City of Side: Altinbesik Cave & Ormana Tour w/ Boat & Lunch

If you’re looking for a full-day experience that combines natural wonders, cultural sights, and a taste of authentic Turkish village life, the City of Side: Altinbesik Cave & Ormana Tour with Boat & Lunch might just be the trip for you. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed reviews and comprehensive itinerary paint a picture of a well-organized, engaging day out that appeals to curious travelers who enjoy a mix of nature and local flavor.

What I really like about this tour is how it balances adventure and culture. From exploring Turkey’s largest underground lake to wandering through traditional button houses, there’s a sense of discovery at every turn. Plus, the chance to enjoy a boat ride on an underground lake is a rare treat that most of us wouldn’t find on a normal sightseeing trip.

That said, one thing to consider is the long bus ride—some reviews mention that the journey can be quite lengthy, which might be tiring if you prefer shorter excursions. It’s definitely a full-day commitment with some early mornings and a fair amount of time on the road. So, this tour suits travelers who are keen on a deeper exploration and don’t mind the travel time.

This experience is best suited for those who want a rich mix of nature, history, and local culture, and who enjoy guided tours that provide plenty of context and insight. If you appreciate knowledgeable guides and a thoughtfully curated itinerary, you’ll likely find this trip very rewarding.

Key Points

• Natural Wonder: Visit Turkey’s biggest underground lake with a boat ride, a rare and memorable experience.
• Cultural Insights: See traditional button houses and learn about local architecture and history.
• Beautiful Scenery: Drive through the Taurus Mountains, stopping at scenic spots like Green Canyon and Green Lake.
• Authentic Food: Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch in Ormana village, experiencing local cuisine.
• Historical Sites: Explore a 650-year-old Ottoman mosque and learn about Silk Road villages.
• Guided Experience: Led by a professional local guide, providing valuable insights along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the Tour Experience

Starting Out: Into the Taurus Mountains

The tour kicks off with a drive into the Taurus Mountains, offering a scenic escape from the busy coast. The minibus is air-conditioned, so comfort isn’t an issue, even on warmer days. The group size is small, typically around 8–10 people, which feels intimate and allows for personalized attention from your guide.

On the way, you’ll stop at Avasun, dubbed the village of bay leaves. This spot is excellent for taking in views over Green Canyon and Green Lake—two of the most picturesque natural landmarks in the region. Expect plenty of opportunities for photos, especially of the lush landscape and shimmering water. As one traveler noted, “The views are really stunning, and you’ll want to have your camera ready.”

Exploring Ürünlü and Button Houses

Next, you’ll visit the village of Ürünlü. Here, the highlight is the fascinating ‘button houses’—a unique architectural feature that many find intriguing. These houses are quite distinctive and make for interesting conversation and photos. You might find yourself marveling at how different this style of building is from what’s typical elsewhere.

A quick tea or coffee break at a traditional house follows, giving you a taste of Turkish hospitality and a chance to relax before heading into the caves.

The Majestic Altinbesik Cave

The star of the tour is Altinbesik Cave National Park, home to Turkey’s largest underground lake. You’ll take a boat ride across this subterranean body of water—an experience that’s both calming and awe-inspiring. The boat ride lasts around 20 minutes, and you’ll get to see stalactite and stalagmite formations, especially in the section known as the Golden Cradle Cavern.

Many reviews mention how impressive the cave itself is. One traveler described it as a “special experience” and appreciated the guide’s explanations, which added context to what they were seeing. It’s worth noting that water levels can influence the boat ride’s length—some mention it was shorter than expected or affected by water levels, but overall, visitors seem to find the experience worthwhile.

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Discovering the Cultural Heart: Ormana Village

After exploring the cave, the tour continues to Ormana village, a charming place where you’ll see more button houses and enjoy some local hospitality. The lunch is a highlight here: a traditional Turkish meal at a local restaurant. It’s a good chance to unwind, sample authentic dishes, and discuss the morning’s adventures.

Visiting Silk Road and Ottoman Heritage

The last part of the day includes stops at Sarihacilar köyü, an old Silk Road village, and a 650-year-old Ottoman mosque. These sites provide a glimpse into the region’s historical significance and architectural heritage. The guide usually shares stories that make these places come alive, giving a richer understanding of their importance.

Practical Details: What to Expect

This tour is quite comprehensive, running for about 9 hours with hotel pickup and drop-off included. It’s priced at $42 per person, which offers good value considering the variety of experiences packed into the day—transport, lunch, boat ride, and guided commentary.

The guided aspect is a big plus; reviews highlight how knowledgeable the guides are, with one traveler praising their friendliness and explanations, which makes the trip feel more enriching. You’ll also appreciate the small group size, making it easier to ask questions and engage with the guide.

Transportation and Timing

Travel is in a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus, and the schedule is flexible enough to allow for sightseeing at each stop without feeling rushed. However, the bus ride can be quite long—some reviews mention it being lengthy and suggest that a shorter route might improve comfort. Expect a bit of time on the road, but the scenic views help pass the time.

What’s Included and What’s Not

• Included: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, lunch, a 20-minute boat trip, and a professional guide.
• Not included: Drinks and personal expenses—so bring cash if you want to buy drinks or souvenirs.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip suits curious travelers eager to see natural wonders, learn about local culture, and enjoy a full day out. It’s ideal for those comfortable with a bit of travel time and interested in a guided, well-structured experience. If you’re craving a relaxed, short morning outing, this might be a bit too long, but if you’re after an immersive day, it hits the mark.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

The reviews are generally very positive, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 from around 213 travelers. Many praise the friendly guides and the impressive cave, calling it a “special experience.” One traveler even said, “The trip was really nice and very informative,” highlighting how well the guide explained things.

Some less enthusiastic reviews mention the long bus ride and the short boat trip due to water levels. A couple of reviews also point out unnecessary stops or the trip being a bit long-winded at times, but overall, most find the experience worth the time.

Final Thoughts

If you’re someone who loves mixing nature, history, and authentic cultural sights, this tour offers a well-rounded day. The adventure inside the cave with its underground lake is definitely a highlight, as is the chance to see traditional houses and scenic mountain views. The small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure you’re not just a passive passenger but engaged in the experience.

The price reflects good value, considering the variety of sights and activities. Just be prepared for a full day on the road and some long stretches of travel. If you prioritize comfort, bring snacks and water for the journey, and plan to soak in the stunning landscapes and fascinating underground world.

This experience is perfect if you enjoy exploring off-the-beaten-path sites, learning local stories, and savoring traditional cuisine. Whether you’re into natural wonders or cultural history, the Altinbesik Cave & Ormana Tour offers a genuine slice of Turkish life and landscape.

FAQs

Is the boat ride on the underground lake included in the tour?
Yes, the boat trip lasts around 20 minutes and is part of the official itinerary, giving you a chance to see the cave’s impressive formations from the water.

What’s the main highlight of the tour?
Most travelers say the underground lake in Altinbesik Cave is the standout feature, offering a unique and memorable experience.

How long is the overall tour?
The entire day lasts about 9 hours, including travel time, sightseeing stops, and lunch.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included. You might want to bring some water or purchase beverages during stops.

Is the tour suitable for families?
The tour is generally suitable for most adults and older children comfortable with bus rides and walking, but it’s best to check if young children are comfortable with the full schedule.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, you should book ahead, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot. The tour allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before, providing some flexibility.

If you’re after a day blending nature, culture, and adventure, the Altinbesik Cave & Ormana Tour offers a well-organized way to see some of Turkey’s hidden gems. The mix of underground marvels and traditional villages makes it a trip that stays with you long after you return home.

You can check availability for your dates here: