Side: Guided Quad Bike Riding Experience

If you’re considering a quad biking tour in Side, Turkey, you’re probably wondering what to expect and whether it’s worth your time and money. We haven’t tried it ourselves but have gathered plenty of insights from travelers who have. This tour offers a fun outdoor adventure that’s especially appealing if you love a bit of mud, scenic views, and guided expertise.

What really catches our eye about this experience are the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the beautiful landscapes that surround the trail. Plus, with pick-up and drop-off included, it’s pretty convenient to get started. On the flip side, some reviews mention that the quads are a bit worn out and that the ride isn’t especially adrenaline-pumping. If you’re seeking a high-intensity, speed-drenched ride, this might not satisfy that craving.

This tour is best suited for beginners and families who want a relaxed yet engaging outdoor experience. If you’re after a straightforward, scenic ride with some mud and fun, it could be just what you need. However, if you’re an experienced quad driver looking for a rush, you might find the pace a bit tame.

Key Points

• Great value for a 3.5-hour guided experience at $35 per person.
• Scenic views and diverse terrain make the ride visually rewarding.
• Helpful guides and good organization enhance the experience.
• Some quads are older, which might affect performance.
• Limited to 50 travelers, keeping the group manageable.
• Includes transportation, insurance, helmets, and a shower after riding.

What to Expect from the Quad Bike Tour

Convenient Transfer and Safety Briefing

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup via air-conditioned coach, which means you won’t have to worry about how to get to the starting point. Once you arrive, the team will give a quick safety briefing and show a short movie on TV. They’ll also handle the paperwork, including insurance forms, so you’re covered from the start.

From the reviews, it seems the guides are quite professional and friendly, aiming to ensure everyone feels comfortable before hitting the trail. One traveler mentioned that the staff was “super helpful,” which is a big plus when dealing with outdoor activities involving machinery.

The Ride: About 20 km of Muddy Trails

You’ll start with a brief training session to get familiar with the quad bikes, helmets, and basic controls. After that, the real fun begins with roughly 20 km of trail riding, weaving through natural scenery near the Manavgat River. Expect to encounter mud, water, and uneven terrain—be prepared to get dirty and wet. Many reviews highlight the muddy, splashy fun, which is part of the charm.

One reviewer described the ride as “over stock/stone, up and down hills, and through cold water,” emphasizing the variety of terrain. Several even said they were “wet and muddy,” which, considering the hot Turkish climate, probably added a cooling element to the adventure.

The Experience for Different Riders

If you’re a family or a beginner, you’ll appreciate that the guides only let you ride once they’re confident you’re ready. Some reviews note that speed is limited—likely for safety—and that the ride isn’t for those seeking high speed. One review pointed out that “it’s not very extreme,” making it suitable for those new to quad biking or with kids over 16 who prefer to stay passengers.

However, for more experienced drivers, this might feel a bit tame. A reviewer mentioned that the quads are “a bit old,” and some felt the ride was “boring” due to the slow pace and lack of thrill.

Post-Ride Relaxation and Memories

Once the ride ends, you can enjoy the shower facilities to wash off the mud. This is definitely a highlight for many—no one wants to arrive back sticky and dirty! Plus, there’s an option to buy a DVD of your ride, with photos and videos taken during the trip, for around €25. Some travelers found the photos decent, but others felt they weren’t worth the money.

A nice touch is that you can pay for the DVD at your hotel if you prefer not to carry cash, which adds to the convenience. If you choose not to buy the DVD, you’ll still have the memory of a fun, muddy adventure.

Drop-off and Overall Organization

The tour generally wraps up with hotel drop-off, making logistics simple. Multiple reviews praise the punctuality and professionalism of the guides and organizers, which helps make the experience smooth and enjoyable.

The Value for Money and Practical Tips

The tour costs around $35 per person, which is reasonable considering everything included: pickup, drop-off, helmets, insurance, and about 20 km of riding. The tour lasts approximately 3 hours 30 minutes, giving plenty of time to enjoy the ride and relax afterward.

From reviews, the value seems good—you get a decent amount of riding, lovely scenery, and helpful staff. Remember, the photos and DVD are optional extras, and their quality is subjective; some find them worth it, others not so much.

What to Wear and Bring

Since the ride is muddy and wet, dress in old clothes or gear that you don’t mind getting dirty. Shoes should be sturdy and closed-toe. The tour provides helmets, but if you want to protect your eyes, you’ll need to bring sunglasses or a mask (not included). Some reviewers also suggest bringing a dry change of clothes and a towel for after.

Authentic Traveler Insights

The reviews offer a well-rounded picture. Many guests enjoyed the super friendly guides and the stunning views from the hills. One traveler said, “the staff was super helpful,” and another appreciated the beautiful destination and the variety of terrains they experienced.

Of course, some reviews mention older quad bikes and limited speed, which may disappoint adrenaline junkies. But if you’re after a relaxed, scenic ride with friendly guidance, this tour hits the spot.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you’re new to quad biking or traveling with family members who want a safe, guided adventure. It’s also suitable for those who prioritize scenic views, a bit of mud, and a relaxed pace. If you’re a thrill-seeker or have previous quad experience, you might find this tour a bit understated.

If you’re okay with a moderate ride that emphasizes nature and fun over high-speed thrills, you’ll likely leave with a smile and some memorable photos. Keep in mind the clothing gets very muddy, so plan accordingly.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

• How long is the quad bike experience?
  Approximate duration is 3 hours 30 minutes, including transfer, safety briefing, riding, and shower time.

• Is the tour suitable for children?
  Children under 16 can only be passengers, not drivers. Adults wanting to join as passengers should select the child price.

• Are the quad bikes new?
  No, some reviews mention the bikes are a bit old, but they still function well for the terrain.

• What should I wear?
  Wear old, comfortable clothes that can get muddy and wet. Closed-toe shoes are recommended, and bring sunglasses or masks if desired.

• Are photos and videos included?
  No, they are optional extras at €25 for a DVD or USB. Reviews suggest quality varies.

• Is there a safety briefing?
  Yes, guides provide a quick safety overview and a short instructional movie before riding.

• What happens if it rains?
  The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

• Can I cancel the tour?
  Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• What’s the group size?
  The maximum is 50 travelers, but reviews suggest the group is usually managed well for a personalized experience.

• Does the tour include insurance?
  Yes, insurance is included as part of the package.

Final Thoughts

This side of Side’s quad biking experience offers a solid, fun outdoor activity that balances scenic views, friendly guides, and mud-splattered excitement. It’s a good pick for beginners, families, or anyone wanting a relaxed ride without high adrenaline expectations. While the older bikes and limited speed might not thrill veteran riders, most guests seem to leave happy and with plenty of stories to tell.

If you’re after a well-organized, reasonably priced outdoor adventure with a chance to enjoy the Turkish landscape from a different perspective, this tour could be a great addition to your holiday. Just remember to bring clothes you don’t mind getting mucky, and prepare for a good dose of fun and fresh air.