From City of Side: Alanya Sapadere Canyon Tour & Dwarfs Cave

Traveling from Side to explore Alanya’s stunning landscapes, caves, and local charm is a popular choice among visitors craving authentic sights beyond the beaches. This 10-hour guided tour offers a well-rounded mix of nature, culture, and leisure, making it appealing for those seeking a full day of sightseeing without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

We particularly like the tour’s focus on natural wonders like Sapadere Canyon’s waterfalls, the intriguing Dwarfs Cave, and the opportunity to enjoy local village life. The delicious riverside lunch and free time in Alanya add a relaxing touch to a busy day.

One possible challenge is the long day’s duration, which might feel tiring for some travelers, especially with the multiple stops and walking involved. Still, for those eager to see a variety of sights and experience the area’s natural beauty, this tour offers great value.

This experience suits visitors who love outdoor adventures, scenic views, and cultural insights, especially if you’re traveling from Side and want a seamless, guided day trip.

Good To Know

• Beautiful natural scenery: Sapadere Canyon’s waterfalls and pools make for memorable photo opportunities.
• Interesting geological sites: The Dwarfs Cave offers a glimpse into intriguing formations.
• Cultural experience: Sapadere Village introduces authentic local life.
• Leisure and shopping: Free time in Alanya allows for souvenirs or relaxing.
• Good value: At $47, including lunch and guide, this tour packs in a lot.
• Comfortable transport: Air-conditioned bus with hotel pickup and drop-off simplifies logistics.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Comfortable Start with Hotel Pickup

The tour begins early, with pickup from your Side accommodation around 8:30 AM. The air-conditioned bus is a relief after a hot day of exploring, and the friendly guide makes introductions easy. This setup ensures you don’t have to worry about navigating or traffic, which can be a plus for travelers unfamiliar with the area.

A Scenic Viewpoint Overlooking Alanya and Banana Plantations

A short drive takes you to a viewing terrace amid lush banana gardens, providing a perfect photo stop. From here, you’ll gaze over Alanya’s coastline and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. One reviewer noted, “the views were stunning and worth the quick stop,” which highlights how this adds a scenic teaser for the day ahead.

Visiting the Dwarfs Cave: Geological Wonder and Little Mysteries

Next, you’ll descend into the Cave of Dwarves. This geological site showcases fascinating rock formations, stalactites, and stalagmites. It’s a chance to explore something a bit different from typical sightseeing. The guide shares insights into its history and significance, making it both visually and intellectually interesting. Some travelers, according to reviews, appreciated the 45-minute stop for its “intriguing formations and rich geological wonders.” It’s a short visit but enough to pique curiosity and snap some memorable photos.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring Sapadere Village: Authentic Local Charm

Following the cave, the tour takes you to Sapadere Village, where you’re immersed in traditional Turkish village life. You can stroll through rustic streets, interact with locals, and see how the area maintains its charm amidst modern tourism. This stop gives you a taste of regional culture, away from the crowded tourist spots.

The Highlight: Sapadere Canyon and Waterfalls

The crown jewel of the tour is the Sapadere Canyon, a lush gorge with cascading waterfalls, sparkling pools, and scenic hiking trails. You’ll have about two hours here—ample time to walk along the canyon, take photos, or even dip into the cool waters if you’ve brought your swimwear and towel (highly recommended, as many reviews suggest this is a highlight). Travelers mention the waterfall’s breathtaking beauty and the refreshing experience of swimming in the turquoise pools.

A reviewer from Belgium described it as a “great canyon,” emphasizing its natural beauty. Some found the walk to the waterfalls easy enough, but others mentioned that the activity is suitable for most ages—though those with mobility issues might find the terrain challenging.

Riverside Lunch: A Perfect Mid-Day Break

After the canyon, everyone gathers for a lunch by the river. The setting is relaxing, with the gentle sounds of flowing water and nature around. The food, which includes local and international dishes, is generally well-received, with many noting the good quality and generous portions. It’s a chance to unwind, rehydrate, and enjoy the scenic surroundings before heading into the final part of the day.

Free Time in Alanya: Shopping or Relaxing

Post-lunch, the tour includes about 1.5 hours of free time in Alanya’s city center. This is your moment to explore shops, pick up souvenirs, or simply soak up the lively atmosphere. Many reviews highlight that the time is sufficient for a quick stroll or some shopping, although some critics feel the limited time cuts short the opportunity to truly explore the city’s historic streets.

Return Journey and Reflection

The return trip starts around 4:30 PM, with the bus heading back to Side, arriving around 6:00 PM. The day is long but packed, making for a full, satisfying experience. Some travelers mentioned the long waiting times at certain stops, and a few felt the touring was somewhat rushed at times, especially in Alanya. However, the guide’s professional demeanor and the smooth logistics generally keep the day enjoyable.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The $47 price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, lunch, and a professional multilingual guide. The entrance fee for the canyon and national park (10 cash payable on the day) is a small additional cost, but it’s worth considering as part of the overall value.

Entry to the Cave of Dwarves is optional and not included, which could be a minor extra expense if you’re interested. Drinks are also not included, so bringing water or additional beverages is advisable.

The tour is suitable for families with children, making it a flexible option for travelers with varying ages looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes: The terrain around the canyon and cave is uneven, so sturdy footwear makes a difference.
• Bring swimwear and a towel: Many rave about swimming in the canyon pools, so packing these ensures you don’t miss out.
• Prepare cash for entrance fees: The 10 fee for the canyon and park is paid in cash, so carry some small bills.
• Plan for a full day: The 10-hour duration means you’ll want to start the day with energy and wear comfortable clothing.
• If you love photography, the panoramic viewpoints and canyon waterfalls are perfect for capturing stunning shots.

Summary: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour offers a balanced blend of nature, culture, and leisure, making it ideal for those who enjoy outdoor adventures and authentic local experiences. It’s a fantastic choice if you want to explore beyond the beach and discover Turkey’s scenic landscapes in a relaxed, guided setting.

While the day can be quite full, most find the value for money excellent, especially considering the included lunch and guide. Families, nature lovers, and curious travelers will appreciate the opportunity to visit Sapadere Canyon and the Dwarfs Cave, with enough free time in Alanya for a bit of shopping or sightseeing.

If you’re after a manageable, enjoyable day packed with memorable sights and scenic beauty, this tour will likely hit the right spot.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Side, making logistics straightforward.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 10 hours, starting around 8:30 AM and returning at about 6:00 PM.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a towel, and swimwear are recommended, especially if you plan to swim in the canyon pools.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the entrance fee for the canyon and national park (10 cash payable on the day) is not included. Entry to the Cave of Dwarves is optional and not covered.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for families with children, but be prepared for some walking and outdoor activity.

Can I explore Alanya more during the free time?
Absolutely. The 1.5 hours in Alanya give you a chance to shop, relax, or explore the city’s sights at your own pace.

To sum it up, this Alanya Sapadere Canyon Tour from Side offers a rewarding day immersed in Turkey’s natural beauty and local culture. It combines scenic vistas, geological wonders, and a taste of village life into a well-organized package at a reasonable price. Perfect for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those wanting a break from beach lounging, it’s a journey likely to leave you feeling refreshed and inspired.

You can check if your dates are available here: