City of Side: Eagle Canyon w/ Optional Selge or Rafting Tour

Experience the Natural Beauty and Ancient Sites of Side with Eagle Canyon and More

This full-day tour from Side, Turkey, offers a wonderful blend of nature, history, and adventure. For around $32, you get to visit Eagle Canyon, explore the Roman ruins of Selge, enjoy a river lunch, and optionally try rafting on wild waters. The tour lasts about 9 hours, making it a great way to see the surrounding countryside without feeling rushed.

What we love about this excursion is how smoothly it runs, thanks to well-organized transportation and a knowledgeable guide. The spectacular views of the Taurus Mountains and cliffs over 400 meters high at Eagle Canyon are genuinely breathtaking. Plus, the Roman theater at Selge adds a touch of history that enhances the experience.

One potential consideration is that the guide may primarily speak Russian, which could limit some of the storytelling if you’re expecting an English-only guide. Also, since the trip involves a fair amount of walking and physical activity, comfortable shoes and clothes are advisable.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure, history, and nature, especially those eager to see some of Turkey’s less touristy, more authentic sites. It’s perfect for active visitors who don’t mind a full day out and want to experience the rugged beauty of the Taurus Mountains along with a taste of ancient history.

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Key Points

Comprehensive Experience: Combines nature, archaeology, and adventure in one day.
Value for Money: At $32, it offers a lot—lunch, entrance fees, guiding, and optional activities.
Spectacular Scenery: Expect stunning views of Eagle Canyon and mountain landscapes.
Historical Sites: The Roman theater at Selge provides a fascinating glimpse into ancient life.
Active Fun: Rafting offers an adrenaline rush on wild, foamy waters.
Well-Organized: Multiple stops, modern transport, and a professional guide ensure smooth logistics.

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An In-Depth Look at the Eagle Canyon Tour

This tour is a carefully curated journey into the natural and historical treasures surrounding Side. Starting with a hotel pickup, you’ll travel roughly two hours through the Taurus Mountains in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus. The ride itself is part of the adventure—expect charming villages, lush forests, and panoramic views that set the tone for the day.

The Journey to Eagle Canyon

The route offers more than just transportation; it’s a scenic preview of what’s to come. The mountains and forests create a peaceful backdrop, giving you a taste of the region’s untouched beauty. The guides are usually knowledgeable, providing tidbits about the local landscape and culture, making the journey as engaging as the stops.

Exploring Eagle Canyon

Upon arrival, you’ll have around 45 minutes of free time to explore this iconic site. Eagle Canyon is famous for its imposing cliffs that soar over 400 meters, and its wild, pristine environment offers fantastic photo opportunities. We loved the way the guide explained the geological formation and shared stories about the canyon’s significance. The pathways are well-maintained, but be prepared for some uneven terrain if you want to venture further.

Authentic travelers find the raw beauty of Eagle Canyon incredibly compelling. As one reviewer put it, “The Eagle Canyon is a beautiful place,” and the views are truly worth the visit. It’s the perfect spot for nature lovers and those wanting to disconnect from city life for a while.

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Lunch by the River

After soaking in the canyon views, the tour heads to a restaurant by the river. Here, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal surrounded by natural scenery. The balance of satisfying local cuisine and a tranquil setting makes this a highlight. The included lunch gives good value, especially when you consider it’s part of a package that also covers all entrance fees and guiding.

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Discovering Selge — The Roman Treasure

Post-lunch, the focus shifts to Selge, an ancient city that dates back over two millennia. Walking around the site, you’ll see the 2200-year-old Roman theatre, a remarkable piece of history. The ancient city’s ruins, including remnants of walls, baths, and other structures, give you a real sense of what life was like in Roman times.

According to reviews, the guide’s insights add depth to the experience, making history come alive. One traveler commented, “The guide gave us the best experience at Selge,” highlighting how expert narration can elevate this part of the tour. It’s an excellent stop for history buffs and those curious about Turkey’s ancient past.

The Thrill of River Rafting

For those opting in, the tour offers a rafting experience after exploring Selge. A professional instructor briefs you on safety and techniques, and with all equipment provided, you’re set for an exhilarating ride down the river. The waters are known for being foamy and wild, perfect for thrill-seekers.

The reviews praise the rafting for its excitement and fun, with one saying, “Enjoyed an amazing rafting experience that boosted our adrenaline.” It’s a chance to get your heart pumping and enjoy Turkey’s natural watercourses in a memorable way.

Return Journey and Reflection

After the rafting, the group boards the bus for the two-hour return trip to Side, filled with the kind of memories that linger. Whether you spent your time capturing photos, chatting about the ancient ruins, or just taking in the mountain scenery, this ride provides a perfect reflection point.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At just $32, this tour packs a lot into a single day. The price includes hotel pickup/drop-off, all entrance fees, guiding services, lunch, and optional rafting. Compared to many other excursions, you’re getting a well-rounded, authentic experience without breaking the bank.

The inclusion of guiding is especially valuable, as it enriches your understanding of the sites and ensures you’re not just sightseeing but learning. The lunch by the river adds a peaceful pause amid adventure, making the day feel balanced.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Wear comfortable shoes and clothes, especially since you’ll be walking on uneven terrain and potentially getting wet during rafting.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning canyon views and ancient ruins.
If you’re not fluent in Russian, be aware that guides may primarily speak that language—though some reviews mention English speakers, so clarify when booking.
Be prepared for a full day, especially if you choose the rafting option, which requires some physical effort.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour appeals most to active travelers who relish outdoor adventures and appreciate historical sites. It’s ideal if you want to escape the busy town of Side and experience Turkey’s rugged landscape and ancient past firsthand. Nature lovers will enjoy the dramatic scenery of Eagle Canyon, while history enthusiasts will find the ruins of Selge fascinating.

It’s also suitable for those looking for good value—since the price covers nearly everything—plus a fun way to spend a full day outside the city. If you’re comfortable with a bit of physical activity and enjoy meeting fellow travelers, this trip offers an engaging, authentic experience.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
While it’s a full-day adventure involving walking and rafting, the tour is mainly suited for active individuals. Pregnant women and people with mobility impairments are advised against participating in the rafting activity.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, casual clothes, a camera, and any personal items you might need for a day outdoors. It’s also smart to carry some water and sun protection.

Are there options to skip certain parts?
Yes, the rafting is optional, so if you prefer to relax or only do the sightseeing, you can choose not to participate.

How long is the drive to Eagle Canyon?
The journey from Side takes approximately two hours each way, passing through scenic mountain landscapes.

Will the guide speak English?
Guides are available in both English and Russian, but some reviews suggest that guides may primarily speak Russian. Confirm your language preference when booking.

Is the tour available year-round?
Yes, the tour runs throughout the year, with schedules adjusted to the seasons, so you can plan a trip in any season for different scenic experiences.

What is the best way to prepare for the trip?
Dress comfortably, stay hydrated, and be ready for a day of exploration and adventure. If you’re planning to raft, wear quick-drying clothes and bring a change of dry clothes if desired.

This full-day excursion from Side offers a balanced mix of stunning landscapes, fascinating history, and outdoor fun. Whether you’re seeking a scenic escape, an adrenaline rush, or a chance to understand Turkey’s ancient past, this trip provides a memorable way to fill your day. With good guides, breathtaking views, and a fair price, it’s quite likely to be a highlight of your Turkey visit.