City of Side: Sapadere Canyon & Alanya with Cable Car Option

City of Side: Sapadere Canyon & Alanya with Cable Car Option

This full-day excursion from Side takes you to the scenic Sapadere Canyon and lively Alanya, with an optional cable car ride to Alanya Castle. Priced at around $36 per person, it offers a mix of nature, history, and vibrant city life—all in one package. The trip typically lasts about 10 hours, including transfers and free exploration time.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is how it combines outdoor adventure with cultural sights. The canyon hike offers stunning views and a chance to see local wildlife up close—colorful birds and butterflies abound. The lunch stop at a local restaurant is another highlight, providing a hearty meal after some energetic walking. Plus, the optional cable car ride adds a fun, elevated perspective of Alanya’s fortress and coastline.

One potential consideration is the long drive from Side to Alanya and Sapadere, roughly 105 km, which means a good breakfast or snacks are advisable to keep energy levels up. Also, if you’re interested in visiting Goblins Cave, it’s an extra fee, so budget accordingly. This experience suits travelers who love outdoor activities, panoramic views, and authentic city exploration—great for those wanting a balanced mix of nature and culture.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Natural beauty: The canyon’s waterfalls and views create a memorable outdoor experience.
• Cultural and historical sites: Free time in Alanya includes options like Cleopatra Beach and Alanya Castle.
• Flexible options: The cable car ride adds a fun, scenic element, though it’s an optional upgrade.
• Authentic local cuisine: Enjoy a well-liked lunch at a local restaurant, a nice break from sightseeing.
• Wildlife spotting: Expect to see colorful birds and butterflies during the canyon hike.
• Logistical note: Expect a long journey from Side, so plan your breakfast and snacks accordingly.

Detailed Review of the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure begins early with hotel pickups in Side, typically around 9:00 am, depending on your location. The transport is in an air-conditioned bus, making the long drive (about 105 km) more comfortable. The journey itself is part of the experience—scenery whizzing past as you anticipate the natural wonder of Sapadere Canyon and the bustling city of Alanya.

The long drive is a factor to consider; it’s about 1.5 hours each way. As one reviewer noted, “there is a long way from Side to Alanya & Sapadere Canyon,” so having a good breakfast and some snacks can keep you energized for the day.

Sapadere Canyon: The Heart of Nature

Once you arrive at Sapadere, the real fun begins. The canyon, formed by years of wind, water, and ice, offers a dramatic landscape of waterfalls and lush greenery. Your guide will lead you on a hiking route where you can expect to spot colorful birds and butterflies—an excellent photo opportunity.

Many travelers comment on the beauty of the waterfalls and the cool mountain mineral waters that trickle down from the Taurus Mountains. The coolness of the water can be a refreshing relief after the hike, and swimming is an option for those willing to brave the chilly currents.

One reviewer shared, “The streams were super beautiful,” emphasizing the scenic appeal. The hike is quite a stretch—around 750 meters of uneven terrain—so being comfortable on foot is important. For those who aren’t very mobile, this part might be a challenge, as the path is long and sometimes steep.

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Goblin’s Cave and Optional Extras

After the hike, you’ll have the chance to visit Goblin’s Cave for an additional fee (around 3.50 euros for adults). The cave is small but interesting, especially if you enjoy exploring underground formations. The reviews suggest that 30 minutes is enough to explore the cave comfortably.

Alternatively, you can choose to swim in the mountain mineral waters, which many find to be a calming experience, especially on a warm day.

Lunch and Rest

A well-organized stopover at a local restaurant awaits, where you can enjoy a hearty lunch featuring options like chicken or trout, rice, and vegetables. According to reviews, the meal is tasty and filling—plenty of food to recharge after the canyon hike. One guest mentioned, “It’s delicious and enough,” which suggests a good value for the price.

Alanya Exploration and Free Time

Post-lunch, the tour moves into its city portion. You’ll get about 2 hours of free time in Alanya’s lively city center. Options include visiting Cleopatra Beach, walking along the Red Tower, or riding the cable car to Alanya Castle for sweeping views of the coast.

If you opted for the cable car (which is an extra cost), you’ll spend your free time enjoying the ride and exploring Alanya Castle. Several travelers appreciated the “great views” from the cable car and the chance to see the city from above. However, one review notes some mix-ups: “When we arrived, the guide said our trip was without a cable car,” which led to some disappointment but was later resolved with a partial refund.

The free time in Alanya is ideal for those who like to explore at their own pace—whether browsing shops, relaxing on the beach, or visiting historic sites.

Return Trip

After a full day of adventures, the bus returns to Side, usually arriving back around 7 pm. It’s a long day, but the variety of sights and activities makes it worthwhile. Travelers often remark on how well-organized the transfer felt, with plenty of time built into the schedule to enjoy each part.

What We Love About This Tour

The natural beauty of Sapadere Canyon truly steals the show. The waterfalls, fresh mountain air, and abundant wildlife make it a standout experience for outdoor lovers. Plus, the city exploration gives an authentic taste of Alanya’s mix of history and beach life.

We also appreciate the flexibility of the optional cable car, giving a chance for panoramic views without extra hassle if you choose. The lunch is another highlight—home-cooked style, satisfying, and well-paced, perfect after some energetic hiking.

One Consideration Before Booking

The biggest consideration is the long drive from Side to the canyon and Alanya, which could be tiring, especially if you’re not a fan of long bus rides. Also, if visiting Goblin’s Cave interests you, remember there’s an additional fee. Lastly, if you have mobility challenges, the canyon’s terrain might be difficult to navigate comfortably.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and scenic landscapes will find this trip a perfect fit. It’s ideal for those wanting a break from beaches and a chance to hike and explore natural sites. The free time in Alanya is great for culturally curious visitors who want to see sights like Cleopatra Beach and Alanya Castle without rushing. If you’re keen on photos, the views from the canyon and castle are a bonus.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-rounded day of nature, history, and city life, all at a reasonable price. The stunning views of waterfalls, waterfalls, and panoramic city vistas make it worthwhile for anyone craving authentic Turkish scenery away from crowded beaches. The combination of hiking, exploring caves, and free time in Alanya caters to a variety of interests.

While the long drive might be a drawback for some, the overall experience provides excellent value for those wanting a mix of outdoor adventure and cultural exploration. It’s best suited for active travelers, photography enthusiasts, and those who enjoy discovering local towns at a relaxed pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned bus, a hearty lunch, a professional guide, entry to Sapadere Canyon, and the cable car ride if you selected that option.

Is the cable car ride included?
No, the cable car to Alanya Castle is an optional upgrade. If chosen, it provides great views but costs extra. If not, you’ll enjoy the walk and exploring Alanya on foot.

How long does the drive from Side to Alanya take?
The journey is approximately 105 km and takes about 1.5 hours each way, so be prepared for a longer travel time.

Can I visit Goblin’s Cave?
Yes, but there is an additional fee of around 3.50 euros, and about 30 minutes are usually enough to explore it.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, swimwear, a towel, a camera for photos, rain gear if needed, and cash for extras or purchases.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the terrain and walking involved might be challenging for those with mobility impairments or who use wheelchairs.

What happens if I miss the pickup?
You should meet the guide at a designated spot in front of the Anadolu Türkü Evi in the Old City of Side. The tour provides detailed instructions the day before.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

This tour balances outdoor adventure with cultural exploration, making it a great choice for travelers looking to combine scenery and city life. Whether you’re hiking through waterfalls, exploring caves, or soaking in views from Alanya Castle, it promises a memorable day in Turkey’s Antalya Province.

You can check availability for your dates here: