City of Side: Green Canyon Tour w/ Boat, Lunch & Fishing

If you’re visiting the Antalya region and craving a taste of natural beauty, the Green Canyon tour offers a scenic escape that combines boat rides, swimming, a hearty lunch, and even fishing — all for around $40 per person. The tour lasts roughly 6.5 hours, making it an ideal half-day adventure. It begins with a comfortable hotel pickup, so you won’t need to worry about logistics, and takes you to some of the most picturesque spots around the Oymapnar Dam and Green Canyon itself.

What we found particularly appealing about this experience is how it balances active moments like swimming and fishing with relaxing boat rides and tasty local cuisine. The scenic boat trip offers a peaceful way to see the canyon’s striking landscapes, while the lakeside lunch showcases traditional Turkish flavors. Plus, engaging in fishing adds an authentic touch that sets this tour apart from more cookie-cutter excursions.

One consideration is that the reviews highlight some inconsistency—more on that shortly—and a few travelers have faced issues with pick-up. If you’re looking for a seamless, all-in-one nature escape, this might be a hit or miss depending on the day and guide. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic views, and a casual, no-fuss itinerary.

If that sounds like your kind of day, you’ll likely enjoy this tour, especially if you’re eager to get out of the city, explore some of Turkey’s beautiful waterways, and indulge in simple yet satisfying local fare.

Key Points

Natural Beauty: The tour showcases the distinctive landscape of Green Canyon and Oymapnar Dam, perfect for nature lovers.
Boat Experience: A 4-hour boat trip allows for immersive views and a chance to swim in the cool waters.
Authentic Meal: Lunch features Turkish favorites like meatballs, chicken, or fish, served with rice and salad.
Fishing Option: You can try your hand at fishing, adding a genuine touch of local life.
Flexible & Easy: Pickup and drop-off at your hotel make it convenient, but check availability and reviews for consistency.
Mixed Reviews: While some travelers praise the views and guide knowledge, others report logistical issues or lack of communication.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: A Day of Scenic Highlights and Leisure

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup, which is generally smooth—just remember to wait at the main entrance gate about 10 minutes early. You’ll then hop into a vehicle headed toward the Oymapnar Dam, a stunning spot where the dam’s architecture contrasts beautifully with the surrounding greenery. This is a great photo opportunity, especially if you’re into capturing impressive engineering amid natural scenery.

From there, it’s a scenic drive to the Green Canyon itself. When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the sight of the vast, turquoise lake that gives the canyon its name. The centerpiece of the day is the 4-hour boat tour, during which you’ll glide across the lake, taking in the towering cliffs, lush foliage, and peaceful water. The boat is typically spacious enough for groups, and the guides usually provide commentary, although details vary.

Swimming is a highlight—after some time on the boat, you’ll have the chance to jump into the clear waters for a refreshing dip. This is perfect if you’re up for a little adventure or just want to cool off from the Turkish sun. The waters are usually inviting, and the views from the boat and shoreline are captivating.

Following the boat trip, you’ll stop at a lakeside restaurant for lunch. The menu is straightforward but flavorful, offering meatballs, chicken, or fish, all served with rice and salad. The meal is simple but hearty, and soft drinks are included, helping you recharge for the remaining activities.

Post-lunch, the tour offers an opportunity to go fishing—a genuine experience that connects you to local traditions. Whether you catch anything or not, it’s a tranquil way to spend some time on the water.

The return journey includes another boat ride back to your starting point, with a chance to jump in the water once more, if you wish. The entire experience wraps up with your transfer back to your hotel, usually around 6.5 hours after departure.

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What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Our favorite aspects include the breathtaking views on the boat trip and the authentic local lunch. The landscape here isn’t just beautiful but also offers a peaceful respite from busy tourist spots. The boat ride, in particular, is a highlight—gliding between towering cliffs and lush greenery, you truly get a sense of the scale and serenity of Green Canyon.

Plus, the fishing opportunity adds a layer of authenticity, giving you a chance to slow down and enjoy a slice of Turkish lake life. The presence of a knowledgeable guide helps make the experience more engaging and informative.

Possible Drawbacks

That said, not all reviews are glowing. Some travelers have encountered logistical hiccups—notably, one reviewer mentioned their pickup was missed, and the tour was canceled due to insufficient participants. Such issues highlight the importance of confirming your booking and possibly choosing tours with flexible cancellation options.

Also, since the experience relies heavily on weather conditions—clear skies make for better views and swimming—bad weather could diminish the enjoyment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for nature lovers, families, and adventurers eager to spend a relaxed day on the water. It also suits travelers looking for an affordable outing that combines sightseeing, outdoor activities, and local cuisine. If you’re prone to logistical frustrations or prefer highly structured tours, you might want to verify the reliability of the provider beforehand.

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Transportation & Logistics

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which is convenient, especially if you’re staying in Side or the surrounding area. The transportation is typically comfortable, though group sizes can vary. The drive to Oymapnar Dam usually takes around an hour, giving you a chance to enjoy some scenic views along the way.

Make sure to be ready at the hotel’s main entrance about 10 minutes before your scheduled pickup time. Some reviews suggest that punctuality can sometimes be an issue, so it’s a good idea to confirm your pickup time the day before.

Enjoy being on the water? Here are other boat experiences we've looked into in Manavgat

The Dam & Scenic Drives

The first stop at Oymapnar Dam offers a mixture of impressive engineering and natural beauty. You’ll get a quick break to take photos and admire the view, which often includes the water reservoir, dam structure, and surrounding hills. It’s a quiet, picturesque spot that sets the tone for the rest of the day.

Green Canyon & Lake Boat Ride

Once at Green Canyon, the boat ride is the main event. The boat usually departs with a knowledgeable guide who points out landmarks and offers insights into the area’s geology and flora. The 4-hour boat trip allows plenty of time to take in the surroundings, snap photos, and relax. The boat’s calm waters and towering cliffs create a sense of tranquility and grandeur that few other spots in Turkey can match.

Here’s where you’ll love the swimming—the water is generally clean and inviting. Bring your swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen, and prepare to cool off in this natural setting. The boat also often pauses in a few spots, offering opportunities for photo ops and quick dips.

Lunch & Local Flavors

Post-boat, you’ll head to a nearby lakeside restaurant. The lunch menu is straightforward, offering Turkish staples like meatballs, chicken, or fish, accompanied by fragrant rice and fresh salads. The included beverages, such as tea, coffee, mineral water, and soft drinks, round out the meal.

The lunch offers good value, especially given its scenic location and the quality of the food. It’s a satisfying meal that fuels you for the afternoon activities and allows you to experience authentic Turkish cuisine in a relaxed setting.

Fishing & Return Journey

After lunch, the fishing segment offers a slow-paced activity perfect for those wanting a break from sightseeing. Even if you don’t catch anything, the calm waters and quiet surroundings create a meditative atmosphere.

The journey back to your hotel involves another boat ride, during which you might want to take advantage of the last swimming opportunity. The return transit is generally smooth, and guides typically help ensure everyone is comfortable.

This Green Canyon tour offers a mellow, scenic day with plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy Turkey’s natural beauty. It’s well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts, families with children, and anyone eager to combine a boat trip with a taste of local cuisine. If you appreciate authentic experiences—like fishing and swimming in a peaceful lake—this trip will resonate with you.

However, if you prefer highly organized tours with guaranteed schedules, or if you’re concerned about logistical hiccups, consider confirming your booking well in advance and reading recent reviews.

The combination of stunning vistas, friendly guides, and laid-back activities makes this a worthwhile, budget-friendly day out for those looking to see a different side of Turkey beyond the beaches and bustling towns.

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient, especially if you’re staying in Side or nearby.

How long is the boat trip?
The boat trip lasts approximately 4 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy the scenery, swim, and relax.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring a hat, sunscreen, a change of clothes, and a towel. These will help you stay comfortable during swimming and outdoor activities.

Are meals included?
Yes, lunch is included and features Turkish dishes such as meatballs, chicken, or fish, served with rice and salad. Soft drinks are also provided.

Can I fish during the tour?
Yes, fishing is part of the experience, allowing you to try your hand at catching fish in the lake.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The information indicates that the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to confirm specific needs when booking.

Are there any reviews about the guide’s knowledge?
Some travelers mention that guides are knowledgeable, which helps enhance the experience, especially when learning about the area.

What if the tour is canceled or I miss my pickup?
There have been instances where pickups were missed or tours canceled due to insufficient participants. It’s wise to confirm all details beforehand and consider flexible booking options.

To sum it up, the Green Canyon tour provides a balance of scenery, activity, and authentic local flavor at an accessible price point. While it has some variability in execution, most travelers find the natural beauty and relaxed pace worth the trip. It’s a solid choice for those seeking a day away from the beaches to enjoy Turkey’s stunning landscapes and outdoor pleasures.