Eagle Canyon: Day Trips and Tours from Side

Eagle Canyon, also known as Tazı Canyon, beckons adventurous souls seeking an unforgettable day trip from Side.

With the emerald waters of the Köprüçay River cutting through the landscape, you will be inspired by this natural wonder as it unveils a mesmerizing tapestry of rugged cliffs, lush forests and cascading waterfalls.

A day trip to Eagle Canyon from Side will leave you invigorated by the restorative atmosphere of the Turkish wilderness and captivated by the ancient roots that were laid in this region.

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

How to get to Eagle Canyon from Side?

Eagle Canyon is northwest of Side and is located inside the Köprülü Canyon National Park.

From Side to Eagle Canyon by car

The D400 road leads directly out of Side and takes you straight to Köprülü Canyon National Park. You will drive for about an hour, covering a distance of about 65 kilometers.

Guided tour to Eagle Canyon from Side

A guided day tour to Eagle Canyon is the most convenient way to experience the majesty of this little-known natural treasure. An expert guide will take you into the wilderness, making sure you get to all the best viewpoints. You can also sit back and enjoy the views as you are driven in comfort to and from Eagle Canyon.

What is the typical itinerary?

This 9-hour adventure starts with a 9 AM pickup from your hotel in Side. You will be whisked away to Köprüçay River where you can unwind in the spoils of nature before lunch.

Continuing your journey, a captivating stop awaits at an ancient Roman bridge, where you will delve into its rich historical narrative, guided by an expert with a wealth of knowledge.

The ancient city of Selge is up next, offering an intriguing atmosphere and captivating stories to absorb during your 40 minutes of exploration, curated by your guide.

Your next adventure takes you to the main attraction of the day as you venture toward the illustrious Eagle Canyon. Take on a brief 30-minute hike that leads you to awe-inspiring heights above the canyon. As the day begins to wane, your return journey commences and you will arrive back in Side between 5 and 6 PM.

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

Guided tours to Eagle Canyon plus Selge Ancient City from Side

The most popular day trips to Eagle Canyon are combo tours that visit both the ancient city of Selge as well as the canyon. These two attractions are close together and an expert guide will take you on a journey through time as you explore the ruins before setting off for the canyon to embrace the epic views. These tours don’t have more than 20 participants and you will enjoy conveniences like a hearty lunch and hotel pick-up and drop-off.

How much does a day trip to Eagle Canyon from Selge cost?

Day tours to Eagle Canyon all cost between US$30 and $45 per person. Children between the ages of 3 and 12 can join and their tickets cost between US$20 and US$30 each.

Your Eagle Canyon day trip booking includes pick-up and drop-off from your hotel and comfortable transportation between all the points of interest. You will also enjoy a delicious lunch but all drinks are at your own expense. You will be accompanied by a tour guide who will take you on a tour through the ruins and accompany you on the hike.

What will you see and do?

An excursion to Eagle Canyon is an all-day affair and you can look forward to many historic and natural sites along the way. These are some of the captivating places you will encounter:

Eagle Canyon

Eagle Canyon, also known as Tazı Canyon, holds a coveted spot within the stunning expanse of Köprülü Canyon. A moderate 30-minute hike will take you to the soaring heights of the canyon from where you can’t escape the gripping views of of the Köprüçay stream. The dramatic rock formation creates a sheer drop to the valley below, making for some epic photo opportunities.

Selge Ancient City

This remarkable archaeological site, dating back to the Hellenistic period, unveils a captivating glimpse into the ancient past of Turkey. Its ancient streets and remnants of structures bridge the gap between centuries, connecting you to the lives of those who once thrived within its walls. From the awe-inspiring amphitheater to the intricately carved tombs, Selge paints a vivid portrait of a bygone era.

Oluk Bridge

Oluk Bridge stands as a symbol of both human ingenuity and the harmonious integration of man-made structures within nature's magnificent embrace, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its timeless allure. This ancient bridge straddles the mighty Köprüçay River and it is believed to have been built as far back as the 2nd century. Its sturdy stone arch and the rumbling emerald water below create a picture-perfect scene.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

Eagle Canyon day trips are not wheelchair friendly as there is a moderate amount of hiking involved and there are no accessibility ramps or pathways.

When is the best time to visit Eagle Canyon?

The best time to visit Eagle Canyon is between the Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September and October). The weather is pleasant and the natural beauty is at its peak, with spring flowers blooming or fall colors showing.

What other day trips can you do from Side?

• Manavgat day trips from Side
• Antalya day trips from Side
• Alanya day trips from Side
• Green Lake day trips from Side
• Taurus Mountains day trips from Side

Travel tips

• Dress in layers and bring waterproof clothing, even in the summer as the weather could change quickly. Good walking shoes or hiking boots are a must if you plan to do a lot of walking or hiking.
• Bring plenty of water, especially if you're visiting during the summer months when temperatures can get high.
• Stick to marked trails to protect the vegetation and prevent erosion. Never leave any trash behind and do not disturb any wildlife you might encounter.