Side Köprülü Canyon Rafting Tour
Experience 14km of exciting white-water rafting on the Köprüçay River, surrounded by the spectacular scenery of Köprülü Canyon. Your tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, professional guides, all safety equipment, a delicious riverside BBQ lunch, and plenty of time to enjoy one of Turkey’s most popular outdoor adventures. Suitable for beginners and first-time rafters.
Experience Highlights
About This Tour
Rafting in Köprülü Canyon takes place on one of the most popular white-water rivers in Turkey, but you do not need previous rafting experience to enjoy it. The Köprüçay River has mostly Class 2 rapids, so the route is active enough to be exciting without feeling too extreme for first-time rafters. Families, beginners and even confident non-swimmers regularly join the trip.
The rafting centre is located in the Beşkonak area, surrounded by pine-covered hills and the clear waters of the Köprüçay River. After getting your helmet and life jacket, the guides explain the basics of paddling, where to sit in the raft and what to do if you fall into the water. The instructions are kept simple, and the guide stays with your group throughout the route.
Once on the river, the experience is a mix of easy sections and short, splashy rapids. There is time to look around, swim in the calmer parts of the river and enjoy the scenery between the rapids. The full route covers around 14 km and usually takes about 2.5 hours on the water.
A riverside lunch break is included before the journey back continues. By the end of the day, you will have spent a few hours outdoors, paddled through the canyon and experienced one of the best-known rafting routes in the Antalya region.
What's Included
Itinerary
Morning collection from your hotel in Side or Manavgat (approx. 08:30)
Scenic drive to Köprülü Canyon, safety gear distribution, and instructor briefing
Short 'body rafting' session in calm water to build confidence
14km paddle through scenic Class 2 rapids (approx. 2.5 hours total)
BBQ chicken, pasta, fresh salad, and unlimited soft drinks
Final 20-minute paddle to the finish, change into dry clothes, and transfer back to your hotel (approx. 16:00)
Good to Know
Pro tip: Do not wear your good sneakers. The river water is clean but will soak your shoes completely. If you don't have water shoes, rent a pair at the center for €3. Also, sit in the front of the raft during the calm sections for the best photos, but always hold the safety rope tightly during rapids.
Guest Reviews (3)
Brilliant family day out! Our 7-year-old was nervous, but the guide was amazing and made her feel completely safe. The BBQ lunch was surprisingly good.
Great value for money. Much cheaper than booking through the hotel rep, and the transport was very comfortable. The river scenery is stunning.
Fun and safe. Just a heads-up: buy a waterproof phone case beforehand, and definitely bring a plastic bag for your wet clothes on the bus ride back!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to know how to swim to join this rafting tour?
No, swimming skills are not required. The Köprüçay River is Class 2 difficulty, and you will wear a certified life jacket at all times. Your instructor is trained to handle all situations.
What is the minimum age for the rafting tour?
The minimum age is 6 years old. Children are always seated in the safest, most stable position in the middle of the raft, secured by the instructor.
What kind of shoes should I wear?
You must wear secure water shoes or old sneakers that will stay on your feet. Flip-flops, crocs, or loose sandals are strictly forbidden for safety reasons and will not be allowed on the raft.
Is the BBQ lunch really included, and what does it consist of?
Yes, a hot riverside lunch is fully included. It typically features grilled chicken, pasta or rice, fresh salad, bread, and unlimited soft drinks. Vegetarian options are usually available if requested in advance.
Are photos and videos included in the price?
No, professional photos and videos are taken by the rafting company staff, but they are an optional extra. You can view them at the end of the tour and purchase them on a USB drive for approximately €10-15.
What happens to my belongings while I am rafting?
Your dry clothes, towels, and valuables will be left safely locked on the air-conditioned transfer bus. The bus remains parked at the facility with a driver or security present throughout the tour.
Can I bring my phone or camera on the raft?
You can, but it is highly discouraged unless you have a high-quality, sealed waterproof pouch. The raft will flip or splash heavily, and regular phones will get damaged. The bus is the safest place for electronics.
Is there a weight or health restriction?
Guests with serious heart conditions, recent surgeries, or pregnancy cannot participate. There is no strict weight limit, but all guests must be able to wear the provided safety harness and life jacket securely.
What happens if it rains during the tour?
The tour operates in light rain, which actually makes the experience more exciting. However, during heavy storms or lightning, the river may be closed for safety. In this case, you receive a full refund or can reschedule to another date.
Can pregnant women join the rafting tour?
No, pregnant women cannot participate in the rafting tour for safety reasons. We recommend our Green Canyon Boat Trip or Alanya Day Trip as safe alternatives during pregnancy.