City of Side: Green Canyon Jeep Tour, Boat Trip & Waterfall

If you’re looking for a day packed with adventure, stunning scenery, and authentic Turkish touches, the Green Canyon Jeep Tour and Boat Trip near Side might just be your perfect outing. This tour, rated 4.8 out of 5 based on over 1,180 reviews, offers a lively mix of off-road driving, scenic boat rides, and cultural experiences—all for around $20 per person. It’s a great way to explore Turkey’s beautiful landscape without breaking the bank.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines adrenaline-pumping off-road safaris with moments of calm and beauty, like swimming in Green Lake or soaking in breathtaking views. The guides have a reputation for being friendly, energetic, and knowledgeable, which adds to the overall vibe. On the flip side, some travelers might find the day quite active and dusty — so it’s not ideal if you prefer a slower, more relaxed trip.

This tour is best suited to adventurous souls who don’t mind getting a little muddy, enjoy scenic drives, and are eager to experience Turkish culture firsthand. Families, groups of friends, or solo travelers who want a well-rounded day of fun and exploration will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: Green Canyon, Green Lake, and mountain views provide excellent photo opportunities.
• Authentic Experience: Learn about Turkish culture with food, tea, and local stops.
• Active Adventure: Off-road jeep safaris and water fights make it lively and engaging.
• Value for Money: At just $20, you get multiple activities, local food, and a boat trip.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for those who enjoy energetic, outdoor activities but avoid if seeking a slow pace.
• Guides and Atmosphere: Friendly, energetic guides like Ahmed and Malin make the day memorable.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Pickup and Initial Safety Briefing

The tour begins with hotel pickup, often from Side or nearby areas like Kumköy, Evrenseki, or Gündodu. You’ll be greeted by a lively team, including guides like Ahmed, known for making the experience fun, and drivers who handle the bumpy terrain with skill. The safety briefing is concise—about 20 minutes—and ensures everyone is prepared for the off-road adventure. Don’t worry—you won’t be driving; your role is to enjoy the wild ride and take in the scenery.

Off-Road Safari: Mountains, Rivers, and Mud

Once you’re all strapped in, the real fun starts. The jeeps wind over mountain trails, cross rivers (yes, in the vehicle), and bump along rough patches. Reviewers like Adrian describe the drive as “super fast but always safe,” and note the guides’ ability to keep the energy high with lively music and jokes. Expect to get dusty, so wearing a bandana or scarf is advised—many reviewers suggest bringing one along to cover your nose and mouth.

Ahmed’s team is praised repeatedly for their enthusiasm and humor, with some reviewers noting the “amazing atmosphere” and “crazy but safe” driving. The off-road segment lasts about an hour, during which you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the mountains and the river below. It’s an unfiltered taste of Turkish nature—perfect for thrill-seekers and photo enthusiasts alike.

Cultural Stop and Local Turkish Lunch

Midway through, the group stops at a Turkish town for lunch and tea. The meals are generally hearty and tasty, with reviews praising the quality and amount of food served. It’s a chance to relax, chat, and enjoy traditional flavors in a friendly local setting. This break also offers a chance to learn more about Turkish hospitality and culture from your guides.

Oymapnar Dam and Green Lake

Next, the journey takes you to the Oymapnar Dam, an impressive arch dam on the Manavgat River. The views from here are awe-inspiring—think sweeping vistas of the dam’s structure and the surrounding mountains. It’s a great photo spot and a perfect prelude to the highlight of the day: Green Lake.

At Green Lake, you’ll have a chance to swim in its crystal-clear blue waters. The lake is described as “beautiful” and ideal for a quick dip. The boat trip on Green Lake is a laid-back affair, lasting about 30 minutes, with many reviewers (like Izabela) saying it’s “another highlight” of the day. The boat is comfortable and provides a relaxing break from the excitement, with some snacks available near the lake for purchase.

Water Fight and Mountain Views

One of the most memorable aspects of this tour, as highlighted in reviews, is the water fights between jeeps. These are friendly, lively battles that keep everyone laughing and cooled down. Be sure to wear something you don’t mind getting soaked in, and consider bringing a waterproof case for your phone if you want photos.

The day isn’t just about high-energy activities; some stops offer tranquil moments, like the “Hidden Gem” visit, which might be a small, peaceful spot to take in more views or learn about local traditions.

Return and Drop-off

After a full day of adventure, the tour concludes with a scenic drive back to Side, often ending around 4 or 5 pm. Hotel drop-offs are included, making logistics one less thing to worry about. Many reviews mention how smoothly everything runs, with the guides and drivers making sure everyone is comfortable and entertained throughout.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Duration and Timing

The tour lasts roughly 7 hours, with starting times varying based on availability. It’s a full day but well paced. The itinerary includes a mix of driving, stops, and free time for swimming and photos. Make sure to check your pickup time, as the local partner contacts you a day in advance to confirm.

Price and Value

At $20 per person, this tour is hard to beat in terms of value. It includes off-road adventures, a boat trip, lunch, and hotel pickup and drop-off. Many reviewers feel they get more than their money’s worth considering the variety of activities and the quality of guides and food.

What to Bring

Bring essentials like sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, and sunscreen. Since dust is common, a bandana or scarf is recommended to cover your nose and mouth. Pets aren’t allowed, and guests with certain health conditions are advised to consider their suitability.

Limitations and Considerations

This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or people with heart problems due to the active nature of the jeep rides. It’s an energetic trip that involves some dirt and water fights, so prepare accordingly. Also, note that guests do not drive the jeeps—they’re passengers.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Multiple guests have highlighted the friendly, energetic guides like Ahmed and Malin, who contribute significantly to the fun atmosphere. They’ve described the trip as “full of laughter, dancing, and adventure,” with some noting how guides like Spider-Man (Joseph) add a playful touch with acrobatics and photos.

The scenery consistently receives praise, with many mentioning the vistas of Green Canyon and Green Lake as breathtaking. The local food and “gorgeous” lunch are also standout points, often cited as better than expected given the modest price.

Finally, the water fights are a recurring theme—these lively moments help break the ice and keep the day lively. One reviewer even calls their guides “crazy but lovable,” which perfectly captures the spirited atmosphere.

This tour offers a fantastic mix of adventure and cultural flavor, making it ideal for those who like active days, gorgeous natural scenery, and lively guides. For just $20, you’re getting a full day of off-road fun, scenic boat rides, and delicious Turkish cuisine. The positive reviews speak volumes about the guides’ friendliness, the stunning views, and the overall value.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want a day packed with excitement, don’t mind getting a little dusty or wet, and enjoy connecting with Turkish culture in a relaxed, fun environment. If that sounds like your kind of day, this tour is a solid choice to add to your Side itinerary.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from hotels in Side and surrounding areas like Kumköy, Evrenseki, and Gündodu is included. You should wait in front of your hotel’s security gate.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 7 hours, with multiple stops for sightseeing, dining, and swimming.

Can I drive the jeep?
No, guests are not permitted to drive the jeeps. You will be a passenger while the guides handle the driving.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. A bandana or scarf is recommended to cover your nose during dusty off-road sections.

Is food included?
Yes, lunch is included in the package, and reviewers praise its quality and quantity.

Is the boat trip optional?
The boat trip is part of the tour if you select that option. It’s a relaxing cruise on Green Lake, perfect for swimming and photos.

Whether you’re craving a fun-filled adventure, stunning nature, or a taste of Turkish culture, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s a lively, authentic experience that leaves travelers with memorable stories—and plenty of photos. Perfect for those who want to see the best of Side’s surrounding landscapes with a splash of excitement.