Sapadere Canyon from Side

• Pick-up from hotels in Side and nearby areas
• Stop at a banana garden
• Arrival at the Sapadere region
• Visit to the Dwarf Cave
• Visit to Sapadere Canyon and free time to explore
• Lunch
• Departure for Alanya city center
• Free time in Alanya (e.g., Alanya Castle cable car, Cleopatra Beach, Damlataş Cave)
• Return transfer to Side and drop-off at hotels

Taurus Mountains’ Hidden Treasure: Sapadere Canyon

Sapadere Canyon is a natural wonder nestled in the heart of Turkey’s Taurus Mountains, east of Alanya in Antalya province. About 100 km from Side, this canyon lies hidden in a lush forested valley near Sapadere village, from which it takes its name. Carved between high karst cliffs, the canyon was formed over thousands of years by erosion from rainwater and wind. The rock walls of Sapadere Canyon are adorned with terraces and small waterfalls shaped by the flowing water, offering visitors a visual feast. A crystal-clear, ice-cold stream runs through the canyon year-round, fed by melting snow from the Taurus Mountains, which means it provides a refreshing escape—especially during the summer months.

Hiking the Canyon and Waterfall Adventure

For nature lovers, Sapadere Canyon is truly a paradise. In 2008, to open the canyon to tourism, a wooden boardwalk roughly 700 meters long was constructed on a steel framework. This allows all visitors to easily experience Sapadere Canyon’s enchanting atmosphere. As you walk along the path, towering cliffs and vegetation in countless shades of green surround you. The sound of birds and the babbling water accompany you, helping you leave behind the noise of the city. At the end of the trail, a stunning waterfall about 20 meters high awaits you—one of the most impressive highlights of the tour. You can even swim in the natural pool where the waterfall cascades, feeling the ice-cold water revitalize you. Even on the hottest summer days, the water in Sapadere Canyon stays frigid, so a quick dip here will refresh and invigorate you. The canyon also offers countless beauties for photography enthusiasts; you can capture striking shots in front of the waterfall and among the unique rock formations. Note: It is recommended to wear shoes with non-slip soles for comfortable walking in the canyon, and if you plan to swim, remember to bring a swimsuit and towel. In the summer months, having a hat and sunscreen with you is also a good idea.

The Mystery of the Dwarf Cave

Another fascinating stop on the Sapadere Canyon tour is the Dwarf Cave (Cüceler Mağarası), located about 8 km from the canyon. This small limestone cave, a relatively recent discovery, captivates visitors with its intriguing stalactite and stalagmite formations. Wooden platforms and stairs make it easy to enter and explore the cave. Inside, the temperature remains a steady ~20°C throughout the year; thanks to this, locals claim that the cave’s air benefits those with asthma and other respiratory ailments. Dwarf Cave’s formations are often compared to Alanya’s famous Damlataş Cave. During the tour, your guide will provide information about the cave’s geological features and formation processes, enriching your experience. As you explore the cave, you’ll witness natural artworks that took millions of years to form.

A Scenic Journey and Banana Plantation Stop

Your adventure begins as soon as you depart Side for Sapadere Canyon. A comfortable drive of about 1.5 hours through the Alanya countryside offers splendid views of the Taurus Mountains along the way. En route, we’ll take a short break at one of the region’s famous banana plantations. The Alanya area is renowned for banana production in Turkey, and seeing the banana groves along the roadside adds a unique touch to the trip. During the banana garden stop, you can taste fresh-picked bananas straight from the tree or snap some photos among the banana plants. This brief pause not only makes the journey more enjoyable but also gives you the opportunity to see the region’s agricultural richness up close.

Free Time in Alanya City Center

After exploring the natural beauty of Sapadere Canyon and the Dwarf Cave—and enjoying a delicious lunch at a restaurant near the canyon—we head to Alanya city center for a short break on our return. Our tour schedule includes about 1.5 to 2 hours of free time in downtown Alanya. During this time, you can shop in Alanya’s bustling bazaar, look for souvenirs, or stroll along the seaside to enjoy views of the famous Cleopatra Beach. Another highlight of Alanya is its historic hilltop castle; if you manage your time well, you might ride the cable car up to Alanya Castle for a panoramic view of the city. Additionally, those who wish to see Damlataş Cave in the city center can walk to its entrance during the free time. Before letting you explore, your guide will inform you about places to see and things to do in Alanya. After the free time, you’ll meet back at the designated point and depart for Side. The tour concludes with a safe drop-off at your hotel in Side or surrounding areas, wrapping up an unforgettable day.

The Sapadere Canyon Tour from Side is a fantastic nature getaway that travelers of all ages can enjoy. On this guided tour, you will explore the region’s natural wonders and also witness the cultural richness of the Antalya area. If you’re looking to escape the city crowds during your holiday and spend a day surrounded by cool waters and greenery, the Sapadere Canyon Tour is the perfect choice. Moreover, the memories you make on this journey will add an unforgettable touch to your Side vacation. After a day filled with nature walks, photography, swimming, and exploration, you’ll feel privileged to have discovered some of Antalya’s best hidden gems.