A Guide to the Side Rafting Adventure with Lunch & Transfers
If you’re looking for a full-day adrenaline rush combined with picturesque scenery and comfortable logistics, the Side: Rafting Adventure with Lunch & Transfer Included offers a compelling option. This 7-hour package, based in Antalya Province, takes you on a lively 14-kilometer journey through the Köprüçay River, with professional guides ensuring safety and fun. What makes this experience appealing is the combination of exciting rapids, stunning canyon vistas, and a hearty Turkish lunch—plus the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off.
Two things I particularly like about this tour: first, the well-organized logistics mean you don’t have to worry about transportation or gear — everything is included. Second, the scenery of Koprulu Canyon National Park is genuinely breathtaking, providing a lovely backdrop for both adventure and photos. A potential downside? The zipline activity is an optional extra, at additional cost, which could be a letdown if you’re hoping for a fully all-inclusive experience. Still, this gives you the flexibility to choose what you want to indulge in.
Key Points / Takeaways
- Safety and Professional Guides: You’ll be guided by experienced professionals, with all necessary equipment provided, including life jackets, helmets, and paddles.
- Scenic Stops and Photo Opportunities: Two designated breaks allow for photos at the historic Köprülü Canyon and swimming in the cool waters—perfect for capturing memories.
- Multiple Languages and Clear Briefings: Guides speak English, German, and Russian, making instructions accessible for international travelers.
- Authentic Turkish Lunch Included: After rafting, enjoy a generous meal of chicken skewers, rice, pasta, and salad—local flavors that give you a taste of Turkish hospitality.
- Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Book now without paying upfront; cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—great for uncertain schedules.
- Family-Friendly but Not for Young Children: Not suitable for children under 3, making it more appealing for adventurous older kids and adults.
Entering the Rapids: What This Tour Is All About
I love the idea of spending a day on the Köprüçay River, especially with the promise of navigating 14 km of rapids. The experience is designed to be as safe as it is exhilarating. Trained guides like the well-reviewed “Captain Murat” are there to ensure your safety, giving thorough briefings before you hit the water. You’ll get a good sense of what to expect: a mix of adrenaline-pumping rapids and calmer stretches for catching your breath and taking photos.
What genuinely stands out is the quality of the equipment and the attention to safety. The equipment is modern and well-maintained, with each raft holding up to 10 participants, split into smaller groups of around 8. This setup means you’ll get personalized guidance without feeling lost in a crowd. From reviews, it’s clear that guides like “Yusuf” or “Ahmet” are friendly and informative, making the entire experience both safe and engaging.
The 12:30 pm lunch served after the rafting session is a highlight, offering hearty Turkish staples in a riverside setting. Many mention how delicious and fresh the food is—perfect after a physically demanding activity. The meal includes chicken skewers, rice, pasta, and salad, giving you a satisfying end to the adventure. Plus, you can browse the photos and videos taken during your trip, capturing some fantastic moments on the river.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Koprucay River
Highlights of the National Park & Scenic Breaks
The first stop at Bekonak Köprülü Canyon is a perfect chance to stretch, swim, and snap photos of the stunning scenery. The canyon’s rugged cliffs and lush greenery provide a striking contrast to the white-water excitement. It’s a relaxed but memorable pause that gives you a chance to appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
Midway through the course, there’s a second stop that offers entertainment and ziplining. This activity isn’t free, but it’s a fun addition if you’re craving a bit more adrenaline or just want to see the canyon from above. The zipline is a popular extra for those who want to spice up their day, but even if you skip it, the rafting itself is plenty exciting.
Throughout the tour, I appreciate how clearly the itinerary is laid out, including the pickup times, transfer durations, and return schedule. The entire experience is structured to maximize adventure while minimizing logistical stress. The 7-hour duration is just right—long enough to enjoy the river, explore the canyon, and savor the meal without feeling rushed.
Practical Details and Logistics
One of the tour’s strongest points is its comprehensive logistics. Pickup is arranged from 10 different locations, including Antalya, Side, Belek, Manavgat, and Evrenseki, which means most travelers won’t have to travel far to start their adventure. The bus/coach rides are about 70-80 minutes long, giving you a comfortable window to relax or chat with fellow travelers.
The safety briefing at the riverside lasts about 1.5 hours, where guides introduce the region and the rafting process. This is a good opportunity to ask questions and get comfortable with the equipment. The actual rafting takes approximately 2.5 hours, offering a substantial stretch of thrilling rapid navigation that’s suitable for most active individuals.
The return transfer to hotels is scheduled between 4:30 pm and 5:30 pm, giving you a full day of outdoor activity without extending into late evening. Because transportation is included, you don’t need to worry about organizing your own return, a major plus for convenience.
For those considering bringing extra gear, note that water shoes and neoprene rent are not included, so bring your own if needed. Sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, and a towel are recommended—pack light but prepared for a day outside.
Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?
If you’re an adventure seeker who enjoys active experiences and stunning natural scenery, this tour fits the bill. The rapids are challenging enough to be exciting but not so intense as to be intimidating. The scenic canyon views are a bonus, especially if you love photography. Families with older children (over age 3) who are comfortable with water activities will appreciate the balance of fun and safety.
Travelers looking for a well-organized day that covers transportation, safety, and food will find excellent value here. It’s particularly suitable for those who want a mix of adventure, sightseeing, and authentic Turkish hospitality without the hassle of planning every detail.
Price and Value: How Does It Stack Up?
Considering all logistics—hotel pickup and drop-off, safety equipment, a hearty lunch, professional guides, and insurance—the price reflects good value for a full-day adventure. It is a relatively affordable way to experience white-water rafting in one of Turkey’s most scenic areas. The inclusion of photos and videos adds a nice touch, allowing you to relive the experience afterward.
However, the optional activities like ziplining are extra, so if you’re looking for a completely all-inclusive adventure, you’ll need to budget for that. Still, the core experience delivers plenty of excitement for the cost, especially given the quality of guides and the natural beauty of the canyon.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?
This rafting adventure is best suited for active travelers wanting a thrilling day in nature with all logistics sorted out. It’s ideal if you’re staying in or near Antalya, Side, or Belek areas, and if you enjoy outdoor sports combined with scenic vistas. The tour’s mix of adrenaline, culture (through the Turkish meal), and natural beauty makes it a great value for curious explorers.
If you prefer a quieter, more relaxed day—perhaps just sightseeing or lounging—that might not be the best fit. But if you crave an authentic splash of Turkish adventure, this experience offers a well-rounded day of excitement, camaraderie, and spectacular views.
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included from most areas, including Antalya, Side, Belek, and others.
How long does the rafting last?
Rafting itself takes approximately 2.5 hours, covering about 14 km of rapids.
Can children join this tour?
Children under 3 years old are not allowed, making it suitable for older kids and adults ready for active fun.
What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, cash, and optionally rent water shoes or neoprene if needed.
Is the zipline activity included?
No, ziplining is an extra cost. You can choose whether to add it at the second scenic stop.
What’s in the included lunch?
A Turkish-style meal with chicken skewers, rice, pasta, and salad, served riverside after rafting.
How far in advance should I book?
Booking is flexible; you can reserve now and pay later, with full cancellation allowed up to 24 hours prior.
Is insurance provided?
Yes, travel insurance is included in the package, giving peace of mind during your adventure.
This Side rafting tour offers a fantastic way to combine active adventure with cultural and scenic highlights. If you’re eager to get your adrenaline flowing in a safe, well-organized environment, this trip will not disappoint.