Manavgat
Waterfall, river and canyon routes
A nature-focused district known for its waterfall, riverside restaurants and the rafting routes of Köprülü Canyon. Easily combined with neighbouring Side.
About the region
Manavgat, 75 km east of Antalya, has grown around the river it is named after. Rising in the Taurus mountains, the Manavgat River crosses the district and reaches the Mediterranean; the whole character of the area is built around this water. Being only 8 km from Side makes it easy to combine both in one trip.
The best-known sight is Manavgat Waterfall — not tall, but spilling across a very wide front, with the surrounding area laid out as a picnic ground. The fish restaurants strung along the river are a classic stop for cooling off in summer heat, and boat trips run on the river itself.
Head inland and the district changes completely: Köprülü Canyon National Park hosts Türkiye's most popular rafting route. The 14-kilometre course is manageable for beginners and runs all summer. Inside the canyon, the Roman-era Oluk Bridge still stands above the rocky gorge — an impressive piece of engineering.
Highlights
- Manavgat Waterfall and riverside restaurants
- Rafting in Köprülü Canyon
- Roman-era Oluk Bridge
- Only 8 km from Side
Good to know
- Good for
- Nature, water sports and touring
- Distance from Antalya
- About 75 km
- How long
- 1 day (1–2 days with rafting)
- Best time
- May–September for rafting