Side-Turkey.

If you are searching for family rafting excursions that genuinely work for both excited kids and slightly nervous parents, the cool turquoise water of the Köprülü Canyon is where you want to be. Our family rafting excursions run on the gentle stretch of the Koprucay River, where the rapids are playful rather than frightening, and the canyon scenery does half the entertaining for you. It is the easiest way to swap a hot afternoon by the pool for something everyone will still be talking about at dinner.

Why Köprülü Canyon Is Made for Families

The Koprucay River is fed by mountain springs, so the water stays refreshingly cold even at the height of summer. The classic route covers a relaxed stretch of the canyon, mixing calm pools where you can trail your hands in the water with bouncy, splashy rapids that get the whole boat laughing. There are no terrifying drops here. Instead you get a steady rhythm of paddle, glide, splash, repeat, all framed by pine-covered cliffs and the famous Roman bridge arching overhead.

What the day actually looks like

After hotel pick-up you travel up into the Taurus foothills, where the temperature drops and the air smells of pine. At the rafting base you are fitted with a life jacket and helmet, and your raft guide gives a clear safety briefing and a quick paddle lesson on dry land. Children sit between adults in the boat, and an experienced guide steers every raft. Along the way there are calm spots to jump in for a swim if the family fancies it.

Making the Most of a Family Day Out

Bring a change of clothes, water shoes or sandals you do not mind soaking, and a towel. Cameras and phones should stay locked away or in a waterproof case, as everyone gets wet. The cooler canyon climate is a welcome break from the coastal heat, so a light layer for younger children afterward is sensible.

Getting the best value without overpaying

The single biggest factor in what you pay for any excursion is who you book with. Booking direct with us, the local operator, cuts out the hotel-desk and online-agency commission that quietly inflates the price elsewhere. We offer a best-price guarantee, transparent inclusions, and no surprise add-ons. Travelling outside the absolute peak weeks and choosing morning departures also tends to mean quieter rafts and better availability, which is its own kind of value for families.

Quick Facts

• Duration: Approx. 6-7 hours including transfers
• Pick-up Time: Morning, around 08:00-09:00 from your hotel
• Drop-off Time: Mid to late afternoon, back at your hotel
• Includes: Hotel transfer, life jacket, helmet, professional raft guide, lunch
• Excludes: Personal photos/videos, drinks, gratuities, optional extras
• Family Friendly: Yes, designed for families with children
• Recommended Age: From around 6 years and up
• Best Season: April to October
• Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate (beginner friendly)

Related Excursions

• Side excursions
• Antalya excursions
• Alanya excursions
• Kemer excursions
• Belek excursions
• More travel guides

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the rafting safe for young children?

Yes. The family route uses the calm, beginner-friendly section of the river, every child wears a fitted life jacket and helmet, and a trained guide steers each raft throughout.

Do you offer hotel transfers?

We provide hotel pick-up and drop-off from Side, Manavgat and nearby resorts as standard. We confirm your exact pick-up time when you book.

What age can children start rafting?

The gentle family route generally suits children from around six years old. If your child is younger, message us and we will advise honestly on the best option.

Can we pay on the day?

Yes, you can pay on the day of the excursion. We simply ask you to reserve in advance so we can guarantee your seats and arrange the transfer.

Should we book in advance?

We strongly recommend it, especially in summer. Booking direct in advance secures your spots, locks in our best price and gives you instant confirmation.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Rafting runs in most summer conditions, but if it is ever unsafe we will contact you to reschedule to another day or arrange a suitable alternative.

What should we bring?

Swimwear under your clothes, a towel, a change of dry clothes, water shoes or sandals, and sunscreen. Leave valuables at the hotel or bring a waterproof case.

Do non-rafting family members have to join?

The whole family usually rafts together, but if a grandparent prefers to relax, there are shaded riverside areas at the base to wait comfortably.

Ready to give your family a day they will remember? Book your rafting excursion direct with the local Murat Atalay team via WhatsApp or info@side-turkey.com. You get our best-price guarantee, friendly local advice and instant confirmation, no agency mark-up. Message us today and we will save your seats on the river.