From city of Side: Beskonak Rafting Tour with Lunch

Side: Beskonak Rafting Tour with Lunch offers a lively and affordable way to combine adventure, nature, and a taste of authentic Turkish scenery. For just around $16 per person, you’ll spend approximately 7 hours immersed in the stunning landscapes of Antalya Province, with a focus on Köprülü Canyon, one of Turkey’s most impressive natural attractions. Guided by knowledgeable professionals, you’ll navigate a roughly 13 km stretch of river, stopping at a riverside restaurant to enjoy a simple yet satisfying lunch.

What we love about this tour is the balance between adrenaline and relaxation—the thrill of rafting is matched by the peacefulness of being surrounded by unspoiled nature and historical sites like the ancient city of Selge. Also, the comprehensive safety measures, such as including rafting insurance and life vests, give peace of mind to those new to water sports.

A possible consideration is the spartan lunch — if you’re expecting a gourmet meal, this might not satisfy your appetite fully, but it’s hearty enough after a day of splashing about. The tour suits those with a sense of adventure, especially travelers willing to get a little wet and enjoy nature in its raw form. Perfect for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for an authentic outdoor activity, this tour hits the right notes for anyone craving a full day of fun and scenic beauty.

Key Points

Affordable and accessible at just $16 per person for a full day experience
Guided river rafting with safety insurance included
Scenic natural surroundings, including Köprülü Canyon and the ancient city of Selge
Lunch by the river offers a simple but satisfying meal with options to purchase extras
Suitable for all levels — fun and adrenaline, not extreme challenging
Time-efficient: 7-hour tour with pick-up and drop-off from Side

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Complete Look at the Beskonak Rafting Tour from Side

Getting out of the city for some fresh air and adventure is always a good idea, and this Beskonak Rafting Tour delivers just that. Starting from Side, the trip is a well-structured day that combines nature, history, and adrenaline. The transportation is included, with hotel pick-up and drop-off, making it straightforward for travelers who prefer an organized experience.

For broader city exploration in Side, we've covered these other tours

The Starting Point and Organizing Your Day

Once you’re picked up from your hotel in Side, you’ll head towards the Antalya Province’s natural jewel, Köprülü Canyon. The journey itself is a scenic drive through the Turkish countryside, setting the tone for the day. Upon arrival, your guides will distribute equipment, including life vests and paddles, and give a brief safety and technique tutorial. This short training ensures everyone, regardless of experience, can feel confident on the water.

The 13 km Rafting Route

You’ll then hop into the rafts and start the approximately 4-hour segment of river rafting. The route covers 13 km along the Köprüçay River, flowing through the Köprülü Canyon National Park. You can expect some splashes, bumps, and waves—perfect for fun, but not overly strenuous, making it suitable for beginners and families with kids.

According to reviews, guides like Selim are particularly praised; they make the experience engaging and safe, keeping everyone entertained even during the occasional challenging rapids. The water is described as quite cold, but that’s part of the authentic experience. Some reviews mention renting neoprene wetsuits or waterproof phone covers for extra comfort, which can be a good idea if you’re sensitive to cold.

The Scenic Stops and Historical Highlights

During the trip, there are opportunities to take breaks, enjoy the beautiful views, and even swim if you wish. The canyon itself is a highlight—towering cliffs, lush greenery, and the ancient stone bridge over Köprüçay create a striking backdrop. Nearby, the ancient city of Selge adds a historical dimension to the outing. While the main focus is the thrilling ride, the scenery and sense of history make the journey more meaningful.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Riverside Lunch

After about four hours of rafting, your group will stop at a riverside restaurant for lunch. Expect a simple meal—a small meat skewer per person, which is enough to replenish your energy. Multiple reviews describe the lunch as “spartan” but filling. Some travelers appreciate the relaxing break and picturesque setting, while others might wish for more variety. For an extra fee, you can rent waterproof phone covers, shoes, or even wetsuits to stay dry and comfortable.

While in Side, here are other experiences we've covered

Returning and Reflection

Post-lunch, the crew will collect the equipment, and you’ll have a bit of free time to relax by the river or explore the surrounding nature before heading back to Side. The entire tour lasts about 7 hours, making it an efficient way to get an outdoor adventure without taking up your whole day.

Authentic Experiences in Stunning Settings

What makes this tour stand out is how it combines adventure with cultural and natural highlights. The guides’ local knowledge enhances your understanding of the canyon’s geology and history, especially when passing through the ruins of Selge. The scenery is undeniably impressive, with the largest Mediterranean cypress forest in Asia visible from various points, adding to the feeling of being in a pristine outdoor sanctuary.

The Balance of Fun and Safety

The inclusion of rafting insurance and safety gear shows a responsible approach, giving you confidence while navigating the rapids. Reviews highlight the friendly guides, with many praising their enthusiasm and professionalism — they keep the energy high and ensure everyone stays safe.

The Value of the Experience

For only $16, this tour offers exceptional value. It’s well-organized, includes pickup/drop-off, equipment, guides, and lunch. If you’re looking to spend a day combining adventure, scenic beauty, and a bit of history without breaking the bank, this experience hits the mark. Plus, the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance makes it easy to plan without stress.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This activity is perfect for families, groups of friends, solo travelers, and anyone wanting a fun outdoor experience. It’s best suited for those comfortable with getting wet and eager to explore a beautiful canyon landscape. While not overly challenging, you should be prepared for some splashing and perhaps a little cold water — so packing a change of clothes or waterproof gear is wise. Travelers who appreciate guides with local insights and a laid-back, fun atmosphere will find this tour particularly enjoyable.

Final Thoughts

This Beskonak rafting tour from Side offers a great combination of adventure, scenery, and cultural interest at a very reasonable price. The guides’ friendliness and expertise help make the day enjoyable and safe, while the stunning canyon provides a memorable backdrop. The simple riverside lunch keeps you fueled for the fun-filled ride, and the overall itinerary is well-paced for a full day’s activity.

While the lunch might feel a bit basic, the overall value and authentic experience more than make up for it. It’s an ideal choice if you’re craving an active, scenic escape that combines nature and history without leaving a significant dent in your budget.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or just looking for a different way to experience Turkey’s beautiful outdoors, this tour is worth considering. Just bring your sense of fun, a towel, and maybe waterproof gear, and you’re set for a memorable day.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Side are included, making it simple to join without extra planning.

How long does the entire tour last?
The full experience lasts about 7 hours, including transportation, rafting, lunch, and relaxation time.

What should I wear for the activity?
Bring clothes suitable for getting wet and possibly a towel. Renting wetsuits or waterproof covers is available if you want to stay warmer or protect your phone.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the route and guides make it accessible for most ages, especially if they’re comfortable in water.

What safety measures are in place?
The tour includes rafting insurance, life vests, and guides experienced in safety procedures, ensuring a secure environment.

Can I participate if I have no rafting experience?
Absolutely. The guides give a short training, and the route is manageable for beginners.

What’s the scenery like?
Expect stunning canyon cliffs, lush greenery, and historical ruins — perfect for photos and appreciating nature.

What about the lunch?
It’s a straightforward meal — a small meat skewer and a drink — enough to restore energy after rafting.

Are there optional extras?
Yes, you can rent waterproof phone covers, shoes, or wetsuits for extra comfort.

How do I book the tour?
You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, making planning flexible.

This river adventure from Side truly offers a blend of thrill and tranquility. It’s a great way to step outside the usual sightseeing routine, especially if you love nature, history, and a splash of excitement—all at a budget-friendly price.