From Antalya & Kemer : Rafting Tour Suitable for All Ages

If you’re looking to add some adventure to your trip to Antalya or Kemer, this whitewater rafting tour along the Euryrmedon River offers a lively mix of adrenaline, scenic views, and cultural touches. It’s a great way to see a different side of Turkey, away from bustling beaches and crowded markets. With a duration of around 10 hours, the tour is designed to be comprehensive yet accessible for most travelers.

One of the things we really appreciate about this experience is its balance of thrill and comfort. The inclusion of a riverside lunch, the scenic drive through a National Park, and the professional guides make the day feel well-rounded. However, it’s worth noting that the tour has a somewhat long travel time (about two hours each way), which can be a consideration if you’re pressed for time or prefer a shorter day trip. The tour suits families and groups of friends who want a mix of excitement and relaxation in lush surroundings.

Key Points

• Suitable for All Ages: The tour is designed to be accessible, with safety briefings and professional guides ensuring everyone can enjoy.
• Stunning Scenic Views: Expect spectacular vistas of a National Park along the Euryrmedon River, perfect for nature lovers.
• Adrenaline and Relaxation: Combining thrilling rapids with peaceful river surroundings and a riverside lunch offers a well-rounded experience.
• Value for Money: At $35 per person, including transportation, lunch, and insurance, it offers good value—especially considering the scenic and adventure elements.
• Long Day, Good Organization: The 10-hour itinerary includes transfers, safety briefings, multiple rapids, breaks, and a delicious meal, all well-coordinated.
• Mixed Reviews on Food: While the food is generally appreciated, some reviewers found it mediocre or served later than expected. Do not go expecting gourmet cuisine, but rather a hearty, local-style meal.

What to Expect from the Tour

Pickup and Journey to the River

Your day begins with hotel pickup in Kemer or Alanya. The drive to Köprülü Canyon takes about two hours, giving you a chance to enjoy the scenic landscapes of Antalya Province. Reviewers mention that the transportation is smooth and punctual, with guides speaking multiple languages including English, German, Russian, Arabic, Polish, and Turkish.

The long drive might be a downside if you’re eager to start rafting right away, but it also offers a glimpse of the Turkish countryside and the opportunity for some light conversation with fellow travelers.

Safety Briefing and Gear Up

Once at the rafting base camp, you’ll attend a brief safety instruction led by professional guides. They emphasize safety measures to ensure everyone feels comfortable — which is especially reassuring for those new to rafting. Kitted out with life jackets, paddles, and if needed, available waterproof jackets, you’ll be ready to hit the water.

It’s worth noting that rafting shoes are available for purchase onsite if you prefer not to bring your own. Some reviews mention that not everyone brought suitable footwear, so this is a good opportunity to buy comfortable, closed-toe water shoes if you don’t have them.

The Rafting Adventure

The main event is navigating 12 rapids over a 13 km stretch of the Euryrmedon River. The course is designed to be thrilling but manageable for all ages, making it a great family activity. The rapids vary in intensity, providing moments of excitement without being overly dangerous.

Travelers have described the guides as knowledgeable and friendly, with some reviewers praising George, the jeep driver, for his courteous attitude. The guides’ professionalism is evident, helping to create a fun, safe environment.

Scenic Breaks and Wildlife Encounters

Along the way, there are designated stops for breaks. Reviewers appreciate these moments where you can take in the landscape or simply relax. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase, and entertainment is provided at these rest points, adding a social element to the trip.

Many travelers mention the stunning views of the National Park, which make the trip visually rewarding. Some even noted the opportunity to spot local wildlife, adding an extra layer of interest to the journey.

Riverside Lunch and Relaxation

After the excitement on the river, everyone gathers for a lunch served at a riverside setting. The menu includes kebab, salads, rice, and pasta. While some reviews mention that the food is decent—some even describe it as tasty—others indicate it can be served later than planned or sometimes less warm than ideal. Still, most agree it’s a generous and satisfying end to the adventure.

The relaxed atmosphere at the lunch spot allows for socializing and soaking in the peaceful surroundings after the adrenaline rush.

Return Journey

Following lunch, the journey back to your hotel begins. The entire day wraps up with a drop-off service, making the experience convenient and hassle-free. While some travelers express that the return trip can be a bit lengthy, the overall organization helps keep things smooth.

The Value of This Tour

For $35 per person, this rafting trip offers a decent balance of adventure, scenery, and cultural experience. The price includes transportation, the safety briefing, lunch, and insurance, making it a straightforward cost for a full day out. When you consider the scenic views, the chance to encounter local wildlife, and the professional guides, it seems to be a fair deal.

However, a few reviewers mentioned that the food quality varied and that the long travel time might not suit everyone. If you’re seeking a shorter activity or gourmet meal, this might not be your top choice. But if you value authentic outdoor experiences, striking scenery, and family-friendly fun, this tour fits the bill.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This rafting tour is particularly ideal for families with children, as it balances excitement with safety and manageable rapids. It’s also perfect for groups of friends or couples looking for a day of outdoor adventure amidst stunning nature. Nature lovers will enjoy the scenic drive and opportunities to spot wildlife, while those craving a bit of adrenaline will find plenty of thrills on the river.

Travelers who appreciate well-organized tours and value local guides will find this experience both enjoyable and informative. Remember, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, mobility issues, or wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making the day hassle-free. The drive to the river takes about two hours each way.

What should I bring for the rafting trip?
You’ll need sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel, biodegradable sunscreen, water shoes, and closed-toe shoes. Rafting shoes can also be purchased onsite if needed.

How long is the rafting course?
The course is 13 km long, with 12 rapids to navigate. The entire rafting segment lasts roughly 2 hours, depending on water conditions and group pace.

Is the food included?
Yes, a riverside lunch with kebab, salads, rice, and pasta is included. Some reviewers found it satisfactory, though a few felt it was mediocre or served later than expected.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for all ages, provided they are comfortable with water activities and follow safety instructions. It’s a family-friendly adventure with professional guides.

What languages do guides speak?
Guides speak multiple languages, including English, German, Russian, Arabic, Polish, and Turkish, ensuring clear communication for diverse groups.

Final Thoughts

This whitewater rafting tour on the Euryrmedon River combines adventure and scenery in a package that appeals to a wide range of travelers. It offers a good value for the price with professional guides, scenic stops, and a relaxed riverside lunch. Despite some minor criticisms about food timing and quality, most guests leave with memorable stories and a sense of accomplishment.

If you’re seeking a fun outdoor activity that’s suitable for families and groups, and you don’t mind a longer day with scenic drives, this tour is worth considering. It’s an authentic way to experience Turkey’s natural beauty while enjoying a bit of adrenaline-fueled fun.

Note: Always check recent reviews and confirm availability as details can change seasonally. Be prepared for a full-day adventure, and bring layers, water shoes, and a sense of humor.