Köprülü Canyon Nationel Park Rafting & Taz Canyon Mix Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Antalya and craving an adventure-packed day, the Köprülü Canyon National Park Rafting & Taz Canyon Mix Tour might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed reviews and information paint a clear picture of an exciting day filled with scenic vistas, adrenaline-fueled activities, and memorable moments.

What I love about this experience? First, the stunning natural beauty of the canyon landscapes—both Köprülü and Taz are breathtaking. Second, the thrill of whitewater rafting through the wild rapids, which promises an invigorating challenge. Third, the professional guides and well-organized safety procedures help ensure a secure, fun adventure.

Of course, there’s a potential drawback—the tour’s duration can stretch up to 11 hours, which might be tiring for some travelers, especially if you’re not used to long excursions. Still, for those who love outdoor activities and scenic drives, it’s a day well spent. This tour suits adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and travelers eager to experience Turkey’s rugged landscapes beyond the beaches.

Good To Know

• Stunning scenery: The views of Taz Canyon’s towering 300-meter-high walls and the lush Taurus Mountains will stay with you.
• Balanced adventure: Combines sightseeing, a delicious lunch, and around 3 hours of rafting.
• Good value: At $53 per person, this package includes transportation, safety gear, guides, and lunch.
• Well-organized experience: Safety briefings and instructions are clear, making it accessible even for first-timers.
• Authentic local experience: The guides speak multiple languages, including English, German, Russian, Turkish, Persian, Arabic, and Polish.
• Potential for additional activity: For an extra fee, you can add a zipline to boost the adrenaline.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

The day kicks off early, with a pickup from your hotel around 8:00 AM—timing may vary depending on your location. The journey from Antalya is around 1.5 hours by an air-conditioned bus, which is comfortable after a night or morning of travel. During the drive, expect some scenic views and a short stop for refreshments or bathroom breaks, giving you a chance to stretch your legs before the main activities.

The First Stop: Köprülü Canyon

Upon arrival at the park, you’ll receive a safety briefing. This is crucial, especially for first-time rafters or those unfamiliar with the equipment. The guides, like the highly praised “knowledgeable” team, will demonstrate how to paddle and handle safety gear such as helmets and life jackets. The emphasis on safety indicates a well-organized operation, which helps ease any nerves.

Traveling to Taz Canyon

Next, the tour takes you to Taz Canyon via open-top minibuses. The scenic drive is a high point itself, with panoramic views of the rugged mountains and the canyon’s dramatic walls. The Taz Canyon, with its impressive 300-meter-high cliffs, offers fantastic photo opportunities and scenery that will have your camera clicking non-stop. It’s a great chance to capture the grandeur of nature, and the tour includes plenty of breaks for pictures and videos.

Taz Canyon: Sightseeing and Photo Opportunities

While some reviews question whether the viewpoint at Taz Canyon is worth the visit, it’s undeniable that the scenery is stunning. The guides typically provide ample time for photos, and travelers have noted that the view is “spectacular,” with one guest remarking that it’s a highlight of the day. It’s worth noting, however, that if you prefer water-based activities, the canyon’s main draw is its visual impact rather than adventure sports.

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Lunch and Rest at Köprülü Canyon

After Taz Canyon, you’ll head back to Köprülü Canyon for a lunch break. The meal is included in the tour and often described as delicious, giving you a chance to refuel before the afternoon’s main event—rafting. The lunch provides a well-deserved rest and an opportunity to discuss the morning’s highlights with fellow travelers.

The Rafting Adventure

The rafting section lasts approximately 3 hours, during which you’ll navigate through the swiftly flowing waters of the canyon. Guides are attentive and will give instructions on paddling and safety, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned adventurers. The rapids can be thrilling, but some reviews mention that the difficulty level is moderate, suitable for most people. Expect some swimming breaks along the way, adding a refreshing element to the adrenaline rush.

If you’re feeling extra daring, you can opt for an additional zipline experience—this is an extra fee, so it’s best to plan ahead. The zipline is known to add an extra layer of excitement, and you should inform the tour provider in advance if you’re interested.

The Return Journey

Post-rafting, the journey back to Antalya is about 1.5 hours. You’ll be dropped off at various locations, including popular resorts and districts like Kemer, Side, Belek, and others. The tour concludes around 7:00 PM, making it a full day packed with adventure and natural beauty.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour generally covers transportation, safety gear, lunch, guides, and insurance, making it good value at $53. However, travelers should note that personal expenses, drinks during the day, and additional activities like photos or wetsuits are extra. Some reviewers mention that the lunch is well worth the wait, and guides are praised for their professionalism and friendliness, which enhances the overall experience.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring swimwear, water shoes, and a towel for rafting and swimming breaks.
• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for wet and slippery surfaces; rentals are available if needed.
• Avoid bringing valuables or jewelry, as they might get damaged or lost.
• Prepare for a long day—layered clothing and sun protection are recommended.
• Confirm your pickup time and location in advance, especially if you’re not staying near the main hotel zones.

Real Traveler Insights: From the Reviews

One reviewer from Bulgaria gave a perfect 5 out of 5, praising the “stunning views” and the overall fun of the rafting. Another from India described it as a “crazy jeep safari”, highlighting the diverse experiences packed into the day. Conversely, a French traveler rated it only 2 out of 5, criticizing the organizational issues and the initial miscommunication about pick-up points and group language. This underscores the importance of confirming details beforehand to avoid surprises.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for active travelers who enjoy scenic drives, outdoor adventures, and watersports. It’s ideal for those who want a full day of diverse activities without breaking the bank. Also suited for groups or families looking for a safe, guided adventure with plenty of photo-worthy moments. If you’re not comfortable swimming or have mobility concerns, you might want to consider how strenuous the rafting or long hours are.

The Sum Up

The Köprülü Canyon National Park Rafting & Taz Canyon Mix Tour offers a well-rounded, value-packed day exploring some of Turkey’s most dramatic natural scenery. With professional guides, safe equipment, and a mix of sightseeing, dining, and adrenaline, it caters to travelers eager to combine adventure with stunning landscapes.

It’s particularly suited for those who love outdoor pursuits, are comfortable with water activities, and appreciate the beauty of untouched nature. The tour’s flexible itinerary and bilingual guides make it accessible, but keep in mind the length and physical activity involved. For an energetic day out with plenty of photo opportunities and a touch of thrill, this tour truly delivers.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel and transportation in an air-conditioned bus, with various drop-off points around Antalya.

How long does the entire tour last?
The full experience takes between 6 and 11 hours, depending on your pickup location and pace of the day.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, change of clothes, and sun protection are recommended. Water shoes are optional but available for rent or purchase.

Can I participate if I don’t know how to raft?
Absolutely. Guides provide clear instructions, and the activity is suitable for beginners. Safety gear and supervision are provided.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers find it suitable for older children who can swim and are comfortable in water, but there’s no specific age limit mentioned.

Are there additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes. Extra activities like ziplining, souvenirs, drinks, photos, wetsuits, or personal expenses are not included.

What is the quality of the food served?
The included lunch is described as delicious, providing a good break during the day.

Are guides multilingual?
Yes, guides speak multiple languages, including English, German, Russian, Turkish, Persian, Arabic, and Polish.

How challenging is the rafting?
The rapids are moderate, suitable for most people, but it is a physically active activity requiring some paddling effort.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

You can check if your dates are available here: