Turquoise water in the mountains
Green Canyon (Yeşil Kanyon) is a striking turquoise reservoir lake formed by a dam on the Manavgat River, ringed by forested limestone cliffs — the colour is the whole draw, a genuinely vivid blue-green that photographs even better than it sounds. It's usually visited as a boat trip on the lake itself rather than a hike.
What a trip involves
The boat cruise
Most trips are a relaxed cruise along the lake, with stops for swimming in the strikingly clear, cool water.
Canyon scenery
Steep, forested cliffs rise directly from the water in places — the closest thing to a fjord-like landscape near Antalya.
Lunch stops
Many day packages include a riverside or lakeside lunch as part of the trip.
Water temperature
Noticeably cooler than the sea, since it's fed by mountain streams — a refreshing contrast if you're visiting in peak summer heat.
Planning your visit
- Distance: around 90 minutes to 2 hours from central Antalya, depending on the exact route and traffic.
- How to go: almost always booked as a full-day organised tour including transport and the boat trip; independent visits are possible with a rental car but less common.
- What to bring: swimwear, a towel and sun protection — most of the day is spent on or near the water.
- Combine with: some full-day packages pair Green Canyon with a stop at Manavgat Waterfall or a rafting add-on — check what's included before booking.
Our take: this is a strong pick if you want a scenic, low-effort day on the water rather than the more active rafting trip in the Köprülü Canyon — same general region, very different pace.