City of Side: Altinbesik Cave and Ormana Tour with Boat Ride

If you’re after a full-day adventure that combines natural beauty, cultural insights, and a touch of local life, this Altinbesik Cave and Ormana Village tour might be just what you’re looking for. We’ve looked into it, and while we haven’t done it ourselves, the reviews and details paint a vivid picture of what you can expect.

One thing we really appreciate is how this tour seems to balance nature exploration with authentic local experiences. You get to marvel at Turkey’s largest underground lake and enjoy a boat ride inside a stunning cave, all set against the backdrop of the Taurus Mountains. Plus, the chance to meet a local family and see traditional architecture in Ormana adds an extra layer of charm.

However, a potential consideration is the duration and physicality—you’ll be on your feet and inside caves, which might not suit everyone, especially those with mobility issues. The tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic views, cultural stops, and a bit of adventure, and who don’t mind a roughly 7-hour outing.

All in all, it’s well-suited for curious travelers eager to see some of Turkey’s natural and cultural highlights in a single day, especially those with an interest in caves, mountains, and local life.

Key Points

• Natural Wonder: Explore the largest underground lake in Turkey with a boat ride inside Altinbesik Cave.
• Cultural Touch: Visit a traditional village, meet a local family, and see a 300-year-old mosque.
• Scenic Views: Travel through the Taurus Mountains, with plenty of photo opportunities.
• Well-Organized Trip: Pickup and drop-off are included, making logistics easier.
• Taste of Local Life: Enjoy a delicious traditional Turkish lunch in Ormana.
• Guide Quality: Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Experience: What You Can Expect

Starting with a hotel pickup, this tour provides a straightforward way to leave the city behind and explore the countryside. The bus ride itself is comfortable, and during the trip through the Taurus Mountains, you’ll get glimpses of rural Turkey that’s often missed by standard city tours. Expect a couple of stops for photos and a visit to a traditional coffee shop—an authentic touch that helps set a relaxed, local tone for the day.

Discovering Altinbesik Cave

The highlight for many is visiting Altinbesik Cave, located within Altinbesik National Park. This site is not only significant because it hosts Turkey’s biggest underground lake, but also because the entire cave system offers natural bridges and formations that are quite breathtaking. The cave maintains a steady temperature of around 16°C, so even on warmer days, it remains comfortably cool. The 30-minute boat trip inside the cave, using inflatable boats with a capacity of 10, lets you glide across the underground lake, offering a unique perspective of this natural marvel.

According to reviews, the cave visit is somewhat brief but still memorable. One reviewer said, “We enjoyed the visit of the cave, even if it was quite short,” which suggests that while the experience is compact, it’s high quality. The boat ride is generally well-loved, giving visitors an up-close look at the cave’s natural beauty that can’t be appreciated from just walking around.

Visiting Ormana Village and Traditional Life

After the cave adventure, the tour continues with a hearty lunch at a traditional restaurant in Ormana. The menu includes options like stewed fish, grilled chicken, or Turkish pizza, along with yoghurt and fresh salad. It’s a chance to relax in a backyard setting and enjoy home-style Turkish cooking. The local restaurant’s setting is described as idyllic, adding to the charm of the day.

Post-lunch, you might find yourself wandering through the village, which is a good opportunity to see authentic architecture and experience local hospitality firsthand. One reviewer noted that visiting a 300-year-old mosque is a highlight, offering insight into the area’s religious and cultural history.

Exploring Local Heritage

The tour doesn’t just focus on natural scenery; it also offers a glimpse into local traditions and history. The visit to a historical house provides a snapshot of traditional Turkish architecture, and the chance to meet with locals adds an authentic touch. The guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, making the experience both educational and personable.

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Wrapping Up with Sarhaclar

The last stop takes you to Sarhaclar, a picturesque local village, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the peaceful rural atmosphere before returning to Side with plenty of time in the afternoon.

Transportation and Practicalities

The entire tour lasts about 7 hours, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, which is a big plus for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of arranging transport. The group sizes tend to be manageable, and the bus ride is comfortable, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery.

The tour is priced at around $48 per person, which offers good value considering the included activities like the boat ride, entrance fees, and lunch. Keep in mind that drinks are not included, so if you want beverages with your meal or during the day, you’ll need to purchase them separately.

A Few Considerations

One important thing to note is that the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility impairments. The cave exploration and walking around the villages involve some physical activity, which may be a concern for some.

What the Reviews Tell Us

Reviews consistently praise the guides for their friendliness and knowledge, with one mentioning a guide who provided explanations in both German and English. Several reviewers appreciated the well-organized nature of the trip, making it easy to relax and enjoy the day. The lunch in Ormana, described as delicious and authentic, is also a highlight.

One traveler summed it up nicely: “The guides are very kind and respectful. I can recommend this trip for all ages,” which suggests that despite some physical aspects, the tour is accessible to a wide audience. The scenery, the cave experience, and the cultural stops seem to resonate well with visitors.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is particularly suitable for travelers who enjoy natural wonders combined with culture. If you’re curious about caves, mountains, and local Turkish traditions, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s also great if you want a well-organized day trip without worrying about logistics, as hotel pickup and drop-off are included.

While not designed for people with mobility issues or pregnant women, it’s a fantastic choice for those comfortable with walking and standing for periods. Families with older children might appreciate the mix of scenery and cultural stops, but of course, always consider your kids’ stamina and interests.

FAQs About the Tour

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
While the trip is enjoyable for most, it’s not suited for pregnant women or those with mobility impairments due to walking and cave exploration.

How long does the cave visit last?
The boat ride inside Altinbesik Cave lasts about 30 minutes, and the overall cave visit is described as short but memorable.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, along with a camera for capturing the scenery. Remember that drinks are not included, so bring water if needed.

Are the guides experienced?
Yes, reviews highlight that guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and able to deliver explanations in different languages, making the experience accessible and informative.

What’s the meal like?
Lunch is a traditional Turkish meal at a local restaurant, with options including fish, chicken, or Turkish pizza, plus yoghurt and salad.

How flexible are the booking options?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and booking now allows you to reserve without immediate payment, offering flexibility.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a day packed with natural beauty, cultural insight, and scenic mountain views without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour offers a solid, well-rounded experience. The boat ride inside Altinbesik Cave is a standout feature, and meeting local people adds depth to the trip.

It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy exploring outdoors, are comfortable with some physical activity, and want a taste of authentic Turkish life away from the city buzz. The value for the price, combined with the positive reviews of guides and overall organization, makes this a good option for many.

Remember, if caves or mountain excursions aren’t your thing, or if you prefer a more relaxed, less active day, this might not be the perfect fit. But for those eager to combine nature, culture, and scenic vistas, it’s quite a rewarding outing.

You can check availability for your dates here: