Manavgat Waterfalls: Day Trips and Tours from Antalya

One of the most spectacular and well-known waterfalls in Turkey can be found in Manavgat, near Side, about 80 kilometers east from Antalya.

As it is surrounded by lush forests on the western slopes of the Taurus Mountains, there is plenty to keep visitors occupied on a day trip to Manavgat Waterfalls from Antalya.

Aside from the serene natural landscape, the broader area is host to many areas of archeological interest.

The ancient city of Side by the sea features many temples and an amphitheater from the Greco-Roman era, while further out you will also find the cities of Perge and Aspendos.

Here's all you need to know about Manavgat Waterfalls and organizing day trips from Antalya.

How to get to Manavgat Waterfalls from Antalya?

The Manavgat Waterfalls are 5 kilometers north of Manavgat, which in turn is 80 kilometers east of Antalya. Day trip options to Manavgat Waterfalls from Antalya are available via bus, car or a guided tour, with the journey taking 1 to 1.5 hours.

From Antalya to Manavgat Waterfalls by car

The main road to follow from Antalya is the D400 to Mersin, where you take the exit towards Şelale Boulevard. Then follow the boulevard to Sarilar and take the Hüseyin Efendi Caddesi, which will lead you to the Manavgat Watefalls. Taxis from Antalya to Manavgat Waterfalls cost about US$20 to US$25.

From Antalya to Manavgat Waterfalls by bus

The cheapest way to travel to the Manavgat Waterfalls from Antalya is via bus. There are multiple buses that depart from the intercity bus terminal in Antalya and the airport in the direction of Manavgat, with the journey lasting about an hour and 20 minutes.

When you reach Manavgat, you may then take a minibus or taxi to the waterfalls, which are about a 10-minute ride from the city center.

Guided tour to Manavgat Waterfalls from Antalya

For a more relaxed excursion to the Manavgat Waterfalls from Antalya, you may be interested in a guided tour or day trip. There are many options available with mini buses, jeeps or boats, which may also include visits to other areas of interest along the way.

How much does the entrance ticket to Manavgat Waterfalls cost?

The entrance fee to the Manavgat Waterfalls is TL6 (about US$0.3) per person.

What is the typical itinerary?

Depending on how you plan to visit the Waterfalls, you will either be picked up from your hotel or depart from a pre-arranged meeting point in Antalya. The journey to Manavgat usually takes about an hour, and depending on the route you may stop along the way at any of the ancient ruins.

Upon arrival to Manavgat, you will take one of the mini buses to the waterfalls. After admiring the view, you can rest for a bite or drink and then continue for a stroll to the town market, or carry on to Side for some sightseeing, before returning to Antalya.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Manavgat Waterfalls?

Guided boat tours to Manavgat Waterfalls

One of the most relaxed ways to visit the Manavgat Waterfalls is with a guided boat tour. After being picked up from a designated meeting spot in Antalya, you will be taken on a cruise of the Manavgat River.

Boat tours along the river include stops for a swim, as well as exploring major archeological sites and the market in Manavgat.

Jeep or quad tour to Manavgat Waterfalls from Antalya

For a more action-packed excursion into the Turkish countryside, consider a jeep safari tour or perhaps an ATV or quad bike tour from Antalya. With a help of a guide, you will visit areas off the beaten path at your own pace. These tours may also include a meal.

Day trip to Manavgat Waterfalls plus Alanya and Side from Antalya

This route will take you further down the Turkish coast and includes stops at Side, Manavgat and Alanya, which is about 130 kilometers east of Antalya. During this trip you will get to explore many areas of archeological interest, as well as the waterfalls.

Day tour to Manavgat Waterfalls plus Perge, Aspendos and Side from Antalya

These full-day tours will combine a visit to the waterfalls with some of the most impressive archeological sites in the areas. The first stop, Perge, is about 20 minutes from Antalya and features many Greek and Roman ruins.

In Aspendos, about 40 kilometers from Antalya, you will find an ancient theater and aqueduct, among others. Side is the final stop before the Manavgat Waterfalls. These trips typically include a tour guide and admission fees.

How much does a day trip to Manavgat Waterfalls cost?

Guided boat tours to the Manavgat Waterfalls cost between US$35 and US$55 per person, which includes transportation and lunch. Entrance fees to the waterfalls are not always included, so confirm before booking.

A guided safari tour with a jeep to the Manavgat Waterfalls will typically cost about €40 per person, which includes transportation, a tour guide and lunch. Entrance fees to the waterfalls are not included.

The cost of a day trip to the Manavgat Waterfalls ranges from US$60 to US$75 per person, depending on the route taken and the stops along the way. These tours include transportation and entrance fees to the waterfalls.

What will you see and do?

Ancient City of Side

Next to Manavgat and on a tiny peninsula you will find Side, a city dating back to the 7th century B.C. This national heritage site features a world-famous temple dedicated to Apollo, an amphitheater, aqueduct and a museum of antiquities.

On top of a rich history, the seaside city also has a bustling night-life with plenty of bars and cafes.

Koprulu Canyon National Park

To the north of Manavgat, you will the Korpulu Canyon national park, which is one of the most popular water sports destinations in Turkey. White water rafting in the river is a must for adrenaline junkies.

Should you be after something a bit more relaxed, you can explore the trail to take photos of the picturesque forests and ancient ruins, such as the Oluk and Bugrum Bridges. You can round off your excursion with a visit to one of the many nearby restaurants.

Turkish bath and spa break

After a long day of discovering everything that Manavgat has to offer, you may wish to unwind at one of the many spa and wellness activities in Antalya and Side.

Depending on where you go, you can treat yourself to some quality pampering with a traditional massage, steam room, sauna, salt room, Jacuzzi or mud bath.

What are the opening times?

The Manavgat Waterfalls are open from 9 AM to 9 PM between April and September and from 9 AM to 6 PM between November and March.

When is the best time to visit Manavgat Waterfalls?

The best time to visit Manavgat Waterfalls is between April and November. Additionally, crowds tend to be smaller during the weekdays.

Travel tips

• Opt to visit the waterfalls earlier in the morning, when the crowds are smaller, so that you can get a better view of the landscape and take pictures.
• For transportation and entrance fees, pay in Turkish liras when possible. Euros and dollars are usually accepted, but the exchange rate offered may not be the best.
• If travelling by taxi with a family or group, consider bargaining for a lower price with the driver.