Köprülü Canyon National Park

The most productive period to visit Köprülü Canyon is between April and June. During these months, snowmelt from the Taurus Mountains feeds the Köprüçay River; water levels and flow rates are ideal for rafting. Air temperatures are not yet stifling, and the park is cool and green.

In July and August, the park becomes quite crowded. If you set off early in the morning, around 08:00-09:00, you will avoid the crowds and complete your walk before the midday heat. October and November, although the rafting season closes, are a calm and beautiful period for nature walks and photography; autumn colors add a special atmosphere to the canyon.

The most practical way to reach the park is by private car or rental car. If you are departing from Antalya city center, reach Serik via the D400 highway, then turn towards Taşağıl and follow the village of Beşkonak. The total travel time is approximately 1-1.5 hours. If you are coming from Belek or Side, the distance is around 57-65 km.

Public transportation options are quite limited; although there are irregular minibus services from Manavgat bus terminal to Beşkonak, their schedules are not reliable. Therefore, daily organized tours departing from Antalya or surrounding hotels offer a practical alternative in terms of both transportation and guidance. If you are going rafting, tour companies usually provide shuttle services from hotels.

There are a few small restaurants and tea gardens within the park and in Beşkonak village. Trout is an experience in itself at these establishments set up along the Köprüçay River; freshly cooked trout by the riverside has almost become an integral part of a visit to Köprülü Canyon.

Places offering gözleme, village breakfast, and grilled meat are also available. If you are planning a long rafting or hiking program, it is recommended to bring plenty of water and snacks with you; sales points in the inner parts of the park are extremely limited. It is also possible to bring your own food and eat by the river in the picnic areas.

The best photo moment in the canyon is early morning when the light hits the rocks. The historic stone bridge offers a powerful frame with both its architecture and natural background. The turquoise-green water of the Köprüçay River contrasts with the gray limestone walls of the canyon, creating a very impressive scene for wide-angle shots.

Tazi Canyon, with its 200-400 meter vertical walls, is another opportunity for panoramic photographs. You can take perspective shots that convey the depth when looking from the mouth of the canyon. Don't forget to use a waterproof case or an action camera during rafting; instantaneous images on the foamy water turn out quite impressive.

For those who want to see Köprülü Canyon and Tazi Canyon on the same day, the following order works: Depart from Antalya or your accommodation early in the morning. Visit Tazi Canyon as your first stop; the hiking trail can be kept relatively short, 1-2 hours is sufficient. Then proceed to Köprülü Canyon and join a rafting tour; tours usually last 2-3 hours.

After rafting, have a trout lunch at one of the riverside restaurants in Beşkonak. In the afternoon, you can explore the hiking trails within the canyon, and discover the historic bridge and picnic areas. It is recommended to leave the park by 17:00-17:30 at the latest, considering the return journey.

Swimming is not mandatory for rafting, but life jackets and helmets are provided to all participants; however, having basic swimming skills is advantageous for safety. Rafting may not be suitable for children under 7 years old; check with the tour company beforehand. In cases such as heart conditions or pregnancy, it is also necessary to consult the tour operator.

The roads within the park are partially stabilized dirt roads; high-traction vehicles should be preferred, or road conditions should be inquired about beforehand. Make sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, and non-slip shoes. In summer months, water consumption will be high, so it is recommended to bring at least 1.5-2 liters of water. Mobile signal may be weak in some parts of the park.