City of Side: Sapadere Canyon & Alanya with Cable Car Option

Planning a day out from Side? This tour offers a well-rounded look at some of Turkey’s most stunning vistas and cultural highlights. For around $36, you’ll get a taste of natural beauty, adventure, and a sprinkle of history, all wrapped into a 9-hour journey. With a mix of guided hikes, scenic cable cars, and free time in Alanya, it’s designed for travelers who love authentic experiences topped with breathtaking views.

What we especially like about this tour is how it balances structured sightseeing with free time, letting you absorb the atmosphere at your own pace. A standout feature is the hike through Sapadere Canyon—an opportunity to get close to nature, hear about local wildlife, and enjoy waterfalls and panoramic vistas. However, one thing to keep in mind is the distance involved—about 105 km from Side to Alanya—so a good breakfast and some snacks are advisable. This tour suits those who appreciate nature, enjoy light adventure, and want a manageable way to explore beyond the coast without feeling rushed.

Key Points

• Natural beauty: The hike through Sapadere Canyon offers stunning waterfalls, wildlife, and scenic viewpoints.
• Historical sights: Optional visits like Goblin’s Cave and Alanya Castle via cable car add cultural depth.
• Flexibility: Free time in Alanya allows for personalized exploration of local sights.
• Guided experience: Knowledgeable guides enhance your understanding of the area.
• Value for money: At $36, it provides a mix of adventure, sightseeing, and local food.
• Long travel day: Expect a full 9 hours, including transportation, so be prepared for a full schedule.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Out: Hotel Pickup and Transit

Your day begins early with hotel pickup in Side, usually between 8:20 am and 9:00 am depending on your location. The air-conditioned bus ride to Alanya takes about two hours, giving you time to settle in and get some initial glimpses of the countryside. Keep in mind, the journey covers roughly 105 km, so a hearty breakfast or snacks are wise—especially since the day is packed and you’ll want your energy.

Sapadere Canyon: Natural Gem and Hiking Adventure

Upon arrival at Sapadere Canyon, your guide introduces you to this impressive natural formation carved by millennia of erosion. The guided walk lasts about two hours, during which you’ll traverse a trail flanked by lush greenery, waterfalls, and the sounds of rushing water. Reviewers highlight the stunning views and the chance to spot colorful birds and butterflies—truly a photographer’s paradise.

One review describes how the guide, Alibarba, made the experience engaging with stories about the flora and fauna. The canyon walk is manageable for most, but about 750 meters of hiking could be challenging for those with mobility issues. The waterfalls are particularly photogenic, and many enjoy stopping at the viewpoints to capture the landscape.

Lunch Break: Tasting Authentic Flavors

After the hike, a 45-minute stop at a local restaurant offers traditional Turkish dishes. The menu might include chicken or trout with rice and vegetables—filling fare that recharges you for the next part of the day. The reviewers praise the lunch as “yummy and filling,” adding a nice balance of local flavor to the tour.

Optional Visit to Goblin’s Cave or Mountain Swimming

Post-lunch, you can choose to visit Goblin’s Cave for an additional fee—about €3.50 for adults, according to reviews. The cave is small but intriguing, perfect for a quick exploration. Alternatively, you might opt to swim in mineral waters flowing from the Taurus Mountains, which many find refreshing and unique. Keep in mind, this is an optional activity, so plan accordingly if you want to include it.

Exploring Alanya: Free Time & Scenic Views

Next, you arrive in Alanya for about 1.5 hours of free time. This is your chance to stroll at your own pace, taking in sights like Cleopatra Beach, the Red Tower, or simply browsing local shops. The journey to Alanya also offers scenic views along the way, enriching your overall experience.

Cable Car to Alanya Castle: A Highlight (Optional)

For travelers opting for the cable car, this is where the thrill begins. The ride takes you up to the historic Alanya Castle, giving sweeping vistas of the coastline and city below. The cable car ride, combined with the castle exploration, takes about 1.5 hours and is often praised for its spectacular views. One reviewer mentioned that the time at the castle was just enough to enjoy the scenery and snap some photos, but not enough to explore every corner.

Return Journey and Final Thoughts

After a leisurely exploration, the return bus trip takes about 1.5 hours, giving you time to relax and reflect on your day. Most reviews note the trip’s efficiency, though some mention the long drive from Side—so packing snacks and a good attitude helps.

Practical Insights & Tips

• Transportation & Timing: The bus is air-conditioned and comfortable, but expect a full day with about 9 hours total. Plan your meals and rest accordingly.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes for hiking, swimwear if you want to swim, a towel, camera, rain gear (just in case), and cash for optional activities.
• Price & Value: At $36, this tour offers a good balance of guided hikes, scenic views, and free time, making it a worthwhile choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking authentic experiences.
• Guides & Group Size: Reviews highlight knowledgeable guides like Alibarba, who add value with local stories and tips. Group sizes are not specified but tend to be manageable.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the nature of the hike and terrain.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a blend of nature and culture with some light adventure, this tour is perfect. It suits travelers who enjoy scenic hikes, panoramic views, and exploring local spots at a relaxed pace. It’s also ideal for those who want a value-packed day without the hassle of planning transport and logistics. The optional cable car ride adds a special touch, offering fantastic vistas of Alanya and its castle.

However, if you’re seeking a very leisurely or accessible experience, or have limited mobility, this might be a bit strenuous. The full-day schedule demands energy and a willingness to be on your feet.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Side combines the best of outdoor beauty with cultural highlights, balanced by free time to explore at your own pace. The scenic hike through Sapadere Canyon alone makes it worth considering, especially if you’re a fan of natural landscapes. The optional cable car ride and castle visit add a memorable peak to the day, offering splendid views and photo opportunities.

With knowledgeable guides and a reasonable price, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a day trip that’s both adventurous and relaxed, without breaking the bank. Just remember to pack comfortable shoes and snacks, and you’re set for a day of Turkish scenery and history.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, with transportation in an air-conditioned bus for the entire day.

How long is the drive from Side to Alanya?
The drive takes approximately two hours each way, covering about 105 km.

Can I visit Goblin’s Cave during this tour?
Yes, visiting Goblin’s Cave is optional and requires an additional fee of about €3.50 for adults.

What should I bring for the hike in Sapadere Canyon?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and rain gear are recommended. If you plan to swim, bring swimwear and a towel.

Is the cable car ride included?
The cable car is an optional add-on. If selected, it takes you to Alanya Castle, providing scenic views.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s best suited for those with good mobility, as the hike involves around 750 meters of walking and some uneven terrain. Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments.

This detailed look at the City of Side: Sapadere Canyon & Alanya tour hopefully helps you decide if it’s the right fit for your Turkey adventure. It offers a lively mix of nature, history, and leisure—just what many travelers crave on a day trip!