From City of Side: Green Canyon Boat Tour & Nature Escape

Setting out on a boat trip to Green Canyon from Side promises a day filled with breathtaking scenery and relaxing moments. You’ll cruise along emerald waters, soak up stunning mountain vistas, and enjoy a peaceful escape into nature’s quiet corners. The experience is perfect if you’re craving a combination of gentle adventure and tranquil beauty, especially amid the lush surroundings of Antalya Province.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the chance to see Turkey’s impressive Oymapnar Dam, a marvel of engineering, while floating on the serene Green Lake reservoir. However, potential travelers should keep in mind that the duration of around 7 hours includes some waiting times and a fair amount of traveling, so it’s suited for those comfortable with a full-day outing.

This tour suits those who love scenic landscapes, relaxing by the water, and enjoying authentic, locally-prepared meals in a natural setting. If you’re seeking a balance between gentle activity and awe-inspiring views, this adventure has a lot to offer.

Key Points

Stunning Views: The tour offers some of the most captivating vistas of Taurus Mountains and the lush canyon landscape.
Relaxation Focus: Ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and fishing in tranquil surroundings.
Unique Highlights: Views of the impressive Oymapnar Dam and Green Lake reservoir.
Authentic Experience: Enjoy a lakeside lunch with panoramic water and mountain views.
Comfort & Convenience: Includes hotel pickup, entry tickets, soft drinks, and a leisurely 7-hour schedule.
Family Friendly: Suitable for travelers seeking a low-pressure, nature-centered day trip.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The journey begins with a hotel pickup in Side, making logistics simple and stress-free. From there, you’re transported to the starting point where your boat adventure kicks off, setting sail on the calm waters of Green Lake, a reservoir that stretches about 17 kilometers long. The tranquil surface of the lake is a perfect backdrop for relaxing, whether you’re sunbathing on deck, taking a refreshing swim, or casting a line for some fishing.

As the boat cruises along, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the Taurus Mountains, whose rugged peaks and green slopes provide a dramatic contrast to the crystal-clear waters below. This part of the landscape is what makes the entire experience so visually rewarding. The boat journey offers a slow, comfortable pace, giving plenty of opportunities to snap photos or simply soak in the scenery.

A key highlight is the Oymapnar Dam, a significant engineering feat marking Turkey’s fourth highest dam. The guide will point out the dam’s features, and you’ll see how it helps both generate power and create the peaceful lake you’re enjoying now. Many reviews note that seeing the dam from the water perspective adds a fascinating layer to the trip — a real bonus for those interested in infrastructure or just eager to witness Turkey’s engineering prowess.

Midway through the day, you’ll stop at a lakeside restaurant for a lunch with panoramic water views. This is a big part of the experience, as the restaurant’s setting is tranquil and picturesque. Expect a hearty meal, often with local flavors, served in a relaxed, outdoor environment that makes you feel truly immersed in nature.

Afternoon activities include sunbathing on deck, swimming in the cool waters, or trying your hand at fishing. Many guests appreciate the serenity of these moments, as there’s little else quite like floating in a lake surrounded by mountains, with only the gentle sounds of nature for company.

The tour wraps up with a return to the starting point and hotel drop-off, making it a convenient, seamless experience. The total duration is approximately 7 hours, making it a full but manageable day out.

The Value of This Experience

While the price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, boat trip, entry tickets, lunch, and soft drinks, the real value lies in the quality of the scenic experience and the restful atmosphere. The boat’s calm cruising pace allows you to truly appreciate the beauty of Green Canyon and the Taurus Mountains, making it more than just a sightseeing trip — it’s a chance to unwind and reconnect with nature.

Many reviews praise the stunning vistas as the highlight, with some guests describing the water’s hue as “crystal clear with vibrant greens reflecting off the surface.” The inclusion of a lakeside lunch adds to the overall value, providing sustenance in a setting that’s both scenic and peaceful.

It’s worth noting that alcoholic drinks are not included, which keeps the experience family-friendly and relaxed. If you’re a traveler who prefers a refreshing drink with your meal, you might want to bring your own or purchase some locally at the restaurant.

Who Would Love This Tour

This trip is ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil escape from the hustle of city life. It’s perfect if you enjoy scenic boat rides, outdoor dining, and relaxing in peaceful surroundings. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike find it a satisfying way to soak up natural beauty without strenuous activity.

It’s also a good choice for visitors who want a flexible, all-inclusive day out that avoids the hassle of planning multiple stops. If you’re interested in Turkey’s engineering feats as well as landscape photography, this tour offers plenty of photo-worthy moments.

The Sum Up

This Green Canyon boat tour from Side offers a balance of scenic beauty, relaxing activities, and authentic local flavor. The highlight is undoubtedly the stunning vistas of the Taurus Mountains and the emerald waters of Green Lake, which leave a lasting impression. The inclusion of a lakeside lunch, combined with opportunities for swimming and fishing, makes for a well-rounded experience that feels both indulgent and peaceful.

If you’re looking for a low-key day immersed in nature, this tour provides a meaningful and visually rewarding way to explore Turkey’s natural treasures. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want to avoid strenuous hikes or long travel times but still crave genuine beauty and tranquility.

For those who enjoy picturesque landscapes, leisurely boat rides, and tasting local cuisine in a scenic setting, this is a highly worthwhile option. It’s a chance to slow down, breathe in fresh mountain air, and create peaceful memories amidst Turkey’s stunning natural environment.

FAQ

How long is the Green Canyon boat tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, including transportation, boat trip, and lunch.

What is included in the tour price?
You get hotel pickup and drop-off, a boat trip on Green Lake and Oymapnar Dam, entry tickets, lunch, and soft drinks.

Are alcoholic beverages included?
No, only soft drinks are included. You’ll need to bring your own or purchase alcohol separately.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring sun protection, a swimsuit for swimming, a towel, camera, and possibly some fishing gear if you want to try fishing.

Is the trip suitable for children?
Yes, it’s generally family-friendly, especially for those who enjoy relaxing boat rides and scenic views.

What is the best time of year to go?
While not explicitly stated, the best experience is likely in warm weather when swimming and sunbathing are enjoyable, typically late spring to early fall.

How do I know what time the tour starts?
Starting times vary; check availability when booking, and you will be informed of your pickup time after booking.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
This detail isn’t specified, but since it involves boat boarding and outdoor dining, some mobility considerations may apply.

How crowded does the tour get?
Guests report a comfortable group size, with the boat allowing for a relaxed experience, but exact sizes aren’t detailed.

If you’re craving a peaceful day of natural beauty with plenty of stunning views and gentle activities, this Green Canyon boat tour from Side ticks all the boxes. It’s an authentic, scenic escape that offers a genuine taste of Turkey’s outdoors in a relaxed, friendly setting.