Side: Guided Buggy UTV Safari Tour

If you’re thinking about adding a bit of adrenaline to your trip to Side, Turkey, a buggy safari could be just what you need. This tour promises around 3 hours of fun, muddy, off-road exploration, and honestly, it’s a pretty good deal for the price — just $39 per person. While we haven’t personally strapped into these buggies, the reviews and your typical tour setup give us a clear picture of what to expect.

What really catches our eye is how many travelers highlight the friendly guides and scenic routes. Plus, the inclusion of safety gear like helmets and insurance adds a layer of peace of mind. On the flip side, some mention the occasional wait time or getting a bit muddy, which, if you’re after a clean experience, might be worth considering. This experience seems best suited for those wanting a fun, active outing that doesn’t take itself too seriously — perfect if you’re craving some dirt and speed but not a rugged, day-long excursion.

Key Points

• Great value for the price at just $39 for about 3 hours of off-road fun.
• Includes safety gear and insurance, so you can focus on enjoying yourself.
• Friendly guides are frequently praised for their helpfulness and professionalism.
• Mud, dirt, and splashes are part of the package — come prepared to get wet and dirty.
• Round-trip hotel transfers make logistics hassle-free.
• Waiting times may bother some, but most find the fun outweighs the delays.

What’s the Experience Like?

When you book this buggy safari, you’re essentially signing up for a rough-and-tumble adventure exploring the terrain near Side. The tour starts with pickup from your hotel, which is a nice touch, especially if you want to avoid the hassle of organizing your own transport. The air-conditioned bus takes you to a location near the Manavgat River, where your adventure begins.

Once there, you’ll watch a short welcome film and fill out insurance forms — standard safety precautions that let you focus on the ride ahead. The team provides a helmet and insurance, both crucial for a fun but safe outing. You’ll get a quick briefing from your guides, who are often described as friendly and professional in reviews, and then it’s time for the off-road action.

The actual ride covers around 20 kilometers, which is plenty of terrain to keep you entertained. Expect dirt tracks, muddy puddles, and challenging spots that require some skill and a sense of adventure. The route is designed to allow everyone, regardless of previous experience, to enjoy the ride, although children under 16 are not permitted to drive — they can only be passengers.

The Route and Terrain

The drive’s highlight is the off-road trail that takes you through rugged, muddy terrain. If you’ve watched the reviews, you’ll see that most people come away covered in mud, which is almost part of the fun. One reviewer pointed out, “Be prepared to get muddy and dusty,” which is a good reminder to wear clothes you’re fine with ruining. There’s also a shower and changing area on-site, making post-ride cleanup easier.

The scenery along the way is generally appreciated, with many noting the beautiful natural surroundings. It’s a great way to see parts of the countryside you might not otherwise access, especially on the dirt tracks that wind through the landscape.

Guides and Safety

From the feedback, guides are a standout feature. They are usually described as helpful, friendly, and well-informed, which makes a big difference in a high-energy activity like this. They’ll give you instructions, keep an eye on safety, and help you if you get stuck or muddy. Helmets are provided, and insurance is included, which adds a layer of security for everyone involved.

Some reviews mention waiting times, which can be a bit frustrating, especially if you’re eager to get straight into the action. But most guests agree that the fun of the ride makes the waiting worthwhile.

The Cost and What’s Included

At $39, this tour offers good value for the length and intensity of the experience. It includes a 20 km buggy cross ride, helmet, hotel pickup and drop-off, a tour leader, and insurance. The price also covers the safety equipment, which is reassuring.

Extras like photos and DVDs are available for purchase, so if you want to remember your muddy escapade, you can opt to buy these after your ride. Most guests find the cost reasonable, especially since the DVD can be purchased on-site or paid for later at your hotel.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This activity is best suited for adventure-seekers and those who don’t mind getting dirty. It’s also perfect for groups, families with older children (over 16), or anyone looking to add a dash of thrill to their holiday. If you’re traveling with kids under 16, they can only be passengers, so this is more of an adult or teen activity for driving.

While some guests mention repeated stopping and waiting, the overall consensus is that the fun of the ride outweighs the delays. So if you’re okay with some waiting and love off-road driving, you’ll likely have a blast.

Final Thoughts

This buggy safari offers a combination of scenic views, thrilling off-road driving, and friendly guides—all at a reasonable price point. It’s a solid choice if you want a lively, muddy adventure without the commitment of a full-day tour. Just come prepared to get dirty and expect some wait times to be part of the process.

Most reviews confirm that you’ll leave with a smile — covered in mud and full of stories. It’s not a refined sightseeing experience but rather a fun, active outing that appeals to travelers craving a different kind of adventure. If you’re after beautiful landscapes, friendly guides, and a chance to loosen up, this could be just the activity to add some excitement to your trip.

FAQs

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it easy to fit into your schedule without extra hassle.

Can children participate?
Children under 16 cannot drive but can be passengers. If adults want to join as passengers, they should select the child price category.

How long is the ride?
The buggy ride covers approximately 20 kilometers (about 12.5 miles), lasting around 3 hours total, including briefing and stops.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting muddy or dirty. Bring sunglasses or a bandana—though not included—if you want to protect yourself from the dust.

Are safety gear and insurance included?
Yes, helmets and insurance are provided to ensure safe riding.

What’s the main activity?
A 20 km off-road buggy cross ride through dirt tracks, muddy puddles, and rugged terrain.

Can I buy photos or videos of my ride?
Yes, you can purchase a DVD of your adventure, either on-site or at your hotel later.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re ready for some muddy fun and scenic off-road riding, this Side buggy safari might just be the adventure you’re looking for. It’s lively, reasonably priced, and full of stories — just remember to bring clothes that can handle a little dirt!