Köprülü Canyon National Park in Manavgat, Turkey
Köprülü Canyon National Park is one of the most impressive natural attractions in the region. Declared a national park in 1973, it covers an area of over 35,000 hectares and offers stunning landscapes with rich vegetation and diverse wildlife.
The park is home to a wide variety of Mediterranean flora, including pine, cypress, cedar, fir, and oak trees. However, the true highlight of Köprülü Canyon is the Köprüçay River, which gives life to the entire area.
The Köprüçay River rises from the Taurus Mountains and flows into the Mediterranean Sea near Serik. Over time, it has carved a spectacular canyon between Beşkonak and Bolasan, creating one of the longest canyons in Turkey.
The canyon stretches for approximately 14 kilometres, with cliffs reaching up to 100 metres in height. With its crystal-clear water and dramatic scenery, it feels like a place from another world.
While the river is known for its trout, it is most famous for rafting. The changing water flow creates ideal conditions for this activity, making Köprülü Canyon one of the best rafting destinations in Turkey.
Rafting on the Köprüçay River offers an exciting mix of adventure and nature, and it is an unforgettable experience for visitors of all levels.
🌊 Things to Do in Köprülü Canyon
Köprülü Canyon National Park is best known for its outdoor activities and natural beauty. The most popular activity here is rafting, which attracts visitors from all over the world.
The rafting routes offer both excitement and beautiful scenery, making them suitable for beginners as well as adventure lovers.
If you would like to experience rafting in this unique setting, you can join the Köprülü Canyon Rafting Tour, which includes transport, equipment, and professional guidance.
Many travellers also prefer organised tours in Side, as they include hotel pick-up and drop-off, making the whole experience much easier and more comfortable.
🧭 How to Visit Köprülü Canyon Easily
Köprülü Canyon is located about 1.5 hours from Side, and reaching it on your own can be challenging without a car.
For this reason, many visitors choose organised activities in Side that include transportation. This allows you to enjoy the canyon without worrying about planning or logistics.
There are also riverside facilities where you can relax, eat, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings during your visit.
In addition to its natural beauty, the park is also rich in history. The ancient city of Selge, dating back to the 5th century BC, is located within the park.
You can explore its theatre, temples, agora, aqueducts, and other historical remains. The famous Oluk Bridge, built in the 2nd century AD, is another highlight and a popular spot for photography.
With its natural beauty, historical richness, and exciting activities, Köprülü Canyon National Park is one of the top places to visit in the region.
Whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation, spending a day here will be one of the most memorable experiences of your holiday.
