City of Side: Taurus Mountains Guided Buggy Cross Riding

If you’re in or heading to Side, Turkey and craving a bit of adrenaline mixed with stunning scenery, the Taurus Mountains Guided Buggy Cross Riding might just be the adventure you’re looking for. This experience promises a 20-kilometer guided ride through rugged terrain, offering a chance to get your hands dirty, feel the wind in your hair, and soak in some of Turkey’s most impressive mountain vistas. It’s a tour designed for thrill-seekers and outdoor lovers alike.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the guidance and safety measures provided, ensuring even first-timers can enjoy driving a buggy cross confidently. Second, the beautiful scenery around the Manavgat River and the Taurus Mountains makes your adrenaline rush visually rewarding. That said, a potential drawback is that it’s a fairly active experience — so if you’re not comfortable with getting a little muddy or wet, this might not be your top choice.

This tour caters best to those who want a high-energy, fun-filled outdoor activity with a good dose of scenic beauty, especially if you’re traveling with a group or family looking for something different from the usual sightseeing.

Key Points

• Adventurous Spirit: Perfect for thrill-seekers eager to drive a buggy cross in scenic surroundings.
• All-Inclusive Equipment: You’re provided with all necessary gear, making it easier to just focus on the ride.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides help you learn the basics and ensure safety.
• Flexible Timing: Tours last approximately 2 hours, with available start times—check ahead for availability.
• Good Value: At $41 per person, it offers a substantial adrenaline hit with scenic rewards.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for children over 15, who can ride as passengers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Taurus Mountains Guided Buggy Cross Riding

The experience kicks off with pickup from your hotel in Side, where you’ll hop aboard an air-conditioned bus heading toward the adventure base. The scenic drive itself sets the scene, revealing glimpses of Turkey’s lush landscapes. Once there, you’ll be outfitted with all the necessary safety gear—helmets, goggles, and protective clothing—so no need to worry about bringing your own.

The tour’s core is a 20-kilometer guided buggy ride—split into two 10-kilometer circuits. Before heading out into the rugged terrain, you’ll get a quick test drive near the base station. This is a smart move, as it helps you get comfortable with how the buggy handles and understand the basic controls. Whether you’re a complete novice or have some experience, your guide will assist in making sure everyone feels confident.

The route takes you along the Manavgat River and into the hills of the Taurus Mountains. Expect to feel the breeze in your hair, especially when rounding tight curves, which adds to the thrill. The terrain is uneven and adventurous, so be prepared for some mud, dust, and possibly a splash or two, which is part of the fun.

Midway through, there’s a short rest stop, giving you a chance to catch your breath, enjoy the views, and maybe chat with fellow adventurers. After this pause, you’ll hop back into your buggy for the final 10-kilometer loop, pushing your driving skills further while enjoying the mountain scenery.

Once back at the base station, you can relive your adventure by watching a video of your ride—a great souvenir and a chance to relive those exciting moments. If you wish, you can purchase the footage and photos to share with friends or keep as a memory. Facilities include a shower to freshen up before heading back to Side, completing a satisfying outdoor escapade.

The Details That Matter

Transportation: The tour includes round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned bus, which makes the experience hassle-free, especially after a long day of sightseeing. Pickup is conveniently located in front of your hotel’s security doors, so no long walks or confusing meet points.

Duration: Lasting approximately 2 hours, the tour offers a good balance between excitement and time commitment. Be sure to check the start times when booking, as availability can vary.

Cost and Value: At $41 per person, including equipment and insurance, the tour delivers a solid value for an adventurous activity. Compared to other experiences that might charge extra for equipment or guides, this package covers most essentials upfront.

Group Size: While specific group sizes aren’t listed, guided tours typically keep groups manageable for safety and personal attention. The small-group feel means you’ll likely get plenty of guidance and support.

Safety and Age Restrictions: Children over 15 can participate as drivers or passengers; younger children are not permitted. The activity is not suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or heart problems, emphasizing the physical nature of the experience.

What to Bring: Pack comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a towel, and clothes that can get dirty. Don’t forget a change of clothes if you want to freshen up afterward. The tour doesn’t include food or drinks, so plan accordingly.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

While official descriptions focus on scenery and safety, reviews give us a glimpse into the real experience. One reviewer noted, “We loved the way the guide explained everything clearly and made sure we were comfortable before starting,” highlighting the importance of good guidance. Another mentioned, “Riding through the mountains with the wind in my face was unforgettable,” emphasizing the scenic and sensory nature of the ride.

Some travelers also shared that the video of the ride is a fun takeaway, with one noting, “It’s great to watch the footage afterward and see all the moments I missed while concentrating on driving.” The tour’s value was appreciated, with many feeling that $41 was a fair price for a two-hour adventure with all safety gear included.

However, a few reviewers pointed out that the terrain can be challenging for absolute beginners, so a bit of confidence on bumpy rides helps. Others appreciated the flexibility in booking and the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, making it easier to plan without worry.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is ideal for adventure-loving travelers looking for something more active than just lounging by the pool. It’s also perfect for families with teenagers over 15, groups of friends, or couples wanting a memorable, adrenaline-pumping excursion. If you’re hoping for a scenic ride with a splash of excitement, this is a good choice.

However, if you’re pregnant, have mobility issues, or prefer a more relaxed sightseeing experience, you might want to skip this one. Also, those with a strong aversion to getting muddy or wet may want to consider other options.

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Final Thoughts

All in all, the Taurus Mountains Guided Buggy Cross Riding offers a fun, energetic, and scenic experience at a reasonable price. The safety measures, guided approach, and stunning landscapes make it a worthwhile choice for those craving a memorable outdoor activity during their stay in Side.

You’ll love the thrill of driving through mountain trails, the beautiful views, and the fun of reliving the ride through the video footage. The experience balances adventure with safety and comfort, making it accessible for most thrill-seekers over 15.

While it’s not a laid-back activity and does involve some dirt and dust, that’s part of the charm. For an authentic taste of outdoor excitement in Turkey’s Taurus Mountains, this tour stands out as a solid option—especially if you want to add a little adrenaline to your holiday.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned bus from your hotel in Side is included, making pickup and drop-off straightforward.

How long does the tour last?
The activity lasts approximately 2 hours, including the transfer, equipment setup, and the ride itself.

Can I drive the buggy?
Yes, you can drive if you are over 15 years old. Children under 15 are not permitted to drive but can ride as passengers.

Is the activity suitable for beginners?
Yes, guides help you learn the basics and ensure safety, but some experience with driving or comfort with uneven terrain is helpful.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and clothes that can get dirty. Bring a change of clothes if you want to freshen up afterward.

Are there any age or health restrictions?
Yes, not suitable for children under 3, pregnant women, or anyone with mobility issues or heart problems.

Can I buy photos or videos of my ride?
Yes, you can purchase the footage and photos at the base station after the ride.

Is insurance included?
Yes, insurance during the tour is provided, adding peace of mind during your adventure.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund, offering flexible planning options.

What if I want to extend or change the experience?
Check availability when booking, as start times may vary. Additional equipment or extras are not included but can be purchased separately.

This adventurous buggy tour is a solid pick for anyone wanting an active, scenic, and fun break from traditional sightseeing—just remember to embrace the dirt and enjoy the ride!

You can check availability for your dates here: