City of Side: Eagle Canyon w/ Optional Selge or Rafting Tour

Exploring Side’s Natural Gems: Eagle Canyon with Optional Selge or Rafting

Thinking about a day outside the usual beaches and ruins of Side? This full-day tour offers a well-rounded mix of breathtaking scenery, history, and adventure. For just $32 per person, you’ll get to admire the towering cliffs of Eagle Canyon, indulge in a riverside lunch, and choose between exploring the ancient city of Selge or experiencing an exhilarating rafting session.

What makes this tour stand out is its combination of nature, history, and adrenaline — a perfect recipe for travelers craving authentic experiences beyond the typical sightseeing. We especially appreciate the knowledgeable guides who share insights along the way. On the flip side, some might find the 2-hour bus ride a bit long, but it’s worth it for the views and the adventure waiting ahead.

This trip suits those who love outdoor activities, scenic landscapes, and a touch of history. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a mix of relaxing and energetic moments, and it’s accessible for most, though not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility issues.

Key Points

• Stunning Natural Scenery: Eagle Canyon’s cliffs stretch over 400 meters high, offering jaw-dropping views.
• Historical Insights: The ancient Roman theatre at Selge provides a fascinating glimpse into Turkey’s past.
• Active Experience: Rafting on the wild waters delivers thrills for adventure seekers.
• Comfortable Transportation: Modern, air-conditioned buses make the long drive enjoyable.
• Flexible Options: You can choose to visit Selge or enjoy the rafting, tailoring the day to your interests.
• Good Value: For $32, you get transport, guides, entrance fees, a hearty lunch, and optional activities.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting the Day & Transport
Your adventure kicks off with a hotel pickup in Side, with a fully air-conditioned bus. The tour is well-organized — a professional guide leads the group, sharing helpful info and keeping the energy flowing. Expect a comfortable 2-hour drive through the Taurus Mountains, which offers some of the best views of Turkey’s countryside. Along the way, you’ll pass charming villages and lush forests, making for a scenic journey. Reviewers mention that the guide, though not named, was friendly and knew his stuff, providing a good balance of information and humor.

Eagle Canyon Exploration
Once you arrive at Eagle Canyon, you’ll get about 45 minutes of free time to explore. The cliffs are truly impressive — over 400 meters tall — and the atmosphere is both wild and awe-inspiring. We loved the way the guide explained the geological features and history of the canyon as we wandered along the pathways. Several reviewers highlighted that Eagle Canyon is a “beautiful place,” perfect for photos and just soaking up the natural majesty. Be prepared for uneven paths and wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain is rugged.

River Lunch & Historical Visit
After the canyon visit, the group heads to a riverside restaurant where a delicious meal awaits. Surrounded by nature, the lunch offers a chance to unwind and refuel before the next activity. The tour includes a look at the Roman theatre in Selge, a 2,200-year-old relic that provides a tangible connection to Turkey’s ancient past. From the comments, visitors appreciated the opportunity to walk around and see the remnants of this old settlement, with some saying it was “well worth the visit.”

Optional Rafting Adventure
Post-lunch, a professional rafting instructor briefs everyone on safety and technique. Those opting for the rafting will don gear and hop into the foam-flecked waters of the nearby river. Reviewers like Thalia and Sebastian praised the rafting as “thrilling” and “worth every adrenaline rush,” noting the wild waters are perfect for a fun, splashy adventure. Even if you’re a beginner, the guides are attentively present to ensure safety, making it accessible for most. For others, watching the action from the shore still offers great views and photos.

Return Journey
After a busy day, the bus ride back to Side takes around 2 hours, leaving you with plenty to discuss. Many reviews mention how the day was “smooth and well-organized,” with guides sharing interesting facts and making the trip both enjoyable and memorable.

Practical Details & What to Expect

Transport & Comfort
The tour uses modern, air-conditioned buses, which is vital given the 2-hour drives each way. The group size appears manageable, and the entire experience is designed to keep everyone comfortable. Be sure to be ready at your hotel’s main security gate 10 minutes early — drivers are prompt but not waiting long.

