Koprulu Canyon: Outdoor Activities

Hidden away in the Taurus Mountains, Köprülü Canyon has gained popularity as the perfect setting for a whole host of outdoor activities. Featuring dense thickets of conifers, sparkling turquoise waters and unique rock formations, this natural oasis is the ideal location for nature enthusiasts, and adrenaline seekers.

Köprülü Canyon tours from Alanya are easy to organize and a must for anyone staying in this corner of southern Turkey. Whether you’re looking to explore the area from the water or while abseiling down its cliffs, there’s an excursion to suit you.

Here's all you need to know about Köprülü Canyon, one of the most exhilarating destinations for outdoor activities in Alanya.

Where is Köprülü Canyon located?

Köprülü Canyon covers an area of more than 360 square kilometers in the Antalya region of southern Turkey. The national park in which the canyon can be found is nestled in the Taurus Mountains, which run parallel to the Mediterranean coast and cover a span of over 500 kilometers.

The journey to Köprülü Canyon by car takes just under 2 hours and follows the D400 in a northwestern direction out of Alanya. You’ll then merge right and head toward Tasagil. On the other side of the town, you’ll join Kocabey Caddesi, which transports you to the national park.

Alternatively, you can take a bus from Alanya to Selik, located just over halfway between the two destinations. From there, you can hail a taxi to continue the remainder of your journey and the entire route takes a little over 2 hours if traveling this way.

Another option is to book a guided tour in Köprülü Canyon and allow someone else to take care of all the transportation details for you.

What are the best things to do in Köprülü Canyon?

Köprülü Canyon is widely known as the best spot in the Antalya region of Turkey to engage in adrenaline-fueled outdoor activities. Its canyon runs for 14 kilometers and is surrounded by towering cliffs that exceed 40 meters in some places. The raging torrents and steep cliff faces here make it an ideal place to participate in rafting or abseiling.

This famous ravine is surrounded by a national park of the same name, which features the largest cypress forest in Asia Minor and provides a home for bears, as well as wolves, deer and foxes. Alongside these natural wonders, Köprülü Canyon is also the location of the ancient city of Selge, which was established in the 13th century B.C.

Serving as a dwelling for several different civilizations, Selge’s ruins are still visible to travelers who visit Köprülü Canyon, including a stadium, two temples and a Roman theater. The ancient Romans built the most iconic sight in the park — Oluk Bridge — which was constructed by hand in the 2nd century from stone blocks.

What are the best tours to visit Köprülü Canyon?

Rafting in Köprülü Canyon

One of the most popular ways to explore Köprülü Canyon is by rafting through its gorge, an activity that’s suitable for all skill levels. On a rafting tour in Köprülü Canyon, you’ll begin by discovering one of its ancient bridges from the water.

Then, you’ll jump into an inflatable vessel and begin paddling your way down a 14-kilometer stretch of water, battling white water rapids along the way. You’ll work as part of a team to navigate these challenging waters and experience the thrill that speeding along the Köprü River provides.

You’ll have the opportunity to jump into the unpredictable waters and enjoy a leisurely swim, while under the care of a professional guide. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, you’ll feast on a local lunch with views over the national park.

Rafting and abseiling tours in Köprülü Canyon

Admire the diversity of the Köprülü Canyon National Park from the water as you zoom past its myriad of flora and fauna in a raft. You may hear the cry of the endemic Anatolian scavenger overhead as you learn the techniques behind rafting and experience an adrenaline rush like never before. Refresh yourself in the cooling waters of the Köprü River to feel at one with Mother Nature.

Next, you’ll step out of the water for some abseiling in Köprülü Canyon and its towering cliffs, made from limestone, sandstone and clay. With an expert on hand at all times, even beginners can gear up and rappel themselves down these soaring rock formations before relaxing at the edge of the river with a well-deserved lunch.

What are the prices of Köprülü Canyon tours?

Rafting tours in Köprülü Canyon cost just over US$20 per adult, with discounts for children. Keep in mind that there each tour operator has minimum age restrictions for participating.

Rafting and abseiling tours in Köprülü Canyon cost a little more, usually up to US$40 each.

Where do Köprülü Canyon tours start?

Tours in Köprülü Canyon typically begin with a convenient accommodation pickup service from hotels across the city. When booking, you’ll simply select your hotel from a dropdown list and your friendly guide will pick you up from the lobby. Once your adventure is over, you’ll be dropped back to your accommodation.

Are Köprülü Canyon tours wheelchair friendly?

Because of the craggy nature of the gorge, tours in Köprülü Canyon are usually not wheelchair friendly. However, you can consult the booking page of your selected Köprülü Canyon excursion to see whether it can accommodate wheelchair users. Alternatively, travelers with disabilities can choose from a host of other day trips and tours from Alanya, which showcase the region in all its splendor.

When is the best time to visit Köprülü Canyon?

The best time to visit Köprülü Canyon largely depends on your activities. For whitewater rafting, visit between April and October when river flows are best, though be aware of larger crowds. For hiking and sightseeing with milder weather and fewer tourists, the spring and autumn months are ideal.

Travel tips

• Be sure to pack for the season and activities you are planning. For example, water-resistant clothing and sturdy walking shoes are necessary for rafting and hiking, respectively.
• If you're participating in adventure sports like rafting, always follow safety instructions given by guides. Even if you're an experienced rafter, the river can be unpredictable.
• The region can get hot, especially in summer, so always carry a water bottle to stay hydrated. Sunscreen and hats are also essential during the summer months.
• Remember that Köprülü Canyon is a National Park, so respect the local fauna and flora. Don't litter and stay on designated paths.