Köprülü Canyon Rafting: What You Need to Know Before Going from Alanya
Rafting in Köprülü Canyon: location, distance from Alanya, water and weather conditions in October, a packing list and similar adventure alternatives in Alanya.
One of the first places that comes to mind for those on holiday in Alanya who say "I want a bit of adrenaline" is Köprülü Canyon. The green valley between the mountains, the clear river and an old Roman bridge make a beautiful setting for rafting. However, if you're going from Alanya, there are a few important details you should know. In this article, we explain them one by one.
Where is Köprülü Canyon?
The canyon that bears its name lies within Köprülü Canyon National Park, around Manavgat and Serik in Antalya. The Köprüçay River flows through it. It is not within the boundaries of Alanya. It is also not in the mountains right behind Alanya, but a bit further inland within Antalya province, at the foothills of the Taurus Mountains.
For this reason, guests travelling from Alanya usually make a long transfer. A significant part of the day is spent on the road. When planning your day, take into account not only the rafting time but also the total travel time there and back. You can find the exact duration by checking the hotel pick-up time of the agency you book with.
One of the park's best-known landmarks is the historic stone bridge over the river. The area also has Selge, an ancient city. Apart from rafting, you can set aside time for a photo stop and a short walk.
Is rafting possible in October?
As of today, which is mid-October, we are heading towards the end of the season. The rafting season generally runs from spring to autumn. However, whether activities take place depends on river levels and weather conditions. Therefore:
- Before going, confirm with the agency that the operation is running on that day.
- If the river level is low, the route may be calmer. If the water is high, the excitement increases. The operator will tell you which applies.
- Mountain water is cold. Even if the air is warm, you may feel chilly on the river.
- Evenings cool down earlier than on the coast, so it is a good idea to bring something warm to wear on the return journey.
Age limits, weight limits, swimming requirements and health conditions vary by operator. Be sure to ask about these before booking.
Questions to ask before going from Alanya
If you are buying a rafting tour, get answers to the following questions in advance:
- Is hotel pick-up and drop-off included, and what time is the pick-up?
- Is equipment (life jacket, helmet, paddle, wetsuit if needed) and guide accompaniment provided?
- Is food or a break included in the programme?
- How long does the route take and what is the difficulty level?
- What happens if it is cancelled due to weather or river conditions?
- Is the operator licensed and insured?
Working with licensed local agencies is important in this respect, as safety equipment, guide experience and insurance are the most critical parts of the tour.
What should you bring?
- Swimwear or quick-dry clothing and a spare set of dry clothes
- Water-resistant footwear (not sandals, but closed shoes that fasten securely to the foot)
- A towel
- Sunscreen and a hat
- A waterproof case for your phone. Carrying your phone with you during rafting is risky; it is better to leave it somewhere safe.
- A small amount of cash. It is useful at break points.
Leave jewellery, glasses and valuables at your hotel or keep them in a secure compartment.
Is rafting in our catalogue?
To be honest: at the moment, the TurB2C catalogue does not include a Köprülü Canyon rafting tour. For this reason, we cannot directly recommend rafting to you. However, if you are looking for both excitement and relaxation while in Alanya, the tours below offer a similar sense of a day's adventure.
Thrills on water and mountain: Jeep safari
Alanya : Jeep Water Fight Safari w/Lunch Alanya: Jeep Water Fight Safari w/Lunch (6 hours, from 25 EUR) is a jeep adventure that takes you from your hotel towards the mountainous area. Lunch is included in the programme. The water fight fun appeals to those who want to play with water even if they are not rafting on the river. Moreover, you don't have to travel far from central Alanya to reach the mountains.
A day on calm seas: Pirate boat
Alanya: Pirate Boat w/Transfer, Lunch & Soft Drinks Alanya: Pirate Boat w/Transfer, Lunch & Soft Drinks (4.5 hours, from 20 EUR) is a fun boat trip along the coast, with swimming and snorkelling stops. Lunch and soft drinks are included. It is a more relaxed option for those who prefer swimming in the sea rather than the action of the river.
Relaxation at the end of the day: Hammam
Alanya: Turkish bath Hamam & Spa Experiance w/ Transfer Alanya: Turkish bath Hamam & Spa Experiance w/ Transfer (2 hours, from 20 EUR) is a good option for easing tired muscles after an active day. As the transfer is included, you won't have to worry about getting around at the end of a tiring day.
In October, the sea water may still be suitable for swimming, but the weather varies from year to year. Confirm which tour will run on the day when making your booking.
Which should you choose?
- If you want the experience of rafting on a river: look for a tour dedicated to Köprülü Canyon and ask the questions above. As you will be travelling from Alanya, be sure to factor in the transfer time.
- If you don't want to go too far from Alanya: the Alanya : Jeep Water Fight Safari w/Lunch jeep safari offers a day's mountain adventure.
- If you want a calmer day: the Alanya: Pirate Boat w/Transfer, Lunch & Soft Drinks pirate boat followed by a Alanya: Turkish bath Hamam & Spa Experiance w/ Transfer hammam makes a good pairing.
The best thing about Köprülü Canyon is that it offers more than a short rafting trip: the green valley, the stone bridge and the mountain air. Go prepared, confirm the river and weather conditions in advance, and leave the rest to nature.
