City of Side: Taz Canyon & Rafting with Optional Quad+Buggy

If you’re visiting the Antalya Province and craving a day that combines breathtaking scenery and adrenaline-pumping activities, this Taz Canyon & Rafting Tour from Side might just be your perfect match. Starting early around 9:30 AM with easy hotel pickup, you’ll spend about six hours exploring the rugged beauty of Taz Canyon, enjoying a thrilling rafting trip, and possibly adding optional adventures like quad or buggy rides. It’s a well-rounded experience that balances nature, culture, and excitement all in one day.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the chance to see impressive geological formations in Taz Canyon from viewpoints accessible via off-road vehicles, followed by the adrenaline rush of rafting on the Köprülü River. We also appreciate that the tour includes a delicious Turkish lunch—a great way to refuel—plus hassle-free transportation from Side, which means no worries about navigating yourself.

A possible consideration is that additional activities such as ziplining, quad biking, or jeeps are optional extras—meaning you’d pay extra if you want those thrills. Also, the tour’s sequence might vary depending on weather or operational considerations, so don’t expect a rigid schedule. Overall, it’s best suited for active travelers who love stunning landscapes and outdoor fun, and who don’t mind a bit of unpredictability for the sake of authentic adventure.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary of hiking, rafting, and optional activities ensures a full day of adventure.
• Comfortable transfers and scenic drives make logistics simple and enjoyable.
• Professional guides and safety briefings help keep the experience secure and informative.
• Variety of activities caters to different interests, from nature lovers to thrill-seekers.
• Authentic Turkish lunch provides a taste of local cuisine.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

Starting Your Day in Side

The tour kicks off with hotel pickups around 9:30 AM, which makes it easy to start your adventure without fussing over transportation. The drive from Side to Köprülü Canyon National Park is scenic, with brief stops for panoramic views—perfect opportunities to snap photos of the rugged mountains and lush landscapes. We loved the way the guide emphasized the area’s geological features—these stops aren’t just “photo ops,” but real moments to appreciate the natural grandeur.

Exploring Taz Canyon

Once at the base, you’ll get a safety briefing before heading into the mountains in open-top off-road vehicles. The highlight here is the guided hike through Taz Canyon, which reveals impressive rock formations and narrow gorges. The guides are knowledgeable, sharing insights into the area’s geology and history—though they might not always accompany you inside the canyon itself, they provide clear instructions and point you toward key viewpoints.

The views from scenic viewpoints are genuinely stunning, as one reviewer noted, “the highest point was 1000 meters in the mountains,” offering sweeping vistas you’ll want to linger over. The tour emphasizes authentic natural beauty rather than commercialized attractions, which we find refreshing. It’s a chance to see rugged landscapes that feel genuinely untouched.

Lunch and Relaxation

After exploring the canyon, you’ll return to the riverside base, where a delicious traditional Turkish meal awaits. This is a nice pause to relax, swap stories with fellow travelers, and enjoy local flavors. If you’re thirsty, be sure to bring some cash for drinks, as they aren’t included, but the quality of the food makes it worthwhile.

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The Adrenaline Rush: Rafting

Post-lunch, the action ramps up with the rafting adventure, lasting approximately three hours. Equipped with full safety gear and briefed by experienced guides, you’ll paddle down the Köprülü River’s lively rapids. The inclusion of swimming breaks offers a chance to cool off, and guides are attentive to your safety and enjoyment.

One reviewer summed it up nicely: “Nice guide. Visited beautiful places in a safari car. The possibility of ziplining 420 meters for a fee,” highlighting the optional extras available. The rafting is considered exciting but safe, making it suitable for most active travelers.

Optional Extras and Additional Adventures

At the base, there’s the opportunity to add on zipline, ATV, buggy, or jeep safari experiences—these are extra charges but can significantly boost your thrill level. They’re popular among guests, especially families or groups looking for more fun. If you’re interested, it’s best to request in advance or ask your guide on-site.

Returning to Side

After a full day of adventure, you’ll have some time to shower and change before the return transfer around 5:00-6:00 PM. The journey back offers a relaxed opportunity to reflect on the day’s highlights and maybe plan your next trip.

What You Need To Know Before Booking

What to Bring

• Swimsuit and towel for rafting and swimming breaks
• Sunscreen and hat to protect against the sun
• Comfortable shoes suitable for hiking and walking
• Camera to capture stunning views
• Extra dry clothes and non-slip footwear (rentals available)

What’s Not Included

• Drinks and personal expenses
• Optional activities (ziplining, quad, buggy rides)
• Photo/video services at the facilities

Suitability and Accessibility

This tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the terrain and activity requirements. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures and don’t mind a flexible schedule influenced by weather or operational conditions.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

One reviewer described, “We were picked up on time. The guide was nice, and we visited beautiful places in a safari car. The zipline, at 420 meters for a fee, was a highlight.” It’s clear that the guide’s knowledge and friendly attitude made the experience memorable. The mention of local people selling handmade items adds a touch of authenticity that many travelers appreciate—this isn’t a tourist trap but real local life.

Another traveler shared, “Enjoyed together with my 10-year-old son,” highlighting that the tour is family-friendly, especially the rafting part, which offers just enough thrill for kids and adults alike.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This six-hour adventure is ideal for active travelers who want a complete outdoor experience—from scenic hikes and stunning vistas to exhilarating rafting. It’s particularly good for those who enjoy learning about local geology and nature, as guides share useful insights throughout. The inclusion of a Turkish lunch makes it a great value, especially when considering the transportation, guided experiences, and safety gear provided.

If you’re looking to combine natural beauty with adrenaline, and don’t mind optional expenses for extra thrills, this tour offers a well-rounded, immersive day. It’s a perfect choice for families, couples, or groups wanting to explore beyond the usual tourist spots in Side. For those who enjoy authentic outdoor settings and straightforward adventure, this trip hits the mark.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, starting around 9:30 AM with hotel pickups and returning in the late afternoon.

What activities are included?
The main included activities are a guided hike in Taz Canyon, a Turkish lunch, and a 3-hour rafting trip. Optional activities like ziplining, quad biking, and buggy rides are extra.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, round-trip transfers from Side are included, making logistics simple. The drive offers scenic views and short stops for photos.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat, camera, and comfortable shoes. Extra dry clothes and non-slip footwear are available to rent or buy.

Can children participate?
Yes, families with children, like the reviewer with a 10-year-old, find the tour enjoyable. However, activities like rafting require a certain level of physical ability and safety considerations.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to terrain and activity requirements.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, the review mentions a 10-year-old enjoying the trip, implying that older children can participate with parental supervision.

This tour offers a genuine taste of Turkey’s natural beauty combined with active fun. Whether you’re seeking stunning views, a splash of adrenaline, or simply a chance to explore a little further from the tourist crowds, it’s a day packed with value and memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: