Side; Ancient Selge, Taz Canyon (Mini Cappadocia)

Discovering the Best of Antalya: Side; Ancient Selge, Taz Canyon, and Adam Kayalar Tour

If you’re after a full day combining history and natural beauty, this tour offers a compelling mix that won’t disappoint. Starting from Side, you’ll visit the ancient city of Selge, trek through the spectacular Taz Canyon, and marvel at the distinctive rock formations of Adam Kayalar. With an 8-hour itinerary, this trip is perfect for those who want to see a different side of Antalya—away from beaches and crowds.

We particularly love the guided insights, thanks to knowledgeable guides who bring the ruins and landscapes alive, and the unique photo opportunities at every stop. The experience feels authentic, not just a quick photo stop, and the natural scenery is genuinely breathtaking.

One thing to consider is that the tour requires a full day, so it’s best suited for travelers who are prepared for a fair bit of walking and exploration. It’s ideal for those curious about history, geology, and landscapes that resemble mini Cappadocia, all within a manageable itinerary from Side.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a well-rounded outdoor adventure combined with educational commentary. It’s especially good for those who want to see lesser-known historical sites and natural wonders, with some fun photo moments along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Mix of History and Nature: Combines ancient ruins with stunning natural formations.
• Professional Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding and engagement.
• Photo Opportunities: Perfect for capturing memorable photos of landscapes and ruins.
• Comfortable Transportation: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple.
• Value for Money: Entrance fees, lunch, and insurance are included in the price.
• Suitable for Adventurers: Well-suited for those who enjoy walking, exploring, and learning on the go.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup in Side, which is convenient and stress-free. Once on board, the journey to the first stop—Ancient Selge—takes about an hour by coach. This transfer allows you to relax and get a sense of the landscape shifting from coastal views to more rugged, historical terrains.

Exploring Ancient Selge

Arriving at Selge, you’ll step back in time to a city carved into the hills. The ruins include a well-preserved ancient theater, colonnaded streets, and other remnants that hint at a once-thriving center of commerce and culture. Your guide will point out key features and explain their significance, making the ruins come alive.

We loved the way guides make history accessible—especially if you’re used to just snapping photos. One traveler noted, “Kadir showed us a lot, we were often able to take photos and he took great care of us, especially our children.” This kind of attentive guiding makes the experience more meaningful for families, history buffs, and curious travelers alike.

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Taz Canyon: Nature’s Mini Cappadocia

Next, you’ll head to Taz Canyon, which is the star for lovers of natural beauty. Walking through the canyon, you’ll encounter impressive rock formations and stunning landscapes that resemble tiny versions of Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys.

The canyon is also known for the fun activity called an Adler (Tazi) selfie, where visitors pose among the rocks, capturing playful and memorable shots. The natural cave-like formations, combined with the canyon’s serenity, make it a highlight.

The canyon isn’t just pretty; it’s a place to stretch your legs and breathe fresh mountain air. Several reviews emphasize how much travelers enjoyed the photo opportunities, with one saying, “The nature was great, our guide Kadir showed us a lot, we were often able to take photos.”

Adam Kayalar: Unique Rock Formations

The tour’s final highlight is the visit to Adam Kayalar, famous for its unusual rock formations. These are large, flat-topped stones arranged in a natural setting, offering a chance to observe how nature creates shapes that resemble faces or figures.

The aesthetic creativity of nature here is obvious, and it’s a fantastic spot for photos. You’ll have some time to walk around, take pictures, and just enjoy the peaceful environment.

The Overall Experience

Throughout the day, your guide will share insights into the historical importance of Selge, the geological features of Taz Canyon, and the natural artistry of Adam Kayalar. Most travelers find the guide’s knowledge and friendly attitude make a significant difference, with one reviewer mentioning, “He found just the right mix between promoting the local families and keeping a low profile when it came to sales opportunities.”

The tour includes lunch, entrance tickets, insurance, and hotel pickup and drop-off, which makes it an easy, all-inclusive experience that offers solid value for the price. The only costs you might want to budget for are personal drinks and souvenirs.

Practical Considerations

While the tour is generally well-organized, keep in mind that it’s a full-day commitment. It’s not suitable for travelers over 95 years old or those with mobility issues. Also, be prepared for some walking and uneven terrain, especially around the ruins and canyons.

The timing is flexible, but checking the availability and starting times is essential to ensure you can fit it into your plans. The small group size and guided experience foster a friendly environment, perfect for asking questions and getting personalized insights.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys learning about history and geology firsthand, this tour offers a well-rounded experience. The guides’ knowledge and attentiveness make it especially enjoyable for those wanting more than just a quick sightseeing stop. It’s also a great choice for photographers and nature lovers eager to capture one-of-a-kind landscapes and rock formations.

Families with children tend to appreciate the manageable pace and engaging storytelling, while adventurous travelers will relish the walking, exploring, and scenic vistas. If you’re open to a full-day outdoors adventure that combines history with natural beauty, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This Side; Ancient Selge, Taz Canyon, and Adam Kayalar tour offers a rewarding balance of history, geology, and stunning landscapes. Guided by knowledgeable locals, you’ll learn about ancient civilizations while marveling at breathtaking natural formations that look like they belong in a fairy tale.

The value is solid, considering the price covers transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and expert guidance. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who enjoy active exploration, meaningful stories, and authentic scenery. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or someone looking to escape the coastline for a day, this tour provides a memorable glimpse into what makes Antalya special beyond its beaches.

Just be ready for a full day on the road and some walking, but in return, you’ll walk away with a richer understanding of the region’s ancient past and natural artistry. For those eager to see a different side of Turkey, this experience will undoubtedly deliver.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including transportation and exploration time. Confirm the starting times when booking.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, entrance tickets, and insurance. Drinks and personal expenses are not included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many travelers with children find it enjoyable, especially as guides are attentive and the pace is manageable. However, some walking and uneven terrain are involved.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable shoes for walking and some photos are recommended. Bring sun protection and water, especially in warmer weather.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Availability depends on the season, but it’s advisable to reserve in advance to secure your spot, especially during busy times.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides usually speak English, Russian, and German, making it accessible for a variety of travelers.

This tour combines history, adventure, and natural beauty in a way that truly captures what makes Antalya special. It’s a day designed to leave you with stories, photos, and a deeper appreciation for the landscape and past civilizations that shaped this region.

You can check availability for your dates here: