City of Side: Jeep Safari Tour

If you’re pondering whether a Jeep Safari in the Antalya region deserves a spot in your holiday plans, you’re not alone. This experience promises a full day of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural insights all rolled into one. From the thrill of bumping along mountain trails in rugged Land Rovers to the chance to taste authentic Turkish pancakes with a local family, it’s an outing that offers more than just sightseeing.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it balances excitement with cultural touches — a perfect mix for those looking to see the natural side of Turkey while getting a taste of local life. Plus, the views of Green Canyon and the chance to splash around during water wars make it a lively, memorable day. On the flip side, some might find the ride quite bumpy and the schedule a bit packed, especially if you’re not big on off-road adventures.

This tour tends to suit travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic landscapes, and a bit of adrenaline. It’s especially appealing if you’re traveling with family or friends who are game for off-road fun and want to experience the region beyond typical sightseeing.

Key Points

• Scenic setting: The Taurus Mountains and Green Canyon offer stunning natural views.
• Cultural insights: Visits to local villages and a mosque give a glimpse of Turkish life.
• Adventure factor: Bumpy off-road rides and water wars create an energetic atmosphere.
• Food and relaxation: Enjoy a traditional Turkish lunch and some downtime at a local family’s house.
• Value: At around $24 per person, it offers a lot of variety and memorable moments.
• Group size: Small groups (up to 10) mean more personal attention and a relaxed vibe.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Jeep Safari in Side

This tour is designed to give you a full day outdoors, mixing natural beauty, local culture, and a touch of adventure. Starting early in the morning, typically between 08:30 and 09:00, your group will be picked up from your hotel in Side. From there, the journey begins in rugged Land Rover Defender Jeeps, which really set the tone for the day — off-road, bumpy, and fun.

Pickup and Initial Stop: Manavgat Waterfall

The first stop takes you to the Manavgat Waterfall, a popular natural attraction. Here, you can take in the gentle roar of water rushing over rocks, snap a few photos, and enjoy the coolness of the surroundings. The entrance fee is modest (around 1 TL for adults), and kids get in free. Many reviews mention this as a peaceful, scenic start to the day, though some note it’s a quick stop and not the main highlight.

Journey into the Taurus Mountains and the Green Canyon

After the waterfall, the real adventure begins. You’ll head into the Taurus Mountains, where the off-road driving gets bumpy and exciting. This part of the tour is where the local guides shine, sharing stories and explaining the region’s history and landscape. The rugged terrain, combined with the lively music and water wars, keeps the energy high.

One of the most talked-about parts is the visit to Oymapinar Dam and the Green Canyon. Here, the views are impressive — the deep, green waters contrasted against rocky cliffs create a striking scene. You’ll get about an hour at Green Canyon, enough to take in the scenery and maybe snap some photos from the top of the dam. Many guests quote the bird’s eye view of the canyon as a highlight.

Exploring Village Life and Local Culture

Next, you visit Oymapinar village, where a local family welcomes you into their home. This is a great chance to taste Turkish pancakes and experience rural hospitality firsthand. The review from Daniela describes this as a “delicious” stop, and many appreciate the authentic vibe here. It’s also a good break from the high-energy parts of the day, giving you a chance to relax and chat with locals.

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Water Wars and Family Fun

One of the unique features of this tour is the water wars — a playful, splashy activity where the jeeps spray or throw water at each other. It’s especially popular with children, but many adults find it just as entertaining. Expect a lot of laughter, especially if the weather is hot, as many reviews mention how refreshing it is.

Lunch at a Mountain Restaurant

Midday, you’ll settle into a mountain restaurant for about two hours. The meal options are simple but satisfying — choices between Chicken skewer or Trout, served with fries, rice, and salad. The food gets positive remarks for being tasty and hearty, ideal after a morning of off-road fun.

There’s also a mini Aqua park with slides, which adds a splash of relaxation and fun for those who want to cool off and enjoy some light swimming. It’s a nice touch, especially on warmer days.

Cultural and Religious Site Visit

The tour wraps up with a visit to a local mosque, giving you a glimpse into daily religious life in the area. Many travelers find this to be an interesting cultural insight, rounding out the experience with a sense of place and community.

Returning to Side

By around 16:00, you’ll be back at your hotel, tired but full of stories and photos. The small group size means you’re not lost in a crowd, and the guides tend to be friendly and attentive, often speaking English and German.

The Realities of the Tour: What Travelers Say

From reviews, we can see that most guests walk away satisfied, especially praising the friendly guides and scenic stops. Daniela’s review highlights the bumpy ride and adrenaline of the off-road part, which many find exhilarating. She also appreciated the delicious lunch and the fact that the guides were “there for the fun.”

Renate’s comment underscores the adventure aspect, noting the guides work hard to make sure everyone has a good time, even if the day is spontaneous and lively. On the downside, some mention the pick-up process was a bit complicated due to overbooking, but that seems to be an exception rather than the rule.

Other practical points include the price — at $24 per person, it offers good value considering the variety of activities, scenic views, and cultural experiences packed into one day. The small group size adds a personal touch, making the tour feel more intimate.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This Jeep Safari is ideal for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts eager to see the Taurus Mountains and Green Canyon in an active, engaging way. If you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy splashing around and outdoor rides, you’ll probably find it a blast. It’s also suitable for those interested in learning about local villages and Turkish traditions, thanks to the village visit and mosque.

However, if comfort and smooth rides are your priority, or if you’re someone who prefers a relaxed, slow-paced day, this might not be your first choice. Pregnant women are advised against participating, given the off-road nature and activity level.

FAQs About the Jeep Safari Tour in Side

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pick-up and drop-off are included, making it easy to start and end your day without hassle.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 7 hours, with times starting between 08:30 and 09:30 AM, depending on your hotel.

What’s the price?
At $24 per person, it’s an affordable way to see a variety of sights, especially considering the included meals and activities.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, but you can purchase beverages during stops or at the restaurant.

Is this suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, water wars and off-road rides suggest it’s more suited for older children and adults. Always check with the provider if you’re traveling with small kids.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

Is there an opportunity for photos?
Absolutely. The views from Green Canyon and the dam top are perfect for photos, and many guests buy optional DVD photos.

What language is the guide speaking?
Guides speak English and German, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Wrapping It All Up

This Jeep Safari from Side offers a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. The rugged rides through the Taurus Mountains, combined with scenic stops at Green Canyon and engaging activities like water wars, make it a lively day out. The inclusion of a home-cooked Turkish lunch and cultural visits adds depth that many travelers appreciate.

It’s an experience best suited for those who thrive on outdoor activities, enjoy scenic drives, and are looking for a day away from the usual tourist spots. If you’re after a fun, energetic way to explore the countryside and don’t mind some bumpy roads, this tour can deliver plenty of memorable moments.

While it might not be perfect for those seeking a gentle or relaxed day, it’s an excellent choice for adventurous spirits and families with older children. The value for money is solid, and the small group size makes it feel personalized without the hefty price tag.

All in all, this Jeep Safari stands out as a great way to see a different side of Turkey, packed with striking views and authentic experiences.

Remember: Always check availability and confirm details before booking, especially during busy seasons. Pack comfortable clothing, sunglasses, and be ready for some splashes and sunshine. Enjoy your adventure in the Turkish mountains!

You can check availability for your dates here: