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

Exploring the Green Canyon on a boat tour from Side offers a chance to escape the bustling town and enjoy some of Turkey’s most captivating natural scenery. This 7-hour experience takes you along the tranquil waters of the Green Lake reservoir, with highlights including panoramic views of the Taurus Mountains, the engineering marvel of Oymapnar Dam, and plenty of time to relax, swim, and enjoy a lakeside meal.

What I particularly like about this tour is how it balances active and relaxing moments — you get to take in breathtaking vistas without feeling rushed. Plus, the chance to see the impressive Oymapnar Dam up close adds an educational twist to the day. On the flip side, the group size can sometimes be large, which may impact the intimacy of the experience. But overall, it’s a worthwhile outing for anyone looking to combine nature, comfort, and a touch of adventure in one package.

Another aspect worth mentioning is the included lunch at a lakeside restaurant, which offers a relaxed setting to soak up the scenery while enjoying good food. Some reviews mention that guides like “Fam Tour” are friendly and helpful, making the trip smoother. However, keep in mind that this experience does not include alcoholic drinks, so if you’re hoping for some local wine or beer, you’ll need to plan separately.

Key points / Takeaways

• Stunning scenery: You’ll enjoy views of the Taurus Mountains and the emerald waters of Green Lake, making the trip visually memorable.
• Oymapnar Dam: Seeing Turkey’s fourth-highest dam is a highlight, blending engineering with natural beauty.
• Relaxation & activity: Time for sunbathing, swimming, and fishing offers a perfect balance of leisure.
• Convenience & value: Hotel pickup, boat trip, lunch, and soft drinks are included, offering good value for a full-day outing.
• Flexible booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later provide stress-free planning.
• Group size: Expect a group, which can be large, but guides may help make it feel more personal.

Discovering Green Canyon: A Complete Review

Introduction to Green Canyon from Side

If you’re after a scenic escape that combines nature, comfort, and a bit of adventure, a boat trip to Green Canyon from Side might be just what you need. This experience, offered by Fam Tour, takes you on a 7-hour journey along the tranquil Green Lake reservoir, with plenty of opportunities to relax, snap photos, and enjoy Turkey’s stunning landscapes.

What makes this trip appealing is the mix of visual treats — the shimmering green waters, rugged Taurus Mountains, and the impressive Oymapnar Dam — plus the chance to simply unwind. It’s a good choice if you want more than just another sightseeing bus tour. Instead, you get to be on the water, feel the breeze, and enjoy some quality time in nature.

Two things I really like about this tour are the panoramic lakeside lunch, which offers a peaceful setting with views, and the chance the trip provides to see the Oymapnar Dam up close — a fascinating piece of engineering that’s often overshadowed by more famous landmarks. One thing to consider is that group sizes can be larger, which might make it less intimate, but guides are generally friendly and accommodating.

Key points / Takeaways

• Enjoy breathtaking views of the Taurus Mountains and the lush canyon pathways.
• Experience Turkey’s fourth-highest dam — a remarkable engineering feat.
• Relax with swimming, fishing, and sunbathing in serene surroundings that feel worlds away from the town’s hustle.
• All-inclusive price: hotel pickup, boat trip, lunch, and drinks are bundled for convenience and good value.
• Flexible booking options: reserve without payment upfront and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
• Group size considerations: expect a larger group, but guides often help keep things organized.

Breaking down the Green Canyon Experience

Getting Started: Pickup and Departure in Side

You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Side, with the exact timing depending on your location. The process is straightforward, and the tour operator advises arriving at the hotel entrance or security point 10 minutes before your scheduled pickup. This helps ensure a smooth start without unnecessary delays.

Once aboard, the journey to Green Canyon is usually comfortable, and you’ll likely find yourself looking forward to the scenic boat ride. The experience is designed to be relaxing — no rushing, just anticipation for the natural beauty ahead.

The Boat Ride: Gliding Along Green Lake

The real highlight begins once you’re on the boat. As you cruise along the 17-kilometer stretch of Green Lake reservoir, you’ll be treated to astonishing views of shimmering waters and towering canyon walls. The boat trip is usually guided in English, German, Russian, or Turkish, allowing for good commentary on what you’re seeing.

