Köprülü Canyon is a national park in the Taurus mountains north of Side and Manavgat, and the river that runs through it is the region's best-known rafting trip. It is an easy-going adventure rather than an extreme one: most of the rapids are gentle, the scenery is spectacular, and first-timers and families take part every day of the season.
What the rafting trip is like
Most trips cover a stretch of the Köprüçay river of roughly a dozen kilometres and spend two to three hours on the water, with stops to swim, jump from rocks or simply float. The rapids are mostly easy to moderate, the water is clear and green, and it is cold all year because the river is fed by mountain springs. Guides give a safety briefing, and helmets and life jackets are provided.
When to go
| Period | River and weather | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| April - May | More water from the snowmelt, livelier rapids, mild air | Active groups, fewer crowds |
| June - August | Hot air, cold water, the busiest months | Cooling off on a hot day |
| September - October | Calmer water, warm days, fewer people | Families and first-timers |
The season usually runs from about April to October, depending on the river and the operators. Outside this period trips are rare or not offered at all.
Who it suits
- First-timers: no experience is needed and the guide steers the raft.
- Families: operators set a minimum age for children, so check it when you book.
- Groups of friends and colleagues: rafts are usually shared by six to eight people.
- Not ideal for non-swimmers who are anxious in water, or during pregnancy.
What to bring
- Swimwear worn under your clothes and a towel.
- Shoes that can get wet and stay on your feet - not flip-flops.
- Sun cream and a spare set of dry clothes for the way back.
- A waterproof bag or case for your phone; leave valuables at the hotel.
More than rafting: the national park
The canyon is crossed by the Oluk Bridge, a single-arch Roman bridge that gives the area its name - köprü means bridge in Turkish. Higher up the mountain lie the ruins of the ancient city of Selge, set among rock formations and villages. With your own vehicle you can combine rafting with a stop at the bridge and a drive up towards Selge.
Getting there from the coast
Many rafting companies sell trips with a shared pickup from the hotels, which can mean a long morning of collecting other guests. A private vehicle from Side, Manavgat, Belek, Alanya or Antalya leaves when you want and lets you stop at the bridge or in the mountains on the way. The canyon is roughly one hour from Side and Manavgat and longer from Antalya and Alanya; send us your hotel and date and we will quote a fixed price per vehicle.