Timing & Flexibility
Starting times vary; check availability beforehand. The full-day format (9 hours) includes plenty of stops for photos, short walks, and meals. If you opt for the Selge visit, you’ll walk through the ancient city ruins and see the Roman theatre, which is over 2,000 years old. The rafting option provides a more energetic experience, suited to those who want a bit of adventure.

Cost & Value
At $32, this tour offers a solid value considering it covers transport, guiding, entrance fees, lunch, and optional activities. The reviews point out that it’s “worth the money and time,” especially for the quality of the guides and the scenic experiences.

What to Bring
Comfortable shoes are a must — especially for canyon walking and exploring Selge ruins. A camera is essential for capturing the stunning views, and light clothes suit the outdoor activities. Since drinks aren’t included, bringing water is advisable, especially for the physical parts of the tour.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many guests praised the knowledgeable guides, even if they weren’t named. One mentioned that the guide was “friendly and knew what he was talking about,” which elevated the overall experience. Thalia’s review called the trip “amazing,” highlighting the fun and interesting nature of the activities, especially the rafting.

Others appreciated the scenic beauty — Agnieszka described Eagle Canyon as “a beautiful place,” noting that the cliffs and wild landscape are worth seeing. Sebastian pointed out that the trip “went smoothly,” with guides balancing information and entertainment effectively.

A notable comment from Jurij said the tour was “well organized,” and they felt it gave a genuine outside view of the mountains outside Antalya city. However, some guests expressed minor disappointments — for example, one reviewer was expecting an English-speaking guide but found that part was primarily in Russian, which could be confusing for some.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic landscapes, and cultural sites. If you like a good mix of nature and history, you’ll find the stops at Eagle Canyon and Selge both satisfying and eye-opening. The rafting adds an adrenaline rush that keeps the day lively and memorable.

It’s also appealing for those who value value for money, as the tour combines multiple activities, transportation, and meals for a reasonable price. However, some might find the long bus ride less appealing if they prefer quick sightseeing. It’s not recommended for pregnant women or people with mobility impairments, given the rugged terrain and physical activity involved.

The Sum Up

This tour from Side offers an engaging blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty. The combination of Eagle Canyon’s towering cliffs, the ancient ruins of Selge, and the thrill of river rafting provides a well-rounded day for those craving something more than just beaches. The guides’ knowledge and the scenic drives add to the overall value, making it a worthwhile option for curious travelers looking to explore beyond the usual.

If you’re after a fun, active day that introduces you to Turkey’s rugged landscapes and historical treasures, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially ideal for those who enjoy a good mix of sightseeing and adrenaline, and who aren’t afraid of a bit of rugged terrain and outdoor adventure.

For travelers seeking a memorable day filled with stunning views, authentic history, and lively activities, this experience is likely one of the best options around Side at an affordable price.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Side, with pickups at the main security gate of your hotel.

What is the duration of the tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 9 hours, with starting times depending on availability.

Can I choose to do the Selge visit or rafting?
Yes, you can opt for either exploring the ancient city of Selge or enjoying the rafting experience, tailoring the day to your preferences.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but it’s best for those comfortable with outdoor activities and rugged terrain. Not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility issues.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and light clothes are recommended. Also, bring water, as drinks are not included.

Are there any language restrictions?
Guides speak English and Russian. Some guests noted that the guide spoke mainly Russian during their trip, so it’s worth confirming language preferences if possible.

How physically demanding is the rafting?
The rafting is described as wild and foamy, suitable for beginners with safety instructions provided. Guides are attentive to ensure safety throughout.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees are covered in the tour price, including the Roman theatre at Selge.

What is the price?
The tour costs around $32 per person, offering a good value considering all included activities and services.

This comprehensive tour review aims to help you decide if this adventure-packed day suits your travel style. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or adrenaline junkie, it delivers a diverse experience you’ll remember long after your trip.