Side: Jeep Safari Adventure with Lunch at Green Lake

If you’re considering a day away from the sunbaked beaches of Side, a jeep safari through the Taurus Mountains offers a different kind of Turkish experience—one filled with rugged scenery, traditional villages, and a hearty mountain lunch. This tour from TOURMANIA has earned a solid 4.7 out of 5 stars based on 445 reviews, indicating a generally positive reception from travelers seeking both adventure and cultural insight.

We love that this experience combines off-road excitement with authentic village encounters and spectacular natural sights. The chance to see rural Turkey up close, sample traditional foods, and enjoy panoramic views makes it a well-rounded day trip. One possible drawback is that the ride can be quite bumpy, especially on the off-road sections, which might not appeal to everyone, especially travelers with mobility issues or expecting a luxury experience.

This tour is perfect for those who want a blend of adrenaline and authenticity, especially travelers eager to explore beyond tourist hotspots. If you appreciate scenic drives, local culture, and good value, you’ll find this safari offers plenty of memorable moments.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Experiences: Visit villages like Iklar and Sartlar to see how locals live and learn about their customs.
• Spectacular Scenery: Expect breathtaking views of the Taurus Mountains, Manavgat Waterfall, and Green Canyon.
• Fun Off-Road Adventure: The jeep rides are lively, dusty, and often include water fights, making for a playful day.
• Hearty Mountain Lunch: Enjoy a meal at a picturesque mountain location, often praised for its quality and atmosphere.
• Family-Friendly: Many reviews highlight that guides check on children’s safety and comfort, making it suitable for families.
• Value for Money: With hotel transfers, a guide, lunch, and all taxes included, this tour provides a comprehensive experience at a competitive price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary and Experience

Start: Convenient Hotel Pickup

The day begins with pickup from your hotel in Side, with options from Çolakli, Kızıltaş, Evrenseki, or Side itself. This makes logistics hassle-free, especially after a lazy morning. The group size tends to be manageable, and the professional guides are known to speak multiple languages like Turkish, English, and German, making communication smooth for visitors from different backgrounds.

Oymapinar: A Taste of Local Life and Scenic Stops

The first significant stop is at Oymapinar, which combines a quick guided tour with plenty of photo opportunities. Here, you can see a traditional village setting, walk around and absorb the local atmosphere. The reviews mention that this spot is a place where you can really see how rural Turks live, and you might even sample some traditional gözleme (Turkish flatbread) in an old house—an authentic taste of rural hospitality.

Green Canyon: A Natural Marvel

Next, you’ll visit Green Canyon, where the views are often described as “spectacular.” The hour-long stop gives you a chance to walk around, breathe in the mountain air, and snap photos of the lush surroundings. Many travelers comment on the beauty of this area, which adds a peaceful contrast to the bumpy rides.

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Oymapinar Dam and Waterfall

Continuing the journey, the tour includes a visit to Oymapinar Dam, another scenic spot perfect for photos and appreciating Turkey’s engineering marvels amidst nature. Then comes the highlight for many—Manavgat Waterfall. The powerful cascades and foaming waters are a visual treat, and visitors often mention how impressive the waterfall is, even if it’s not as hidden or remote as some might expect.

The Mountain Lunch at Gölbaşı

The meal is served at Gölba Restaurant & Hotel, a mountain-side spot praised for its good quality food and stunning views. The lunch is often described as hearty, with many reviewers mentioning how much they appreciated the authentic Turkish dishes and the peaceful setting. It’s a great chance to rest, refuel, and enjoy the mountain ambiance.

Final Stops and Return

The tour wraps up with a stop at Deirmenli Köyü Yolu and Bucak Yaylası, where you can take quick photos and stretch your legs. Some reviews note that the jeeps are not exactly luxury vehicles—expect a dusty, bumpy, and energetic ride with loud music and water fights. This is part of the charm for many, providing a feeling of adventure rather than comfort.

The day concludes with hotel drop-offs, often feeling like a full, satisfying day of discovery. Many travelers comment on how well-organized the trip is, with the guides making an effort to check on comfort and safety, especially for children.

Authentic Encounters and Practical Details

The tour particularly shines in the village visits, where guides share stories about local customs and traditions. Several reviews mention how the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making each stop educational and personable. For example, some travelers highlight the importance of the mosque visit, which offers a glimpse into religious traditions.

The lunch in the mountains receives high praise, often described as “good” and “filling,” with some mentioning the opportunity to buy additional snacks or ice cream at the waterfall. The value is clear, considering all inclusions—hotel transfers, lunch, insurance, and a guide.

The adventure aspect—the off-road rides—may not be for everyone. Expect dust, bumps, and water fights that can leave you wet and muddy. It’s advised to bring a sun hat and swimwear, especially if you want to take a quick dip or cool off. Many reviewers recommend bringing your own bandana or head wrap to stay dust-free, though you can also purchase one on-site.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari is ideal for adventure seekers, families, and those curious about local culture. If you love scenic drives, getting a bit dusty, and sampling authentic Turkish hospitality, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s especially suitable for those with an active spirit and a sense of humor, given the lively water fights and bumpy rides.

Travelers looking for a relaxing, luxury experience might find this a bit rustic and energetic, but for most, that’s part of the fun. It’s a full day, so comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a readiness for some dirt are recommended.

The Sum Up

The Side Jeep Safari Adventure offers a well-balanced mix of stunning scenery, cultural insights, and off-road fun. The opportunity to visit traditional villages, marvel at waterfalls and canyons, and enjoy a mountain lunch makes it a fulfilling day trip for those wanting more than just beaches.

The trip’s value lies in its comprehensive nature—hotel transfers, multilingual guides, and all-day activities—delivering a memorable experience at a reasonable price. Expect a lively atmosphere, lots of photo opportunities, and plenty of stories to take home.

This tour suits travelers eager to explore Turkey’s natural beauty and rural charm, especially those who enjoy adventure, good food, and authentic local encounters. If you’re prepared for a dusty, bumpy ride and a day packed with sights, this safari will give you stories worth telling.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Side, with multiple pickup points available.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, and a bandana or head wrap to stay dust-free during the jeep rides. It’s also wise to have water bottles for each stop.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Many reviews mention children enjoying the trip, as guides check regularly on their safety and comfort. However, the bumpy rides and water fights might be too much for very young children or pregnant women.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 7 hours, with specific starting times depending on availability. It includes multiple stops, lunch, and transportation.

Are drinks and photos included?
Drinks are not included in the price, and DVD photos are optional. You might find opportunities to buy snacks or ice cream at the waterfall.

What is the condition of the vehicles?
The jeeps are not brand new; expect a rugged, dusty ride with loud music and energetic water fights—part of the adventure.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

This safari trip is a lively, authentic, and scenic way to spend your day in the Turkish countryside. Whether you’re after adventure, nature, or cultural exposure, it’s a journey that promises plenty of memories—and stories—long after you return home.

You can check availability for your dates here: