Escape the crowds on a full-day boat trip into Green Canyon’s emerald reservoir—swim in calm coves, photograph limestone cliffs and enjoy a lakeside Turkish lunch with hotel transfers from Side.
Escape the crowds on a full-day boat trip into Green Canyon’s emerald reservoir—swim in calm coves, photograph limestone cliffs and enjoy a lakeside Turkish lunch with hotel transfers from Side.
Glass-green water parts around the bow as the morning sun cuts across sheer limestone walls—this is Green Canyon, a reservoir tucked inland from Side that rewards a day away from the resorts with calm bays, pine-scented cliffs and quiet swim coves.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by HARLEY · Manavgat, Antalya
Glass-green water parts around the bow as the morning sun cuts across sheer limestone walls—this is Green Canyon, a reservoir tucked inland from Side that rewards a day away from the resorts with calm bays, pine-scented cliffs and quiet swim coves.
The lake sits where the Oymapinar dam pooled mountain streams against folded limestone and marl; cliffs here record slow geologic uplift while pine and cedar grip narrow ledges. Local fishermen and village restaurants have served the valley for generations, and the tour’s lakeside lunch follows that straightforward Turkish formula: fresh fish, mezze and slow-brewed tea overlooking the water.
On the boat you’ll trade crowded beaches for wide-open views. There are several designated swim stops—water clear enough to spot carp—and stretches where the canyon narrows and the only sounds are water against hull and birds on the cliffs. Expect photo opportunities of eagles, herons and fractured rock faces.
Practicalities: tours run about 7–8 hours with hotel pickup from Side and Manavgat; the cruise includes a lakeside lunch, soft drinks and basic fishing gear. Wear quick-dry swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, and shoes with grip for the restaurant and any short shore walks. If you’re prone to seasickness, take a preventive dose—wind and wakes are minimal but the day is long. Arrive with a charged camera and a dry bag: the lake invites splashes and long, lazy swims.
easy.
7–8 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; expect light walking at shore stops and moderate time swimming
The tour runs about 7–8 hours and includes hotel pickup/drop-off from Side, boat cruise, several swim stops, lakeside lunch, soft drinks and basic fishing rods.
Yes; the reservoir is generally clear and clean. Swim areas are designated from the boat—avoid cliff-jumping and follow crew instructions.
Yes—this operator lists stroller and wheelchair-accessible options, but notify them at booking to confirm pickup logistics and any assistance needed.
The lake is calm relative to open sea but can get choppy with wind; take motion-sickness medication beforehand if you’re prone to nausea.
The lake formed after the Oymapınar dam impounded mountain streams; local villages historically relied on fishing and small-scale forestry along the shores.
Visitors are encouraged to use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid single-use plastics and follow crew guidance to minimize disturbance to shoreline habitat.
HARLEY operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




Glass-green water parts around the bow as the morning sun cuts across sheer limestone walls—this is Green Canyon, a reservoir tucked inland from Side that rewards a day away from the resorts with calm bays, pine-scented cliffs and quiet swim coves.
Glass-green water parts around the bow as the morning sun cuts across sheer limestone walls—this is Green Canyon, a reservoir tucked inland from Side that rewards a day away from the resorts with calm bays, pine-scented cliffs and quiet swim coves.
The lake sits where the Oymapinar dam pooled mountain streams against folded limestone and marl; cliffs here record slow geologic uplift while pine and cedar grip narrow ledges. Local fishermen and village restaurants have served the valley for generations, and the tour’s lakeside lunch follows that straightforward Turkish formula: fresh fish, mezze and slow-brewed tea overlooking the water.
On the boat you’ll trade crowded beaches for wide-open views. There are several designated swim stops—water clear enough to spot carp—and stretches where the canyon narrows and the only sounds are water against hull and birds on the cliffs. Expect photo opportunities of eagles, herons and fractured rock faces.
Practicalities: tours run about 7–8 hours with hotel pickup from Side and Manavgat; the cruise includes a lakeside lunch, soft drinks and basic fishing gear. Wear quick-dry swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, and shoes with grip for the restaurant and any short shore walks. If you’re prone to seasickness, take a preventive dose—wind and wakes are minimal but the day is long. Arrive with a charged camera and a dry bag: the lake invites splashes and long, lazy swims.