Alanya: Green Canyon Boat Trip with Lunch and Hotel Pickup

Taking a boat trip through the Green Canyon near Alanya is a popular way to escape the usual tourist hustle and get a taste of Turkey’s stunning natural beauty. A full-day adventure, it combines scenic cruising, swimming in clear waters, and a peaceful lakeside lunch—plus the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off.

What makes this experience stand out for many travelers is the chance to see the impressive cliffs and verdant landscapes that surround the large dam lake in the Taurus Mountains. The boat trip promises a relaxing day amid Nature’s artistry, and the fact that it includes transportation makes it especially appealing for those who want a seamless experience.

One thing to keep in mind: the trip can be quite bouncy and long, with some reviews mentioning a rough bus ride before reaching the boat. So, if you’re prone to motion sickness, a bit of preparation might be wise. This tour tends to suit travelers who love scenic landscapes, enjoy swimming, and are okay with a full-day outing that combines water-based activities with leisurely meals.

Key Points

• Scenic cruise through the impressive Green Canyon with stunning cliff views
• Includes lakeside lunch at a tranquil restaurant
• Multiple swimming stops in clear, inviting waters
• Hassle-free pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Alanya
• Suitable for swimmers but not recommended for non-swimmers
• Guided experience with multilingual guides for better understanding

What to Expect on the Green Canyon Boat Trip

This full-day tour kicks off with your hotel pickup in Alanya, making it a stress-free start. The transport will take you to the canyon area, which is characterized by soaring cliffs, lush greenery, and a large dam lake in the Taurus Mountains. You’ll board a boat and begin your cruise through the canyon—an experience that offers fantastic photographic opportunities and a sense of tranquility away from the town’s buzz.

The Scenic Boat Cruise

Once on the boat, you’ll immediately notice the spectacular scenery. The towering cliffs, dotted with green patches, create a dramatic backdrop to the calm waters of the lake. The guide, who speaks multiple languages including English, German, Russian, and Polish, will point out notable sights and share interesting facts about the area.

Travelers report that the views are truly impressive, and some reviewers highlight that the clear blue waters make for beautiful photos. The boat’s route weaves through the canyon, giving you a chance to relax, soak in the scenery, and prepare for the swimming stops ahead.

Swimming in the Lake

Throughout the cruise, there are several stops where you can jump into the lake and cool off. These stops are usually at spots with safe, accessible water for swimming. Many travelers cherish these moments as they offer a refreshing break in the middle of the day, with some reviewers describing the water as “blue and clear”.

However, a review hinted that some areas might have marred and broken stairs or missing railings, emphasizing the importance of caution if you decide to venture closer to the shoreline or explore floating around. Plus, non-swimmers should be aware that this tour is not suitable for them, as the experience involves swimming and safety measures are primarily geared toward those comfortable in the water.

Lakeside Lunch

After a couple of swims and scenic stops, you’ll be taken to a lakeside restaurant for lunch. The meal is included in the tour price, and travelers generally find it to be simple but tasty. One review mentioned the lunch as “basic”, but appreciated the chance to relax by the water and enjoy local flavors.

Be aware that drinks are not included at the lunch stop, and some travelers found the options limited or disappointing, with tiny plastic cups of soft drinks or powdered coffee. Still, the lakeside setting provides a serene backdrop that makes the meal more enjoyable.

The Return Journey

Post-lunch, the boat begins its return to Alanya, offering more scenic views along the way. The full-day duration (about 8 hours) includes travel time, so expect some early mornings and possibly a bumpy bus ride to and from the canyon. One traveler mentioned the bus ride as “brutal and long,” so packing some motion sickness tablets or snacks might enhance your comfort.

The tour concludes with hotel drop-off, making it a convenient experience for travelers staying in Alanya. The guided nature of the trip ensures you won’t miss any highlights, and multilingual guides help make the information accessible for international visitors.

Additional Details and Practical Tips

• The tour costs approximately $41 per person, which covers the boat trip, lunch, soft drinks, and guide services. When considering value, this package offers a good balance of scenery, activity, and convenience, especially since transportation and meals are included.

• What to bring: A hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and camera are essentials. The boat’s open design means sun protection is important, and you’ll want your camera ready for those picturesque moments.

• Timing: The tour lasts about 8 hours, with available start times that you should check in advance. The pickup times vary, and the provider will confirm the specific details the day before.

• Suitability: This is best suited for people who are comfortable swimming and want a scenic, relaxing day out. Those with mobility issues or who dislike long, bouncing bus rides might want to consider this before booking.

• Language: Guides speak English, German, Russian, and Polish, making the experience accessible for many travelers.

Authentic Traveler Insights

From reviews, we gather that the scenery is the highlight—”Die Gegend und das Blaue klare Wasser sind Super” (The area and the blue clear water are superb)—but the experience isn’t without minor hiccups. Some travelers mentioned that the stairs and railings at swimming spots could be marred or broken, emphasizing the need for caution.

The lakeside lunch was often described as “basic,” but many appreciated the chance to relax amid nature. One traveler mentioned, “the actual trip itself is good,” despite some disappointment with the drinks served at lunch, which were described as being “tiny plastic cups of cheap soft drinks.”

The bumpy bus ride was a common theme among reviewers, with some noting it could cause discomfort if you’re not prepared. Still, the overall experience’s beautiful scenery and tranquil waters made it worthwhile.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This Green Canyon boat trip offers a balanced mix of scenery, swimming, and relaxation, making it ideal for those who want to see a less touristy side of the Antalya region. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off simplifies logistics, especially for travelers unfamiliar with local transportation.

It’s particularly well-suited for nature lovers and water enthusiasts, who are comfortable spending the day on a boat and in the water. If you’re seeking a peaceful escape with stunning views, this tour fits the bill. However, those who dislike long bus rides or have mobility concerns may want to prepare accordingly or consider other options.

The Sum Up

The Green Canyon boat trip from Alanya provides a scenic escape into Turkey’s impressive natural landscapes. For around $41, you gain a full day of beautiful views, swimming in inviting waters, and a peaceful lakeside lunch—all delivered with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. The experience captures the essence of Turkey’s rugged beauty, perfect for travelers who appreciate outdoor activities and tranquil nature.

While the trip may have some rough edges—like a bumpy bus ride or simple lunch—these are minor compared to the stunning scenery and relaxed vibe. If you’re seeking a day of gentle adventure with plenty of photo opportunities, this tour is a genuine value.

This experience is best for adventure-minded travelers, water lovers, and those wanting a taste of Turkey’s natural wonders without the hassle of organizing separate transportation and meals. It’s a serene, scenic day out that offers a real glimpse into the breathtaking beauty of the Taurus Mountains and the Green Canyon.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Alanya, making the whole day more convenient.

How long does the trip last?
The full experience lasts about 8 hours, including travel time, boat cruise, swimming stops, and lunch.

Are drinks included?
Soft drinks are included on the boat, but not at the lakeside lunch, where drinks are available for purchase.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
No, the activity involves swimming, so it’s not suitable for non-swimmers.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and a camera for photos.

Is there a guide?
Yes, guides speak multiple languages including English, German, Russian, and Polish, and they’ll share insights about the area.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule changes.