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Are you dreaming of an adventure where you can escape Antalya's famous, heart-warming, yet sometimes overwhelming summer sun and dive into ice-cold waters? Imagine a natural sanctuary where the turquoise waters of the Köprüçay River, born from the heart of the Taurus Mountains, bring history and adrenaline together. This is Köprülü Canyon National Park, a place that transforms an ordinary holiday into an unforgettable memory. If you're looking to add a thrilling item to the top of your things to do in Köprülü Canyon list this summer, you've come to the right place. We're taking you on a journey from the exhilaration of paddling in foamy waters to catching your breath in the shadow of ancient Roman bridges, and finally to the delicious flavors savored by the river at the end of the adventure.
Go for a thrilling rafting experience in ice-cold, foamy waters
Welcome to the heart of the adventure! The moment you take your first step into the ice-cold waters of the Köprüçay, flowing down from the Taurus Mountains, the initial sweet shock quickly gives way to an indescribable sense of refreshment. That's the moment your unforgettable 14-kilometer rafting journey begins. As majestic canyon walls towering over 100 meters high rise on either side of you, you and your team will feel like you're dancing on the turquoise waters.
This journey is more than just paddling. The course is designed to offer you moments of both relaxation and excitement. Sometimes you'll take a swimming break in the calm stretches of the river, surrendering yourself to the coolness, and at other times, you'll work as a team against gentle rapids, following the commands of your professional guide. The famous water fights that make the tour even more fun will have your laughter echoing off the canyon walls.
Perhaps you have questions like, Is it dangerous? or I've never done this before... Put your worries aside! Köprülü Canyon is considered one of the safest rafting courses in the world, with a beginner-level difficulty rating. You don't even need to know how to swim, as the high-quality life jackets provided will keep you effortlessly afloat. Even children as young as 3-5 can safely join this adventure with their families. This family-friendly adventure in Köprülü Canyon is just one of the many beauties Antalya has to offer. To explore other options in the region, you can check out our comprehensive guide to places to visit in Antalya.
Take a break and snap photos at the historic Oluk Bridge
As you glide over the water in your raft, you'll suddenly arrive at a point where time seems to stand still. Before you stands an elegant stone structure that has defied the fierce waters of the Köprüçay for nearly 2,000 years: the historic Oluk Bridge. Built in the 2nd century AD by the Romans using only interlocking cut stones without any mortar, this architectural marvel is a living monument to history.
This bridge is not just an aesthetic structure; it's an integral part of the canyon's identity. Köprülü Canyon, which means Canyon with Bridges, gets its name from this very bridge and another nearby historic structure, the Büğrüm Bridge. In ancient times, it served as a vital passage connecting the wealthy city of Selge, high in the mountains, to the coastal region of Pamphylia. Today, it serves as the starting point for rafting tours or a breathtaking rest stop.
This is the spot where you'll capture the most iconic photo of your adventure. The contrast between the gray of the ancient bridge's centuries-old stones, the vibrant turquoise of the Köprüçay flowing beneath it, and the lush green cypress forests surrounding it is truly mesmerizing. When you step out of your boat and touch this historic structure, you'll feel that you're not just on a trip, but on a journey through time.
Eat gözleme and trout at the riverside establishments
After a 3-4 hour rafting adventure that leaves you with a pleasant sense of fatigue, your body craves one thing: a delicious reward! The rustic and authentic riverside restaurants waiting for you at the tour's end point more than satisfy this craving. As you settle down at a wooden table in the shade of the trees, listening to the sound of the river flowing beside you, you'll begin to unwind from the day's exertions.
The star of the menu is undoubtedly the fresh trout, raised in the oxygen-rich waters of the Köprüçay. Usually caught fresh and grilled to perfection, it's served with a side of salad and rice. Some places take this delicacy a step further, offering trout cooked in vine leaves, a unique taste that is well worth trying. If you're looking for a more traditional flavor, delicious gözleme (Turkish flatbread) with cheese or herbs, cooked on a hot griddle at stalls near the historic bridge, are waiting for you.
Don't worry about organizing this feast yourself. Most rafting tour packages already include a hearty lunch with options like chicken skewers or trout. All that's left for you to do is sit back and enjoy the tastes of nature and local cuisine.
Since You're Here: Keep Exploring!
You've had a fantastic day filled with adrenaline, history, and flavor in Köprülü Canyon. But the adventure doesn't have to end here! Since you've come all this way, here are a few more amazing places you can add to your itinerary:
Tazı Canyon (Eagle Canyon): Located just 16 km from the rafting area and also known as the Valley of Wisdom, this canyon has become one of the most popular spots in recent years with its breathtaking views. It's a paradise for photography enthusiasts.
Selge Ancient City: Reached by a winding 11 km road up from the Oluk Bridge, this ancient Pisidian city will transport you back to the Roman era, especially with its well-preserved theater. On the way up to Selge, you'll also see the Adam Kayalar (Man Rocks), a fascinating example of nature's sculpture.
Perge Ancient City: Don't let your curiosity for history stop at Selge; to delve deeper into Antalya's rich past, you can add other Roman wonders like the Perge Ancient City to your list.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. When is the best time to visit Köprülü Canyon? The ideal period for rafting is during June, July, August, and September, when the weather is hot and the water levels are safest. However, rafting tours generally operate from late April to late October. The national park is open to visitors year-round.
2. Is it necessary to know how to swim or have experience for rafting? No, it's absolutely not necessary. Professional tour companies provide standard life jackets that ensure you stay afloat. The Köprülü Canyon course is very suitable for beginners and requires no prior experience. Non-swimmers and children can safely participate in this activity.
3. Is there an entrance fee for Köprülü Canyon National Park? How much does rafting cost? Entrance to Köprülü Canyon National Park is free. The fees are for activities organized by private companies, such as rafting. For 2025, the average price for a standard rafting tour, without transportation but including lunch, ranges from 600 TL to 750 TL per person. Prices for packages that include transportation or additional activities like ziplining may vary.
Bibliography
For more detailed and official information about Köprülü Canyon National Park, you can visit the relevant page of the Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Culture and Tourism: Antalya - Köprülü Canyon National Park.
Meta Title: Rafting Adventure in Köprülü Canyon & Things to Do | 2025 Guide
Meta Description: Looking for things to do in Antalya's Köprülü Canyon? Get ready for an adventure with our complete guide to rafting in icy waters, the historic Oluk Bridge, and local delicacies!
