Green Canyon Combo Mix Tour by cabrio bus

Exploring Turkey’s Taurus hills on the Green Canyon Combo Mix Tour offers a blend of natural beauty and historical sights, all packed into a roughly 8-hour trip. From ancient ruins to waterfalls and a boat ride on the famous canyon, this tour promises a full-day escape into some of the area’s most picturesque landscapes. It’s operated by Golden Goat Travel and costs only $29, which makes it an appealing option for budget-conscious travelers seeking a well-rounded experience.

What I find particularly appealing about this tour is how it combines stunning scenery with cultural stops. The visit to Seleukia, with its impressive aqueducts and ruins, adds a layer of historical intrigue, while the boat tour on Oymapınar Lake promises gentle, scenic waters. Plus, the opportunity to swim in the lake, visit orange gardens, and enjoy a lake-side lunch makes this feel like more than just a sightseeing bus ride—it’s a chance to relax and soak in the natural beauty.

However, a word of caution: the itinerary is packed, which means you’ll be moving from site to site fairly quickly. Some travelers might find this a bit rushed, especially if they’re craving more time for photos or leisurely exploration. Also, the Waterfall stop at the end is not included in the ticket price and could be a disappointment if you’re hoping to see Manavgat Waterfall without extra hassle or cost. Still, the overall value, especially given the price, is quite strong for those wanting a broad overview of the region’s highlights.

Key points / Takeaways

• Affordable full-day experience: At just $29, it offers a lot of value with a mix of sites, boat ride, and lunch.
• Stunning natural and historical sights: Expect gorgeous views from the Taurus hills, ancient ruins at Seleukia, and the scenic Green Canyon.
• Comfortable transportation and organized pickup make logistics smooth, especially with a maximum group size of around 100 travelers.
• Flexible and inclusive: The tour includes private transport, lunch, and a boat tour, but remember that drinks and Manavgat Waterfall entrance are extra.
• Authentic experiences: Expect to see local orange gardens and visit traditional mosques, adding cultural depth.
• Potential tight schedule: The itinerary is busy, with some stops lasting only 30 minutes to an hour—be ready for a full, pacey day.

Entering the Taurus Hills and Green Canyon

This tour kicks off early, with a pickup around 8:30 am—aim for punctuality because the schedule is tight. The transportation is private, which means you’ll avoid the chaos of large group buses, making for a more relaxed start. The first stop, Oymapınar, offers a chance to enjoy the tranquility of nature and view a mosque that’s quite photogenic. The surrounding scenery here is lush, making it a nice warm-up for the day.

The highlight of this section is the boat tour on the lake, which lasts an hour. The boat itself is a great way to see the canyon’s vibrant green waters and rugged cliffs from a different perspective. The reviews highlight how loved this part is—many found it peaceful and a perfect way to cool off in the heat. You’ll also have a chance to relax at the restaurant by the lake during the lunch break, where you’ll enjoy a complimentary meal (soft drinks and alcohol are extra).

Exploring Seleukia and the Ancient Ruins

Next, the tour ventures to Seleukia (Lybre), an ancient city with aqueducts and ruins that hint at a past grandeur. If you’re into history, this adds a fascinating layer to your day. The stop is brief—just 30 minutes—but enough to take a few photos and appreciate the scale of the remnants. One review mentions that the selection of sites was well-chosen, providing a good balance of history and scenery.

Visiting Manavgat Dam and Waterfalls

The Manavgat Dam is a quick 30-minute visit, giving you a glimpse of modern engineering nestled in nature. The dam is scenic, and it’s interesting to see how human-made structures coexist with the landscape. The Waterfall, however, is a paid entrance, and since it’s not included in the tour price, some travelers might choose to skip it if they prefer not to pay extra or if time doesn’t permit.

The waterfall is a classic photo opportunity, and many reviews highlight it as a picturesque ending point—though be aware of the extra cost involved.

Other Highlights: Orange Gardens and Local Culture

A standout part of the tour is the visit to orange gardens, which adds a splash of color and local flavor to the day. Walking among citrus trees, you get a sense of how agriculture plays a role in this region’s economy and culture. The hour spent here is a pleasant break after the busy sightseeing.

Practicalities and Tips for the Day

• Timing is key—arriving on time ensures you won’t miss any part of this packed schedule.
• Bring drinks and a towel—as one reviewer noted, the boat ride and outdoor activities can get warm, and a towel helps if you decide to swim or just refresh yourself.
• The lunch at the lakeside restaurant is included, but soft drinks and alcohol cost extra, so plan accordingly.
• The minimum age for alcohol is 18, so families with younger kids should plan to skip that part.
• If you want to visit Manavgat Waterfall, be prepared to pay for the entrance yourself—it’s not included in the ticket price.

Who is this tour best for?

This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive day out without spending a fortune. The mix of natural beauty, ancient sites, and cultural stops makes it perfect for first-timers or those looking for a taste of many sights in one go. If you’re someone who appreciates stunning scenery and doesn’t mind a tight schedule, you’ll enjoy this tour. Families, groups, or solo travelers who enjoy a bit of everything—nature, history, and local culture—will find it worthwhile.

However, if you prefer more relaxed, leisurely days or want to focus solely on one aspect—like just the canyon or the waterfalls—you might find this too rushed. It’s a full, active day that leaves little room for extended exploration, but that’s part of its charm and value.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers private transportation, lunch, and a boat tour on Oymapınar Lake. Entrance fees for sites like Manavgat Waterfall are not included, and drinks are extra.

What should I bring?
Bring drinks, a towel, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes. If you plan to swim, a swimsuit is a good idea. Also, consider bringing some cash for optional extras like drinks or the waterfall entrance fee.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and it’s a good option for families wanting a full day of sightseeing with plenty of diverse activities.

How long are the stops?
Most stops are between 30 minutes and 1 hour, including the boat tour and lunch. The day is quite full, so plan for a busy schedule.

Can I buy drinks or alcohol during the tour?
Yes, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages at the lakeside restaurant are available but are not included in the tour price.

What happens if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour will not be refunded.

To sum it up, the Green Canyon Combo Mix Tour is a solid choice for those eager to see a mix of natural wonders and historical sites without breaking the bank. It’s best for travelers who enjoy active sightseeing, scenic boat rides, and quick visits to several highlights. While the schedule is tight and some extras cost extra, the overall experience offers genuine value and authentic moments in Turkey’s Taurus hills. If you’re after a memorable, full-day adventure with beautiful views and diverse stops, this tour is worth considering.