Green Canyon — also known as Oymapınar Dam — is a spectacular man-made construct that perfectly mimics a natural oasis in the heart of the Taurus Mountains.

Nature lovers, photography enthusiasts and relaxation seekers all flock to this serene spot in order to glide gently through its vivid waters, and marvel at its lofty limestone cliffs.

Day trips to Green Canyon from Alanya are easy to arrange and a must if you find yourself in this corner of Turkey. Suitable for all the family, these excursions provide a fun-filled day on vacation.

Here's all you need to know about Green Canyon, one of the most exciting day trips from Alanya.

How to get to Green Canyon from Alanya?

Green Canyon is a reservoir located near the town of Manavgat in the Taurus mountain range that runs through Southern Turkey. It is approximately 80 kilometers from Alanya.

From Alanya to Green Canyon by car

The journey to Green Canyon by car takes just over an hour and begins by traveling out of Alanya in a northwesterly direction along the D400 — also known as Mersin - Antalya Yolu.

As you approach Manavgat, you’ll take a slight right to continue along the road, which leads you all the way through the mountains and into the reservoir.

From Alanya to Green Canyon by bus

Those without access to a car can make the jaunt to Green Canyon via public transportation. You can board the Line 50 bus, bound for Manavgat, in Alanya, which stops at several hotels, as well as Tropical Atom Station, and runs regularly throughout the day.

This journey typically takes between 30 minutes and an hour. You’ll alight at Gökkuşağı Sitesi - Elikesik, which is just a 12-minute walk from the canyon.

Guided tour to Green Canyon from Alanya

Alternatively, you can release the hassle of organizing transportation by booking a guided excursion to Green Canyon. These day trips typically last between 6 and 9 hours, beginning around 8 AM with a convenient accommodation pickup.

You’ll simply select your hotel from a dropdown list and, on the day, wait in your lobby for collection by a friendly guide. Once your adventure is over, you’ll be dropped to the same spot to end your day relaxing or sightseeing in Alanya.

What is the typical itinerary?

The majority of Green Canyon day tours follow a similar itinerary, meaning that whichever you choose, you can be sure of a fun day out. You’ll begin relatively early in the morning and after being collected by your guide, you’ll board your vehicle, and get acquainted with your tour group.

You’ll relax along the journey, watching the scenery change from sandy shores to dramatic peaks and dense forests as you travel into the Taurus Mountains.

Reaching the canyon, you’ll usually hop straight onto a boat for a cruise around the destination, which lasts several hours. Alongside relaxing on board, you’ll also have regular opportunities to slip into the lake and make a splash before dining at a local restaurant overlooking the natural wonderland.

Finishing up your boat trip, some Green Canyon day trips come to an end, traveling straight back to Alanya. However, others stop en route to explore other local attractions, such as zoos before returning to the city.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Green Canyon?

There are subtle differences between Green Canyon day trips so check each of those on offer before selecting your preferred excursion.

Guided tours to Green Canyon from Alanya

Embarking on your Green Canyon day trip, you’ll travel out of the city and wind your way through the spectacular scenery of the Taurus Mountains. Upon arrival, you’ll swap your bus for a boat, sailing through the emerald waters of the dam, which is the fourth highest in the country.

Stop for regular dips in this enticing canyon where you can marvel at your surroundings and cool off with your loved ones by your side.

You’ll take a break midway through this enchanting cruise to feast on a local lunch before taking to the waters once more to seek the elusive brown fish owl and admire the magnitude of the surrounding limestone formations.

Day trip to Green Canyon plus local zoo from Alanya

On this Green Canyon day tour, you’ll have the opportunity to discover the beauty of the Taurus Mountains, which stretch for more than 550 kilometers along the south of Turkey.

You’ll enjoy a peaceful boat ride through the tranquil waters witnessing the jagged rock formations that surround the lake, littered with verdant pines, and discover its dam — one of the largest in the country — from your vessel.

Once you’ve reenergized with a delicious meal, you’ll visit a local zoo, exploring a myriad of exotic creatures before returning to Alanya.

How much does a day trip to Green Canyon from Alanya cost?

Basic Green Canyon day trips cost approximately US$40 per adult and operate in groups of 180 guests. Children between the ages of 4 and 11 can participate for between US$20, and US$30 each while children under 4 travel for free.

Green Canyon day tours that include a trip to a local zoo also cost US$40 per adult. Children are classed as those between the ages of 6 and 11, and cost a little over US$20 each. Children under 6 can accompany their families on this excursion for free.

What will you see and do?

Green Canyon is a man-made reservoir, home to the fifth-largest dam in Turkey, covering a span of 470 hectares. The reservoir was built toward the end of the 20th century and at the time of its construction, was the largest of its kind in the country.

Since then, a handful of other dams have been created, sending Olymapınar Dam several spots down on the list. The dam has a capacity of 300 million cubic meters and was purpose-built to supply energy to the region.

However, tourists on a day trip to Green Canyon visit the destination, not for its history, but for its scenery. Boat cruises are the most popular activity here, sailing leisurely around the 17-kilometer stretch of water, which is surrounded on all sides by towering limestone cliffs that are dotted with greenery.

While the reservoir is artificially created, its turquoise waters give the illusion of an ancient natural attraction.

The waters are cool here, hovering around 12 degrees Celsius year-round, but this doesn’t stop visitors from plunging into its 100-meter depths. The brown fish owl can be found in this part of the Taurus Mountains, which is native to Turkey and Southeast Asia, and has a wingspan of over a meter.

What are the opening times?

From Monday to Friday, tourists can take a day tour to Green Canyon between the hours of 9 AM and 9 PM. On weekends, the reservoir has reduced opening times and can be visited from 9 AM to 5 PM.

When is the best time to visit Green Canyon?

The best time for day trips to Green Canyon in from Alanya is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) where there are fewer crowds and mild weather, blooming nature, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the canyon.

Are there any tours to Green Canyon from other cities in Turkey?

Yes, there are tours departing from other cities in Turkey:

Travel tips

Pack sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, comfortable shoes, and swimwear.
Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the stunning landscapes.
Stay hydrated and bring snacks for energy during your visit.
Check local regulations and weather conditions beforehand.

Green Canyon: Day Trips and Tours from Alanya