Many reviews mention that the boat’s atmosphere is friendly, and guides like “Fam Tour” make an effort to keep everyone engaged. You’ll enjoy the feeling of gliding through calm waters, with opportunities to sunbathe or take photos of the dramatic landscape. Swimming is often an option, so pack your swimsuit if you want to cool off in the crystal-clear waters.

Viewing the Oymapnar Dam

One of the standout features of this trip is the stop at Oymapnar Dam, Turkey’s fourth tallest dam. This engineering wonder not only supplies electricity but also provides a captivating sight for visitors. The dam’s impressive structure is visible from the boat and offers excellent photo opportunities. Several reviews note that guides share interesting facts about its construction and function, turning a dam visit into a learning experience.

Lunch with a View

Midway through the tour, you’ll stop at a lakeside restaurant that offers a relaxing dining experience with panoramic views of the water and mountains. The included lunch is usually a simple but tasty affair — often Turkish cuisine — served in a peaceful setting that enhances the connection to nature. Some travelers appreciate the opportunity to enjoy a leisurely meal while soaking up the scenery.

Leisure Time: Sunbathing, Swimming, and Fishing

After lunch, you’ll have ample free time to enjoy the surroundings. Many take the chance to sunbathe on the boat deck, jump into the clear waters for a swim, or try fishing in the serene waters. This flexibility is what makes the experience appealing — it’s not just a sightseeing tour, but also a chance to unwind and connect with the natural environment.

Return and Drop-off

The day winds down with the boat trip back towards Side, where your guide will arrange for your transportation back to your hotel. The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, making it a full yet relaxed day out.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This Green Canyon trip is ideal for travelers who appreciate natural scenery and want a mix of relaxation and light activity. It suits those looking for a day away from crowded beaches or busy streets, seeking instead a peaceful boat cruise through scenic landscapes. Families, couples, or small groups who enjoy photography, fishing, or just lounging in nature will find plenty to love.

If you’re on a budget and want an all-in-one experience with transportation, lunch, and boat ride included, this is a good value option. However, if you prefer smaller groups or more exclusive experiences, you might find this tour’s larger groups less intimate. Also, it’s a daytime activity, so those seeking nightlife or evening entertainment should plan accordingly.

Price and Logistics: Making Sense of the Cost

At a glance, the price of this tour is reasonable considering the inclusive features — hotel pickup, boat trip, entry tickets, and lunch are all covered. Think of it as a good way to enjoy a full day out without worrying about extra costs. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off saves you time and hassle, especially if you’re staying outside the main tourist areas.

Booking options allow you to reserve now and pay later, giving flexibility if your plans change. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, which is helpful if weather or other factors influence your decision. Keep in mind that the tour does not include alcoholic drinks, so plan to bring your own if desired.

Final Thoughts

This Green Canyon boat tour from Side offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, gentle activity, and comfort. You’ll leave with memorable images of Turkey’s striking landscape, a sense of connection to the region’s impressive engineering feats, and plenty of relaxing moments. The included lunch and soft drinks add to the value, making this a practical choice for travelers who want to enjoy Turkey’s natural wonders without fuss.

This experience is best suited for those who love nature, photography, or simply need a peaceful day out. It’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups wanting a comfortable, scenic escape. If you’re seeking a straightforward, well-organized trip that offers both visual delight and relaxation, the Green Canyon boat tour is a solid pick.

FAQ

How long is the boat trip?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, including pickup, the boat ride, lunch, and free time.

What’s included in the tour price?
The price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, the boat trip on Green Lake and Oymapnar Dam, entry tickets, lunch, and soft drinks.

Are there options to cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned, the relaxed nature and scenic environment make it suitable for families, especially those with older children who enjoy outdoor activities.

Does the tour operate in all weather conditions?
The tour is generally weather-dependent. If heavy rain or storms occur, the trip may be rescheduled or canceled for safety reasons.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery. A towel might be useful if you plan to swim.

Is alcohol available on the tour?
No, alcoholic drinks are not included or available, so bring your own if you want to indulge.

How accessible is the tour for people with mobility issues?
Details aren’t specified, but since it involves boat travel and some walking, consider your mobility needs and discuss with the tour provider if necessary.

In the end, if you’re looking for a peaceful, visually stunning day among Turkey’s natural landscapes, this Green Canyon trip is worth considering. It’s a chance to see a different side of the Antalya region, with plenty of opportunities to relax and soak in the scenery.