Plan a Green Canyon boat tour from Alanya in November: the emerald lake, the drive, lunch on board, what to wear and why the calm autumn season is ideal.
Not every great day out in Alanya has to include the sea. About 100 kilometres to the west, in the foothills of the Taurus Mountains, lies Green Canyon, a long, winding reservoir formed by the Oymapınar Dam on the Manavgat River. Its water has a striking emerald colour, and steep, pine-covered cliffs rise straight out of it. In November, when the coast is quieter and the air is fresh but mild, a slow boat cruise here is one of the most relaxing ways to spend a day. Our Green Canyon boat tour from Alanya with lunch and hotel transfer takes care of the drive, so you only need to sit back and enjoy the view.
What the day looks like
The road from Alanya runs along the coast towards Manavgat, then turns inland and climbs into the hills. Depending on where your hotel is, the drive takes roughly one and a half to two hours each way. At the lake you board a large boat with an open deck and cruise slowly between the canyon walls. Along the way there are photo stops, time to relax on deck and usually a swim stop in a quiet bay. Lunch is served on board. Exact pick-up times, the programme and the current price are always shown on the booking page.
Is November a good time?
- Weather: daytime temperatures in the region are usually pleasant in November, and the sky is often clear. Mornings and the time on the water can feel cool, though.
- Swimming: the lake is fed by mountain water and feels colder than the sea. A quick dip is refreshing for the brave, but nobody has to go in.
- Fewer crowds: outside the peak summer months the boats and viewpoints are calmer, which makes the canyon feel even more peaceful.
- Rain: late autumn can bring the odd rainy day, so keep an eye on the forecast and choose a dry day if you can.
What to bring
- A light jacket or a warm sweater for the boat
- Swimwear and a towel if you want to swim
- Sunglasses and sunscreen – the autumn sun is still strong on the water
- Comfortable shoes and a phone or camera with enough battery
Who will enjoy it?
The Green Canyon cruise is an easy day without any physical effort, so it suits families with children, couples, older travellers and anyone who simply wants to see the green, mountainous side of the Antalya region. If you would like a bit more adventure, there is also a version that combines the boat trip with a jeep-style safari through the mountains. Either way, Green Canyon is a lovely reminder that Alanya's beauty does not end at the beach.
