Side-Turkey.

Manavgat is the kind of place that rewards an unhurried day. It sits right next to Side, threaded by the broad, fast-flowing Manavgat River, and within a short drive you can stand beside a thundering waterfall in the morning and glide across the still, emerald water of the Green Canyon by afternoon. This itinerary keeps a natural rhythm — water, then more water, each in a completely different mood — without rushing you from one ticket gate to the next.

Morning: Manavgat Waterfall and the Tea Gardens

Start with the Manavgat Waterfall. It is not tall, but it is impressively wide, and the sheer volume of water tumbling over the ledge is what makes it memorable — a constant, cooling roar that you hear before you see it. The surrounding park is laid out with walkways and viewing terraces, so you can get close to the spray and then step back into the shade of the riverside tea gardens. This is the right way to begin: a glass of Turkish tea, the sound of the river, and no need to be anywhere yet.

From the falls, the riverside bazaar is an easy add-on if you like to browse. It is relaxed rather than overwhelming, and a good spot to pick up a few things before the day moves out onto the water.

Midday: The Manavgat River and into the Green Canyon

The natural next step is the river itself. A Manavgat River boat trip carries you upstream, past reed banks and fishing spots, toward the heart of the day — the Green Canyon, the long reservoir held back by the Oymapinar Dam, completed in 1984 on the Manavgat River.

Why it is called the Green Canyon

The water here is a deep, mineral green, the colour drawn from the mountain streams that feed the lake and from its remarkable depth. Steep, pine-clad walls rise on either side, and the surface is usually glass-still — a striking contrast to the noisy waterfall you stood beside that morning. Boats typically pause for a swim where the setting allows; the lake is cool and clear, so bring swimwear if you would like to dip. Exactly where and for how long is confirmed at booking and depends on conditions on the day.

Late Afternoon and Evening: Back Toward Side

With the canyon behind you, the day softens. Manavgat sits so close to Side that it is natural to fold the two together: the ancient harbour, the old-town lanes, and the seafront Temple of Apollo, which is at its most photogenic as the sun drops into the Mediterranean. If your day is winding down near the coast, that golden-hour walk past the temple is a fitting close to a day spent entirely beside water.

Quick Facts

• Duration: Flexible itinerary; exact timing confirmed at booking.
• Pick-up: Hotel pick-up from Side, Manavgat & nearby resorts; time confirmed at booking.
• Includes: Guided itinerary across the waterfall, river and Green Canyon; details confirmed at booking.
• Excludes: Personal spending, optional extras and any site entrance fees not stated — check the official site or confirm at booking.
• Family Friendly: Yes — calm boat water and easy walkways suit most ages.
• Best Season: Spring through autumn, when the waterfall flows strongly and the lake is warm enough to swim.
• Difficulty: Easy; mostly gentle walking and relaxed boating.

Related Excursions

• Side tours & day trips
• Antalya excursions
• Alanya tours
• Belek excursions
• Kemer tours
• More travel guides on our blog

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Manavgat close to Side?

Yes. Manavgat sits right next to Side, which is why a waterfall-and-canyon day pairs so easily with the Side seafront and old town.

Can I swim in the Green Canyon?

Boat trips usually include a swim stop where conditions allow. The water is cool and clear, so bring swimwear. The exact spot and timing are confirmed at booking.

What is the Green Canyon, exactly?

It is the long reservoir created by the Oymapinar Dam on the Manavgat River, completed in 1984. Its deep green colour comes from the mineral-rich streams that feed it and the lake's depth.

How high is the Manavgat Waterfall?

It is low rather than tall, but very wide, with a powerful flow. The volume of water — strongest in spring and autumn — is what makes it impressive.

Do I need to book entrance tickets in advance?

Any site entrance fees are not always included. Check the official site or confirm what is covered at booking so there are no surprises.

Is this suitable for children and grandparents?

Yes. The boat water is calm and the park walkways are easy, so the day works well across generations.

What should I bring?

Swimwear and a towel for the canyon, sun protection, comfortable shoes, and a light layer for the boat. Confirm anything provided at booking.

Why book direct instead of through an agency?

Booking direct with us removes agency and OTA commission, which is how we hold our best-price guarantee. You also deal with the local team running the day, not a middleman.

Ready to plan your perfect Manavgat day? Book DIRECT with the Murat Atalay team for a smooth, local experience and our best-price guarantee. Message us on WhatsApp or email info@side-turkey.com and we will confirm pick-up and details for you.