Buggy Safari at Koprulu Canyon National Park – 20 km riding experience

If you’re looking for a way to add some adrenaline to your time in Side, a buggy safari through Koprulu Canyon might just be the adventure you need. This tour promises a mix of fun driving, natural beauty, and some well-earned water breaks. While it’s not a full-on wilderness trek, it offers a solid dose of excitement, especially if you’re after a different kind of outdoor activity away from the crowded beaches.

What we like about this experience is how straightforward and hassle-free it is — with hotel pickup and an organized setup. Plus, the guided element means you’ll always feel safe, even if you’re new to ATVs or buggies. A second big plus is the opportunity to cool off in the Koprulu River, which adds a refreshing twist to the ride. However, a little heads-up is that the location might not be exactly as advertised, which some travelers have noted.

This tour is best suited for adventure lovers who want a taste of off-road driving without too much complication. If you’re comfortable with a 4-hour outing and enjoy scenic outdoor activities, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also a good option for those who want a flexible, inclusive experience with pickup service included.

Key Points

• Guided Experience: Always have a guide on hand for safety and instructions.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics simple.
• Active & Scenic: 20 km of driving through varied landscapes, including river stops.
• Value for Money: Around $40, with equipment, insurance, and a river swim included.
• Potential Location Confusion: Some reviews mention the actual site isn’t exactly the national park or Koprucay River.
• Family-Friendly? Not explicitly, but suitable for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities.

What to Expect on the Tour

This buggy safari is designed to create a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and relaxation. The process kicks off with a pick-up from your hotel, so no need to worry about transportation logistics. Once at the facility, you’ll watch a short safety movie and get a quick test drive around the premises. This prep helps ensure everyone feels comfortable before heading out into the wild.

The route covers approximately 12.4 miles (or 20 km), following a trail that runs parallel to the Koprucay River. The guides are clear, patient, and always present to keep things safe, which is especially reassuring if you’re new to off-road driving. Throughout the ride, you’ll experience areas inside the river, adding a splash of excitement and a chance to get your feet wet.

Halfway through, there’s a dedicated 15-minute swim stop at the Koprucay River, giving everyone a break from the bumpy ride. Here, you can cool off, relax, and take some photos of the stunning surroundings. Afterward, the adventure continues on a specially designed circuit, weaving through scenic landscapes that showcase Turkey’s natural beauty without feeling overly commercialized.

When the drive wraps up, the team presents an aftermovie, letting you relive the fun moments. Finally, you’re transported back to your hotel, making this a smooth and convenient day out.

The Ride: A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The day begins with the pick-up, which is typically arranged from your hotel. This door-to-door service is a real plus, especially if you’re staying in Side or nearby. Once at the facility, you’ll find a friendly team ready to introduce you to the equipment. The safety briefing and test drive are essential — they ensure everyone is comfortable before hitting the trails. As one reviewer noted, “The facilities are spot on with showers, shop, etc all onsite,” which means you can freshen up afterward if needed.

The core of the experience is the 20 km buggy ride, which follows a route alongside the Koprucay River. The terrain varies from gentle slopes to more rugged patches, giving a sense of adventure without being overly challenging. Some travelers have expressed satisfaction with the pace, mentioning that “slow drivers were taken out,” ensuring everyone gets their turn to have fun at a suitable speed.

The river stop is a highlight, offering a chance to cool down and unwind. The waters are clear, and the surrounding scenery is lush, making it a perfect photo opportunity. One reviewer shared, “It was dirty and wet, just as we expected,” which captures the essence of an outdoor adventure — messy, fun, and memorable.

After the drive, the team shows an aftermovie, which helps you remember the highlights. The drop-off service is reliable, with the guides ensuring everyone gets back to their hotel comfortably.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $40.32 per person, you get quite a bit: helmet, insurance, a 20 km buggy ride, and the river swim break. The air-conditioned transportation from your hotel to the site is also part of the package, adding convenience.

Extras such as photos, DVDs, or additional gear (mask, bandana, sunglasses, raincoat) are available for purchase, so if you want professional photos, you can plan to spend a bit extra. Food and drinks are not included, so bringing your water or snacks is advisable if you want to stay energized.

The Real Value of This Tour

Considering the price point, the tour offers good value, especially since it’s a half-day activity that combines outdoor fun with scenic moments. The equipment is included, and the guided support makes it accessible even for beginners or those unfamiliar with off-road vehicles. Plus, the river swim adds a refreshing element that many outdoor tours lack.

Reviewers seem pleased with the organization and the overall experience. One said, “The trip was very well organized,” and another mentioned the professional photos for just 15 euros, which is reasonable for quality keepsakes.

However, a few reviews mention that the advertised location might not be exactly as expected, and some travelers felt the ride was more convoy than independent exploration. So, if you’re expecting a wild, off-the-beaten-path experience, this may be more controlled than you think.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari is ideal if you’re after a fun, active outing that doesn’t require extensive experience. It’s suitable for those comfortable with a moderate adventure, who enjoy scenic drives and river breaks. If you’re traveling with kids or looking for family-friendly activities, you might want to check the age restrictions or inquire further, as the tour isn’t explicitly marketed as family-focused.

It’s also a good choice for travelers who want a hassle-free day — hotel pickup, guided instructions, and a straightforward route make it accessible. However, if you prefer a longer, more rugged off-road experience or want to explore less touristy areas, you might find this tour a bit tame.

The Sum Up

The Buggy Safari at Koprulu Canyon offers a well-organized, fun-packed outing that combines scenic landscapes, a bit of adrenaline, and some well-deserved water breaks. It’s perfect for those who want to do something active without getting too deep into extreme off-roading or complicated arrangements. The inclusion of safety gear, guidance, and transportation makes it a low-stress choice, especially for first-timers.

While the location might not perfectly match every traveler’s expectations, the experience itself delivers on its promise of a lively, enjoyable day outdoors. The price point is fair, especially considering the environmental beauty, the river swim, and the professionalism of the guides. It’s a solid pick for adventure lovers or anyone looking to add a splash of excitement to their time in Side.

If you’re after a straightforward, enjoyable outdoor activity that offers a good balance of thrill and scenery, this buggy safari could be just what you need.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour provides courtesy pickup and drop-off from your hotel, which makes logistics much easier.

How long is the entire experience? It lasts about 4 hours, including transportation, safety briefing, the ride, the river swim, and return.

What’s the approximate distance of the ride? The main driving route covers around 20 km (12.4 miles).

Are helmets and safety gear provided? Yes, helmets are included as part of the package.

Can beginners participate? Yes, the safety briefing and test ride ensure that even newcomers can enjoy the experience.

Is there a guide on the tour? Absolutely, a guide is always present to ensure safety and help with instructions.

Are photos available? Yes, professional photos can be purchased for around 15 euros, and some reviews mention a good selection.

What is the scenery like? Expect scenic views along the river and natural landscapes, though some reviews note the actual location may differ from the advertised national park.

If you’re craving a fun, scenic outdoor activity in Side with straightforward logistics and good value, the buggy safari at Koprulu Canyon offers a memorable day out. Just be prepared for a controlled, convoy-style ride and bring your camera!