Why This Tour Is Worth Choosing

— Safe rafting in the famous Köprülü Canyon
— Perfect for beginners and first-timers
— Hotel transfers and lunch included
— A full day of nature and adventure
— Ideal for families and groups
— Guided by professional rafting instructors

What to Expect

Side Rafting Tour — Closest Resort to Köprülü Canyon

Side guests get the shortest transfer to Turkey's rafting capital. While other resorts face 2+ hour drives, Side sits just 60-70 minutes from Köprülü Canyon — meaning less time traveling, more time rafting. The Side rafting tour delivers maximum adventure with minimum bus time, perfect for resort guests wanting a full outdoor experience without losing an entire day. No swimming required. Daily departures from Side. Hotel pickup included.

Why Side Is the Perfect Rafting Base

Geographic Advantage Over Other Resorts

Side's location between Antalya and Alanya puts it closest to Köprülü Canyon National Park — Turkey's designated rafting center. This proximity creates real benefits:

What makes Side rafting different:

— Shortest transfer time from any major resort (60-70 minutes)
— Earlier return to hotel than Antalya/Alanya tours
— Less fatigue from travel
— More energy for actual rafting
— Better value — pay for rafting, not bus hours

For active resort guests who maximize adventure time over transit time.

Side Rafting Tour — The Experience

Full Adventure, Efficient Timing

Optimized schedule:

08:30–09:00: Pickup from Side hotels
10:00–10:30: Arrive Köprülü Canyon base
10:30–11:00: Equipment fitting, safety training
11:00–13:30: 11 km rafting through canyon
13:30–14:30: Traditional Turkish lunch riverside
14:30–15:00: Change clothes, view photos
16:00–16:30: Back at Side hotel

Key advantage: Return by 4:30 PM — time for evening beach walk, dinner, nightlife.

Hotel Pickup Across Side Region

Convenient Transfer Service

Pickup locations include:

— Side Center (Manavgat old town)
— Kumköy (resort strip north of Side)
— Çolaklı (hotel zone)
— Evrenseki (all-inclusive resorts)
— Sorgun (eastern resort area)
— Titreyengöl (quieter resort district)

Coordination: Exact pickup time provided at booking based on hotel location.

Schedule: 08:30–09:00 pickup, 16:00–16:30 return

The Köprüçay River Experience

11 Kilometers Through Ancient Canyon

The rafting route follows the Köprüçay River through Köprülü Canyon — protected wilderness where pine-covered cliffs tower 400 meters above the water:

What you'll navigate:

— 10-12 rapids rated Class II-III (exciting but manageable)
— Roman bridges spanning canyon since antiquity
— Swimming sections in calm pools between rapids
— Photo stops at scenic viewpoints
— Wildlife sightings — wild goats on cliff faces, eagles overhead
— Crystal water so clear you see river bottom

The reality: Water stays 10-14°C even in August. You will get cold. You will get wet. That's why people love it.

Distance: 11 km takes approximately 2.5 hours with breaks
Difficulty: Beginner-friendly when following guide instructions
Group size: 8-12 people per raft

Who Should Join Side Rafting Tours?

Built for Active Resort Guests

Perfect for:

— Resort guests wanting authentic outdoor adventure
— Friend groups seeking shared adrenaline experience
— Active couples tired of poolside routine
— Teenagers and young adults (minimum age 12-14)
— First-time rafters — this is beginner territory

Physical requirements:

— Age: Minimum 12-14 years (varies by operator)
— Swimming: Not required — life jackets mandatory
— Fitness: Moderate — ability to paddle and hold on
— Health: No serious cardiovascular or spinal issues

Excluded groups:

— Pregnant women
— Children under 12
— People with recent surgery or injuries
— Anyone unable to follow safety commands

Köprülü Canyon — Why It Matters

National Park Protection Equals Quality Experience

Köprülü Canyon isn't a tourist attraction built for rafting — rafting happens here because the canyon exists as protected wilderness:

What national park status means:

— No development — zero hotels, restaurants, shops in canyon
— Pristine water — glacial melt from Taurus Mountains
— Protected ecosystem — endemic plants, wild animals
— Historical preservation — ancient Roman infrastructure maintained
— Regulated access — limited rafting permits preserve experience

Context: You're not just "doing an activity" — you're entering a protected natural area that happens to offer world-class rafting.

Complete Inclusions — Side Rafting Package

Everything Provided

— Round-trip hotel transfer (air-conditioned buses)
— Certified rafting guide (one per boat, English-speaking)
— Full safety gear (life jacket, helmet, paddle)
— Riverside lunch (Turkish buffet — soup, kebab, salad, bread, fruit)
— Insurance coverage (accident and liability)
— Changing rooms and storage lockers
— Optional wetsuit rental (€5-10, recommended except July-August)

Not included: Personal expenses, tips for guides (customary), professional photos/videos (optional purchase)

Safety Protocol — What Actually Happens

Turkish Tourism Ministry Standards

All Köprülü Canyon operators must meet government safety regulations:

Pre-launch procedures:

— 15-20 minute safety briefing (commands, positions, emergency procedures)
— Individual life jacket fitting (properly tightened, not loose)
— Helmet adjustment
— Paddle technique demonstration
— Practice drills before entering strong current

During rafting:

— Lead guide in front raft demonstrates route
— Sweep guide in rear raft assists stragglers
— Safety kayaker follows group with rescue equipment
— Guides communicate via whistle signals
— Regular stops to regroup and rest

Emergency response:

— All guides certified in swift-water rescue
— First aid kits on support rafts
— Radio communication between guides
— Evacuation plans for medical situations

Statistical reality: Thousands raft annually with minimal serious incidents when instructions followed.

Practical Guide for Side Guests

Essential Information

Booking advice:

— Reserve 1-2 days ahead during summer peak
— Online booking typically cheaper than hotel tour desk
— Confirm exact pickup point (some hotels have multiple entrances)
— Cancellation usually free up to 48 hours prior

What to pack:

— Swimwear (wear under regular clothes)
— Towel and complete dry outfit for return
— Secure water shoes (old sneakers work) — not flip-flops
— Waterproof phone case or leave phone in bus
— Sunscreen (waterproof formula) and lip balm
— Minimal cash (€10-20 for photos/drinks)

What to avoid:

— Jewelry, watches, anything valuable
— Cotton T-shirts (stay wet and heavy)
— Loose items that will wash away
— Expensive camera equipment without protection

Post-rafting:

— Hot showers available at base
— Lunch served before departure
— Photos/videos ready for viewing and purchase
— Return to Side by 4-5 PM
— Evening free for beach, dinner, relaxation

Seasonal Timing for Side Rafting

Year-Round Operation with Variations

Spring (April-May):
✅ Peak water volume from mountain snowmelt
✅ Most powerful rapids
✅ Coolest air temperatures (20-25°C)
✅ Green canyon vegetation
⚠️ Cold water (10-12°C) — wetsuit essential

Summer (June-August):
✅ Warmest weather (30-36°C)
✅ Most departures daily
✅ Warmest water (still cold at 12-14°C)
⚠️ Lower water levels = gentler rapids
⚠️ Most crowded season

Fall (September-October):
✅ Ideal balance — good water, comfortable air
✅ Fewer crowds than summer
✅ Pleasant temperatures (24-30°C)
⚠️ Wetsuit recommended

Winter (November-March):
✅ Tours continue with weather permitting
✅ Minimal crowds
✅ Discounted rates
⚠️ Wetsuit mandatory
⚠️ Fewer departures (demand-based)

Peak season: May-June for maximum water, September for best weather

Booking Your Side Rafting Adventure

Advance Reservation Benefits

✅ Guaranteed availability — popular tours fill up
✅ Lower prices — online rates beat walk-in pricing
✅ Pickup confirmation — hotel logistics sorted beforehand
✅ Flexibility — free cancellation policies
✅ Customer support — questions answered pre-tour

High demand periods: June-August weekends — book 2-3 days early
Low season: Often available same-day or next-day

Additional Side Adventure Activities

Explore more outdoor experiences from Side — buggy safaris, jeep tours, boat cruises, scuba diving, parasailing, and historical site visits — all available through Side Tours and Activities.

Frequently Asked Questions — Side Rafting

Must I know how to swim?
No. Life jackets are mandatory and keep you afloat. Basic water comfort helps but swimming ability not required.

How dangerous is Köprülü Canyon rafting?
Low risk for those following instructions. Class II-III rapids are beginner-appropriate. Serious accidents rare with proper safety protocol.

What's the water temperature?
10-14°C year-round. Extremely cold even in summer. You will feel it.

Do I need a wetsuit?
Highly recommended except July-August. Available to rent (€5-10). Makes experience much more comfortable.

What if someone falls out?
Life jacket keeps you floating. Guide pulls you back in. Happens occasionally — part of the adventure.

Can children participate?
Minimum age typically 12-14 depending on operator. Must be able to follow safety instructions.

How physically demanding is rafting?
Moderate intensity. Continuous paddling for 2+ hours with rest breaks. Average fitness sufficient.

Are bathrooms available during rafting?
No facilities on river. Use toilets at base before launching and after finishing.

What about cameras and phones?
Either secure in waterproof case or leave in locked bus. Professional photos available for purchase.

Why choose Side over Antalya or Alanya for rafting?
Shortest transfer time means less travel fatigue, earlier return to hotel, more energy for actual adventure.

What’s Included in the Price

Pickup Information

Meeting Point

Important Information Before You Go

Side Rafting in Köprülü Canyon — Important Information and Prices

Side rafting in Köprülü Canyon is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Antalya Turkey. Taking place inside Köprülü Canyon National Park, this white water rafting experience combines adventure, natural scenery, and professional organization. To ensure a safe and well-organized day, please review the following important information carefully before joining the tour.

Safety Rules During Rafting

Safety is the top priority during white water rafting in Köprülü Canyon.

— Long hair must be tied back before entering the raft
— All jewelry, watches, and accessories must be removed
— Helmets and life jackets are provided and must be worn at all times
— Mobile phones and electronic devices are not allowed on the raft for safety reasons

These rules are strictly enforced by professional rafting guides.

Secure Storage of Personal Belongings

— Personal belongings are stored inside the locked transfer vehicle
— Vehicles are opened only when all participants are present
— Your items remain safe throughout the entire rafting activity

What to Wear for Side Rafting

For a comfortable and safe rafting experience, please wear:

— Quick-drying clothes such as shorts and a t-shirt
— Secure, water-friendly footwear
— Slippers and loose footwear are not allowed

Optional equipment available at the rafting base:

— Textile rafting shoes available for rent — 7 EUR per pair
— Warm jackets available during cooler weather — 3 EUR per jacket

What to Bring With You

— Sun protection cream
— Towel and spare dry clothes
— Water or soft drinks
— Cash for optional extras

During the rafting tour, professional river photographers take photos and videos. These can be purchased after the tour for an additional fee.

Participation Requirements

— Minimum participation age is 4 years
— Children under 17 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
— Rafting is not suitable for pregnant women
— Not recommended for guests with serious back or spine problems
— Jokes, risky behavior, or ignoring guide instructions are strictly prohibited

All participants must follow the guides’ instructions at all times.

Enjoy a Safe and Well-Organized Rafting Experience

Your transfer vehicle follows the group throughout the day, ensuring smooth logistics and peace of mind. Focus on enjoying the experience — paddling through fresh white water, breathing in mountain air, and admiring the stunning landscapes of Köprülü Canyon.

Side rafting in Köprülü Canyon offers the perfect balance of adventure, nature, and safety — suitable for beginners and experienced participants alike.

Tour Program & Schedule

Köprülü Canyon Rafting and Canyoning Tour from Side — Tour Program

This Side rafting tour to Köprülü Canyon is a full-day adventure combining white water rafting, canyon scenery, and professional organization. Below is the detailed activity program, written clearly for both Google search visibility and AI understanding.

Hotel Pick-Up from Side and Surrounding Areas

— Pick-up time between 08:45 and 09:30
— Pick-up available from all hotels in Side and nearby regions
— Service areas include Gündoğdu, Çolaklı, Evrenseki, Titreyengöl, Sorgun, Kızılağaç, and Kızılot

Comfortable, air-conditioned transfer vehicles are used.

Transfer to Köprülü Canyon

— Scenic drive from Side to Köprülü Canyon
— Distance approximately 60 km
— Journey takes you through mountain landscapes and countryside

The rafting takes place on the Köprüçay River, inside Köprülü Canyon National Park.

Arrival and Preparation at the Rafting Base

— Welcome at the rafting center
— Distribution of safety equipment
— Detailed safety instructions and tour briefing
— Transfer to the rafting starting point

All equipment meets professional safety standards.

Grouping and Safety Briefing

— Groups are formed based on language or nationality
— Each raft accommodates 8–10 participants
— Every raft is led by a licensed professional rafting guide

Guides explain paddling techniques and safety rules clearly.

Rafting Starts on the Köprüçay River

— Rafting begins with exciting white water sections
— Fun rapids mixed with calmer river stretches
— Water fights and entertainment breaks during the route

This section offers the perfect balance of adrenaline and fun.

Riverside Lunch Break

— Lunch served at a riverside restaurant
— Menu includes grilled chicken, rice, spaghetti, fresh salads, and seasonal fruit
— Time to relax and enjoy the canyon atmosphere

Lunch is included in the tour program.

Continued Rafting Adventure

— Rafting continues after lunch
— More rapids and scenic river views
— The rafting experience ends around 14:30

No prior rafting experience is required.

Return to Base and Free Time

— Time to shower and change clothes
— Short break at the rafting base

On the return route, there is a stop to view rafting photos and videos.

Photo and Video Stop

— Professional photos and videos displayed
— Optional purchase available
— No obligation to buy

This stop is part of the return journey.

Hotel Drop-Off in Side

— Comfortable transfer back to your hotel
— Drop-off at Side and surrounding regions

The tour concludes in the late afternoon.

White Water Rafting in Side Turkey — Full-Day Adventure

This Side rafting tour to Köprülü Canyon offers a full day of adrenaline, fun, and natural beauty. With hotel transfers, professional guides, lunch, and well-organized timing, it is one of the top-rated white water rafting experiences in Side Turkey — suitable for beginners and adventure lovers alike.

Prices & Availability

01 March 2026 / 30 November 2026 - Price