Green Canyon: Day Trips and Tours from Antalya

Green Canyon — also known as Oymapınar Dam — is a breathtaking man-made construct, nestled in the core of the Taurus Mountains. This artificially-built lake features glistening emerald waters and is surrounded by spectacular limestone formations, studded with evergreen copses, and lofty peaks.

Day trips to Green Canyon from Antalya are a must for anyone on vacation in this region. Fun for all the family, they provide a much-needed slice of relaxation within arms reach of the city.

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

How to get to Green Canyon from Antalya?

Green Canyon is located just outside of Manavgat in The Taurus Mountains, which cover a large expanse in Southern Turkey. It is approximately 100 kilometers from Antalya.

From Antalya to Green Canyon by car

The journey to Green Canyon by car takes just under 1.5 hours and begins by following the D400 east of Antalya city. As you approach Manavgat, you’ll turn left onto Şelale Boulevard, utilizing Sarilar Köyü Yolu and Hüseyin Efendi Cadessi before joining İnönü Caddesi, which leads you to your destination.

Guided tour to Green Canyon from Antalya

Public transportation to the reservoir is limited, which means the best way for those without access to a car to make the jaunt to Green Canyon is via an organized tour. These day trips typically last between 9 and 12 hours, and include a convenient hotel pickup between 7 AM and 8 AM. Once your adventure is over, you’ll be returned to your accommodation to spend the rest of the day relaxing or sightseeing.

What is the typical itinerary?

After collection from your accommodation, you’ll board your vehicle and meet your tour group ready for your day trip to Green Canyon. You may pick up guests from other hotels before journeying in the direction of your main destination, through the Taurus Mountains.

After approximately 1.5 hours, you’ll reach Green Canyon where you’ll swap your bus for a boat and set off on a scenic adventure around the reservoir. You can expect to make several swimming stops at various locations around the body of water, as well as a lunch break, which takes place on the water’s edge.

You can choose whether to engage in swimming or simply lie back and enjoy your surroundings while remaining on board. Once you’ve explored the canyon, you’ll return to Antalya where your Green Canyon day tour ends.

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

Green Canyon day tours typically feature similar itineraries, meaning that you’re guaranteed a spectacular experience, whichever one you choose.

Guided tours to Green Canyon from Antalya

After a seamless hotel pickup, your day trip to Green Canyon begins by leaving the city behind and watching the landscape change from sandy shores to pine thickets as you travel inland through the peaks, and valleys of the Taurus Mountains. Upon arrival at the reservoir, you’ll hop into a boat and begin a leisurely 17-kilometer cruise, which showcases the very best scenery of the region.

You’ll see towering limestone formations, dense forests and soaring mountains as you soak up the sun from the deck of your vessel. You’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself fully in this oasis with several swimming stops along the way, which is the ideal way to refresh yourself from the heat of the day.

Midway through your boat tour in Green Canyon, you’ll stop to feast on a local lunch overlooking the reservoir before continuing on your adventure through the emerald body of water. Then, sit back and enjoy the transfer back to your hotel, reminiscing on your fun-filled excursion.

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

Generally, Green Canyon day trips from Antalya cost approximately US$50 per adult and travel in large groups of around 100 guests. Children are usually classed as those between the ages of 4 and 11, and they benefit from a discount that ranges between US$5 and US$15 each versus an adult ticket. In some cases, those under 3 or 4 travel free, and in others, you’ll be required to pay a small fee of just US$5 for them to participate.

These Green Canyon excursions include lunch, as well as round-trip transportation. Some offer insurance to protect you in the unlikely event of an accident and you’ll often have a tour guide overseeing your experience to ensure that everything runs smoothly.

What will you see and do?

Green Canyon was once home to the largest dam in Turkey, covering a land span of 470 hectares. However, since its construction in the late 20th century, it has been knocked off the top spot by several newer man-made bodies of water. Its dam was purpose-built to provide energy to the surrounding region. However, Green Canyon has now become a popular tourist attraction, because of its paradisiacal setting, hidden away in the Taurus Mountains.

The most popular activity for visitors is a boat cruise, which takes them on a 17-kilometer whirlwind tour of the reservoir. On a day trip to Green Canyon, you can admire its emerald waters, after which it was named, as well as towering limestone cliffs, which surround the reservoir on all sides. The artificially-built haven has been expertly constructed to mimic a naturally-formed lake and those who visit the destination will feel as though they’ve stepped into Mother Nature’s playground as they sail gently through the destination.

The waters here hover around 12 degrees Celsius year-round and visitors can dive into its 100-meter depths to cool off from the hot Turkish sun. The most renowned bird species in the region is the brown fish owl, which is native to Turkey and Southeast Asia, and is recognizable by its finely-streaked breast and white “bib.”

What are the opening times?

Green Canyon is open between the hours of 9 AM and 9 PM from Monday to Friday. On weekends, those on a day tour to Green Canyon can visit between 9 AM to 5 PM.

When is the best time to visit Green Canyon?

The best times to plan a day trip from Side to the Green Canyon are during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). The weather during this period is mild and pleasant, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the valley.

In spring, the surrounding nature blooms, creating a vibrant and beautiful landscape. The temperature is comfortable, so boat rides and hiking along the canyon trails are recommended. Autumn is also the best time to visit the Green Canyon. The weather continues to be mild and the crowds tend to decrease, creating a more peaceful and serene atmosphere. The changing foliage adds beauty to the surroundings and creates a picturesque backdrop for your outing.

If you visit in the spring or fall, you can avoid the peak summer season when temperatures rise and tourists flock. Choosing this off-season allows you to make the most of your day trip and enjoy the natural beauty of Green Canyon in a more comfortable and less crowded environment.

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 Side

Travel tips

• Pack your essentials. Make sure to bring essentials such as sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and insect repellent. The sun is intense, it's important to protect yourself from harmful UV rays.
• Capture the Moment. The Green Canyon offers breathtaking natural landscapes that will make you want to take pictures. Don't forget to bring your camera or smartphone to capture pictures of the stunning landscapes. Consider bringing a waterproof case or bag to protect your electronics during your boat trip.
• Stay hydrated and bring snacks. It's important to stay hydrated during your visit to the Green Canyon, especially if you're on a boat he tour. Bring a refillable water bottle and snacks to keep you energized throughout the day. However, be aware of all food and drink rules and restrictions in the area.