Side Cabrio Bus Tour With Green Lake And Manavgat Waterfall

If you’re considering a day trip that combines scenic drives, natural beauty, and cultural sights around Side, Turkey, this Side Cabrio Bus Tour might catch your eye. While we haven’t experienced it firsthand, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a pretty clear picture of what to expect — and it seems to strike a good balance between adventure and sightseeing.

What we really like about this tour is how it offers an active way to explore the surroundings — riding in a specially designed Cabrio Bus, with plenty of off-road fun. Plus, the inclusion of a boat ride on Green Lake and visits to ancient sites makes it a well-rounded day. But, on the flip side, it’s noteworthy that some activities, like the Waterfall entrance fee, aren’t included, which could add up. This trip seems best suited for curious travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, history, and lively group experiences.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combines natural sights, historical ruins, and local culture.
• Fun off-road drives with water fights and dust roads add an adventurous touch.
• Guides are praised for their knowledgeable insights and friendly attitude.
• Price point feels reasonable for the full-day experience including lunch and boat tour.
• Extras like entrance fees for some sites are not included, so budget accordingly.
• Suitable for active travelers who like outdoor exploration and scenic views.

An Honest Look at the Tour Experience

This Side Cabrio Bus Tour is designed as a full-day adventure that takes you beyond the usual tourist spots and into the countryside, mountains, and historical sites around Side. Starting with hotel pickup around 9:00 am, the experience is quite organized, with a guide leading the way and sharing stories about each stop. The pace is steady, allowing enough time to soak in views without feeling rushed.

The Journey Begins: From Side to Manavgat

The day kicks off with a short drive from your hotel to the first stop — the town of Side itself. Here, your guide offers some background and helps set the tone for the day. It’s a good way to get oriented and get a glimpse of local life. The initial stop is a quick 30-minute visit, mainly for orientation and to meet your fellow travelers.

Next, you’ll head to Manavgat, where the tour includes a visit to a local mosque. This stop is particularly interesting for those wanting to understand the region’s religious traditions and culture. The guide shares insights, making this stop more meaningful than just a casual visit. It’s a calm, reflective experience and offers some photo opportunities.

The Power of Nature: Manavgat Waterfall

The highlight for many is likely to be the Manavgat Waterfall, which is a stunning natural feature. With about 30 minutes allocated here, you have enough time to observe the waterfall and snap some photos. It’s worth noting that the entrance fee isn’t included — so if you want to get closer or explore further, you’ll need to budget for that extra cost.

Several reviews mention this spot as a great photo opportunity, emphasizing its beauty and the opportunity to capture some memorable shots. However, some travelers find the time here a bit brief, especially if they want to explore more closely or buy souvenirs from local vendors.

Off-Road Fun and Village Life

After the waterfall, the tour gets lively with an off-road safari through dusty and sometimes muddy country roads. It’s definitely the most adventurous part of the day, with the vehicle bouncing over rough terrain and water fights adding a splash of fun. Travelers who enjoy a bit of dirt, dust, and laughter will find this part memorable.

During this off-road drive, your group stops at a Turkish tea garden where you can sample gözleme (Turkish pancakes). This is a relaxed, authentic experience that offers a taste of local hospitality. The free tasting is appreciated by many who want to indulge in some Turkish flavors and learn about local cuisine.

Exploring Ancient Ruins: Seleucia and Roman Aqueducts

The journey continues with visits to ancient sites including Seleukeia — a city that’s about 2500 years old. Here, you’ll learn about the city’s architectural significance and see mosaics from the Hellenistic period. This stop, although short at just 30 minutes, provides a tangible connection to the past and is quite appreciated for its historical value.

Further along, the tour includes some quick stops at landmarks like the Naras Bridge, Roman Aqueducts, and Oymapinar Dam, giving you glimpses into Roman engineering marvels. These short photo breaks are a nice way to stretch your legs and get some memorable shots, even if they’re quick.

The Green Lake: A Highlight for Relaxation and Activities

Perhaps the most relaxing part of the day is the stop at Green Canyon or Green Lake. You’ll enjoy a lakeside lunch of grilled fish, chicken, or meatballs, with traditional sides like rice, pasta, salad, and fresh fruit. The scenic setting makes this a standout moment — perfect for unwinding amid nature.

After lunch, you’re free to swim, kayak, or fish in the clear waters. Many reviews praise the lake’s turquoise waters for their beauty, making it a memorable highlight. The 1.5-hour free time here is ample for a quick swim or a leisurely walk along the shore.

Boat Tour and the Final Stop

The boat ride on Green Lake is a peaceful way to see more of this tranquil spot. It lasts about an hour — a gentle cruise that many find adds a calming, scenic end to the busy day. It’s included in the price, which adds value, especially since boat tours can sometimes come as costly add-ons.

The last stop is a small zoo among the woods, where you can see some rare animals. It’s a cute way to wrap up the tour, especially if you’re traveling with a family or just enjoy some lighthearted animal spotting.

Returning Home

After a full day of exploring, the bus heads back to Side, arriving around 4:30 pm. It’s a well-paced day that covers a lot of ground without leaving you exhausted, but be prepared for a fair amount of driving and some dusty roads.

What We Think About the Value

At $25 per person, the tour offers a lot — multiple stops, lunch, a boat trip, and guided insights. The inclusion of the boat on Green Lake and the lunch at the lakeside restaurant do add a lot to the experience. However, travelers should be aware that some entrance fees, like Manavgat Waterfall, aren’t included, so it’s good to have a little extra cash for those.

Some reviews mentioned issues like a missed or canceled booking, which understandably can spoil the day. But these seem to be isolated incidents in the feedback. The majority of comments praise the guides for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience enjoyable.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This Side Cabrio Bus Tour is ideal if you’re looking for an active, full-day outing that mixes history, nature, and a touch of adventure. It’s suitable for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, discovering ancient ruins, and relaxing by lakes. If you’re traveling with a group that appreciates lively off-road fun and cultural insights, you’ll likely have a good time.

This tour might be less suitable for those who prefer less physical activity or a more relaxed, less varied itinerary. Also, if you’re particular about including all entrance fees in the price, be prepared for some additional costs.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient to start and end your day without extra hassle.

How long does the entire trip last?
The tour runs for about 7 to 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Are meals included?
Yes, lunch at a lakeside restaurant is included, featuring grilled fish, chicken, or meatballs, along with sides and fruits.

Can I swim in Green Lake?
Absolutely. Many travelers enjoy swimming or kayaking during the free time at Green Lake.

Is the boat tour on Green Lake free?
Yes, the boat ride is included in the tour price and lasts about an hour, offering a scenic cruise on the lake.

Are entrance fees to attractions covered?
No, some like Manavgat Waterfall require an extra fee, so be prepared for additional costs.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly marketed for children, the activities like boat rides and visits to ruins could be suitable for families, but consider whether your kids will enjoy the off-road driving and water fights.

How is the guide’s service?
Reviews consistently mention knowledgeable and friendly guides who add value to the experience with their insights and humor.

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

Final Thoughts

The Side Cabrio Bus Tour with Green Lake and Manavgat Waterfall offers a lively, varied way to see the surrounds of Side. You get a taste of history, nature, and local life, all packed into a manageable full day. The off-road fun, combined with cultural and natural highlights, makes it a solid choice for travelers wanting to blend adventure with sightseeing.

If you enjoy guided tours that incorporate outdoor activity, scenic beauty, and a bit of cultural learning, this trip is worth considering. Just keep in mind the extra costs for some entrances and the possibility of a busy, energetic day — it’s not a lazy sightseeing cruise, but a lively exploration that will leave you with stories to tell.

Whether you’re into history, nature photography, or just looking for an active day out, this tour offers enough variety to keep most people engaged. It’s best suited for those eager to experience a full day of Turkish countryside, ancient ruins, and lakeside relaxation.

Remember: Always double-check the latest reviews and details before booking, as experiences can vary and schedules might change. Happy exploring!