyon, with stops to cool off in the clear waters. The trip’s highlights include the chance to spot the rare brown fish owl and feast on a delicious buffet lunch with panoramic lake views.

What we love about this experience: it offers an authentic nature immersion, the views are genuinely spectacular, and the inclusion of lunch adds great value. That said, if you’re not keen on boat rides or have mobility concerns, this might require some extra planning. Overall, it suits travelers looking for a laid-back day amidst gorgeous landscapes with some active swimming breaks.

Good To Know

• Stunning Scenery: Cruising on an emerald lake surrounded by the Taurus Mountains offers unforgettable views.
• Inclusive Experience: The tour includes hotel pickup, boat trip, swimming stops, and a buffet lunch.
• Wildlife Spotting: Watch out for the rare brown fish owl along the route.
• Value for Money: At $43, the trip offers a full day out with multiple activities and good food.
• Comfort and Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics fuss-free.
• Limited for Some: Not suitable for those with mobility issues or who prefer not to be on the water all day.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Pickup and Journey to Green Canyon

Your adventure begins with a hotel pickup from Belek, usually coordinated by the tour provider, TOURMANIA. The comfortable bus ride to the canyon sets the tone for a relaxed day. Expect to leave in the morning, with exact pickup times varying based on your hotel location. This door-to-door service makes the whole experience stress-free, especially if you’re staying in a central or nearby hotel.

The Boat Cruise – The Heart of the Experience

Once at the canyon, you’ll board a boat that takes you on an 8.5-mile (14 km) journey through the Grand Canyon and a 2-mile (3 km) section called the Little Canyon. The boat is a key part of the tour’s charm, offering a chance to view the canyon’s impressive walls from a unique perspective.

Travelers like Jasmine comment on the “good communication” and “well worth the money,” which hints at a smoothly run operation. The boat ride itself feels leisurely, with plenty of time to take photos, soak in the scenery, and relax on deck.

Swimming Stops & Nature Watching

Throughout the cruise, there are designated stops for swimming and relaxing in the sparkling waters of the lake. With clear and inviting waters, these breaks are a highlight — both for cooling off and enjoying the surrounding landscape. Reviewers like Louise appreciate the “beautiful location and friendly people,” emphasizing how the setting enhances the overall experience.

Keep an eye out for wildlife—especially the brown fish owl, which is quite rare. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, the surrounding woodlands and mountains are prime habitat for this elusive bird, adding a special touch to nature enthusiasts’ trip.

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Lunch with a View

After exploring the canyon, you’ll pause at a local restaurant perched above the lake for a buffet lunch. Expect a hearty spread, often with traditional Turkish dishes, while enjoying panoramic views. Nigel described it as a “lovely dinner laid on,” indicating the meal is both satisfying and scenic.

Continuing the Tour & Final Swim

Post-lunch, you’ll head back onto the boat to continue your cruise along the canyon’s stunning vistas. You’ll have another chance to swim before the trip concludes. The cruise’s final stretch offers panoramic mountain views and the lush greenery of the surrounding forest, perfect for photo ops and just soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

Return to Belek

By late afternoon, the boat ride winds down, and you’ll be transferred back to your hotel. The total duration is around 7 hours, making it a full but relaxing day out. Reviewers note that timing is flexible, but mornings are typically preferred for the best light and cooler temperatures.

The Experience’s Highlights and Practicalities

The Scenic Boat Cruises

The boat itself is comfortable, with enough space for everyone to enjoy the views. The route covers both the Grand and Little Canyons, offering diverse perspectives on the natural formations. This range of scenery keeps the experience engaging from start to finish.

Swimming & Wildlife

The opportunity to swim in the clear waters is highly valued by travelers, adding an active element to the trip. The chance to see the rare brown fish owl adds a layer of excitement for bird watchers and nature lovers.

Food & Drink

While drinks are not included, the buffet lunch provides a generous meal with enough variety to satisfy most appetites. The restaurant’s location offers sweeping views, making the meal a memorable part of the day.

Logistics & Comfort

The included hotel pickup and drop-off significantly enhance the overall convenience, especially for those unfamiliar with local transport. The tour is suitable for most, but not for those with mobility impairments, as some walking and boat boarding might be challenging.

Cost & Value

At $43 per person, this trip is quite reasonable considering the length, inclusions, and scenic value. The reviews consistently praise the good communication, friendly guides, and overall good value for money.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Nigel called it a “very good day,” praising the guide’s excellence and a well-laid dinner. Louise highlighted the “beautiful location” and the friendliness of the staff, which contributes to a welcoming atmosphere. Jasmine appreciated the clear communication, making the experience smooth from start to finish. These insights reflect consistent positive experiences, especially regarding the scenery and organization.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This boat trip is ideal for travelers who love nature, wildlife, and peaceful landscapes. It suits those seeking an easy-paced, full-day excursion that combines scenic cruising, swimming, and a hearty Turkish meal. It’s particularly good for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a gentle adventure away from busy urban settings.

However, if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer a more active or land-based tour, this might not be the best fit. The tour’s reliance on boat cruising and swimming makes it less suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.

Final Thoughts

The Green Canyon boat trip from Belek offers a well-rounded day immersed in Turkey’s incredible natural beauty. It balances scenic cruising, wildlife spotting, swimming, and good food — all at a reasonable price. The included logistics, like hotel pickup and drop-off, make it a fuss-free option that maximizes your time and comfort.

While it may not be the most adrenaline-filled adventure, the spectacular views and tranquil waters make it an experience worth considering, especially for those who want a relaxing escape into nature. The trip’s quality, as echoed in reviews, rests on its stunning scenery, good organization, and friendly guides, making it a solid choice for a memorable day out.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including pickup, travel time, the boat cruise, and lunch.

What is included in the price?
The experience includes hotel pickup and drop-off, the boat trip across Green Canyon, swimming stops, and a buffet lunch.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the tour price, so you might want to bring your own water or purchase beverages at the restaurant.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s suitable for most, but not for those with mobility impairments, as there’s some walking and boat boarding involved.

Can I see wildlife during the trip?
Yes, there’s a chance to see the rare brown fish owl and other wildlife, especially around the wooded canyon sides.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. It’s also helpful to have a hat and sunglasses for sun protection during the cruise.

This trip is a fantastic way to enjoy Turkey’s natural beauty without too much hassle. Whether you’re after stunning views, a peaceful swim, or a chance to spot unique wildlife, the Green Canyon boat trip offers a well-priced, memorable experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: