Buggy/Quad & Rafting Combo Tour

A Practical Look at the Buggy/Quad & Rafting Combo Tour in Side, Turkey

If you’re after a day filled with adventure and a bit of dirt flying, this combo tour from Side might catch your eye. It promises a full day of off-road buggy riding through scenic mountains, followed by an exhilarating rafting experience down a lively river. Packed with adrenaline and good vibes, it’s designed for those who want to see a different side of Turkey’s stunning countryside without needing prior experience.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the inclusive nature — no driver’s license needed, and a clear safety briefing makes it accessible for most people. Plus, the hotel pickup adds a layer of convenience that keeps things smooth from the start. However, a consideration to keep in mind is that you’ll get pretty muddy and wet, which might not suit everyone, especially if you’re particular about your clothes or shoes.

All in all, this adventure is a good pick for active travelers who are comfortable getting a little messy and love a mix of land and water fun. It’s also well-suited for those who enjoy guided experiences with knowledgeable instructors, ensuring safety and fun go hand in hand. If you’re someone who likes a straightforward, well-organized day out, this tour could be just the right fit.

Key Points

• Accessible for most: No driving license or prior experience required for buggy riding.
• Full-day adventure: Combines off-road buggy fun with river rafting, including a swimming break.
• Safety first: Clear safety instructions and gear provided.
• Convenience: Includes hotel pickup from Antalya, Alanya, and Side areas.
• Cost-effective: Priced at just over $50 per person for an immersive day.
• Authentic experience: Guides are praised for their enthusiasm and professionalism.

What the Tour Includes and How It Works

This 10-hour tour is designed as a seamless experience that takes you from the comfort of your hotel to the scenic outdoors. Starting early around 8:30am, you’ll be picked up from your accommodation, which is a big bonus as it removes the hassle of transportation. The meeting point is at Köprülü Canyon National Park, a beautiful setting for a day out.

The Buggy Safari: Dirt, Dust, and Fun

The first part of the day is the buggy or quad safari, which lasts roughly an hour. If you’re worried about your driving skills, rest assured—no experience or license is necessary. A team of instructors will walk you through the basics and safety procedures before you jump into the vehicle. They’ll equip you with helmets and safety gear, and then you’re off on a path that’s designed to be exciting, muddy, and full of twists and turns.

This part is especially praised for how approachable it is—guides are friendly and enthusiastic, making even complete beginners feel at ease. As one reviewer noted, “the landrover safari was brilliant, delightful,” which hints at the overall positive vibe and the chance to enjoy the rugged beauty of the area.

Rafting: Splashing and Adrenaline

After the buggy adventure, you’ll return to the station and gear up for river rafting. Once again, safety instructions are provided, and you’ll be supplied with paddles, helmets, and life jackets. The rafting activity is described as thrilling, with foamy rapids that truly get your adrenaline going. As one reviewer said, “The rafting was so much fun and safe,” which is reassuring for first-timers or those who prefer guided safety.

The river’s flow is lively enough to be exciting, but once you get used to the water’s temperature, many find it irresistible to jump in and swim during the break. The instructor will give you a short pause to relax or take a dip, which is a nice touch to break up the adrenaline rush.

End of the Day and Overall Experience

By afternoon, after a full day of splashing, driving, and exploring, you’ll be transported back to your hotel. The tour is well-organized, with comfortable transportation and a clear schedule, making it easy to enjoy the day without stress.

What Travelers Say

The reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides as a major plus, with comments like “Ali was very enthusiastic and kept us all in good spirits.” That enthusiasm tends to boost the overall experience, especially during the more active parts like the buggy ride.

One traveler appreciated how easy it was to book even late in the day, mentioning, “It was a late booking around 5 pm Turkish time, but they accepted my booking.” This flexibility can be a lifesaver if you’re planning last-minute adventures.

The main critique revolves around additional costs—some felt that renting extra equipment or buying wetsuits would be better included in the price, rather than an added expense on-site. The price itself is quite fair considering the full day of activities, but it’s good to keep in mind that some extras might come at a cost.

Practical Details and Tips

• Price: About $53.16 per person – it’s a fair deal for a full day of activities, especially when you consider the included lunch and transfer.
• Duration: Around 10 hours, which means plenty of time for fun but also a full day out.
• Group Size: Up to 200 travelers, but many reviews suggest it still feels relatively personal and well-managed.
• Timing: Starts at 8:30am, so plan to be ready early.
• What to Wear: Expect to get dirty and wet, so wear clothes suitable for mud and water, and consider bringing waterproof footwear or quick-drying shoes.
• Photos & Videos: Not included, so you might want to bring a waterproof camera or phone if capturing memories is important.
• Additional Costs: Personal spending, drinks, or extra equipment rentals are not included, so plan accordingly.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for adventure junkies and those comfortable with getting muddy and wet. It’s a great choice if you want a full, active day that combines land and water thrills without needing prior experience. If you’re traveling with friends or a group of active travelers, it’s a fun way to bond over shared challenges like navigating rapids or controlling the buggy.

It’s not ideal for travelers looking for a laid-back day or those with mobility concerns, as the activities are physically engaging and involve some dirt and water. But if you’re after a fun, hands-on adventure that won’t break the bank, this combo tour offers solid value.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this buggy and rafting combo from Side is a well-organized, fun-packed day that delivers on adventure without requiring any previous experience. The guides are praised for their enthusiasm and professionalism, which helps keep everyone safe and smiling. The mix of off-road driving and river fun makes for a varied experience that appeals to thrill-seekers and outdoor lovers alike.

While some might wish for included extra equipment or a slightly more streamlined booking process, these are minor points in an otherwise enjoyable day out. Given the reasonable price, the range of activities, and the convenience of hotel pickup, this tour offers an excellent way to explore the natural beauty of Turkey’s mountains and rivers.

If you’re in the Antalya, Alanya, or Side area and want a day full of excitement and scenic views, this adventure is worth considering. Just be ready to embrace the mud, splash around in the water, and enjoy every moment of it.

FAQ

Is prior experience required for this tour?
No, you don’t need any prior experience or a driver’s license for the buggy ride. Guides will give clear instructions before you start.

What should I wear for the activities?
Wear comfortable clothes that you don’t mind getting muddy or wet. Waterproof shoes or quick-drying footwear are recommended.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is open to most travelers, and the activities are designed to be accessible, but specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned. Check with the provider if you have younger children.

What is included in the package?
The tour includes lunch, professional instructors, use of paddles, helmets, life jackets, and insurance. Hotel pickup from surrounding areas is also included.

How long does each part last?
The buggy safari lasts about an hour, and the rafting activity is part of the entire 10-hour experience. Expect a full day of activities.

Can I buy photos or videos of the trip?
No, photos and videos are not included, so consider bringing your own waterproof camera.

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

If you’re craving an active adventure in Turkey’s beautiful outdoors, this combo tour offers a good blend of thrills and scenic fun. Just remember to come prepared for getting a little dirty and soaking up some nature’s wild side.