If you’re visiting Side, Turkey, and craving a peaceful escape into nature, the Green Canyon Boat Trip offers a wonderful way to unwind and enjoy some truly scenic views. For $40.14 per person, this 7.5-hour excursion takes you through spectacular Taurus Mountains, across crystal-clear waters, and into a landscape that feels worlds away from the bustling town. Led by friendly guides, the tour includes hotel transfers, unlimited soft drinks, a hearty lunch, and plenty of time to relax and soak in the scenery.
What we appreciate most about this trip are its serene setting and authentic natural experiences. Seeing the Great Canyon and freshwater lake firsthand is breathtaking, and the opportunity to spot the elusive Brown Fish Owl adds a dash of wildlife wonder. Another highlight is the chance to swim in the lake, a perfect cooling break on a warm day. That said, some travelers might find the full-day commitment a tad long, especially if they prefer shorter excursions. But if you love nature and quiet, this trip is well worth the time.
This experience is ideal for those who seek tranquility and scenic beauty without the hassle of complex logistics. It suits travelers of all ages, thanks to its gentle pace and inclusive offerings. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy boating, birdwatching, and relaxing over a good meal in nature.
Key Points
- Stunning Scenery: The trip offers incredible views of rocky mountains, green waters, and the Taurus Mountains backdrop.
- Wildlife Spotting: The Brown Fish Owl adds an element of wildlife observation that nature lovers will appreciate.
- Relaxing Activity: Swimming breaks and leisurely boat rides make it a gentle, stress-free experience.
- All-Inclusive Offerings: Transfers, unlimited soft drinks, and a delicious lunch ensure comfort and convenience.
- Authentic Experience: Visiting the Great Canyon and freshwater lake highlights Turkey’s natural beauty away from crowds.
- Good Value: For just over $40, you get a full day of scenic, leisurely exploration.
A Deep Dive into the Green Canyon Experience
Enjoy being on the water? Here are other boat experiences we've looked into in Side
Setting the Scene: A Day in Nature’s Lap
Starting early at 8:30 am, this tour begins with hotel pickups—an efficient way to kick off the day without worrying about transport. Your group, which can be up to 100 travelers, will then be transported to the lakeside in the Taurus Mountains. Knowing that the tour includes hotel transfers both ways is a real plus, especially if you’re staying in Side or nearby.
The Boat Ride: A Visual Feast
The core of this experience is the 9-mile boat voyage across the Green Canyon and freshwater resources. As you glide along, you’ll be greeted by spectacular scenery—rocky cliffs, lush greenery, and the shimmering water that seems to change hues with the sun. Tour guides generally mention the incredible views and the peaceful atmosphere as highlights. One traveler, AnaMaria, described her trip as “extremely beautiful and scenic,” expressing her admiration for the water’s color and the rocky landscape.
Wildlife Encounters: Spotting the Brown Fish Owl
An aspect that adds a special touch to the trip is the chance to see the Brown Fish Owl. While sightings depend on luck and timing, the presence of such wildlife emphasizes the natural environment you’re visiting. For birdwatchers or wildlife enthusiasts, this is a rare bonus.
Swimming Breaks: Refreshing and Fun
After soaking in the views, you’ll have time for swimming at the lake. The water’s clarity and calmness make it inviting, especially on a hot day. The tour description notes this as a highlight—giving travelers a chance to cool off and relax in nature’s pool.
While in Side, here are other experiences we've covered
- Mix. Tour (Jeep Safari and Boat Tour in Green Lake with Lunch)
- Green Canyon Jeep and Boat Tour with Lunch
- Side Jeep Safari Tour Around Taurus Mountains with Lunch
- Alanya City Tour From Side With Boat Trip And Lunch
- Side:Jeep Safari Adventure With Lunch
- Side-Alanya: Pirate Yacht Tour (Legend Big Kral) with Lunch-Drink
Lunch with a View: Dine by the Dam Lake
The meal is served at a restaurant by the dam lake, offering a hearty lunch that complements the outdoor adventure. The inclusion of lunch and unlimited soft drinks adds value, allowing you to indulge without additional costs. The quality of the meal isn’t detailed, but the focus is on comfort and convenience after a morning of exploration.
Visiting the Little Canyon
The final stop is the little canyon, a quieter, more intimate spot that provides additional scenic views and photo opportunities. It’s the perfect way to round out the day, offering a different perspective of the canyon landscape.
What Travelers Say
Feedback highlights the stunning views and good value. AnaMaria’s review sums up her experience well, emphasizing the beautiful scenery and scenic boat journey. She appreciated how the trip allowed her to escape urban stress and enjoy the peaceful nature.
