Alanya: Green Canyon Boat Tour & Nature Escape

If you’re dreaming of escaping the hustle and bustle of Alanya for a peaceful day in nature, the Green Canyon Boat Tour offers an appealing blend of scenic views, gentle boat rides, and lakeside relaxation. This 9-hour experience takes you from the lively streets of Alanya to the tranquil waters of Oymapnar Dam, with plenty of opportunities for photos, local insights, and a relaxed lunch by the lake.

What makes this tour particularly attractive is the chance to enjoy stunning mountain vistas and serene waters on a comfortable boat trip. Plus, the inclusion of a scenic viewpoint and a lakeside meal adds genuine value, making it more than just a boat ride. However, potential travelers should consider that the experience involves a fair amount of travel time (around 1.5 hours each way) and some may prefer more active pursuits.

Ideal for those who appreciate natural landscapes, peaceful boat rides, and local scenery, this tour suits travelers looking for a laid-back day out with plenty of authentic photo opportunities and educational tidbits about Turkey’s impressive dam infrastructure.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Experience vistas of Green Canyon, the dam, and lush forests.
• Relaxing Boat Trip: Enjoy a calming cruise on Oymapnar Lake, perfect for unwinding.
• Scenic Highlights: Visit a viewpoint overlooking the lake and dam for memorable photos.
• Lakeside Lunch: Savor a delicious meal at a restaurant right on the water’s edge.
• Additional Activities: Try fishing, canoeing, or simply relax lakeside.
• Educational Insight: Learn about the engineering of Turkey’s fifth-largest dam, Oymapnar.

Exploring the Itinerary: From Pickup to Return

The day begins with a hotel pickup in Alanya, which is smooth and well-organized, with the transportation being air-conditioned and comfortable. This initial ride takes about 1.5 hours, giving you a chance to enjoy scenic views of the Turkish countryside en route to Oymapnar Dam. During the journey, many reviewers mention the helpfulness of the guides and the cleanliness of the buses, making the transfer part of the overall pleasant experience.

The Dam and Viewpoint

Once you arrive at Oymapnar Dam, known as Turkey’s fifth-largest dam, you’ll appreciate the opportunity to learn about its impressive engineering. The guides are often praised for their knowledgeable explanations, and many guests mention how the viewpoint offers fantastic panoramic shots of the dam and the lake below. It’s a perfect spot for photos, especially since the surrounding greenery and mountain backdrop make for a captivating scene.

Boat Trip on the Lake

The highlight for many is the boat ride across the calm waters of Green Canyon. The boat itself is typically described as comfortable, and the atmosphere tranquil, ideal for relaxing and absorbing nature’s quiet beauty. Expect to see plantations and lush forests lining the shores, which make for a serene backdrop. Reviewers have noted that the boat trip is not overly long, but enough to give you a real sense of the lake’s peaceful vibe.

Lunch and Lakeside Relaxation

After the boat journey, you’ll stop at a scenic lakeside restaurant for lunch. The menu usually features local dishes, and guests often comment on how satisfying the meal is, especially given the beautiful surroundings. Some reviews mention the deliciousness of the food and the spectacular views from the restaurant’s terrace.

Post-lunch, there’s plenty of time for lakeside activities such as fishing and canoeing, or simply reclining with a good book and soaking in the tranquil environment. This part of the tour is appreciated for its laid-back pace and the chance to truly unwind.

Return Journey

As the tour winds down, you’ll board the bus back to Alanya. Many travelers find this part of the day is a great opportunity to reflect on the scenic vistas and the peaceful experience. Upon arrival, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel, feeling refreshed from a day immersed in natural beauty.

What to Expect at Each Stage

The tour is designed for comfort and ease, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, saving you the hassle of navigation. The 1.5-hour ride to the dam is filled with scenic views, making the journey part of the experience rather than just transit.

The dam visit offers educational value, with guides explaining the dam’s construction and purpose, which helps to appreciate the significance of this impressive engineering feat. The viewpoint allows for stunning photos and a chance to see the dam from above, giving a broader perspective of the landscape.

On the lake, the boat trip provides a gentle floating experience, perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking relaxation. The lakeside lunch is a highlight, with many guests remarking on the quality and scenic setting. Post-lunch leisure options like fishing and canoeing are optional but add a fun, hands-on element to the day.

The return journey is typically relaxed, with guides answering questions and sharing additional insights about the region. The pace is leisurely, making it suitable for those wanting a gentle day out rather than active sightseeing.

The Value of This Experience

Compared to other tours, the Green Canyon Boat Tour balances cost and content well. It’s priced to include transportation, the boat trip, lunch, and entry fees, which means it offers good value for a full-day experience. The inclusion of lakeside activities and educational stops enhances the trip’s worth, especially for those interested in nature and engineering marvels.

Many reviewers emphasize the quality of guides, noting that they are knowledgeable and friendly, which adds a lot to the overall enjoyment. The scenic views, combined with a relaxing pace and local dining, make this a thoughtful choice for travelers seeking an authentic, scenic escape from the city’s busy streets.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is best suited for nature lovers, families, or anyone wanting a relaxed day immersed in natural scenery. It’s perfect for those who enjoy photo opportunities and are interested in local engineering marvels like the dam. It also appeals to travelers who prefer a calm, leisurely pace over high-adrenaline adventure.

However, if you’re looking for more active pursuits or a longer, more intense outdoor experience, this tour might feel a bit too sedate. Also, since it involves a fair amount of travel time, it’s ideal for those comfortable with bus rides and who want to maximize their day exploring the countryside.

The Sum Up

The Green Canyon Boat Tour from Alanya offers an authentic, peaceful escape into Turkey’s beautiful natural landscape. With scenic viewpoints, a gentle boat ride, and lakeside dining, it provides a well-rounded experience that balances education with relaxation. The knowledgeable guides and stunning views are notable highlights, making it a worthwhile choice for anyone wanting to see a different side of the Antalya region.

This tour shines brightest for travelers who appreciate nature’s quiet beauty, scenic photography spots, and a slower pace that allows genuine connection with the landscape. It’s especially suitable for those traveling with family, couples, or solo explorers in search of a calming yet engaging day out.

If you’re after a mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and lakeside leisure, this experience promises a memorable day away from the crowds, with just enough activity to keep things interesting without feeling rushed.

FAQ

How long is the transfer from Alanya to the dam?
The transfer takes approximately 1.5 hours each way, offering scenic views of the Turkish countryside along the route.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a boat trip on the lake, lunch, soft drinks, and entry fees.

Is there an option for active activities?
Yes, after lunch, you can engage in lakeside activities such as fishing and canoeing, or simply relax and enjoy the tranquil setting.

Are guides available during the tour?
Yes, the guides are knowledgeable and helpful, often praised for their explanations about the dam and the scenery.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, and sunscreen to enjoy the day comfortably and capture memories.

Are alcoholic drinks available?
No, only soft drinks are included; alcoholic drinks are not part of the tour.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Generally yes, especially since the pace is relaxed, but consider the travel time and activity preferences of younger children.

What’s the best time of year to take this tour?
While not specified, the best months are likely spring and fall when the weather is milder, perfect for outdoor activities and boat trips.