Tazi Canyon-Selge Antique City and Devil’s Stones from Side

A Journey Through Turkey’s Hidden Gems: Tazi Canyon, Selge, and the Devil’s Stones

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines breathtaking scenery with a touch of history, this excursion from Side to Tazi Canyon, the ancient city of Selge, and the mysterious Devil’s Stones offers just that. Promoted at $32 per person, it promises around eight hours of adventure, weaving together natural wonders and archaeological intrigue. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve reviewed detailed accounts and the official itinerary to give you a grounded idea of what to expect.

What really stands out for me are the stunning views of Tazi Canyon, often praised for its lush environment and dramatic cliffs, and the chance to wander among ancient ruins where history whispers from every stone. Plus, the experience includes a jeep ride through scenic landscapes, which adds a dash of adrenaline. One of the biggest pluses is the knowledgeable guides who help interpret the sites, making the experience more meaningful. On the flip side, the tour’s language barrier—especially when it’s mostly in Lithuanian, as some reviews mention—could be a hiccup if you don’t speak that language. However, many guides do their best to translate and communicate in English and Russian, which can make the visit more accessible.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Natural Beauty: The lush Tazi Canyon offers spectacular views, photo opportunities, and a refreshing escape into nature.
• Historical Ruins: The well-preserved remains of Selge provide insight into ancient Pisidian civilization, including temples, theaters, and a necropolis.
• Mysterious Rocks: Devil’s Stones near Manavgat are shaped by nature into animal-like forms, sparking legends and curiosity.
• Transportation: The tour includes a comfortable bus ride, followed by jeep rides that navigate the rugged terrain, making for an adventurous day.
• Guidance: Expect a guide who shares insights about each site—many travelers appreciate the driver’s translations, especially when language barriers exist.
• Value & Flexibility: For $32, the tour offers a full 8-hour experience with included hotel pickup, lunch, and safety equipment—making it a cost-effective way to see these sites.

Entering The Natural Wonder: Tazi Canyon

One of the most memorable parts of this trip is the drive through Tazi Canyon. It’s not just a pretty picture; it’s a massive geological feature about 40 km long and up to 300 meters deep, carved into the landscape by the Koprulu River. If you’re into landscapes that make you feel small, the canyon’s steep green cliffs and rushing water will do the trick. Many review comments highlight the photo opportunities, with travelers capturing stunning shots of the canyon’s rugged beauty.

You’ll get around 30 minutes here—long enough to take some photos, stretch your legs, and listen to your guide’s explanations about how this impressive formation came to be. Be prepared for a jeep ride that’s both fun and bumpy, a quintessential part of the adventure that adds some thrill to the day.

Exploring Ancient Selge: A Step Back in Time

The ruins of Selge occupy a lofty position in the Taurus Mountains, offering dramatic vistas along with archaeological treasures. The city dates back to the 4th century BC and was a key center in Pisidia. Walking among the remains, you’ll see the theatre, temples, agora, stadium, and necropolis—each telling stories of a once-thriving civilization.

Many travelers say their guides helped decode the significance of what they saw, transforming a collection of stones into a story of ancient commerce, religion, and entertainment. The one-hour stop allows for exploration, photos, and some free time to absorb the atmosphere of this mountain-top ancient city. The air here is cooler and crisper, a nice break from the busier coastal areas.

The Enigmatic Devil’s Stones

Near the town of Manavgat, the Devil’s Stones are a bizarre collection of rocks, each with its own shape, resembling animals, birds, or even human figures. They spark stories and legends, with many visitors simply marveling at how naturally formed these shapes are—no artist’s brush required.

The stones are an easy stop, about 30 minutes of wandering and picture-taking. If you enjoy quirky natural formations and legends, this stop will add a fun twist to your day. Some reviews mention that the stones appear “created by an artist,” which is a testament to their unusual shapes.

Practicalities: Logistics, Comfort, and Value

The tour begins with pickup from 13 possible locations, making it accessible from most major resorts and hotels around Alanya, Side, and Antalya. The journey is split into a mix of bus and jeep rides—generally about 1.5 hours each way in the bus, with 30-minute jeep segments—an efficient way to cover a good distance without feeling rushed.

The included lunch is a nice touch, offering a chance to fuel up after touring. Safety equipment is provided, and the tour runs in multiple languages—English, Russian, and Lithuanian—though, as some reviews note, the Lithuanian language dominates, which can be a consideration if that’s not your preferred language.

Cost-wise, $32 for an 8-hour guided trip with hotel pickup, lunch, and all transportation seems quite reasonable. It’s a solid value if you enjoy a full day of varied scenery and history. Keep in mind, personal expenses and drinks are not included, so bring some water and snacks.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, history, and a dash of adventure. If you’re comfortable with moderate walking and jeep rides, it’s perfect. The price point makes it accessible for many, and the included lunch and hotel pickup save some hassle.

Those interested in photography, especially of dramatic landscapes and ancient ruins, will find plenty to capture. History buffs or curious explorers will appreciate the stories shared by guides—many of whom go beyond the basics to make the sites come alive.

If you’re traveling with family, note that baby strollers and non-folding wheelchairs are not allowed, so plan accordingly. Also, the tour isn’t suited to those seeking a very relaxed, slow-paced experience—there’s quite a bit to see in a tight schedule.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Side offers a balanced mix of natural beauty and ancient history, wrapped into a full-day adventure that’s good value for the price. The variety of stops ensures you’ll see some of Turkey’s less-visited but equally stunning sites, from the soaring cliffs of Tazi Canyon to the ruins of Selge and the quirky Devil’s Stones.

Most travelers will leave with a sense of accomplishment and plenty of great photos, thanks to the expert guides and breathtaking vistas. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a bit of adventure and don’t mind a busy schedule. Keep in mind the language aspect if Lithuanian is a concern, but overall, many find the guides engaging and helpful.

This experience is a fantastic way to see the diverse landscapes and history of Turkey without breaking the bank, making it a solid addition to your travel plans.

FAQ

What is the duration of this tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, including transportation, visits, and free time at the sites.

Where do the pickups take place?
Pickups are available from 13 locations, including Antalya, Alanya, Side, Kemer, Belek, and others.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a traditional lunch is included as part of the tour.

What language is the tour guided in?
The tour primarily offers guides in English, Russian, and Lithuanian. Some reviews note that the majority of the commentary may be in Lithuanian.

Are the sites suitable for children?
While suitable for most, the tour does not allow baby strollers or non-folding wheelchairs, which could limit access for some families.

How active is the tour?
Expect walking around ruins and some light hiking. The jeep rides are short but bumpy, adding some adventure but requiring comfort with off-road terrain.

What should I bring?
Bring water, sun protection, comfortable shoes, and your camera. Personal expenses and drinks are not included.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely, it’s a group experience that makes it easy to meet fellow travelers, with no minimum group size specified.

In sum, if you’re eager to explore Turkey’s scenic and historic highlights in a single day without fuss, this tour offers a well-rounded, engaging experience. It’s a great way to see some hidden corners of the region, all while enjoying the company of fellow travelers and a knowledgeable guide.