Green Canyon At Oymapnar

Exploring Green Canyon at Oymapnar: A Scenic Day in Turkey’s Taurus Mountains
This tour offers a full-day adventure to one of Turkey’s most picturesque spots, the Green Canyon near Antalya. With its emerald-green waters surrounded by towering Taurus Mountains and lush forests, it’s an ideal escape into nature. The experience combines a comfortable private bus ride with hotel pickup, a relaxing boat cruise, and plenty of opportunities to swim and soak in the scenery. It’s a well-rounded day that appeals to those craving stunning views and a taste of outdoor adventure without the hassle of planning every detail.

I particularly like the convenience of hotel transfers, which take the stress out of getting to and from the canyon. The scenic boat cruise is a highlight, offering a close-up view of the canyon’s dramatic cliffs and tranquil waters. The inclusion of multiple swimming breaks and a local lunch adds to the value, making it a practical choice for a full-day outing.

However, it’s worth noting that some guests have found the group size to be larger than expected, which can affect the intimacy and comfort of the experience. And, as one review pointed out, the guide’s language skills may not always be perfectly aligned with expectations — so checking in advance could help set expectations. This tour offers a generous taste of the region’s natural beauty, especially for travelers looking for a balanced mix of sightseeing, activity, and relaxation.

Key points / Takeaways

• Stunning scenery: The emerald-green lake and Taurus Mountains create a breathtaking backdrop.
• Full-day experience: Expect around 9 hours of sightseeing, swimming, and relaxing.
• Inclusive amenities: Lunch, boat ride, hotel pickup, and drop-off included, offering good value.
• Group size considerations: Some guests mention larger groups, which might impact comfort.
• Wildlife spotting: Chance to observe the rare Yesil (brown fish owl) during the tour.
• Flexible swimming: Several opportunities to swim in freshwater locations, so bring your bathing suit.

The Itinerary: What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Starting with Convenience: Hotel Pickup in Antalya

Most travelers will appreciate the hotel pickup, which simplifies the logistics. You’ll be driven in an air-conditioned vehicle through the scenic Taurus Mountains, setting the tone for a day immersed in nature. The drive itself is part of the charm, offering glimpses of the Turkish countryside and lush greenery. Depending on your group size, transfers might be in a coach or a minibus, but rest assured, the ride is comfortable.

The Scenic Boat Cruise on Green Lake

Once at the canyon, the highlight is the boat cruise along the emerald-green lake. The boat tour, which lasts around an hour, takes you through both the Grand Canyon and a shorter section called Little Canyon. The views are like pictures from a postcard—towering cliffs, verdant slopes, and crystal-clear water. Guests often remark on how spectacular the scenery is, with the chance to take plenty of photos.

One reviewer mentioned that the guide had to share between two vans and spent a lot of time speaking Russian rather than English, which could be frustrating. That said, the guide’s knowledge about the area and the local flora and fauna, such as the rare Yesil owl, adds to the tour’s educational aspect.

Swimming and Relaxation Breaks

Throughout the day, there are multiple swimming stops where you can jump into the cool, turquoise waters. It’s one of the tour’s main draws—many travelers love the chance to unwind in nature’s own swimming pool. Remember to bring your bathing suit, towel, and perhaps a waterproof camera or phone. The water is clear and inviting, perfect for a refreshing dip.

Lunch in a Local Restaurant

After some active swimming and sightseeing, a tasty lunch is included, giving you a chance to sample local Turkish cuisine. Guests tend to appreciate this aspect, as it provides both energy and a taste of regional flavors. The restaurant is typically situated close to the canyon, offering nice views and a relaxed atmosphere.

Observing Wildlife and Nature

Besides the stunning scenery, there’s a chance to spot interesting wildlife like the Yesil (brown fish owl), which is a rare bird in the area. It’s a reminder that this tour isn’t just about pretty views but also about experiencing the natural environment up close.

Transportation and Group Dynamics: What You Need to Know

Transport is arranged with air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring comfort during the roughly 9-hour day. The tour size averages about 61 days in advance, indicating it’s popular but not overcrowded. The maximum group size is 88 travelers, which means you might want to manage expectations if you prefer smaller, more intimate tours.

Some reviews have pointed out that the group size can be larger than expected, and the boat can sometimes host more than 100 people, which might affect the experience if you’re seeking tranquility. Still, the boat ride itself is generally well-organized and offers ample opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

At around $63.67 per person, this tour is quite reasonable considering the inclusion of hotel pickup, lunch, boat cruise, and multiple swimming stops. When you compare the cost to the amount of time and the variety of experiences offered, it’s a fair deal.

The reviews suggest that the tour provides good value for money, especially for those who want to see Green Canyon without the hassle of organizing transportation and meals themselves. However, keep in mind that some guests felt the group size and guide’s language skills could impact the overall enjoyment.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts who want a full-day escape from city sightseeing. It’s also suitable for families, couples, or groups interested in a relaxed, scenic outing with opportunities for swimming.

If you’re someone who appreciates well-organized tours and doesn’t mind larger groups, you’ll likely find this offering a very good value. Those seeking a quieter, more personal adventure might want to consider smaller, more specialized options or private tours.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Experience?

This Green Canyon tour from Antalya offers a wonderful chance to see one of Turkey’s most beautiful natural sites without the stress of planning. It’s a well-balanced mix of scenic boat ride, swimming, nature observation, and local cuisine, all wrapped in a comfortable transportation package.

For travelers looking for a memorable day outdoors, with plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to cool off in pristine waters, this tour delivers. It’s especially attractive for those who enjoy a straightforward, organized experience at a reasonable price.

That said, if you’re sensitive to larger crowds or the nuances of guide language, it’s worth checking ahead or considering alternatives. Overall, it’s a solid option for anyone wanting to experience the stunning landscape of Green Canyon in a single, well-paced day.

FAQ: Your Questions About the Green Canyon Tour Answered

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, most guests will enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off included in the tour.

What should I bring for swimming?
Bring your bathing suit, towel, and waterproof camera or phone. Multiple swimming breaks are scheduled during the day.

How long is the boat cruise?
The boat ride along Green Lake lasts around an hour, taking you through both the Grand and Little Canyons.

What kind of lunch is included?
A local restaurant provides a tasty lunch as part of the tour, offering regional flavors and a good break from sightseeing.

Are there wildlife sightings?
Yes, you might observe the rare Yesil (brown fish owl), adding a special touch to your experience.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 88 travelers, with some reviews mentioning larger groups, especially on the boat.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Absolutely, especially for those who enjoy outdoor activities and scenic views, with swimming opportunities for all ages.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, making it flexible to adapt to your schedule.

What’s the main appeal of this tour?
The combination of stunning scenery, the boat cruise, swimming opportunities, and included lunch makes it a balanced day out — especially if you love nature and outdoor fun.