Alanya Green Canyon Boat Trip With Lunch & Unlimited Soft Drinks

Exploring the Alanya Green Canyon Boat Trip: An Authentic Day Out

If you’re visiting Alanya and craving a break from busy beaches and crowded tourist spots, this Green Canyon boat trip offers a refreshing escape. For around $50, you’ll spend about 7 to 8 hours exploring stunning lake and forest scenery, visiting dramatic Roman bridges, and enjoying a leisurely cruise on a spacious boat. Guided by friendly local guides, the day is filled with scenic stops, swimming opportunities, and a laid-back atmosphere.

What we love about this experience is the opportunity to see Turkey’s famed emerald lake — the Green Canyon itself — along with the chance to relax on deck, soak up the natural beauty, and indulge in unlimited soft drinks. The itinerary includes a variety of highlights, from ancient Roman structures to peaceful lakesides, making it a well-rounded day (with some room for improvement).

One possible consideration is that some travelers have found the transport to the canyon a bit rough and the guides occasionally less attentive, as some reviews reveal mixed feelings. Still, if you’re looking for an authentic, family-friendly adventure that balances nature, history, and fun, this trip hits the mark.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate scenic beauty, historical sites, and a relaxed pace. It’s especially good for families, couples, or anyone interested in exploring Turkey’s natural landscapes without the hassle of planning multiple excursions.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The trip offers breathtaking vistas of the emerald Green Canyon and surrounding natural scenery.
• Historical Stops: Includes visits to a 2,000-year-old Roman bridge and the impressive Oymapnar Dam.
• Relaxing Cruise: A 14 km boat trip with stops for swimming and wildlife watching, perfect for unwinding.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Lunch at a waterside restaurant with unlimited soft drinks adds value.
• Hassle-Free Pickup: Hotel transfers from Alanya make the day smoother.
• Mixed Reviews: Some travelers experienced rough transport or uneven guide service, so manage expectations accordingly.

A Detailed Look at the Green Canyon Boat Trip

Starting Out: Convenience and Comfort

We begin the day with a hotel pickup in Alanya around 9:00 am, which is a big plus for those wanting a stress-free start. The transportation is in a modern, comfortable bus driven by an English-speaking guide who provides some background on the sites along the way. This personal touch helps set the tone for the day, especially if you enjoy learning snippets about local landmarks during transit.

First Stop: Oymapnar Dam Lake

Our first destination is the Oymapnar Dam Lake, which takes about an hour. This large dam is one of Turkey’s biggest, offering views of the vast water body and the lush surroundings. The guide explains the dam’s importance, giving you context about how it supplies water and hydroelectric power to the region. This stop is more than just a photo opportunity—it’s an insight into Turkey’s infrastructure amid natural beauty.

Roman Bridge and the Historic Charm

Next, after a short drive, we visit a 2000-year-old Roman bridge. This ancient structure stands as a testament to Turkey’s long history of civilization and engineering. Some reviews mention this as a highlight, providing a tangible connection to history amid the natural landscape. It’s a peaceful spot for photos, and you’ll probably love the contrast of old stone against the surrounding greenery.

Lunch by the Lake

Midday, we pause at a lakeside restaurant for a traditional Turkish lunch. The atmosphere is cozy and relaxed, with scenic views that make the meal more enjoyable. The included lunch is a good value, especially considering the unlimited soft drinks that come with it. Many reviewers appreciate this break, noting that it’s a perfect chance to recharge before the boat trip.

The Green Canyon Boat Experience

The central part of the tour is a spacious boat cruise along the Green Canyon, which spans about 14 km. The boat is comfortable, with plenty of room to sunbathe and take in the views. This is the highlight for many—an opportunity to witness Turkey’s emerald lake from the water, with the chance to stop for swimming in the clear waters.

Expect some stops along the way—ideal for snapping photos or just relaxing. If you’re a swimmer or just love cool water, bring your swimsuit. Several guests mention they enjoyed swimming or watching wildlife during the cruise, making it a truly memorable segment.

Wildlife and Landscape

The boat ride offers plenty of chances to observe the rich natural surroundings—forests, cliffs, and shimmering waters. For wildlife enthusiasts, it’s a relaxing way to see nature without strenuous hikes. The scenery, as described by some travelers, is truly impressive, with many noting “wonderful landscapes” and “beautiful views.”

