City of Side: Green Canyon Tour w/ Boat, Lunch & Fishing

Exploring the Green Canyon with a Boat, Lunch, and Fishing: An Honest Review

If you’re in the Antalya region and craving a full-day escape into nature, a trip to the Green Canyon might catch your eye. This tour offers a blend of scenic boat rides, lakeside dining, and some relaxing fishing—an experience that appeals to nature lovers and those looking for a peaceful, picturesque outing. What we find particularly appealing is the chance to see the canyon’s unique landscape while enjoying some downtime on the water.

However, potential travelers should note that the tour’s overall ratings hover around 3.6 out of 5, largely due to some logistical hiccups and mixed guest experiences. That said, if you’re prepared for a laid-back day with a focus on natural beauty and are flexible about occasional organizational issues, this could be a worthwhile outing. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy gentle outdoor activities, scenic views, and a taste of local cuisine.

Key Points
– Beautiful natural scenery makes this a peaceful and photogenic day trip.
– Boat trip duration (around 4 hours) offers plenty of time to soak in the views.
– Includes a hearty lakeside lunch with options like meatballs, chicken, or fish.
– Fishing activity adds a relaxing, interactive element to the day.
– Organizational issues have been noted, so flexibility is key.
– It’s suitable for all ages and even wheelchair accessible, making it a family-friendly option.

What is the Green Canyon Tour all about?

This tour promises a full-day adventure centered around the Green Canyon, a striking natural formation in the Antalya Province. The journey kicks off from your hotel with a pickup, making it convenient and hassle-free. The highlight is a boat trip lasting approximately four hours that takes you across the lake, offering a close-up view of the canyon’s dramatic cliffs and lush surroundings. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to swim in the cool waters—a perfect refreshment on a warm day—and to try fishing in the lake, an activity enjoyed by many travelers seeking a bit of tranquility or a chance to catch their own dinner.

The tour also includes a visit to the nearby Oymapnar Dam, which provides excellent photo opportunities and helps set the scenic tone for the day. The genuine natural beauty of the area is clear from the reviews, with plenty of opportunities to take stunning photos and enjoy the peaceful environment.

The boat trip: what to expect

The core of the experience is the 4-hour boat journey across Green Canyon. The boat is generally described as comfortable, with enough space for guests to relax and enjoy the surroundings. Expect to see the canyon’s striking walls, often highlighted by vivid colors that change with the sunlight. Reviewers have appreciated the knowledgeable guides who provide commentary, helping you understand the geological features and local landscape.

One reviewer noted, “The boat trip through the Grand Canyon was a great experience, we can only recommend it, we also really enjoyed the lunch.” This comment underscores how the boat ride can be a highlight, especially if you’re into scenic views and leisurely cruising.

Swimming and fishing: relaxing in nature

Once on the boat, you’ll have opportunities to pause for swimming in the lake’s inviting waters. The coolness of the water is often praised as a perfect way to beat the heat while surrounded by stunning scenery. Bring a towel and change of clothes—these are essentials if you want to make the most of the water stops.

Fishing is another activity included in the tour, offering a peaceful break from the boat ride. While some travelers might find the fishing experience more relaxing than exciting, it’s a pleasant way to spend some quiet time on the lake. If you’re lucky, you might even catch something, but the main value is the calming environment.

The lakeside lunch: hearty and satisfying

A highlight for many is the lunch served at a lakeside restaurant. The meal typically features a choice between meatballs, chicken, or fish, accompanied by fragrant rice and fresh salad. The menu options are simple but hearty, providing enough fuel for the rest of the day’s activities.

Guests have expressed satisfaction with the lunch, describing it as “mouthwatering” and “flavorful,” and noting that the beverages—including tea, coffee, mineral water, and soft drinks—round out the meal nicely. It’s a good opportunity to relax, chat with fellow travelers, and soak in the beautiful surroundings.

The return journey and final thoughts

After lunch and some fishing, the tour concludes with a two-hour boat ride back to the starting point. Along this return trip, travelers often take the chance to jump into the water again or simply enjoy the peaceful scenery. The overall experience makes for a calming, nature-focused day—ideal for those wanting a break from the more adrenaline-pumping attractions.

Reviewers have pointed out some organizational issues, such as no-shows or miscommunications, notably a guest mentioning they were left waiting with no pickup. These are important considerations—be sure to confirm your booking and communicate clearly with the tour provider. The tour is generally suitable for all ages and is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for many travelers.

Is this tour worth it?

At a price of $40 per person, this tour offers a decent value, especially considering the full day of activities—a boat trip, lunch, swimming, and fishing. If you’re someone who appreciates natural landscapes, gentle water activities, and a relaxed pace, this experience can deliver many memorable moments. However, keep in mind the mixed reviews about organization; patience and flexibility will make your day smoother.

The key advantage lies in the stunning views and the chance to be out on the water, soaking in the serenity of Green Canyon. It’s not the most luxurious or exclusive experience, but it’s straightforward, genuine, and beginner-friendly. For travelers with busy itineraries, this tour packs a lot into a manageable timeframe and provides a good introduction to the region’s natural beauty.

Who should consider this tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want to combine scenic beauty with relaxed outdoor activities. It’s suitable for families, couples, or individuals looking for a peaceful day in nature without too much walking or strenuous effort. The inclusive nature—with hotel pickup, lunch, and activities—makes it an easy choice for those seeking convenience.

If you’re someone who values guided commentary and authentic scenery over luxury amenities, this tour will likely meet your expectations. However, if organizational reliability is a top priority or you prefer more structured or exclusive experiences, you might want to explore other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it a convenient choice. Just be sure to wait at the hotel main entrance gate 10 minutes before your scheduled time.

How long is the boat trip?
The boat journey lasts approximately four hours, providing plenty of time to enjoy the lake, take photos, swim, and relax.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring a hat, sunscreen, a towel, and a change of clothes if you plan to swim or get wet. These essentials will help you stay comfortable during the day.

Are meals included?
Yes, a hearty lunch at a lakeside restaurant is part of the tour. You can choose between meatballs, chicken, or fish, with rice and salad. Beverages are also provided.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

Can I take photos during the trip?
While photos and videos aren’t included in the tour package, many guests find the scenery photogenic—just remember to bring your camera for plenty of pictures.

What if the tour gets canceled or I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you some flexibility if your plans change.

To sum it up, the Green Canyon tour offers a tranquil, scenic escape with a combination of boat rides, swimming, fishing, and hearty local food. It’s best suited for those who want to enjoy nature at a relaxed pace, without high expectations for luxury or flawless organization. If you’re prepared for some occasional logistical quirks and enjoy spending time on the water, this experience can leave you with plenty of memorable views and peaceful moments in one of Turkey’s beautiful landscapes.