Side: Green Lake Boat Tour, Swimming, and Oymapinar Dam

This six-hour tour from Side promises a mix of stunning landscapes, cultural stops, and fun water activities. For about a moderate price, you’ll visit Green Lake, take a scenic boat ride, dip into the cool waters, and explore the impressive Oymapinar Dam. The tour also offers optional visits to the Manavgat Waterfall, making it a well-rounded day for those wanting a taste of nature, history, and local life.

What we love about this trip is how it combines active and relaxing moments—whether you’re cruising along Green Lake’s canyon or enjoying a leisurely swim. The visit to Oymapinar Dam is a highlight that appeals to anyone interested in engineering marvels, and the optional waterfall makes for a scenic finish. A potential consideration is that the tour may shift depending on weather or operational needs, so flexibility is key.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy nature, culture, and authentic local sights without wanting to spend all day on one activity. It’s especially appealing if you’re curious about the region’s history and love a bit of adventure, but if you’re looking for a very niche or luxury experience, it might be a little straightforward. Overall, it’s a balanced day that offers value for those wanting a comprehensive taste of Antalya’s natural and cultural highlights.

Key Points

• Diverse Experience: Combines boat rides, swimming, and sightseeing in one tour.
• Scenic Highlights: Green Lake Canyon and Oymapinar Dam are both impressive sights.
• Cultural Touch: Visits include a historic mosque and ancient city site.
• Flexible & Inclusive: Lunch, guide, insurance, and hotel pickup included; optional waterfall visit.
• Good for all ages: Suitable for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and cultural encounters.
• Weather-dependent: The sequence and certain features can change based on weather conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Green Lake Adventure

Starting Off: Cultural and Historical Highlights

The day begins with easy hotel pickups from Side, ensuring that transportation is hassle-free. The guide, who speaks English, Russian, or Turkish, is your portal into understanding the sights ahead. First, a visit to a historic mosque introduces you to local architecture and craftsmanship, setting a tone of cultural appreciation before you dive into the natural wonders.

Next, you’ll explore the Lyrbe Agora, an ancient site filled with stories and stonework—an excellent way to get a sense of the area’s long history. These stops are perfect for history buffs or anyone curious about the roots of the region, providing a quiet contrast to the later lively boat ride.

The Green Lake and Its Canyon

The true star of the day is the Green Lake in the Green Lake Canyon. The lake’s distinctive green hues aren’t just pretty—they’re a result of the mineral-rich waters and lush surroundings. The boat ride here is about an hour, giving you plenty of time to relax, snap photos, and soak in the scenery. The boat is comfortable, and the calm waters make for an easy cruise, even if you’re not a seasoned sailor.

One of the best parts? The opportunity to swim in the lake afterward. According to reviews, many travelers appreciated the chance to cool off in the crystal-clear waters. Just remember to bring your swimsuit and towel—these are essentials for enjoying the moment fully. The water is said to be refreshing, and the natural setting makes it feel like an escape from everyday life.

Lunch and Local Flavors

After the boat ride and swim, a delicious lunch awaits. The specifics aren’t detailed, but it’s included in the tour price, making this a good value. Expect simple, tasty fare—probably Turkish or regional dishes—that will give you energy for the rest of the day.

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Visiting the Oymapinar Dam

Post-lunch, the tour heads to the Oymapinar Dam, a huge engineering achievement that supplies much of the region’s water and electricity. It’s a fascinating stop for anyone interested in how modern infrastructure shapes rural landscapes. The dam’s size and construction details make it a worthwhile visit, especially since it’s not just a functional structure but also a scenic spot with views over the river and surrounding terrain.

Optional Stop at Manavgat Waterfall

The tour concludes with an optional visit to the Manavgat Waterfall, which many travelers find particularly scenic. The waterfall isn’t just a pretty sight; it’s also a lively place where you might see locals and travelers alike enjoying the natural spectacle. There’s an entry fee that you pay directly to the guide if you choose to go, so consider whether you want to include this peaceful, picturesque ending.

The Orange Grove and Final Touches

On the way back, a visit to an orange grove offers a taste of local agriculture. Here, you might sample fresh juice and learn about regional fruit production—another small but memorable highlight.

Practicalities and Considerations

The entire tour runs about six hours, with pick-up and drop-off included, making it a convenient way to see several highlights without a full day’s commitment. The tour is designed to be accessible, but it isn’t suitable for wheelchair users. Keep in mind, the sequence of stops can change depending on weather or operational needs, and sometimes the guide might use an audio system to ensure everyone hears the commentary.

Authenticity and Value

This tour offers genuine value by mixing nature, history, and local culture in one day. The inclusion of lunch, guide, and insurance means you won’t have to worry about extra costs—except for optional entries like the waterfall. It caters well to travelers who want to see the region’s highlights without overloading their day or breaking the bank.

The reviews mention that the tour is well-organized, with many appreciating the smooth logistics and the opportunity to enjoy stunning views. One traveler noted, “Was een goeie activiteit, goed geregeld,” which suggests overall satisfaction. The opportunity to swim and relax in scenic surroundings makes this a memorable adventure for many.

What Could Be Improved?

Some travelers might find the schedule a bit flexible, with certain stops potentially shifting around. If you’re looking for a strict timetable or specific activities, clarify with your guide ahead of time. Also, since the waterfall entry is extra, you might want to budget for that if it interests you.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those who want an active, scenic, and culturally engaging day. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy boat rides, swimming, and learning about regional engineering feats. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find plenty to enjoy, especially if they appreciate natural beauty and relaxed sightseeing.

If you prefer a more intense or luxury-focused experience, or if mobility is an issue, you might want to explore other options. But for those seeking a well-rounded day with good value and authentic sights, this tour hits many marks.

FAQ

• How long is the tour?
  It lasts about six hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and activities.

• What is included in the price?
  Hotel pickup and drop-off, guide, lunch, insurance, and a boat ride on Green Lake are included.

• Can I swim in Green Lake?
  Yes, swimming is included after the boat ride, so bring your swimwear and towel.

• Is there an option to visit Manavgat Waterfall?
  Yes, it is optional and payable directly to the guide. You can choose whether or not to visit.

• Are drinks included in the tour?
  No, drinks are not included. You may want to bring some or purchase beverages during stops.

• Is the tour suitable for children?
  Generally yes, especially if they enjoy water activities and sightseeing. However, check your specific child’s needs.

• What should I bring?
  Comfortable shoes, swimwear, towel, and comfortable clothing are recommended.

• Will the itinerary change?
  Yes, depending on weather and operational conditions, stops and sequences might vary.

• Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
  No, it is not suitable for wheelchair users.

• How do I pay for extra activities like the waterfall?
  You pay the guide directly if you choose to visit the waterfall.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour offers a balanced blend of natural beauty, cultural insights, and light adventure. It’s a smart choice if you want to see some of Antalya’s most scenic spots without the hassle of organizing every detail yourself. The combination of boat rides, swimming, and engineering marvels makes it a well-rounded experience that caters to a variety of interests.

Travelers who enjoy stunning views, relaxing water activities, and learning about local landmarks will find this tour especially rewarding. Its affordability and inclusive approach make it a practical pick for those wanting a comfortable yet enriching day out.

Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just in need of a fun break from the beach, this tour offers genuine value wrapped in scenic splendor. Pack your swimsuit, bring your curiosity, and prepare for a memorable day exploring some of the best sights in Antalya’s surroundings.

You can check availability for your dates here: