Side: Green Canyon and Waterfall Jeep Safari with Lunch

A Day Exploring Antalya’s Natural Wonders by Jeep

If you’re seeking a full-day adventure that combines off-road excitement, breathtaking scenery, and a taste of local life, the Green Canyon and Waterfall Jeep Safari is an excellent choice. For just around $26 per person, you’ll spend approximately 7 hours exploring the Taurus Mountains, Green Lake, and the Manavgat Waterfall, all with knowledgeable guides and a lively group atmosphere.

What we love most is how this tour offers stunning vistas at every turn—whether it’s the panoramic views from the mountains, the serene beauty of Green Lake, or the powerful cascade of Manavgat Waterfall. Plus, the lunch near Green Lake is genuinely satisfying, with fresh local dishes and a chance to cool off with a swim.

A possible consideration? If you’re not comfortable on off-road tracks or dislike getting a bit dusty and wet, this might not be for you. It’s a lively, somewhat rugged trip, perfect for those who love nature, adventure, and a good dose of fun.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate authentic landscapes, enjoy group adventures, and want their day filled with dynamic sights and activities. Families, solo explorers, and anyone looking for an active day away from the beach will find this trip both memorable and rewarding.

Key Points

• Affordable and comprehensive: For just $26, you get around 7 hours of adventure, views, and local flavor.
• Scenic highlights: Expect stunning vistas of Green Canyon, Green Lake, and the Taurus Mountains, with plenty of photo opportunities.
• Off-road fun: The journey involves exciting off-road driving with professional guides and drivers.
• Authentic experiences: Enjoy a hearty local lunch and swim in the pristine waters of Green Lake.
• Flexible options: Small groups or private tours are available, with easy hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Unforgettable guides: Several reviews praise the guides’ friendliness, humor, and knowledge, making the trip all the more enjoyable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

The adventure kicks off with hotel pickup from your accommodation in the Side area, setting the tone for an effortless day. You’ll meet your guide, who will brief you on safety and the day’s schedule—an essential step to ensure everyone feels prepared for the off-road journey ahead. From there, the group boards sturdy jeeps, ready to tackle some exciting terrain.

The Drive Through Taurus Mountains

Your first stop is the Taurus Mountains, where the jeeps veer off the beaten path into off-road tracks. This part of the trip is a thrill—it’s a bumpy but controlled ride that gets your adrenaline pumping while offering panoramic views of the landscape. Several reviews mention how fun and lively the drivers are, with one saying their guide Johnny Cash “really lived up to his name” with great humor and energy.

Expect to pause for photo breaks at especially scenic spots, where the group can snap shots of the lush valleys, rugged peaks, and the ancient Roman Aqueducts. The aqueducts, though only a short stop, provide a glimpse into the area’s historical layers and make for excellent picture moments, as one traveler noted: “a few minutes have rest and take photo break.”

Green Canyon and the Oymapinar Dam

Next, the jeeps wind down to Green Canyon, often described as a highlight. You’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the canyon walls and the Oymapinar Dam, which is a feat of engineering amid natural beauty. The green waters of the canyon, combined with the surrounding greenery, make this a picture-perfect spot, especially for those with a camera.

The reviews repeatedly praise the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm, making the experience more than just sightseeing—it’s about feeling the landscape and learning some local facts along the way. One review happily recalls a guide named Yousuf, who “made the adventure full of fun,” highlighting the importance of friendly, spirited guides.

Green Lake and the Water Fight

The journey then takes you to Green Lake, a small but stunning body of water known for its unique color and clarity. Here, the tour takes a more relaxed turn. You’ll have around two hours to swim, eat, and enjoy the scenery. Lunch is served at a restaurant near the lake, with plenty of choices and a chance to savor local flavors. One traveler describes the meal as “great, with chicken pasta, salad, and rice,” while others mention the refreshing waters of the lake, perfect for a quick dip.

The highlight for many is the water fights—a fun, energetic part of the tour. You might find yourself soaked and dusty, but that’s part of the charm, and the guides ensure everyone stays safe while having fun. One reviewer mentioned how the water fights kept everyone cool and added to the enjoyment.

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Manavgat Waterfall and Return

As the day winds down, you’ll stop at the Manavgat Waterfall for about 30 minutes. It’s a peaceful spot where you can stretch your legs, take photos, and breathe in the fresh air after a busy day. Many reviews emphasize how photogenic and tranquil this stop is, providing a calming end to the adventure.

Finally, the jeeps head back to your hotel, dropping you off with plenty of stories to tell and photos to share.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At just $26, this tour provides a full-day immersion into Turkey’s natural beauty. The combination of exciting off-road driving, scenic viewpoints, local cuisine, and water activities creates a balanced experience that appeals to a broad range of travelers.

What makes this trip worthwhile is the quality of guides and drivers, praised repeatedly for their friendliness, humor, and local knowledge. Visitors consistently mention how these guides make the adventure engaging and informative, transforming a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable experience.

The lunch at Green Lake is genuinely appreciated—not just for its quality, but for the opportunity to relax and enjoy the surroundings. The chance to swim in Green Lake adds a refreshing break, especially on a warm day, which many reviews highlight as a favorite part of the tour.

On the downside, some travelers note that getting dusty and wet is inevitable, and you should come prepared with sunglasses, swimwear, and possibly a face covering to handle the dirt and water fights. Also, not included are the waterfall entrance tickets and drinks, so bringing some cash or preparing in advance makes sense.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This adventure is perfect for active travelers who want more than just lounging on a beach. Families with children over 3 who enjoy outdoor activities and nature will find plenty to love, especially with the water fights and swimming. Solo travelers and small groups looking for a lively, social day out will appreciate the energetic guides and shared experiences.

If you’re someone who values authentic landscapes, fun stories from guides, and delicious local food, this trip checks all those boxes. It’s particularly suitable for those who want to connect with nature while also enjoying a bit of adventure and laughter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is available from all hotels in the Side area, with specific times depending on your location, making logistics hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 7 hours, allowing plenty of time to explore, relax, and enjoy all activities.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses to handle the dust, swimwear for the lake, and possibly some cash for drinks, waterfall tickets, or optional extras like photos or boat trips.

Are children allowed?
Children over 3 years old can join, but pregnant women and those with certain health conditions might want to consider safety and comfort.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, Jeep off-road adventure, lunch near Green Lake, a tour guide, and insurance.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, so you might want to bring some water or purchase beverages during the stops.

Is the tour suitable for people who dislike getting dusty or wet?
This experience involves off-road driving and water fights, so if you’re sensitive to dust or prefer a more relaxed sightseeing day, it may not be ideal.

Final Thoughts

The Green Canyon and Waterfall Jeep Safari offers a well-rounded taste of Turkey’s natural beauty wrapped in an energetic, fun-filled day. With stunning views, friendly guides, and a chance to swim and eat in a picturesque setting, it appeals strongly to those wanting adventure, fresh air, and authentic landscapes. The considerable praise from past travelers underscores its value and appeal.

While it’s not for those seeking a quiet or ultra-luxurious experience, it’s a perfect choice for travelers looking for value-packed, informative, and spirited escapades. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or in a small group, this trip promises memorable moments and plenty of stories to take home.

If you’re after a day that balances nature, fun, and local flavor — and don’t mind getting a bit dusty — this jeep safari is highly recommended.

Enjoy your adventure in Antalya, and remember: the best stories often start with a bit of dirt and a lot of laughter.

You can check availability for your dates here: