Best Rafting Spots in Turkey: Top Rivers for Adventure Seekers
Turkey is a paradise for rafting enthusiasts, boasting an abundance of river resources and breathtaking natural landscapes. From Köprülü Canyon in Antalya to Fırtına Creek in Rize, and from the wild waters of Artvin to Dalaman Stream in Muğla, many trails cater to athletes of all levels. If you are wondering ‘Where to do rafting in Turkey?’, you can find the most popular rafting routes detailed in this guide, along with information on transport, cost, difficulty levels, and nearby attractions.
Image Source: Türkiye Kültür Portalı
1. Köprülü Canyon (Antalya)
When it comes to rafting in Turkey, Köprülü Canyon is one of the first places that comes to mind. Located in the Manavgat district of Antalya, this natural wonder is an ideal course for both beginner athletes and experienced rafting enthusiasts with its 14-kilometre course. The Köprüçay River, which flows through the canyon, offers a perfect experience with its clear water and strong currents.
Transportation: It is approximately 90 kilometres from the city centre of Antalya. Transportation can be arranged by private vehicle or through tours departing from Manavgat.
Prices: As of 2025, rafting tours range from 800 to 1,200 TL per person. The price typically includes equipment, guiding services, and lunch.
Places to See in the Area: Before or after rafting, you can go on a nature walk in Köprülü Canyon National Park, visit the ancient city of Selge, or enjoy the unique view from Tazi Canyon.
2. Fırtına River (Rize)
For those seeking an adrenaline-filled experience in the rugged nature of the Black Sea, the Fırtına River in Rize is an ideal choice. Originating from the Kaçkar Mountains and flowing into the Black Sea, this river is one of Turkey's longest rafting routes, spanning 23 kilometres.
Transportation: It is 1 hour from the city centre of Rize and 20 minutes from Ayder Plateau. Transportation is available via Ardeşen.
Prices: The Average price is around 1,000–1,400 TL. Guide, equipment and sometimes transfer fees are included.
Places to See in the Area: Ayder Plateau, Zilkale, Palovit Waterfall, and the hiking trails around Çamlıhemşin offer excellent alternatives for nature lovers after rafting.
3. Çoruh River (Artvin)
One of the fastest-flowing rivers in the world, the Çoruh River is particularly popular among professional rafting enthusiasts. Starting in Artvin and extending to the Georgian border, the river offers an adrenaline-filled experience with its 4th and 5th difficulty level courses.
Transportation: Yusufeli district can be reached by road from Artvin city centre. Erzurum Airport is the nearest airport.
Prices: Professional-level tours start at 1,500 TL per person. Camping tours are also available.
Places to See in the Area: Tortum Waterfall, Karagöl Sahara National Park, and historic Artvin houses are worth visiting. There are also opportunities for camping and trekking along the river.
4. Melen River (Düzce)
Thanks to its proximity to Istanbul, the Melen River is a favourite destination for weekend getaways and is ideal for beginner rafting enthusiasts. The 13-kilometre-long river is suitable for rafting for most of the year.
Transportation: It is approximately 2 hours away from Istanbul. Public transportation is available from the centre of Düzce.
Prices: Around 700–1,000 TL. Packages usually include meals and transportation.
Places to See in the Area: Natural areas such as Akçakoca beaches, Güzeldere Waterfall, and Efteni Lake are suitable for short trips.
5. Dalaman River (Muğla)
Located at the junction of the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas, the Dalaman River is one of Turkey's most popular rafting areas with a 12-kilometre course. This medium-difficulty course is ideal for those who want to cool off and have fun, especially in the summer months.
Transportation: Easily accessible via Dalaman Airport. Shuttle services are available from the Ortaca district to the rafting area.
Prices: Prices range from 900 to 1,300 TL per person. Prices usually include guiding, insurance, equipment and meals.
Places to Visit in the Area: Natural beauties such as Sarsala Bay, Dalyan Canal and İztuzu Beach can be visited after rafting.
Source: Hellovillam
6. Munzur River (Tunceli)
Originating in the Munzur Mountains and flowing through the Munzur Valley in the unspoilt nature of Eastern Anatolia, this river is one of Turkey's lesser-known but most impressive rafting routes. It is of medium difficulty, but offers a very special experience due to its natural surroundings.
Transportation: It is located 20–30 minutes from the city centre of Tunceli. The region can be reached via Elazığ Airport with a transfer.
Prices: Rafting activities with local tour companies cost an average of 900–1,200 TL per person. Equipment and guidance are usually included.
Places to See in the Area: Cultural and natural attractions such as Munzur Valley National Park, Ovacık Plateau, Halbori Springs, and Tunceli Cemevi can be visited. The region is also rich in camping and hiking trails.
7. Zamantı River (Kayseri - Yahyalı)
Originating from Aladağlar National Park and flowing into the Seyhan River, the Zamantı River offers a unique rafting experience, particularly with its rock formations and canyons. The river offers medium-difficulty rafting with courses up to 15 km long.
Transportation: It is approximately 1.5 hours away from the city centre of Kayseri. The region can be reached via the district of Yahyalı.
Prices: Tours generally cost between 800 and 1,000 TL. Some tours are combined with camping and nature walking activities.
Places to See in the Area: It is surrounded by natural wonders such as Kapuzbaşı Waterfalls, Aladağlar National Park, and Derebağ Waterfall. It is also a rich area for photography.
8. Manavgat River (Antalya - Taşağıl)
Located in the Manavgat district of Antalya, this river is known for its shorter and calmer courses compared to Köprüçay. It is ideal for beginners and families with children. It offers a short but fun rafting route amidst natural beauty.
Transportation: It is approximately 1 hour away from the city centre of Antalya. Transportation can be arranged by minibus or private vehicle from Manavgat.
Prices: Since the routes are short, prices range from 600 to 900 TL. They usually include basic training, a short tour, and equipment.
Places to See in the Area: It is very close to nature and culture sites such as Manavgat Waterfall, Side Ancient City, Titreyengöl, and Sorgun Forest.
9. İkizdere River (Rize - İkizdere)
Located in the inland region of the Black Sea, this area is not as popular as the Fırtına River but offers a more peaceful and nature-filled rafting experience. Especially in the spring months, when the river's flow increases due to melting snow, it is suitable for medium-difficulty rafting.
Transportation: It is approximately 1 hour away from the centre of Rize. Trabzon Airport is the closest air transportation point.
Prices: Rafting tours range from 800 to 1,200 TL. Small businesses in the region may offer combined tours with nature walks and plateau tours.
Places to See in the Area: High-altitude natural areas such as Anzer Plateau, Ovit Plateau, and Çağrankaya Plateau are ideal for both cooling off and exploring.
10. Barhal Creek (Artvin - Yusufeli)
The Barhal River, which originates from the Kaçkar Mountains and flows into the Çoruh River, offers a course that can reach a difficulty level of 3. With its natural beauty, riverbed running through lush green mountains, and peaceful atmosphere, it offers an experience that combines nature and sports.
Transportation: The closest major city to the Yusufeli district is Artvin. Transportation by car is possible via Erzurum.
Prices: The average cost per person is around 1,000–1,400 TL. Camping, nature walks, and guided services are typically included in the packages.
Places to See in the Area: Barhal Church, Kaçkar summit hiking trails, and the Yedigöller region are worth exploring. The area is also an important destination for nature photographers and mountaineers.
Things to Consider While Rafting
Safety Equipment: Helmet and life jacket must be used. Make sure the equipment is complete and intact.
Listening to the Guide: The guidance of the guide is vital. It is necessary to follow the instructions exactly, especially on difficult tracks.
Clothing Selection: Water-resistant, quick-drying clothes should be preferred. Water shoes that are easy to stand in should be used.
Health Conditions: Those with ailments such as heart, asthma, or epilepsy should get a doctor's opinion before rafting.
The Best Time for Rafting
The rafting season in Turkey usually starts in April and continues until October. While the season lasts longer in regions with abundant rainfall such as the Black Sea, the summer months are more suitable in the Mediterranean. As river flows increase in the spring months, more exciting tracks are formed.
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