City of Side: Green Canyon Boat Trip & Bus Safari with Lunch

Planning a day trip from Side that blends stunning scenery, cultural insights, and a touch of adventure? This Green Canyon Boat Trip & Bus Safari with lunch promises exactly that. It’s a popular choice among travelers seeking a balance of natural beauty and local flavor, all wrapped up in a manageable 8-hour package.

What makes this tour stand out? First, you get to drive through the breathtaking Taurus Mountains on an open-sided cabrio bus, offering panoramic views that are perfect for photos. Second, the cruise across Green Lake by catamaran delivers a relaxing way to soak up the lush surroundings. Finally, the chance to visit local villages and see the Oymapinar Dam adds an element of cultural discovery.

However, with a schedule packed from morning to evening, some might find the pace slightly rushed, especially if they prefer more leisurely explorations. But if you’re into a well-rounded, value-packed day that mixes nature, scenery, and local life, this trip could be just the ticket.

This experience is ideal for those who enjoy scenic drives, boat excursions, and discovering Turkey’s countryside without needing to plan every detail. Families, solo travelers, or groups looking for a convenient way to see more of the region will likely find this tour very appealing.

Good To Know

• Scenic drive through the Taurus Mountains offers panoramic views and photo opportunities.
• Relaxing boat cruise on Green Lake provides a refreshing perspective of the natural landscape.
• Includes a traditional Turkish lunch near the lake, adding local flavor.
• Visits to village mosques and optional small zoo for cultural and animal encounters.
• Tour is well-reviewed for knowledgeable guides and good value for money.
• Travel time involves some bus cruising, so expect some hours on the road.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Journey Through the Scenic and Cultural Heart of Turkey

This tour offers a fantastic mix of natural beauty, local life, and adventure, all wrapped into an 8-hour package from Side. It’s particularly appealing for travelers craving a taste of the countryside with minimal effort.

The Transport: Cabrio Bus Safari

One of the highlights is the special cabrio bus, which is designed for panoramic views. We loved the way it allows you to comfortably see the landscape, with open sides that make spotting orange gardens, mountain peaks, and villages easy and scenic. The drive through the Taurus Mountains is both a visual treat and a chance to appreciate the varied Turkish countryside.

Many reviewers, like Rosina, appreciated the helpfulness of the staff, especially as she mentioned being wheelchair users. The staff’s willingness to assist makes this a more inclusive trip, ensuring everyone can enjoy the sights.

The Lake & Catamaran Experience

Once at Green Lake, the calm waters beckon for a boat ride, which lasts about an hour. The catamaran cruise offers a different view of the lush greenery and surrounding hills, giving you a peaceful, almost meditative break from the bus ride. It’s a highlight for many, as Robert points out, with the boat trip being “excellent value” and relaxing.

Lunch & Village Visits

Post-cruise, you’re treated to a lunch at a local restaurant near the lake—an authentic Turkish meal that supports local businesses. Following that, the bus takes you further into the countryside, including a stop at a village mosque where you can learn about local religious traditions.

Some travelers also choose to visit a small zoo for a small extra fee, although reviews suggest the zoo’s animal conditions aren’t ideal, with some animals potentially being drugged — a controversial point that’s worth considering if animal welfare is important to you.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Green Canyon & Oymapinar Dam

The Green Canyon, or Oymapinar Dam, forms the centerpiece of the scenic journey. The drive over the dam offers fantastic photo opportunities, and the boat cruise here is a peaceful way to appreciate the impressive engineering and natural surroundings. Expect plenty of opportunities for photos and sightseeing, as noted by Kerryn who said, “the guide was very knowledgeable.”

The Final Stretch & Return

After exploring the canyon and the dam, the tour continues along the Manavgat River, where you might catch a glimpse of the waterfall—another scenic highlight. The return trip to Side is leisurely, giving you time to unwind and reflect on the day.

Practical Details and Value

Priced at just $20 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the breadth of sights and activities included. The package covers hotel pickup and drop-off, the scenic bus safari, boat trip, and lunch, meaning no hidden costs or hassle. Optional extras like drinks and photos are available but not included, so you might want to bring some cash or a camera.

The tour runs for about 8 hours, usually starting around 09:00, with pickup options from five different locations in the Side area, making it flexible and accessible for most visitors. The group size is typically manageable, as many reviews highlight the friendly, informative guides — like the one Kerryn appreciated for their knowledge and attitude.

What to Expect & Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes, especially for village walks and stops.
• Bring sun protection — hats, sunglasses, sunscreen — as much of the day is outdoors.
• Consider bringing a camera or smartphone for the stunning views.
• If you’re interested in animal encounters, be cautious about the zoo stop.
• Expect some travel on the bus, so be prepared for a few hours on the road, but with frequent stops and scenic views.

Authentic Experiences and Insights from Reviews

Several reviewers praised the knowledgeable guides, emphasizing how much they learned about the area’s history and culture. Rosina shared that the staff was very helpful, especially considering her wheelchair use, which speaks to the inclusive nature of the tour.

Kerryn highlighted how impressed she was with the variety of activities and sights packed into the day, calling it “a fantastic day out.” Conversely, some mentioned the feeling of being rushed at certain stops, like the zoo, which might be a downside for those who prefer more relaxed pacing.

A common theme among reviews was the excellent value for money. For $20, the experience covers a lot — scenic drives, a boat cruise, and a traditional meal — making it a smart choice for budget-conscious travelers eager to see a lot without fuss.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate scenic drives, cultural insights, and natural landscapes. It’s perfect if you want a full, active day with well-organized logistics and a knowledgeable guide. Families with children, solo explorers, or groups will find it convenient and engaging.

If you’re after a more relaxed pace or a deeper cultural dive, you might want to consider whether the busy schedule suits your travel style. Also, animal welfare concerns at the zoo should be noted for those sensitive to that issue.

The Sum Up

The Green Canyon Boat Trip & Bus Safari from Side offers a well-rounded glimpse into Turkey’s natural beauty, with excellent value for a modest price. You’ll enjoy scenic mountain views, a calming boat ride, and authentic local cuisine, all guided by friendly, informed staff.

While some may find the schedule a bit tight, the variety of sights and activities packed into the day makes it worthwhile for anyone wanting a snapshot of the region’s landscape and culture. It’s particularly great for those who love a blend of sightseeing, gentle adventure, and cultural stops in one manageable package.

This experience provides a good dose of Turkey’s stunning scenery and local charm, making it a highlight for many visitors staying around Side.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your hotel are included, with several locations available in the Side area.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking and village stops. Outdoor clothing and sun protection are advisable since much of the day is spent outside.

How long is the boat cruise?
The boat trip on Green Lake lasts about 1 hour, offering a peaceful view of the surroundings.

Are meals included?
Yes, a Turkish lunch at a local restaurant near the lake is part of the package.

Can I visit the small zoo during the tour?
Yes, there’s an option to visit a small zoo for an additional fee, but reviews mention concerns about animal conditions.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English and German, catering to a broad range of travelers.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely, yes, especially if children enjoy scenic drives and boat rides. Check with the provider for specific age recommendations.

How much time is spent on the bus?
Expect several hours on the cabrio bus, but with frequent stops for sightseeing and photo opportunities.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your plans change.

To sum it up, this tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and fun activities, making it a smart choice for those wanting a comprehensive day out from Side. With friendly guides, good value, and plenty of memorable sights, it’s a solid pick for your Turkish adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: