Green Canyon: Catamaran Cruise & Jeep Safari Adventure

If you’re looking for an active day out that combines adventure, nature, and history, this tour from Side is hard to beat. For just $27 per person, you get approximately 7 hours of exploring rugged mountains, cruising calm lakes, and visiting scenic waterfalls. Expect a mix of off-road thrills, relaxing boat rides, and plenty of photo opportunities—all with friendly guides and a good-value open buffet lunch.

What we love most? The off-road jeep ride through the Taurus Mountains offers exhilarating twists and turns that make you feel like a local explorer. Plus, the Green Lake catamaran cruise provides a peaceful break from the dust and dirt, with time for a refreshing swim in clear waters. Our only consideration? The tour’s physically active, so it’s best suited for those in decent health who enjoy a bit of adrenaline.

This experience suits adventurous travelers eager to see diverse landscapes and enjoy authentic Turkish scenery without breaking the bank. Families with older children, nature lovers, and history buffs will find plenty to enjoy here. It’s a day packed with variety—and that keeps things interesting.

Key Points

• Multi-Stop Adventure: Combines jeep safaris, historical sites, lake cruise, and waterfall visits.
• Authentic Experience: Off-road drives and visits to Roman aqueducts provide a sense of local history and rugged terrain.
• Value for Money: For just $27, you get a full day of activities, a buffet lunch, and transport (if booked with pickup).
• Active & Relaxing Mix: Thrilling jeep rides and scenic boat trips balance each other well.
• Authentic Guides & Friendly Service: The reviews highlight engaging guides who enhance the fun.
• Great Photo Opportunities: From Oymapnar Dam to Green Lake views, there’s no shortage of stunning scenes.

This tour starts with a convenient pickup from Side, making it easy to join without fuss. Once on board, the first stretch is a 30-minute jeep adventure that begins your immersion into the Taurus Mountains’ rugged landscape. The guides, including “Kemal” and “Mustafa,” are praised for their friendly, welcoming attitude, setting a lively tone for the day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Off-Road Jeep Safari in the Taurus Mountains

Expect sharp twists, steep climbs, and dust-filled fun. The reviews vividly describe the excitement: “Once met with the whole group of jeeps, Andrew explained the program for the day, and gave those who wanted to buy bandanas for the dust that was about to happen.” You won’t just be sitting; water fights between jeeps add a playful element that the reviews indicate is a highlight, especially for those who enjoy a bit of friendly competition.

The guides keep the energy high, sharing stories and ensuring everyone stays safe. If you’re worried about getting dirty or wet, don’t be—simply embrace the adventure and wear clothes you don’t mind splashing or dusting off later.

Historical Stops: Roman Aqueducts & Oymapnar Dam

Next, the tour takes you to the Roman aqueducts, a tangible reminder of Turkey’s long-standing history. It’s a brief stop, but the ancient stone structures make for great photo moments. Then, a photo stop at Oymapnar Dam offers spectacular views of the surrounding greenery and the Green Canyon. Here, you’ll have about 20 minutes for photos and a quick stretch.

Green Lake & Catamaran Cruise

After the mountain adventures, the group heads to the tranquil Green Lake, where a catamaran cruise awaits. This part of the tour is especially appreciated for its relaxing pace and scenic beauty. Expect clear waters perfect for a swim—several reviews mention how refreshing it is after the dusty jeep ride.

A lakeside restaurant serves an open buffet lunch, which travelers report as delicious and filling. The boat ride itself is a chance to unwind, take photos of the lush surroundings, and enjoy the calm waters away from the rugged terrain.

Manavgat Waterfalls & Final Stops

The tour concludes with a visit to the Manavgat Waterfalls, a beautiful spot where you can listen to the rushing water and take in the lush scenery. You’re allotted about 30 minutes here—enough to snap some photos or just relax before heading back.

This tour packs in a lot for its price. Included are the jeep off-road adventure, catamaran cruise (if you opt for that), open buffet lunch, and hotel pickup and drop-off if booked with transportation. The waterfall entrance fee and drinks are extras, so plan accordingly.

Notably, guests cannot drive the jeeps, and the tours are suitable only for those over 3 years old, not pregnant women, or individuals with serious health issues—these are important safety considerations.

Reviews give a clear picture of what to expect. Travelers praise guides like Kemal and Mustafa for their friendly, engaging manner, which makes the entire trip feel personalized and fun. One reviewer mentions, “Kemal our jeep driver and Andrew from the start to finish was amazing for the price,” highlighting how guides often elevate the experience.

Many describe the jeep ride as thrilling and a little dusty, but also a highlight of the adventure. “Prepare to get wet in the jeeps,” one says, which hints at the playful water fights that break out during the rides. For those who love adrenaline and scenic views, this is a perfect combo.

The Green Lake cruise gets high marks for its peaceful vibe. Several travelers mention how refreshing and beautiful the lake is, with swimming a clear favorite activity. The lunch is also highly praised—“delicious and good value for money”—making the entire day feel like a worthwhile splurge.

• Dress comfortably for off-road driving—clothes that can handle dust and water.
• Bring sunglasses and swimwear if you want to take a dip.
• Pack a face mask or protective covering, as dust is common on the jeep rides.
• If you want souvenirs, consider buying the USB stick of the trip, which travelers say is reasonably priced.
• Remember, drinks are not included, so bring some water or purchase beverages during the stops.
• The tour length is about 7 hours, so plan your day accordingly. Check the starting times when booking.

This adventure is ideal for active travelers who enjoy a good dose of excitement mixed with scenic beauty. It’s particularly well-suited for families with older children, groups of friends, or anyone wanting a fun, varied day outside the usual tourist spots. The combination of adventure, history, and relaxation makes this a well-rounded experience.

However, if you prefer a calmer, less physically demanding day, or if you have mobility issues or health concerns, this might not be the best fit. The off-road jeep ride can be bumpy, and the entire experience is quite energetic.

The Green Canyon: Catamaran Cruise & Jeep Safari offers a value-packed day filled with thrills, picturesque scenery, and cultural sights. The guides’ enthusiasm, the variety of activities, and the honest reviews from past travelers suggest this tour delivers both fun and authenticity. It’s a fantastic choice for those looking to see more of Turkey’s natural beauty and to enjoy a day of adventure that’s both lively and relaxing.

Whether you’re after the adrenaline of off-road driving, the peacefulness of the lake cruise, or simply want to experience a bit of everything in one day, this tour has you covered. Just be ready to get a little dusty, a little wet, and a whole lot of memories.

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FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, including pickups, stops, and travel time.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a jeep off-road adventure, a catamaran cruise (if you select that option), an open buffet lunch, a driver, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, so you should bring your own or purchase beverages during the stops.

Can I drive the jeep?
No, guests are not permitted to drive the jeeps; the guides handle all driving.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a face mask or protective covering, and maybe a towel for swimming.

Is this suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 3 years and might be challenging for those with health or mobility issues.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
Many say the jeep ride and the swimming in Green Lake are the top experiences, complemented by scenic views and friendly guides.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It involves some off-road driving on rugged terrain, so it’s best for those comfortable with energetic activities.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve now and pay later with flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance through the booking platform.

This tour balances adventure with relaxation and offers a genuine glimpse of Turkey’s natural and historical treasures—all at a very accessible price point. Perfect for travelers who want a fun, action-filled day with plenty of beautiful sights and good company.