Side: Eagle Canyon & Selge Ancient City

Introducing the Eagle Canyon & Selge Ancient City Tour

If you’re visiting Side, Turkey, and craving a day that blends history, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure, this tour offers a compelling mix. For just $39.50 per person, you’ll explore the ancient ruins of Selge, hike through breathtaking canyons, and enjoy some relaxing moments along the Koprucay River. The tour, operated by Seven Tours, is well-suited for travelers who want an authentic experience that’s both educational and fun.

What really stands out about this trip are two things: First, the knowledgeable guides bring history and nature to life, making each stop more engaging. Second, the spectacular views—from ancient Roman structures to rugged canyon scenery—are genuinely memorable. The only consideration might be the moderate walking and hiking involved, which may not suit those with limited mobility.

Overall, it’s a well-organized adventure that offers a good balance of cultural discovery and outdoor activity—perfect for those who enjoy active days while soaking in history and nature.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic historical sites: Visit Selge Ancient City and Roman aqueducts, packed with stories and photo opportunities.
• Breathtaking scenery: Eagle Canyon offers stunning vista points perfect for photos and appreciation of Turkey’s rugged landscape.
• Guided expertise: Guides like the highly praised “Toller Guide” make history and nature come alive with interesting stories.
• Practical value: For $39.50, the tour includes lunch, transportation, and entrance fees, making it a cost-effective way to explore beyond Side.
• Active experience: The hike to Eagle Canyon is a highlight, around one hour of exploring nature’s raw beauty.
• Flexible cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind, especially for spontaneous travelers.

Discovering the Journey: What to Expect at Each Stop

Starting with Convenience: Hotel Pickup and Early Morning Start

The tour kicks off at 8:30 am with pickup from your hotel, making it easy to relax rather than worry about logistics. The group size is capped at 18, maintaining a friendly, intimate atmosphere. The transportation is a cabrio mini bus, which offers a comfortable ride despite some travelers noting that the drive can be a bit lengthy—worth it for the scenery and experiences awaiting.

Exploring Selge Ancient City: A Touch of Roman History

Your first stop is the Selge Ancient City, where you’ll have about 45 minutes to wander among the ruins. The guide will share captivating stories about this once-thriving Roman settlement, enhancing your understanding of the site. The best part? Entrance is free, so you get to soak in history without extra cost.

One traveler, Martina_S, called the guide “toller” (great) and appreciated how the area offered “super schöne Gegend” (super beautiful scenery). Expect to see remnants of ancient walls, possibly some ruins of temples, and the atmospheric feel of a place that’s stood for centuries. The compact time allows for a good overview without feeling rushed.

The Roman Bridge and Koprucay River: Relaxation and Reflection

Next, you’ll visit a historic Roman bridge, which makes for fantastic photos and a chance to learn about its construction and purpose. Afterward, you’ll take about 45 minutes at the Koprucay River, where you can unwind, enjoy some local lunch, and have some free time to explore on your own.

Lunch and Leisure at the Koprucay River

Lunch is included and usually features local Turkish cuisine—simple, tasty, and filling. You can savor your meal while listening to the gentle sounds of the river, providing a peaceful interlude before more active sightseeing.

Selge’s Atmosphere and Stories: 40 Minutes to Absorb

After lunch, you’ll return to explore Selge a little more. This 40-minute visit gives you a chance to soak in the atmosphere, take photos, and hear intriguing stories from your guide. The setting is evocative, with ruins amidst lush greenery, making it a photographer’s delight.

Roman Aqueducts: Photo Opportunities and Ancient Engineering

Next, the tour takes you to the Roman aqueducts, where you’ll have a brief photo session. These impressive structures showcase ancient engineering skills and provide another scenic backdrop for memories.

Hike to Eagle Canyon: The Outdoor Highlight

The final activity is an approximately one-hour hike to Eagle Canyon, starting from the Roman aqueducts. The guided trek offers plenty of opportunities to capture stunning views from canyon vantage points. The trail is generally manageable but involves some walking, so be prepared with comfortable shoes. This part of the tour is often praised as the “cool place” where you can create lasting memories.

Return Journey: Relaxing Drive Back to Your Hotel

After exploring Eagle Canyon, you’ll hop back into the mini bus for the return trip, arriving around 5-6 pm. The journey back offers a chance to reflect on the day’s adventures and enjoy the scenic drive.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience appeals most to those who enjoy history, outdoor activity, and natural beauty in a compact, well-organized package. If you appreciate guided storytelling and want to see a combination of ancient ruins and stunning landscapes without the hassle of planning each detail yourself, this tour fits the bill. Be aware that the walking and hiking parts might be a challenge for travelers with mobility issues, so it’s best suited for those who can comfortably handle some physical activity.

Price and Value Analysis

At $39.50, this tour provides a lot of value. It includes lunch, transportation, guide service, and entrance fees—costs that could add up if you visited these sites independently. The guided aspect ensures you learn interesting stories and appreciate the significance of each site, making the experience richer than a solo visit.

Given the reviews, many travelers felt the tour was “very worthwhile,” despite some noting the “anstrengend” (tiring) drive. The small group size and knowledgeable guides contribute to a more personal and engaging experience, which is worth considering if you prefer a more intimate setting.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you love combining history with outdoor adventure and don’t mind a bit of walking, this tour offers a well-rounded day exploring Turkey’s rugged beauty and ancient past. The stops are thoughtfully chosen to maximize scenery and storytelling, and the price point is reasonable for what you get. The inclusion of lunch, guide, and entrance fees makes it a straightforward, hassle-free way to expand your Side experience.

Travelers looking for a memorable, active day out that balances cultural insights with natural wonder will find this tour satisfying. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy having a knowledgeable guide share stories and point out details you might miss on your own.

FAQ: Practical Questions About the Eagle Canyon & Selge Tour

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 8:30 am with hotel pickup, so plan on being ready by that time to avoid missing out.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a cabrio mini bus, which provides a comfortable ride, though the drive can be a bit lengthy depending on your hotel location.

Will I have enough time at each site?
Yes. You’ll enjoy about 45 minutes at Selge, 45 minutes at the Koprucay River, 40 minutes exploring Selge again, and an hour for the hike to Eagle Canyon. The schedule is designed to give a good overview without feeling rushed.

Are meals included?
Yes, a local Turkish lunch is included, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery without needing to find a meal on your own.

Is this suitable for children or people with walking disabilities?
While most travelers can participate, the tour involves some walking and hiking, so it might not be ideal for those with walking disabilities or very young children.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and your camera. A hat and sunglasses are recommended for the canyon hike.

Are there opportunities for photos?
Absolutely. The Roman bridge, aqueducts, canyons, and ruins all make for excellent photo ops, especially at vantage points along the canyon hike.

Final Words

This tour strikes a nice balance between history, nature, and active exploration. You’ll visit impressive ancient sites, enjoy stunning viewpoints, and get to hike through a scenic canyon, all for a reasonable price. Guides like Toller are praised for their storytelling, making each stop more meaningful. Ideal for travelers who want to see beyond the usual tourist spots and get a true feel for the landscape and history of the region, this trip offers memorable moments in a compact package. Just prepare for some walking, and you’ll leave with a treasure trove of stories and photos to cherish.