Side & Manavgat, Antalya, Turkey · 8 Hours · From €35 per person
Green Canyon Boat Tour from Side:
The Most Beautiful Lake in Turkey
Crystal-clear emerald waters, dramatic cliffs, refreshing swims, and a delicious lunch on board. The ultimate nature escape from Side — book your seat before they’re gone.
About Green Canyon, Turkey
One of the most stunning natural wonders in the Taurus Mountains, just a short drive from Side.
Location & Distance
- From Side: 35 km (approx. 50-60 min)
- From Manavgat Center: 25 km (35-45 min)
- From Antalya Airport: 85 km (90-100 min)
The Lake
- Water Color: Emerald Green
- Average Depth: 130 meters (max 180m)
- Surface Area: 47 km²
- Water Temperature (Summer): 22–26°C
Weather & Best Time
- Summer Avg. Temp: 28–34°C
- Best Season: May – October
- Swimming Season: June – September
Tour Duration
- Total Tour Time: 7–8 hours
- Boat Cruise: ~3 hours
- Swimming + Lunch: 2+ hours
Formed by the Oymapınar Dam on the Manavgat River, Green Canyon is a hidden paradise surrounded by steep cliffs and rich Mediterranean vegetation. It is one of the most photographed natural attractions in Antalya province.
How Green Canyon Became a Natural Wonder
Created by the Oymapınar Dam in 1984, Green Canyon transformed the Manavgat River into a stunning emerald reservoir in the Taurus Mountains.
Cliff Heights
Maximum Depth
Lake Length
Summer Water Temp
Freshwater Habitat
Major Regional Impact
Why Green Canyon Should Be Your #1 Day Trip from Side
Breathtaking Emerald Lake
Surrounded by steep cliffs and pine forests, the turquoise-green water of Green Canyon is one of the most beautiful lakes in Turkey. The contrast between the deep green water and white cliffs is simply unforgettable.
Multiple Swimming Stops
Unlike many boat tours, Green Canyon gives you plenty of time to swim in the clean, refreshing water. Jump from the boat into the emerald lake – one of the highlights of the day.
Fresh Lunch on Board
Enjoy a delicious open buffet lunch prepared fresh on the boat while cruising through the canyon. Grilled chicken, rice, salad, and seasonal fruits – all included in the price.
Easy Access from Side
Only 35–40 minutes from Side with comfortable air-conditioned transport. Perfect for a full-day nature escape without long travel times.
What Makes This Tour Special
Dramatic Canyon Scenery
Sail through steep cliffs rising up to 400 meters, surrounded by lush Mediterranean forest.
Crystal Clear Swimming
Multiple stops to swim in the emerald-green waters. Life jackets provided for everyone.
Fresh Lunch on Board
Delicious open buffet lunch with grilled chicken, rice, salad & fresh fruit. All included.
Door-to-Door Service
Comfortable air-conditioned transfer with pickup from your hotel in Side & Manavgat.
Choose Your Green Canyon Experience – 2026 Prices
Your Green Canyon Adventure – Step by Step
A perfect full-day journey through the emerald waters of Green Canyon and the stunning landscapes of the Taurus Mountains.
Hotel Pickup from Side Region
Comfortable air-conditioned transfer from your hotel in Side, Manavgat, Titreyengöl, Sorgun, Colaklı and nearby areas.
Arrival at Green Canyon Harbor
Board our comfortable boat at the entrance of the breathtaking Oymapınar Dam and Green Canyon.
Scenic Cruise on Emerald Green Canyon
3 hours sailing through dramatic 400-meter cliffs, turquoise waters and rich Mediterranean nature in the heart of the Taurus Mountains.
Swimming & Lunch Break
Jump into the refreshing crystal-clear waters of Green Canyon. Enjoy a fresh open buffet lunch on board with grilled chicken, rice, salad, fruits and unlimited soft drinks.
Return to Your Hotel in Side
Relaxed transfer back with unforgettable memories of one of Antalya’s most beautiful natural wonders.
Going to Green Canyon by yourself?
Our Tour is Almost FREE!
Private Taxi
Round trip + waiting time from Side
Rent a Car
Fuel, parking & navigation hassle
SideKickTours Green Canyon Tour
Everything included • Zero stress • Full guided experience
- ✅ Free hotel pickup & drop-off
- ✅ 3-hour boat cruise + swimming
- ✅ Lunch + unlimited soft drinks
- ✅ Insurance & safety equipment
- ✅ Professional local guide
Save up to €130 and enjoy a comfortable, safe, and guided experience instead of driving and planning.
Not sure what to do in Side?
Explore 50+ best things to do in Side — from ancient temples to hidden beaches, boat tours, and local markets. The most complete Side Travel Guide 2026 prepared by a local expert.
Discover All Things to Do in Side →Loved by Our Guests – Real Experiences
Germany • July 2026
“The Green Canyon tour was the highlight of our Side holiday! The boat, swimming stops, and lunch were perfect. Our driver was very friendly. Highly recommended!”
UK • June 2026
“Worth every penny! The canyon views are breathtaking. Lunch was fresh and tasty. Transfer was on time and the guide explained everything perfectly.”
Poland • July 2026
“Beautiful nature, very clean boat and excellent swimming spots. The price is really good compared to other options. We will book again next year!”
Russia • June 2026
“Everything was perfect! The boat trip through the canyon is unforgettable. Lunch was delicious and the staff very helpful. Thank you SideKickTours!”
Turkey • July 2026
“As a local I was impressed! Professional service, clean boat and very nice lunch. Best value for money in Side.”
France • July 2026
“The most beautiful day trip we did in Turkey. The canyon is magical. Everything was well organized. We felt safe and well taken care of.”
Trusted by Thousands of Travelers from All Over the World
Hi, I’m Mehmet Kozak
40 years local to Side. With over 15 years of professional tourism experience, I created SideKickTours to share the real magic of my home — especially the breathtaking Green Canyon.
Local to Side
Tourism Expert
& Local Guide
Green Canyon Boat Tour – Frequently Asked Questions 2026
1. How much does the Green Canyon Boat Tour cost in 2026?
The standard Green Canyon Boat Tour from Side is €35 per person. The popular Side Mix Tour (Green Canyon + Manavgat River + Waterfall) is currently only €20.
2. Is lunch and drinks included in the Green Canyon tour?
Yes. Fresh open buffet lunch (grilled chicken, rice, salad, fruits) and unlimited soft drinks + water are included.
3. Can you swim in Green Canyon? What is the water temperature?
Yes, there are multiple swimming stops in the emerald waters. Water temperature in July-August is usually 24-27°C.
4. How long is the Green Canyon Boat Tour from Side?
Total duration is 7-8 hours including hotel pickup from Side, 3 hours boat cruise on the canyon, swimming and lunch.
5. Is Green Canyon worth visiting in 2026?
Yes. It is one of the most beautiful natural wonders in Antalya with dramatic 400-meter cliffs, turquoise waters and rich Mediterranean nature.
6. What is the difference between Green Canyon Boat Tour and Side Mix Tour?
Boat Tour = Only Green Canyon (3 hours on lake). Mix Tour = Green Canyon + Manavgat River Cruise + Waterfall + Seleukia Ancient City (more variety).
7. Is the Green Canyon tour suitable for children and families?
Yes. Life jackets are provided and the boat is family-friendly. Many families with children join every day.
8. How far is Green Canyon from Side?
Approximately 35-40 km from Side center. Comfortable transfer takes about 1 hour.
9. Is there a Jeep Safari + Green Canyon combo tour?
Yes. The popular combo includes full day Jeep Safari in the Taurus Mountains + 1 hour boat cruise on Green Canyon (€35).
10. What should I wear and bring for the Green Canyon tour?
Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses and comfortable shoes. Camera or phone for photos is highly recommended.
11. What is the best time to visit Green Canyon?
Morning tours (08:30-09:30 pickup) are recommended because the water is calmer and there are fewer crowds.
12. Is Green Canyon crowded in summer 2026?
It can get busy in July and August, but our tours have limited capacity so you still enjoy a comfortable experience.
13. Are there dolphins in Green Canyon?
Sometimes dolphins can be seen in the area where Manavgat River meets the Mediterranean Sea, especially in the early morning tours.
14. Is the boat tour suitable for elderly people?
Yes. The boat is comfortable and stable. However, please inform us in advance if you have any mobility concerns.
15. Can I take my own food and drinks on the boat?
Outside food and drinks are not allowed due to hygiene and safety regulations. Everything is provided on board.
16. Is there WiFi or toilet on the boat?
There is a clean toilet on the boat. WiFi is not available during the cruise.
17. What is the best photo spot in Green Canyon?
The dramatic cliffs (up to 400 meters) and the emerald lake views near the swimming stops are the most photographed points.
18. Is Green Canyon the same as Tazi Canyon (Eagles Canyon)?
No. Green Canyon is the boat cruise area. Tazi Canyon (Eagles Canyon) is nearby with higher cliffs and viewpoint.
19. Can I book the Green Canyon tour on the same day?
Possible in low season, but we recommend booking 1-2 days in advance during high season (June-September) for guaranteed seats.
20. Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes. Life jackets are provided and the swimming stops are optional. Many non-swimmers enjoy the boat cruise and views.
21. How do I book the Green Canyon tour?
You can book easily via WhatsApp or our website. Pay on the day of the tour. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
22. What makes SideKickTours different from other companies?
We are a local company with 15+ years experience, smaller groups, better boats, professional guides and real value for money.
Still have questions about Green Canyon?
Whether it’s about swimming conditions, best photo spots, lunch details, or anything else — I’m here to help. Ask me anything about Green Canyon or Side.
💬 Ask Mehmet About Green CanyonQuick response • No pressure • Real local answers
What's Included
Green Canyon Boat Tour
Boat trip on Oymapinar Dam
Hotel transfer from Side / Antalya
Lunch on board or lakeside
Swimming stops in Green Canyon
Professional tour guide
Insurance
Panoramic photo stops
Full-day excursion
Not Included
Drinks (soft drinks & alcohol)
Personal expenses
Photos & videos
Fishing equipment
Tips / gratuities
Extra activities not mentioned