City of Side: Adler Canyon & Selge Guided Tour with Transfer

Imagine spending a day exploring some of Turkey’s most captivating natural and historical sites, all with the comfort of a guided tour. For around $40, you get about five hours of adventure that takes you from the lush depths of Adler Canyon to the ruins of Selge Ancient City, with scenic stops at Köprüçay River and Tazi Canyon.

What we particularly like about this experience is the variety — it’s not just about looking at pretty views but also about walking through history and experiencing Turkey’s rugged nature firsthand. The guides are experienced and multilingual, which makes the journey comfortable and educational. Plus, the opportunity to swim in a river after a hearty local lunch keeps things lively.

One potential consideration is the pace — since this is a fairly packed itinerary, you might find the day a bit brisk, especially if you like to linger at each site or take lots of photos. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children, pregnant women, or anyone with mobility issues, parts of the tour (like walking around ruins or steep canyon vistas) might be less suitable.

This tour suits travelers who love outdoor adventures, history, and stunning scenery. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a good mix of cultural exploration and natural beauty, and who want to get a taste of Turkey’s diverse landscape beyond just the beaches.

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Key Points

Diverse Experience: Combines history, nature, and adventure all in one day.
Expert Guides: Multilingual guides provide educational insights and friendly service.
Scenic Highlights: Adler Canyon, Selge, Tazi Canyon — each offers unique photos and memories.
Value for Money: At around $40, the tour includes transport, lunch, and multiple sites.
Active Day: Expect some walking, swimming, and a fair bit of sightseeing.
Suitable for Many: Best suited for travelers with moderate mobility and a love for the outdoors.

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Exploring the Details of the Tour

This guided excursion from Side offers a well-rounded look at some of Turkey’s most compelling natural and archaeological sites, all packed into a manageable five-hour window. The tour begins with hotel pickup between 08:30 and 09:15, so you’ll start your day comfortably without worrying about organizing transportation. The journey to the Taurus Mountains takes about 50 minutes, giving you time to relax and enjoy the scenic drive through the countryside.

Adler Canyon: A Natural Wonder

Once you arrive at Adler Canyon, you’ll be greeted by towering rock formations and lush greenery. Known for its breathtaking scenery, Adler Canyon is a favorite among nature lovers. You’ll have the chance to swim in the river, which is a highlight for many travelers. The cool water and peaceful surroundings make for a refreshing break after exploring the canyon’s unique rock shapes and narrow passages. The reviews praise the beautiful landscapes and friendly guides, with one mentioning that the “mountains and the canyon itself was magnificent.”

Selge Ancient City: Walking Through History

A short drive takes you to Selge, an ancient city perched amid rugged hills. The city’s history stretches back to over 2,000 BC, with influences from the Lydian, Macedonian, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman periods. The site includes ruins such as an amphitheater, ancient theater, and fascinating rock-cut tombs. Travelers often comment on the spectacular views from Selge, especially the amphitheater overlooking the surrounding mountains. A guide will provide insights into the city’s rich history, making your walk more meaningful.

One reviewer noted, “Yusuf, our guide, was very knowledgeable and made the ruins come alive,” emphasizing the importance of a good guide when exploring ancient sites. The photo opportunities here are plentiful, with panoramic vistas and ancient stonework to frame your memories.

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Lunch with a View

After exploring Selge, you’ll enjoy a local meal at a riverside restaurant with views of the Taurus Mountains. The meal usually includes hearty, freshly cooked Turkish dishes, and many reviews mention the quality and freshness of the food — one reviewer called it “well cooked and delicious.” Following lunch, you might want to relax and take in the scenery, feeling the gentle tension of a day well spent.

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Tazi Canyon: Turkey’s Largest Canyon

Next up is Tazi Canyon, the biggest canyon in Turkey, soaring 410 meters high and 40 meters wide. Based on glacial formations, this protected UNESCO site offers some of the most breathtaking vistas of the trip. Expect to take some photos from the viewpoint, and if you’re feeling adventurous, perhaps even a short walk along the ridge. The reviews are glowing about the spectacular scenery, with one saying, “The views are spectacular, especially at the top of the canyon.”

Köprüçay River & Relaxation Breaks

On the way back, you’ll stop at the Köprüçay River, where you can enjoy a relaxing break with tea or coffee, soaking in the peaceful setting. This is an excellent opportunity to reflect on your day, chat with fellow travelers, and enjoy some local hospitality. The value for money is evident here, as the tour includes this natural coffee or tea break at no extra cost.

Practical Considerations

The entire day is structured to balance sightseeing with some downtime, but keep in mind that the schedule is quite full. The transportation is by air-conditioned vehicle, and the group size tends to be small enough for personalized attention. The total duration, including travel and stops, is about five hours, but some reviewers note that with pickup and drop-off, the day can extend slightly beyond that.

What Travelers Say

The overwhelmingly positive reviews highlight knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and good value for money. One traveler raved, “Yusuf is a great guide, and we had an amazing time at Selge,” while another appreciated the well-planned itinerary and not feeling rushed. Many also appreciated the opportunity to swim, thanks to the combination of natural pools and river swimming, making the experience both active and relaxing.

Some reviewers mention the quality of the transportation, describing the roads as winding but manageable, and the guides as caring and friendly. The lunch at the riverside was consistently praised as delicious, fresh, and well-portioned.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Adler Canyon and Selge tour offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, historical insights, and outdoor activities. It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy moderate physical activity, don’t mind a bit of walking and driving, and want a comprehensive taste of Turkey’s landscape and history in a single day. The tour’s price point makes it a very good deal considering the inclusions — transport, lunch, and guided visits.

If your idea of a perfect day involves photo opportunities, culture, and being out in nature, you’ll find plenty to love here. The guides’ multilingual skills and the diverse stops make it accessible and engaging. However, if you prefer to explore more leisurely or have mobility concerns, you might want to consider shorter or less intense excursions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in air-conditioned vehicles, making logistics one less thing to worry about.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about five hours, with transportation, sightseeing, and breaks included. Be prepared for a busy but rewarding day.

Is lunch included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a local, freshly prepared meal near Köprüçay River, providing a good taste of Turkish cuisine in a scenic setting.

Are guides multilingual?
Absolutely. Guides speak English, German, Russian, and Turkish fluently, ensuring clear explanations and friendly service.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, swimming in the river at Adler Canyon is part of the experience, so bring your swimsuit and towel if you wish to take a dip.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While most children over 5 will enjoy the trip, it’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and outdoor activities. Pregnant women and people with mobility issues may find parts of the tour challenging.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, camera, and a water bottle are recommended. Packing a light jacket or hoodie for the canyon viewpoints is also a good idea since it can get breezy.

Final Summary

This guided tour from Side offers an enriching combination of scenic natural landscapes, ancient ruins, and authentic Turkish hospitality, all wrapped into a manageable half-day adventure. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a mix of history, nature, and active exploration without the hassle of organizing transport or meals. With knowledgeable guides, beautiful vistas, and good value, it promises a memorable day out.

Whether you’re a history buff eager to walk through Selge’s ruins or a nature lover excited to see Tazi Canyon, this tour delivers a well-rounded experience. Its blend of cultural insights, stunning scenery, and relaxed pace makes it a solid choice for many visiting the Antalya region.