Rafting Tour

Köprülü Canyon National Park

Köprülü Canyon National Park protects a deep gorge cut by the Köprüçay River through the Taurus Mountains north-east of Antalya. Steep limestone walls, cypress and pine forests and the cold, clear water of the river make it one of the most beautiful natural areas of southern Türkiye. Inside the park stands a single-arched Roman bridge still in use, and the ruins of an ancient mountain city lie on the slopes above.

How to get to Köprülü Canyon from Antalya? The canyon is roughly an hour and a half by road from the city, and transfer times vary from one to three hours depending on where you stay along the coast. With this option we collect you from your hotel in Antalya, so you can simply relax on the way there.

Rafting the Köprüçay River

The adventure starts with a safety briefing and the fitting of helmets, life jackets and paddles. Then you set off with your guide on about 15 km of river, the longest route in the canyon, because the camp sits at the very end of the course. The rapids are lively but easy, rated grade 2, so this is a fun, safe trip rather than an extreme sport.

Is Köprülü Canyon rafting worth it? For families and groups of friends, yes: you get real rapids, beautiful scenery and plenty of laughter, as boats splash each other and water fights are part of the fun. Expect to get completely wet. The river level and speed change with the season and the water released from the dam upstream, so the time on the water can vary even though the route stays the same.

Swim breaks and canyon scenery

Along the way the guides stop at calm stretches so that you can jump in and swim in the refreshing river. The water is clear and cold even in summer, a welcome relief on hot days, and the cliffs and forest around you make every bend a new view.

The colour of the river changes through the year, from emerald to milky blue, depending on the rain and the season, so it may look different from photos. Keep an eye out for herons and kingfishers along the banks. You do not need to carry a camera: the team takes digital photos of your tour, all included in the price, so you can leave your phone somewhere dry and simply enjoy the ride.

Riverside camp and lunch

The rafting ends right at the riverside base camp, where you can change, warm up and relax by the water. Lunch is served at the camp, with unlimited soft drinks during lunchtime. There are changing areas and comfortable spaces to rest before the drive back. Many guests sit by the water after lunch and watch the next boats arrive at the end of the course, a cheerful scene full of happy, soaked rafters.

Snacks and drinks bought at the camp kiosks or at the riverside rest stop are not included. If you forgot water shoes, they can be bought at the camp. After lunch we drive you back to your hotel in Antalya, and the whole day lasts about seven hours, finishing in the afternoon.

Best time for rafting in Antalya

Rafting runs for much of the year, and the best time for rafting in Köprülü Canyon is from late spring to early autumn, when the air is warm and the cold river is pure refreshment. In spring the water is higher and livelier after the snowmelt, while in the cooler months thermal gear is provided to keep you warm.

The day starts with an early pickup, around 7:30 AM, to reach the canyon before the busiest hours. Wear swimwear under a T-shirt and shorts, and bring sports shoes or water shoes that stay on your feet; slippers and bare feet are not allowed. A towel and a change of clothes make the ride back comfortable.