“Unleash Your Inner Adventurer: Quad Safari in Side!”

If you’re looking to add a burst of excitement to your trip to Side, Turkey, a Quad Safari adventure might just be the perfect choice. While I haven’t personally been on this tour, what I can tell you is that it offers a solid mix of adventure, scenic views, and the chance to get off the beaten path. It’s designed for those who want to see a different side of Turkey’s landscape—literally.

One thing I really appreciate about this experience is its balance between thrill and safety. The full safety brief and practice drive before heading out mean you won’t feel lost or overwhelmed. Plus, the instructor-led guidance ensures you’re well looked after, even if you’re new to quad biking. Another thing I like is the clear focus on natural landscapes—zooming through pine forests and splashing in rivers sounds like a pretty memorable way to spend a day.

A potential consideration is the group size and how it might affect your experience. With up to 50 travelers, some might find the ride a bit crowded or less personalized. Also, if you’re expecting a gourmet picnic or elaborate snacks, you might be disappointed—refreshments are limited to drinks and ice, without any included food.

All in all, this tour seems best suited for those craving a fun, active outdoor adventure with great scenery, especially if you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy a bit of adrenaline. If you’re after a family-friendly, relaxed sightseeing experience, this might be a bit too vigorous. But if your idea of a holiday includes a dash of speed, mud, and mountain views, keep reading.

Key Points

• Adventurous off-road experience through pine forests, hills, and rivers
• Safety-focused, with full briefings and instructor guidance
• Cost-effective, offering good value for the scenic thrills
• Group size can be large, possibly affecting the personal touch
• Duration of around 5 hours makes it a substantial half-day trip
• Suitable for most travelers, but check your comfort with mud and outdoor activity

Exploring the Taurus Mountains on Quads

The main draw of this tour is definitely the chance to drive through the Taurus Mountains, away from the busy streets of Side. We loved the way it offers a mix of natural beauty and sheer fun. You’ll start with a pickup from your hotel, which makes it convenient, and then head straight to Adventure-Park Manavgat Oymapinar – the starting point for your adventure.

Once there, you’ll receive all necessary equipment and a comprehensive safety briefing. This isn’t just a quick overview—it’s a full safety debrief where guides likely walk you through the controls, proper riding techniques, and what to do in unlikely emergencies. After that, there’s a practice test drive, which is a smart step to ensure everyone feels confident before hitting the trails.

The actual ride takes you into the mountains on specially selected off-road trails. These are designed to give you a taste of Turkey’s rugged terrain. You’ll zoom through pine forests, cross rocky tracks, and splash through muddy patches and water crossings. Some reviews mention the route could’ve been a bit more adventurous, but most agree the scenery is the highlight.

What the Ride Looks Like

Expect to sit on a quad bike—which they provide—and follow a guide in a convoy. This group format means you might be riding close to others, but it also adds a social element. The ride lasts about 5 hours, including stops, and is a perfect way to spend a half-day.

The scenery is what makes this memorable. The pine forests, mountain views, and water crossings combine to create a dynamic landscape. It’s an experience that’s as much about the visuals as the adrenaline. You’ll likely get muddy, especially if it’s been rainy—some reviews mention the need for protective clothing, which can be bought locally if you’re worried about getting dirty.

The Experience for Different Travelers

One of the reviews highlights the well-organized nature of the tour, emphasizing that safety is a priority. The guides are described as knowledgeable, which adds a layer of reassurance, especially for those new to quad biking. The tour is suited for most travelers, including those who are comfortable with outdoor activities, but not necessarily experienced riders.

There’s mention that the ride could be a bit more adventurous, but overall, the views and the sense of exploration are praised. If you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy active pursuits, this is a great shared experience. However, those expecting a leisurely scenic drive or minimal physical activity might find it a bit intense.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The ticket price of roughly $32 per person offers good value considering the length and the guided nature of the experience. It covers the quad bike rental, instructor guidance, hotel pickup and drop-off, and travel insurance.

However, it doesn’t include photos or videos—so if capturing your fun moments is important, you might want to bring your own camera or phone. Drinks and snacks are also not included, so plan to bring your own refreshments if you get thirsty or hungry during the ride.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While most reviews are positive, a few mention issues like large group sizes, which could impact the personal feel of the experience. One reviewer pointed out that the route could have been a bit more adventurous, suggesting that if you’re looking for wild, untouched terrain, this might fall slightly short.

Another thing to keep in mind is weather. The tour depends on good weather, and rain might make the trails more muddy, which some find fun, but others may find inconvenient or messy.

For travelers who are sensitive to dirt or prefer a more relaxed activity, this might not be ideal. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children or those with mobility issues, it’s worth considering whether the physical aspect is suitable.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re after an outdoor escapade that combines scenic views, a bit of speed, and active fun, this Quad Safari ticks all those boxes. It’s particularly well-suited for adventurous spirits who want to experience the Turkish countryside in a dynamic and memorable way. The safety measures and guides make it accessible even for beginners, and the overall cost seems reasonable when you consider the length and inclusions.

That said, don’t expect a luxury tour or gourmet picnic. It’s a straightforward, adrenaline-pumping ride through beautiful landscapes. The large group size and the potential for mud might not appeal to everyone, but if you’re open to a bit of dirt and a lot of fun, this is worth considering.

For those seeking a story-worthy adventure that takes you outside the usual tourist spots, this Quad Safari could be a highlight of your time in Side.

FAQs

Do I need previous experience to join this tour?
Not necessarily. The tour includes a full safety briefing and a practice drive, so even beginners can participate comfortably.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off from your hotel, making it convenient.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience lasts around 5 hours, giving you ample time for riding, breaks, and enjoying the scenery.

What should I wear?
Comfortable outdoor clothing is best. Protective gear can be bought at the site if you want to stay cleaner. Expect to get muddy or wet.

Are drinks and snacks included?
No, only drinks and ice are provided. You might want to bring your own refreshments.

Can I buy photos or videos of my ride?
No, these are not included or offered in the tour package.

What’s the maximum group size?
Up to 50 travelers can join, which means it could be a lively experience but might lack a personal touch for some.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but it’s best for those comfortable with outdoor activities and riding a quad.

What’s the scenery like?
Expect pine forests, mountain views, rocky tracks, and water crossings—perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

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

All in all, if you’re after a fun, active day exploring Turkey’s mountains on a quad bike, this adventure offers plenty of memorable moments for a reasonable price. Just be ready to get a little muddy and enjoy the ride!