Side-Turkey.

If you are researching Green Canyon excursions, this booking guide is written by the people who actually run the boats. Green Canyon is the turquoise reservoir held behind the Oymapinar Dam, a short drive inland from Manavgat and Side, and a half-day on its still water is one of the calmest, most photogenic days out on this coast. Here is exactly how to book, what to expect, and how to lock in the best value without going through an agency.

What a Green Canyon excursion actually involves

This is not a sea trip. You sail on a flat-calm freshwater reservoir flanked by steep pine-covered cliffs that drop straight into deep emerald water, so it suits people who do not love choppy seas. The boat cruises slowly up the flooded gorge, passing the old Oymapinar power-station face and narrow side channels where the canyon walls close in. Most boats stop two or three times: a swimming halt in the cold, clear water (it stays cool because it is dam-fed and deep), a quiet inlet for photos, and a shaded landing for the included lunch. Crews usually point out the trout farms tucked along the shoreline, and you can normally buy fresh-grilled trout on board if you want it.

Who it suits

Families, couples and anyone wanting a slow, scenic day rather than adrenaline. The water is deep and cool, so confident swimmers get the most from it, but you can stay aboard and just enjoy the cruise. It pairs beautifully with a morning at Manavgat Waterfall or the Grand Bazaar if you want a fuller day.

How to book and get the best price

The single biggest factor in what you pay is the booking channel. Online travel platforms and hotel-desk agencies add their own commission on top of the operator's rate. We are the local operator (the Murat Atalay team), so booking direct with us removes that layer entirely and comes with our best-price guarantee. Other things that move the price: season (shoulder months are quieter and softer on cost than peak July-August), group size, and whether you add extras like the grilled-trout lunch. Booking a day or two ahead secures your pick-up slot and instant confirmation; you do not pay anything online to reserve.

Quick Facts

• Duration: Approx. 6-7 hours (half to three-quarter day)
• Pick-up Time: Morning, typically 08:30-09:30 from your hotel
• Drop-off Time: Mid-to-late afternoon, around 16:00-17:00
• Includes: Hotel transfer from Side/Manavgat & nearby resorts, boat cruise, lunch, swimming stops
• Excludes: Drinks, optional grilled-trout upgrade, personal spending
• Family Friendly: Yes
• Recommended Age: Suitable for all ages; children supervised near deep water
• Best Season: April to October
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Related Excursions

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pick-up included?

Yes. We collect you from your hotel in Side, Manavgat and the surrounding resorts in the morning and return you in the afternoon. Just share your hotel name when you book.

Is the Green Canyon excursion suitable for children?

Yes, it is a calm, family-friendly trip. The water is deep and cool, so keep an eye on younger children at swimming stops; the crew helps with life jackets.

Can I pay on the day?

You can reserve without paying online and settle with our local team on the day of the excursion. Just confirm your spot in advance so we can plan your pick-up.

Should I book in advance?

We recommend booking a day or two ahead, especially in high season, to guarantee your seat and pick-up time. Same-day requests are sometimes possible.

What happens in bad weather?

Green Canyon is sheltered, so it runs in most conditions. If we ever cancel for safety, you can rebook for another day or receive a full refund of anything paid.

Is the water warm enough to swim?

The reservoir is dam-fed and deep, so it stays refreshingly cool even in summer. Strong swimmers love it; you can also stay aboard and simply enjoy the cruise.

What should I bring?

Swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat and a camera. There is shade on board, but the midday sun off the water is strong.

How long is the boat cruise itself?

You spend several hours on the water with multiple stops for swimming, photos and lunch, framed by transfers to and from your hotel.

Ready to go? Book your Green Canyon excursion direct with the local Murat Atalay team via WhatsApp or info@side-turkey.com. No agency mark-up, our best-price guarantee, and instant confirmation. We will sort your hotel pick-up and answer any question before you set off.