Side: Green Lake Boat Tour, Swimming, and Oymapinar Dam

Taking a full-day excursion around Antalya’s scenic spots typically promises a mix of nature, history, and culture. This particular tour, offered by Nks LLC, combines a scenic boat ride on Green Lake, a visit to the impressive Oymapinar Dam, and optional stops like the Manavgat Waterfall. With a solid average rating of 4.2 from 87 reviews, it seems to deliver a memorable experience for most travelers.

What I really like about this tour is how it balances relaxing moments—like swimming in Green Lake—with engaging visits to hidden engineering marvels like the dam. Plus, the inclusion of a traditional Turkish lunch and visits to local sights such as an orange grove add a flavor of authenticity. On the flip side, the optional Waterfall trip does come with an extra fee, and the tour schedule is subject to change depending on weather and operational factors. So, flexibility is key.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour might not be suitable for everyone, especially those with mobility issues or wheelchair users, as the terrain and nature of the sites can be challenging. That said, if you’re someone who loves striking landscapes, historical engineering, and a touch of adventure, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of the region’s natural and cultural highlights.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Includes a scenic boat trip on Green Lake with the chance to swim in clear waters.
• Visits Oymapinar Dam, a remarkable feat of engineering with panoramic views.
• Optional visit to Manavgat Waterfall for those who want more nature and photos.
• Tour duration is about 6 hours, with flexible start times and hotel pickup.
• Includes lunch and insurance, offering good value for a full day out.
• Guides speak English, Russian, and Turkish, with some tours using audio guides if needed.

An Introduction to the Tour’s Overall Experience

I’ve come across many tours that promise a bit of everything, but this one genuinely offers a solid blend of scenic beauty, historical interest, and local flavor. The journey begins with hotel pickup from several areas around Side, making it convenient and straightforward. The first stop at a historic mosque offers a glimpse into local religious architecture, with intricate designs that are worth a quick look.

One of the standout moments is the Green Lake boat ride. I love how the tour includes about an hour of cruising through Green Lake Canyon. The views are especially striking, with lush greenery framing the water—a perfect backdrop for some memorable photos. Plus, the opportunity to swim in the lake adds a refreshing break from sightseeing, an aspect frequently appreciated in reviews, like the one where a traveler mentioned “heerlijke dag”—a lovely day.

Next, the Oymapinar Dam is an impressive sight. It’s not just a dam; it’s a testament to Turkey’s engineering prowess, with panoramic views that make for great photo stops. The guided visit here helps you appreciate the size and importance of this structure, especially if you’re into civil engineering or just want to see something different than the usual scenic sites.

Finally, most guests enjoy ending the day with a visit to an orange grove, where you can learn about local fruit production and sample freshly squeezed orange juice. The optional Manavgat Waterfall is a bonus for those who want to extend their day, though it requires an extra fee paid directly to the guide. Several reviews note that the waterfall is a beautiful spot, but also that the tour’s schedule can vary depending on weather and operational conditions, so flexibility is helpful.

What You Can Expect: Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup, which is quite convenient if you’re staying in Side or nearby. You’ll be taken to a historic mosque, a quick but worthwhile glimpse into the region’s Islamic architecture, admired for its intricate tile work and traditional design. Then, the group heads to the ancient site of Lyrbe Agora, offering some historical context and a peaceful spot to explore a bit of the area’s past.

Once you arrive at Green Lake, the real highlight begins. The boat ride itself lasts about an hour, gliding through Green Lake Canyon with stunning greenery on every side. The water’s clarity makes swimming a tempting option, and many guests find it a refreshing way to cool off—some have even joked about losing their glasses or phones in the process, so keep your belongings secure.

After the boat, you’ll have time to relax, enjoy a delicious Turkish lunch, and take in the beautiful surroundings. The meal is typically included, offering good value and a taste of local cuisine. The guide will then take you to the Oymapinar Dam, where you can marvel at this engineering marvel from multiple viewpoints, gaining insight into its significance in regional water management.

The orange grove visit is a gentle, fragrant finale, providing a chance to stretch your legs and learn about local agriculture. If you opt for the Waterfall, you’ll pay an extra fee at the site—most reviews mention it’s well worth the trip for its natural beauty.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic landscapes, light outdoor activity, and cultural sights. It’s perfect if you’re seeking a full-day escape that isn’t overly strenuous but offers plenty of memorable moments. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers looking to combine nature with some history will find plenty to enjoy.

However, if you’re looking for a highly relaxed, purely leisure-focused trip, this might be a bit busy. The optional Waterfall visit, while beautiful, also involves an extra cost and some walking, so plan accordingly. For those with mobility challenges, some sites and boat activities may be less accessible.

Price and Value

The tour’s price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, a guide, lunch, insurance, and the boat trip—quite comprehensive for six hours. The addition of the optional Waterfall is extra, but most guests seem to think the overall value is good, especially considering the range of sights. The morning start time and flexible booking options also add to the appeal, letting you keep your plans flexible.

Keep in mind, the schedule might shift depending on weather and operational needs. This flexibility can be a plus, allowing the tour to adapt, but it also means you should be prepared for some variability.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Bring comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking and outdoor activities. Swimwear and a towel are essential if you want to take advantage of the lake swimming. Sunscreen and hats are advisable, especially during the summer months, as much of the tour is outdoors.

Since water fights seem to be part of the fun, as some reviews suggest, don’t be surprised if the group ends up splashing each other. Also, keep personal belongings secure during the boat ride—several travelers have mentioned losing glasses or phones—so consider waterproof cases or keeping valuables in waterproof bags.

The Sum Up: Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re looking for a well-rounded day trip that combines natural beauty, interesting engineering, and a dash of local flavor, this tour offers solid value. It suits travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, swimming, and learning about Turkish landscapes and constructions in a relaxed setting. The inclusion of a traditional lunch and optional Waterfall visit makes it a versatile choice for those wanting to sample multiple facets of the region.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely, less scheduled experience or have mobility constraints, you might want to consider other options. Still, for most active explorers or curious travelers, this tour provides a satisfying look at some of Antalya’s most scenic and intriguing sights.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from multiple areas around Side, making it easy to join the tour without extra hassle.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes, swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen are recommended. Personal belongings should be kept secure, especially during the boat.

Is the Waterfall visit included?
No, the Manavgat Waterfall is an optional visit with an extra fee payable to the guide.

Are there any age or mobility restrictions?
This tour may not be suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues, as some sites and activities involve uneven terrain and walking.

What languages do guides speak?
Guides speak English, Russian, and Turkish. If there are fewer clients, the guide may only communicate in English.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a dress code?
Casual, comfortable outdoor clothing is best. Remember to bring swimwear if you plan to swim in Green Lake.

This tour offers a satisfying, well-balanced glimpse of Turkey’s natural beauty and engineering achievements. It’s ideal for those who want to experience a little of everything in a single day—scenery, history, and local life—all wrapped into one affordable package.