Return and End of the Day

As the boat trip concludes, a comfortable bus takes us back to Alanya, arriving in the early afternoon. The trip wraps up with a return to your hotel, leaving you with time to relax or explore local sights further.

What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews paint a mixed but generally positive picture. Many travelers praise the stunning landscapes and the fun boat experience. For example, one reviewer states, “We had a lot of fun during the tour organized by Mete. Kate and the team incited water battles between buses. We have seen wonderful landscapes and swam in the Green Canyon.” That sense of fun and adventure is what makes the trip memorable.

Others, however, share more critical insights. One reviewer expressed disappointment, noting, “No canyon seen!” and criticizing the trip’s overall organization. They also described the transport as rough and the guide as disrespectful, which suggests that some parts of the day might be less polished than hoped.

It’s worth noting that the price offers good value considering the included lunch, boat cruise, and hotel transfers. But, as with many group tours, the experience can vary based on the guide and the day’s conditions.

Deep Dive: What to Expect at Each Stop

Oymapnar Dam Lake

This stop is more than just a quick look. It’s a chance to see the scale of Turkey’s infrastructure while enjoying peaceful lake views. The guide explains the dam’s role in the region’s water management, adding educational value for those interested in how natural and man-made features coexist.

The Roman Bridge

Standing on an ancient Roman bridge is special. It’s a tangible reminder of Turkey’s long history, and the setting makes for some picturesque photos. You might find yourself contemplating the engineering skills of people 2000 years ago while surrounded by modern-day beauty.

Lunch Break

The lakeside restaurant offers a taste of local cuisine in a scenic setting. Many find the meal satisfying and the environment relaxing, especially with the views of the lake. The included soft drinks keep things light and refreshing, perfect for rehydrating after a morning exploring.

The Boat Ride

This is where most travelers find the trip shines. The boat itself is large and comfortable, with plenty of space to sunbathe or sit with a good camera. The cruise offers a dynamic view of the canyon, with plenty of photo opportunities. If you’re into swimming, you’ll love the chance to dip into the emerald waters.

Wildlife and Nature Viewing

Keep your eyes peeled during the cruise; the natural scenery is impressive, and wildlife might be spotted along the way. It’s a peaceful, postcard-worthy experience that captures the essence of Turkey’s natural beauty.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for those who want a full-day adventure that combines scenic views, history, and relaxation. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy being on the water and exploring nature will find plenty to enjoy here. If you’re keen on historic sites alongside natural beauty, the Roman bridge and dam add meaningful context.

However, those expecting a tightly organized, high-end experience might be disappointed—some reviews mention rough transport and inconsistent guides. Still, for the price and the value of the included experiences, it offers a memorable day out.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For an authentic, laid-back exploration of Turkey’s Green Canyon, this tour offers a lot. The combination of scenic boat rides, historical sites, and lakeside meals makes for a diverse and enjoyable day. The unlimited soft drinks and hotel transfers add convenience, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

While some travelers report minor issues with transport or guide attentiveness, most agree that the stunning landscapes and relaxation opportunities outweigh these inconveniences. It’s especially suited for nature lovers and families looking for a safe, fun day without too many surprises.

Just keep your expectations realistic, bring a camera, and be ready for a day blending Turkey’s natural beauty with a splash of history.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a lakeside lunch, the Green Canyon boat cruise, guiding services, and unlimited soft drinks.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting around 9:00 am and returning in the early afternoon.

Are there opportunities to swim?
Yes, during the boat cruise, you can stop to swim in the emerald waters if you wish.

Is transportation comfortable?
Transportation is in a modern, cabrio bus for the transfers, but some reviews mention that the ride to the dam can be rough.

Can children participate?
Yes, the tour is described as family-friendly and suitable for most ages.

What sites do we visit besides the canyon?
You’ll see Oymapnar Dam, the Roman bridge, and enjoy a lakeside lunch.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely, many solo travelers join and find it a good way to meet others and see the area’s highlights.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, swimwear if you want to swim, sun protection, and any personal items for the day.

What about language and guides?
An English-speaking guide accompanies the trip, providing explanations and support throughout.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

This Green Canyon boat trip is a solid choice for anyone wanting to see Turkey’s natural beauty while enjoying a relaxed, full-day experience. It’s not perfect, but the views and the chance to unwind make it a worthwhile addition to your Alanya itinerary.