2 in 1 Side Combo Rafting & Buggy Safari With Lunch

If you’re heading to Side and craving a day packed with a bit of adrenaline and a lot of natural beauty, this full-day combo tour might catch your interest. Promising a mix of white-water rafting on Köprüçay River** and a buggy safari across rugged trails, it offers a taste of adventure outside the usual tourist spots. The fact that it’s designed to be accessible for most people—no prior experience needed—makes it appealing to a wide range of travelers.

What really stands out are the scenic views you’ll get to enjoy while navigating the river’s foamy rapids and cruising through the Taurus Mountains. Plus, it’s a great way to get away from the crowds and dive into nature’s quieter corners. On the flip side, some travelers have mentioned feeling rushed or experiencing less-than-stellar treatment, which is worth considering before booking.

This tour seems best suited for those who love outdoor activities, want a full day of fun, and don’t mind a little chaos if it means memorable moments. It’s especially good if you’re traveling with friends or family who are up for some adventure—and who don’t mind getting wet and muddy along the way.

Key Points

• Accessible for all: No experience or license required for rafting or buggy driving.
• Includes lunch: A simple, included meal makes it easy to keep going through the day.
• Scenic landscapes: Expect stunning views of local villages, mosques, and the Taurus Mountains.
• Mixed activities: Combines adrenaline-pumping water and off-road adventures.
• Potential rush: Some reviews mention feeling hurried or treated like a number.
• Good value: At $32 per person, it offers a lot of activity for the price.

What to Expect from This Full-Day Adventure

This tour is set up to give you a taste of two distinct but complementary outdoor experiences. Starting early, with a hotel pickup around 8:00 am, it’s designed to maximize your daylight hours in nature. Once you’re picked up, your guide will fill you in on what’s ahead and share some interesting snippets about Köprüçay River and the surrounding scenery.

You’ll find that the schedule is straightforward: a morning of rafting, followed by lunch, then an afternoon of buggy driving. The overall duration is around 10 hours, so it’s a full day but not an overly long one, considering the activities included.

The Rafting Experience

Expect to get wet—that’s part of the fun! You’ll be riding through rapids on the Köprüçay River, guided by instructors who prioritize safety. The necessary equipment—helmets, life jackets, paddles—is provided, so you don’t need to bring your own gear. The water here is described as foamy and lively, providing an exhilarating experience that’s suitable for beginners and seasoned adventurers alike.

One small but important detail: you don’t need prior experience to enjoy this. Whether you’re trying it for the first time or have been rafting before, the guides will ensure everyone stays safe and has a good time. Expect to see pictures of local villages and charming mosques against the backdrop of the Taurus Mountains—views that make the splashy moments even more memorable.

The Buggy Safari

After drying off (or not, if you’re still feeling adventurous), you’ll switch gears to the buggy safari, driving off-road vehicles across rugged trails. You don’t need a license or previous experience—just a sense of adventure. The buggies are easy to operate, and your guides will give you instructions before setting off.

The trail takes you away from the crowds, through scenic spots that showcase Turkey’s countryside, with views of local villages and natural landscapes. The thrill of weaving over uneven terrain is balanced with the beauty of the surroundings, making it a fun and visually appealing activity. Many reviews highlight the stunning views as a major highlight—something that keeps the day engaging and picturesque.

Lunch and Practical Details

A lunch is included, which is perfect for refueling after a morning of splashing and bouncing around. While the menu isn’t specified, it typically covers simple, satisfying fare—enough to keep everyone energized for the afternoon.

The tour is priced at $32 per person, which we think offers good value considering the two major activities, equipment, and lunch. Keep in mind that extras like drinks, personal souvenirs, or photos aren’t included, so those are on you if you want to capture memories.

The Realities of the Experience

While many travelers find this tour to be an exciting, sun-drenched day in nature, some have pointed out downsides. One review, in particular, harshly criticizes the experience, describing it as “the worst by far” and mentioning feeling like they were treated like cattle, with everything rushed. That’s an important reminder that the quality of the guides and organization can vary, and some groups may not be as attentive as others.

However, this seems to be an outlier, and most participants agree that the stunning views and fun activities outweigh minor inconveniences. The key is to manage expectations—this isn’t a luxury experience but an energetic, adventure-packed day.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you love active outdoor pursuits and are okay with a fast-paced day, this combo tour offers an excellent way to experience the scenic beauty of Side’s natural surroundings, combined with some heart-pumping fun. It’s suited for adventurous travelers of all ages (children included, as no license or prior experience is needed), but those seeking a relaxed, leisurely day might find it a bit too hectic.

Travelers who appreciate stunning mountain and river views will particularly enjoy the scenery, but be prepared for some moments of feeling rushed or rushed through activities. If you’re on a budget and want a comprehensive experience that covers both water and land adventures, this is a pretty solid option.

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, since no prior experience or license is required, children can participate if they’re comfortable with water and off-road activities. Just keep in mind the physical activity involved.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring sun cream, sunglasses, swimming costumes, towels, comfortable shoes (no flip-flops), a T-shirt to wear under the life jacket, and spare clothes for after the activities. Electronics should be waterproof if you want to take photos or videos.

Will I get wet during the rafting?
Yes, rafting involves going through rapids, so expect to get wet. The equipment provided includes helmets and life jackets for safety.

What’s included in the price?
All necessary equipment (helmets, life jackets, paddles), buggy safari, lunch, hotel pickup and drop-off are included.

Are there any additional costs?
Drinks, personal spending, and photos/videos are not included, so budget extra if you want to purchase souvenirs or get professional photos.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour depends on good weather. If canceled due to bad conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This 2 in 1 Side combo tour offers a lively, scenic, and reasonably priced way to spend a day outside the usual tourist attractions. It combines water adventure with off-road fun, making it ideal for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. While some reviews hint at moments of rushing or less attentive service, the overall experience highlights stunning views and memorable activities.

If you’re looking for a straightforward, budget-friendly adventure where you can enjoy Turkey’s natural beauty and get a little muddy in the process, this tour fits the bill. Just go with an open mind and the willingness to embrace the spontaneous, sometimes hectic, nature of group tours.

Enjoy your adventure in Side, and remember—sometimes the most memorable days are the ones that don’t go perfectly as planned.