City of Side: Rafting, Jeep, Quad, Zipline + Tazi Canyon

Introduction

Exploring the natural wonders of Turkey doesn’t get much more adventurous than a day at Köprülü Canyon. While we haven’t personally tackled this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it offers a fantastic blend of excitement, scenery, and family-friendly fun.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the safe and well-organized rafting route that doesn’t require prior experience. Second, the diverse options for add-on activities like ziplining and quad safaris, appealing to different thrill levels. Third, the adorable family-friendly vibe, with many guests mentioning how well the guides handle groups of all ages.

A potential consideration? The full-day format means you’ll need to be prepared for a long, active day—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full itinerary. This tour works well for families, adventure lovers, or anyone wanting to combine nature with adrenaline, all at an affordable price.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Affordable Price: At just $14 per person, this tour delivers excellent value considering the full-day activity and included lunch.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for ages 4 and up, making it ideal for families or groups with children.
• All-Inclusive: Transfers, safety equipment, and a riverside buffet are included, reducing the hassle.
• Multiple Activities: Optional combos like ziplining and quad safaris can elevate your experience.
• No Experience Needed: Professional guides provide thorough safety briefings, making it accessible to beginners.
• Authentic Scenery: Expect stunning canyon views, clear waters, and lush forests throughout the day.

The Adventure Begins: Pickup & Introduction

Your day kicks off with a convenient pickup from your hotel or designated meeting point in Side. The transportation is typically smooth, and guides such as Mehmet and Ayşe—known for their friendly, reassuring manner—prepare everyone for what’s ahead. Once at Köprülü Canyon, you’ll notice the impressive cliffs and untouched forest that set the perfect backdrop for adventure.

The guides are multilingual, speaking English, German, Russian, and Turkish, which really helps for clear instructions and safety tips. They’re also praised for their professionalism and knowledge, always eager to answer questions and ensure everyone feels comfortable, regardless of age or skill level.

The Scenic Setting of Köprülü Canyon

Located in the Taurus Mountains, Köprülü Canyon’s breathtaking landscape is a highlight in itself. Guests often mention the crystal-clear waters of the Köprüçay River and the towering cliffs surrounding the narrow gorges. One reviewer notes that the views during the drive to the canyon are just as spectacular as the activities themselves.

The canyon’s ancient Roman bridges and natural formations add to the sense of history and adventure, making it a picturesque setting for a full day of fun. The lush forests and peaceful river spots are perfect for photo breaks, relaxing between the thrills.

What to Expect During the Rafting

The core of this experience is a 14 km rafting route that combines gentle stretches with exciting rapids. Many reviewers highlight how the guides expertly manage the balance between safety and fun, making it suitable even for first-timers.

The entire rafting session lasts roughly 2.5 to 3 hours, including breaks for swimming, photos, and soaking in the scenery. Guests typically enjoy stopping in calmer sections to cool off in the river or simply admire the unspoiled nature around them. One guest shared, “Our guide, Ahmet, made us all feel safe and knew the river like the back of his hand.”

Even those unfamiliar with rafting praise the experience, citing how the guides meticulously explain safety procedures and provide quality gear—helmets, life jackets, paddles—that instill confidence.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Riverside Lunch and Relaxation

After a good splash and paddle, everyone gets to recharge with a delicious open buffet lunch served riverside. The setting is shaded by pine trees, with the calming sounds of the river adding to the relaxed atmosphere. Guests have reported the meal as “fresh, tasty, and filling,” with a variety of local dishes and vegetarian options available upon request.

Many reviewers appreciate that the lunch is included in the price, making this tour a very cost-effective package. It’s a perfect chance to chat about the morning’s adventures and soak up the natural beauty around you.

Optional Add-On Activities: Elevate Your Day

Looking to add some extra adrenaline? The tour offers several optional combo activities that can be booked during or after the main tour, weather and availability permitting.

• Zipline: Soar over the canyon on a breathtaking birds-eye view, a favorite among guests for the thrill and stunning perspectives.
• Quad Safari: Drive through the forest trails, getting muddy and exhilarated.
• Jeep Safari: Explore the rugged Taurus Mountains in a 4×4, uncovering panoramic viewpoints.
• Tazi Canyon: Discover the “Wisdom Valley,” with towering cliffs and panoramic vistas, perfect for those seeking more scenic beauty.

Guests have expressed that these add-ons are well worth considering if you want to maximize your adventure. They are optional, flexible, and can be added easily during the booking process or on-site.

Full Itinerary Breakdown

Pickup in Side: Your day starts with a hotel or designated pickup in Side, ensuring a hassle-free start. The transfer usually takes about an hour, giving you a scenic ride through the countryside.

Arrival at Köprülü Canyon: Once there, guides will give safety instructions and provide all necessary equipment. Expect a brief but thorough safety briefing—guides like Mehmet are praised for their clear, friendly instructions.

Rafting Challenge: The core activity is a 4-hour guided rafting trip. Along the way, you’ll encounter a mixture of calm stretches and lively rapids, with multiple stops for swimming and photos. Guests often mention the guides’ professionalism, with some noting that guides like Ayşe make everyone feel at ease, even if it’s their first time.

Lunch: After rafting, everyone relaxes with a riverside open buffet, ideal for recharging before optional activities or heading back to Side.

Additional Activities: If you select combos, you’ll have opportunities to zipline over the canyon, ride quads through forest trails, or explore the towering Tazi Canyon. These are flexible and tailored to your energy levels.

Return: The day concludes with a comfortable transfer back to Side, typically in the late afternoon, leaving you with lasting memories of a day well spent.

What’s Included & What’s Not

Included:

• Round-trip hotel transfers
• Full rafting experience with certified guides
• All necessary equipment (helmet, life jacket, paddles, boat)
• Riverside open buffet lunch
• Optional swim and photo breaks

Not Included:

• Drinks (available for purchase)
• Professional photo or video services (can be added on request)
• Extra activities unless selected

This comprehensive package ensures you won’t need to worry about logistics or gear, letting you focus on the fun.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers incredible value: for just $14, you get a full-day adventure packed with thrills, stunning scenery, and family-friendly options. The professional guides make safety and enjoyment their top priorities, creating a relaxed yet exciting atmosphere. The mix of activities, from rafting to ziplining, caters to a wide range of interests, making it great for families, solo travelers, or groups of friends.

The included lunch and transfers further boost its appeal, removing common logistical concerns. Plus, the flexibility to add extra activities means you can tailor the day to your energy and excitement levels.

While it is a full day, most guests find the experience well worth the time, especially given the affordability. The natural beauty of Köprülü Canyon combined with the adrenaline rush makes this tour a standout option for those visiting Antalya Province.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you love outdoor adventures and want to experience Turkey’s scenic landscape firsthand, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s particularly suitable for families with children aged 4 and up, thanks to the safety-focused guides and manageable route. Adventure seekers will appreciate the optional zipline and quad options, while those seeking a relaxing day in nature will enjoy the stunning canyon views and riverside lunch.

It’s ideal for travelers on a budget who don’t want to miss out on a full day of fun, convenience, and authentic scenery—all for a very reasonable price.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transfers from your hotel or designated meeting points in Side are included in the tour.

Do I need previous rafting experience?
No, no prior experience or swimming skills are required. The guides provide safety instructions and all necessary equipment.

What is the duration of the rafting?
The rafting itself lasts about 2.5 to 3 hours, but the entire day, including transfers and lunch, spans approximately 8 hours.

Can children participate?
Yes, children aged 4 and above are welcome, making it very family-friendly. Keep in mind, some activities may require parental supervision.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch?
Yes, vegetarian options are available upon request, and the buffet features local dishes suitable for most dietary preferences.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for getting wet—quick-drying clothes are recommended. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection.

Are there optional activities I can add?
Yes, ziplining, quad safaris, jeep safaris, and Tazi Canyon trips are available as optional extras during booking or on-site.

What language are guides available in?
Guides speak English, German, Russian, and Turkish, ensuring smooth communication throughout the day.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The route is designed to be safe and manageable for all skill levels, with professional guides leading the way.

How do I reserve my spot?
You can book online with flexible options, including the ability to reserve now and pay later. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded adventure in the stunning setting of Köprülü Canyon. It’s perfect for those seeking a mix of adrenaline, scenic beauty, and family fun—all at an accessible price. Whether you’re a first-time rafter or someone looking to try ziplining over the canyon, this experience delivers memorable moments with safety and comfort at the forefront.

You can check if your dates are available here: