Side: Green Lake Boat Tour, Swimming, and Oymapinar Dam

If you’re looking for a day packed with scenic views, interesting sights, and a splash of adventure, the Green Lake Boat Tour with visits to Oymapinar Dam and optional Manavgat Waterfall is a solid choice. This six-hour journey offers a mix of relaxing boat rides, cultural stops, and natural beauty that can appeal to a wide range of travelers.

What really catches the eye about this tour is the stunning Green Lake canyon, where the boat ride provides a peaceful yet breathtaking experience. Plus, the visit to the Oymapinar Dam gives you a close-up look at one of the region’s impressive engineering feats. The optional stop at the Manavgat Waterfall adds an extra element of nature’s power, perfect for those who love lush scenery and photo opportunities.

A possible consideration is that the tour’s schedule may vary depending on weather and operational conditions, which could affect the sequence of stops or the availability of some activities. Also, while the tour is well-rounded, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, so keep mobility needs in mind.

This experience is ideal for those wanting a combination of scenic boat rides, cultural sights, and natural landscapes—especially if you appreciate a more relaxed, yet informative day out. Families, couples, or solo travelers seeking authentic experiences will find plenty to enjoy here.

• Scenic boat ride on Green Lake offers peaceful views and swimming opportunities.
• Visit to Oymapinar Dam showcases impressive engineering and scenic surroundings.
• Optional Manavgat Waterfall provides a lush, natural highlight for nature lovers.
• Includes lunch and hotel pickup, making it convenient and hassle-free.
• Tour duration is 6 hours, with flexible starting times based on availability.
• Limited accessibility for wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.

Discovering Green Lake and Its Enchanting Canyon

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup from Side and surrounding areas, making planning straightforward. Once aboard the bus, you’ll likely be greeted by a multilingual guide—most often in English, but Russian and Turkish may also be available. The journey to Green Lake is scenic in itself, setting a relaxed tone for the day ahead.

Once you arrive at Green Lake, you’ll hop onto a scenic boat trip that lasts around an hour. This boat ride is the highlight for many, offering sweeping views of the Green Lake Canyon, which is especially photogenic. The calm waters and lush cliffs create a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for unwinding.

Swimming in Green Lake is an option that several visitors enjoy. The water, often described as clear and refreshing, invites you to dip in after the boat ride. You’ll want to bring your swimwear and towel for this part of the trip. The reviews mention that the boat ride feels well-paced, with enough time for relaxation and photos, and a quiet moment to soak in the scenery.

Exploring Oymapinar Dam: A Marvel of Engineering

Next on the itinerary is a visit to the Oymapinar Dam, a massive structure that has been a key part of the region’s water management since its construction. Travelers often find it fascinating to see such a large engineering project up close, especially with the guide providing insights into its history and purpose.

The imposing structure is set against the backdrop of green hills, making it a wonderful photo opportunity. It’s a chance to learn about the dam’s role in irrigation and electricity generation—an impressive feat considering the natural landscape surrounding it.

While the dam itself is the main highlight, some reviews suggest that the visit might be brief, but enough to appreciate its scale and significance. For those interested in engineering or simply curious about how such infrastructure fits into the local environment, it’s a worthwhile stop.

Cultural and Natural Highlights: Mosques, Agora, and Orange Groves

Before heading to the more natural sights, the tour includes a visit to a historic mosque, where intricate designs and architecture showcase local craftsmanship. This is often a quiet, reflective moment, providing a glimpse into the area’s cultural heritage.

The Lyrbe Agora is another stop, offering a taste of ancient history amid the lush landscape. Travelers get a chance to explore remnants of old stonework, imagining what life might have been like centuries ago. This spot appeals especially to history buffs and those interested in the area’s past.

Later, the tour takes you to an orange grove, where you can learn about local fruit production and enjoy a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice. It’s a simple yet delicious way to connect with the local agriculture and taste authentic flavors.

Optional Visit to Manavgat Waterfall

For those with extra time or interest, the Manavgat Waterfall is offered as an optional addition, payable directly to the guide. The waterfall is known for its powerful flow and lush surroundings, often praised for its photogenic qualities.

Some reviews note that the waterfall entry is extra, and since it’s optional, travelers can choose whether to include it. If you’re a nature enthusiast or love scenic spots, it’s worth considering. Keep in mind, if you decide to skip it, your tour will continue without delay.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which simplifies logistics. You’ll be guided in multiple languages—mainly English, with Russian and Turkish available—making it accessible for many travelers.

A lunch is included, typically a hearty meal to fuel you for the day’s adventures. The boat trip on Green Lake is the core activity, with a peaceful hour of cruising and swimming. Insurance is provided, so you can relax without concern.

However, note that entry to the waterfall costs extra, payable to the guide. Drinks, personal expenses, and photo/video services are not included, so bring cash if you want souvenirs or beverages during the stops.

The duration is six hours, with start times varying based on availability and weather. The tour’s flexibility allows you to plan your day around this activity, though early bookings are recommended to secure your preferred time slot.

• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for both walking and relaxing.
• Bring swimwear and a towel if you want to swim in Green Lake.
• Pack sunscreen and a hat, especially in the warmer months.
• Since the tour can be affected by weather, check the forecast and be prepared for possible changes.
• Remember that the waterfall visit is optional and costs extra—plan accordingly.
• If mobility is an issue, note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
• For those interested in photography, early morning or late afternoon might offer the best lighting for the canyon views.

One traveler mentioned that the scenery was truly breathtaking—”you’ll love the views of Green Lake,” they said. Another review noted that the boat ride felt very relaxing, and the swimming was refreshing. A visitor also appreciated the insightful guide, who provided interesting commentary about the dam and local history.

On the flip side, some travelers pointed out that the schedule could be variable, and that the dam visit might be brief. A comment from a traveler in June 2025 mentioned losing their glasses during the boat ride—an amusing reminder to secure your belongings.

Overall, many find the blend of natural beauty, cultural sights, and engineering marvels makes this tour a worthwhile addition to your Side itinerary. The value for money is evident, given that it combines multiple highlights in one day.

This tour suits adventurers and laid-back travelers alike. If you love scenic boat rides, nature, and cultural stops, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s great for families, couples, and solo explorers, especially those who want a balanced day without complex logistics.

While it’s not tailored for those with mobility challenges, it offers a relaxed pace with enough time at each stop to take photos or simply enjoy the surroundings. If you’re curious about engineering feats like Oymapinar Dam, and enjoy natural beauty with a touch of history, this tour hits the right notes.

Overall, it offers a well-rounded, authentic experience that mixes relaxation, culture, and stunning scenery—all within a manageable six-hour window.

Is transportation included? Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included from several areas around Side, making it easy to join without extra hassle.

How long is the boat ride? The boat trip on Green Lake lasts about an hour, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and swim if you wish.

Can I swim in Green Lake? Absolutely. Many travelers take advantage of the opportunity to swim after the boat ride, so pack your swimwear and towel.

Is the Manavgat Waterfall included in the price? No, it’s an optional extra that you can pay for to visit, if you’re interested.

What languages are guides available in? Guides speak mainly English, with options in Russian and Turkish. The tour might include an audio guide system if guides are not available.

Are there any accessibility issues? The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.

How flexible is the schedule? The timing and sequence of stops might vary depending on weather and operational conditions, so expect some flexibility during your trip.

To sum it up, the Green Lake Boat Tour with visits to Oymapinar Dam and optional Manavgat Waterfall offers a balanced day of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and relaxation. Its affordability and inclusion of multiple highlights make it a smart choice for those wanting to see a variety of sights without overextending themselves. Whether it’s soaking up the views, exploring impressive engineering, or just enjoying a peaceful boat ride, this tour is a versatile addition to your Side itinerary.