Another important aspect is the organized pickup and smooth transfers, which makes the day hassle-free. The tour’s flexibility, including free cancellation up to 24 hours, offers peace of mind for travelers uncertain about the weather or their schedule.
Considerations for Travelers
While the tour is mostly praised, some might find the full-day duration a bit tiring, especially if traveling with young children or if you prefer shorter activities. Since the tour runs with a maximum of 100 travelers, it’s relatively well-managed, but expect a lively group at times. Also, as drinks and photos are sold separately, you might want to bring some cash for souvenirs or extra snacks.
Why This Tour Offers Real Value
For the price, this trip delivers an immersive experience in Turkey’s natural beauty. It combines scenic boat rides, wildlife spotting, refreshing lake swims, and a delicious lakeside lunch—all without the hassle of planning multiple parts yourself. The inclusion of transfers and unlimited soft drinks keeps it convenient and budget-friendly.
If you’re someone who enjoys calm outdoor activities, loves nature photography, or just wants a peaceful break from sightseeing, this trip ticks many boxes. It’s especially suitable for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy some of Turkey’s lush, unspoiled landscapes.
The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?
This Green Canyon boat trip is a solid choice for travelers seeking a relaxing day immersed in nature, with comfortable transportation and inclusive amenities. It offers incredible scenery, wildlife spotting, and a chance to cool off in pristine waters, making it a relaxing yet visually stunning adventure. The good value for money and easy logistics are added perks.
It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who want to experience Turkey’s natural beauty without strenuous activities or complex planning. If you love scenic boat rides, birdwatching, and lakeside lunches, this trip will leave you with memorable images and a peaceful sense of escape.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel transfers both ways, making it easy to start and end your day comfortably.
How long is the boat trip?
The boat voyage across Green Canyon and fresh water resources lasts about 4 hours, giving ample time to enjoy the scenery and relax.
Can I swim in the lake?
Absolutely. The tour features swimming breaks at the lake, perfect for cooling off and enjoying the clear water.
What is included in the price?
The price covers transfers, lunch, unlimited soft drinks, and admission to the canyon and lake areas.
Are there any additional costs?
Yes, personal spendings or souvenirs, as well as alcoholic drinks, are not included and are paid separately.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the gentle pace makes it suitable for families, though young children should be supervised during swimming.
What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, and a towel. Cash for photos or souvenirs might also be handy, as those are sold separately.
The Green Canyon Boat Trip from Side presents a balanced, scenic, and relaxing day out, highlighting Turkey’s natural beauty in a way that’s accessible and enjoyable for most travelers.
More Lunch Experiences in Side
- Manavgat and Side Boat Trip with Dolphins Island incl. Lunch
- From City of Side: Alanya Guided Tour with Boat Trip & Lunch
- White Water Rafting with Lunch
- Side: Dolphin Island Boat Tour with BBQ Lunch
- Antalya/Side: Quad, Buggy, Rafting & Zipline Tour with Lunch
- Side: Manavgat River Boat Trip & Grand Market w/ Lunch
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Side
- Manavgat and Side Boat Trip with Dolphins Island incl. Lunch
- Green Canyon Magic: Scenic Boat Tour for Nature Lovers
- From City of Side: Alanya Guided Tour with Boat Trip & Lunch
- Side: Dolphin Island Boat Tour with BBQ Lunch
- Side: Manavgat River Boat Trip & Grand Market w/ Lunch
- Manavgat River Cruise & Waterfall & Bazaar Visit
More Tour Reviews in Side
- Manavgat and Side Boat Trip with Dolphins Island incl. Lunch
- Green Canyon Magic: Scenic Boat Tour for Nature Lovers
- Rafting & Jeep Safari Tour From Antalya, Alanya, Side
- From City of Side: Alanya Guided Tour with Boat Trip & Lunch
- White Water Rafting with Lunch
- Side: Dolphin Island Boat Tour with BBQ Lunch
More Side experiences we've covered
- Green Canyon Magic: Scenic Boat Tour for Nature Lovers
- Rafting & Jeep Safari Tour From Antalya, Alanya, Side
- From City of Side: Alanya Guided Tour with Boat Trip & Lunch
- White Water Rafting with Lunch
- Side: Dolphin Island Boat Tour with BBQ Lunch
- Antalya/Side: Quad, Buggy, Rafting & Zipline Tour with Lunch
- Side: Eagle Canyon & Selge Ancient City
- From city of Side Green canyon Adventure Tour
- City of Side: Rafting, Zipline, Jeep, Buggy and Quad Combo
- Side: Buggy Safari Rafting Combo Tour with Hotel Transfers
- Antalya Canyon Rafting + ATV/ Quad Ride + Zipline Combo Adventure
- Side: Manavgat River Boat Trip & Grand Market w/ Lunch