Green Canyon: Day Trips and Tours from Side

Green Canyon — also known as Oymapınar Dam — is a man-made reservoir nestled away in The Taurus Mountains that stretch across Southern Turkey.

A popular sight among visitors, this destination attracts nature lovers and photography enthusiasts because of its aquamarine waters, surrounded by lofty peaks, and dense woodland.

Day trips to Green Canyon from Side are an ideal way to see another side of the Antalya region, away from its pristine beaches and sparkling seas.

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

How to get to Green Canyon from Side?

Green Canyon is located just outside the town of Manavgat in the Taurus Mountains, which stretch across Southern Turkey. It is approximately 30 kilometers from Side.

From Side to Green Canyon by car

The journey to Green Canyon takes approximately 40 minutes by car and begins by leaving Side in a northerly direction, following the D400, and then turning right onto Şelale Boulevard to continue your route.

After following this road for a while, you’ll travel along both Sarilar Köyü Yolu and Hüseyin Efendi Cadessi before joining İnönü Caddesi, which leads you to the reservoir.

Guided tour to Green Canyon from Side

As public transportation to this destination is limited, those without access to a car will find the best way to make the jaunt to Green Canyon is via an organized tour.

These day trips typically last between 5 and 8 hours, and include a convenient hotel pickup between 8 AM and 9 AM.

What is the typical itinerary?

While the itinerary of each Green Canyon day tour differs, they all share similarities. You’ll wait in your hotel lobby at a predetermined time early in the morning and once collected, meet your tour group, and board your vehicle. Then, you’ll set off in the direction of Green Canyon.

While some excursions travel directly to the destination, others stop at the region’s most sensational landmarks along the way, which include Manavgat Waterfall and Seleukia.

Once you reach the reservoir, you may drive around its outskirts on a jeep, or you’ll swap your vehicle for a boat and embark on a 17-kilometer cruise around its perimeter.

Tours typically provide lunch overlooking this stretch of water before returning to Side where your Green Canyon day trip ends.

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

There are several different Green Canyon day trips available to choose between depending on the activities you wish to participate in and the additional destinations you’d like to see.

Day trips to Green Canyon from Side

Traveling out of Side, this day trip to Green Canyon takes you on a scenic drive through the peaks and valleys of the Taurus Mountains to reach the site.

Upon arrival, you’ll stretch your legs and hop aboard a boat to take a gentle cruise around the canyon, admiring its limestone formations, and emerald waters up close.

You’ll have the opportunity to see how one of Turkey’s largest dams works and soak in the sun from the deck of your vessel. Stop to feast on a local meal at the water’s edge before slipping into the cool waters of the reservoir and feeling at one with Mother Nature.

Guided tour to Green Canyon plus Seleukia and Manavgat Waterfall from Side

Alternatively, opt for a combination day tour to Green Canyon where you’ll immerse yourself in the tranquil scenery of the reservoir on a boat cruise before exploring several other neighboring attractions.

You’ll have the opportunity to see the tumbling Manavgat Waterfall, which is an impressive sight, despite its small, 5-meter drop.

You’ll also explore the Hellenistic ruins of Seleukia — founded in the 4th century B.C. — which features the remains of a mausoleum, a Roman bath and a necropolis.

Learn the fascinating history of this ancient destination, once named Scandalor, and have the chance to snap spectacular photos of its remaining landmarks before returning to Side.

Jeep tour to Green Canyon from Side

Another option is to hop onto a jeep and embark on a bumpy off-road adventure through the Taurus Mountains, stopping en route to marvel at the ruins of Seleukia, which was destroyed, and rebuilt in the 1st century.

Continue along on your ATV, you’ll stop off at mountainside villages to get a feel for Turkish customs, including tea drinking, and see historic mosques. Admire the breathtaking Manavgat Waterfall before journeying on to Green Canyon — one of the most celebrated attractions in Antalya.

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

If you opt for a combination day tour of Green Canyon, Seleukia and Manavgat Waterfall, you’ll pay between US$20, and US$30 per person of any age and be part of a group of up to 45 travelers.

Jeep tours from Side also cost between US$20 and US$30 per adult, while children aged 4 to 11 cost between US$10, and US$20 each. If you bring along any children aged 3 or under, they'll be able to join in for free.

Alternatively, a day trip to Green Canyon that focuses on this main destination costs US$50 per adult. Children between the ages of 4 and 11 cost just under US$40 per head, and those under 4 can participate for free. You’ll be part of a group with a maximum of 27 guests and this Green Canyon excursion includes lunch, as well as the services of a local guide.

What will you see and do?

Green Canyon covers a span of 470 hectares and was once home to the largest dam in Turkey. Since its construction in the second half of the 20th century, several other dams have been built and Green Canyon now stands in fifth place. The man-made destination was purpose-built to provide energy to the surrounding area.

However, over the years, it has become a firm favorite among travelers to the region who visit for its remarkable scenery. The reservoir is surrounded on all sides by limestone formations, as well as thickets of evergreens, which provide a perfect contrast to its dazzling emerald waters.

The most popular activity is a boat tour of Green Canyon, which enables visitors to gain a unique view of this magnificent corner of the Taurus Mountains. The majority of the reservoir’s water is approximately 100 meters deep, however, parts of it reach depths of 240 meters.

You can also swim in the canyon where temperatures hover around 12 degrees Celsius throughout the year.

What are the opening times?

Green Canyon is accessible between 9 AM and 9 PM from Monday to Friday. On weekends, you can visit between 9 AM to 5 PM.

When is the best time to visit Green Canyon?

The best time for day trips to Green Canyon in Manavgat/Antalya, Turkey, from Side is during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). Mild weather, blooming nature, and fewer crowds make 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:

• Day Trips to Green Canyon from Alanya
• Day Trips to Green Canyon from Antalya

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.