Side-Turkey.

White or green: the far, historic Pamukkale or the nearby, restful Green Canyon? Here's the honest guide.

About Pamukkale Travertines

Pamukkale, with its white calcium travertines and ancient Hierapolis, is a cultural heritage to see before you die; but it requires a very long bus journey from Side.

About Green Canyon

Green Canyon is a fully nature-and-relaxation-focused lake tour by luxury catamaran between the steep canyon walls of the Oymapınar Dam. There is no foam party or loud music; you experience the silence of the canyon, its cool water and emerald green. It offers several swimming breaks, free fishing with on-board equipment, lunch at a lakeside restaurant and soft drinks included all day. As the calm lake has no waves or currents, it's the safest choice for families with children.

Getting There: How to Go

The journey to Pamukkale is long and much of the day can be spent travelling. Green Canyon, on the other hand, is only about 30 minutes (half an hour) from the Side area; so the journey is not tiring at all.

Expert Advice: Which One for Whom?

For families: Instead of a long drive and walking, Green Canyon is ideal for families wanting a nearby, cool and safe day. For travellers: Those wanting white travertines and history should choose Pamukkale; those wanting a turquoise-green paradise very close to areas like Sorgun, Titreyengöl and Kızılağaç should choose Green Canyon.

Green Canyon Tour — Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do you offer transfer from hotels in Side, Kızılağaç or Alanya?

Yes, absolutely! We pick up from all hotels in central Side, Sorgun, Titreyengöl, Kızılağaç, Kumköy, Evrenseki and even Alanya in air-conditioned vehicles and return you safely afterwards. Transfer is included in the price.

Is Green Canyon suitable and safe for children?

It's the safest tour for families with children and babies in Antalya. The lake has no waves or currents; our luxury catamarans carry life vests for all ages. There is no danger at all.

Is there loud music and a foam party on the tour?

No, there is none. This tour is designed with special catamarans for those who want to hear the sound of nature and experience the silence of the canyon. Ideal for a calm, peaceful day.

Are drinks and lunch included? (2026 season)

Per our 2026 concept, soft drinks served all day on the luxury catamaran are included; a delicious lunch is also included. Extra drinks and special requests at the lakeside restaurant are charged.

What's the difference between the short and long tour?

Some cheap short tours only show the canyon entrance and turn back. Our long-tour programme goes into the deepest points and hidden valleys of the canyon; you explore Green Canyon fully. Booking on our site gives you the long-tour assurance.

Is the water cold? Are there swimming breaks and fishing?

Yes, as the spring water feeding the canyon comes from the mountains, the lake is cool (cold); it's wonderfully refreshing in summer heat. Several swimming breaks are taken; you can also do free fishing with the on-board equipment.

What should I bring — do I need extra cash?

Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and a towel; charge your phone for photos. Some cash is recommended for lakeside restaurant spending, photos/videos or personal needs.

Is there a historical guide? How long is the journey?

This is entirely a nature and relaxation tour; our on-board local guide gives general safety and area information. Green Canyon is only ~30 minutes from Side; the journey is not tiring at all.

What about current prices and booking?

For 2026 prices, early-booking offers and transfer times, visit side-turkey.com.