From Side Jeep Safari Off-Road and Boat Tour with Lunch

Traveling in Antalya Province, Turkey, offers endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation, but if you’re craving a day that mixes both, the Side Jeep Safari & Green Lake Boat Tour might just be your answer. While we haven’t personally taken this exact journey, the reviews and itinerary paint a pretty clear picture of what to expect—a blend of rugged off-road fun, scenic boat cruising, and delicious local food.

One thing we love about this tour is how it combines adventure with tranquility. You’ll get your adrenaline fix with a jeep safari through dusty, scenic paths, and then slow down to enjoy a 2-hour boat ride on Green Lake. The second highlight is the value for money—this tour packs in quite a bit for just $35 per person, including lunch and pick-up services. That said, a potential drawback is that the duration clocked at around 6 hours, but some reviews mention it could stretch to over 8 hours depending on additional stops or delays.

This trip is best suited for those who love exploring nature, enjoy a bit of adventure, and are looking for a well-rounded day outside the usual beach scene. It’s a solid choice whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or even small groups looking for a fun, active day.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of off-road fun and peaceful lake cruising provides a diverse experience.
• Great value for money with included lunch, transport, and activities.
• Knowledgeable guides and lively atmosphere enhance the journey.
• Expect scenic views and natural beauty around Side, Manavgat, and Green Lake.
• Some stops may be more tourist-oriented, like the waterfall or optional zoo visits.
• Tour duration can vary—expect around 6 to 8 hours depending on timing and extra stops.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: What’s Included and How It Unfolds

The tour starts with a hotel pickup in Side, which is convenient if you’re staying nearby. We appreciate that it’s an all-in-one experience, combining a jeep safari, a boat trip, and a traditional Turkish lunch. For just $35, it’s pretty competitive considering the range of activities.

The Jeep Safari: Rugged Roads and Scenic Passages

The adventure kicks off with a 45-minute ride in colorful 4×4 jeeps. These aren’t plush city vehicles; think dusty, bumpy routes that wind through the countryside and give you a real taste of off-road exploration. The guides are often praised for their entertaining and lively manner, making the ride fun rather than just a means of transport.

One reviewer from the UK mentions how the drivers kept everyone entertained with music and jokes, which helps break the ice and creates a relaxed, joyful vibe. The off-road section at Manavgat Waterfalls is a highlight, offering a rough and exciting ride with splashes and foam, perfect for anyone looking for a bit of adrenaline. Just be aware that it gets dusty, so packing a scarf or bandana is a smart move—some reviews mention buying scarves on-site, but bringing your own saves time and money.

The Stops: Oymapnar Dam and Waterfalls

Next up is a 30-minute stop at Oymapnar Dam, where you can snap a few photos of the impressive structures and landscape. It’s a nice break to stretch your legs, and the views are worth a quick look. Then, the group heads to the Manavgat Waterfalls, which are well-known locally and often included in many tours. Some travelers, like one from Finland, mention that the entrance fee was about 2 euros, and some add that it’s a bit commercialized but still pretty.

Green Lake and the Boat Ride

The real highlight comes after these stops—a 2-hour boat cruise on Green Lake in Oymapnar. The lake’s turquoise waters and lush surroundings make for some stunning photos and peaceful moments. During the boat trip, you’ll get a good chance to observe the natural life around the lake, and the clear waters invite a quick swim if you’re feeling brave.

Reviewers remark that the boat ride is just enough time to enjoy the scenery and cool off. One traveler from Germany called it a “beautiful experience,” praising the serene atmosphere and the chance to relax amidst nature. The boat is often described as comfortable enough, with plenty of space and views.

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Lunch Overlooking the Lake

After the boat ride, lunch is served in a local restaurant overlooking Green Lake. The menu typically includes pasta, rice, salad, and grilled chicken, which visitors have found to be good quality and satisfying. It’s a simple but delicious meal, perfect for refueling after the morning’s activities. Some reviews mention the food as being fresh and well-prepared, adding to the overall value.

The Final Stretch: Back to Side

Post-lunch, the tour wraps up with a return to Side, often around late afternoon. While some reviews mention that the total time can extend beyond 6 hours—up to 8.5 hours, depending on additional stops or delays—you’re left with a full day of adventure and relaxation.

What Travelers Are Saying

Across reviews, travelers praise the knowledgeable guides who keep the energy high and provide interesting tidbits about the region. Damian from the UK called the safari “amazing from start to finish” and highlighted the great value and entertainment, emphasizing the music and friendly drivers.

Valentina from the Netherlands appreciated her guide’s hilarious, positive energy, noting that the safari was adventurous and exciting—just the right amount of wetness and dust. One reviewer from Finland pointed out that the boat trip might be shorter than advertised—closer to 30 minutes—but still worth it because of the scenic views.

A German traveler found the food and scenery to be highlights, though they also mentioned the tour duration can extend longer than planned. Another traveler from Denmark appreciated the fun atmosphere created by the drivers, making the whole day lighter and more enjoyable.

Practical Tips for Booking and Participating

• Bring a towel and water-resistant bag, especially for the safari since it can be dusty and wet.
• The tour includes insurance, so you’re covered in case of minor mishaps.
• Drinks are not included, so consider bringing water or purchasing soft drinks during the day.
• The Manavgat Waterfalls require an entrance fee of about 2 euros, which is not included.
• The lunch is straightforward but tasty—don’t expect gourmet. It’s more about satisfying hunger after a busy morning.
• The tour operates with live guides in multiple languages, including English, Dutch, and Russian, making it accessible for many travelers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a day filled with varied activities — from adventurous jeep rides to tranquil lake views, this tour will hit the spot. It’s especially suitable if you love exploring nature and enjoy a good balance between thrill and chill. The value-for-money aspect makes it appealing to budget-conscious travelers who don’t want to sacrifice experience quality.

However, if you’re not a fan of dusty, bumpy rides or are expecting a very long boat trip, you might want to manage expectations. It’s not a romantic, leisurely cruise, but rather a lively, energetic day out. Also, if you prefer more structured or less physically demanding tours, this may not be your best pick.

The Sum Up

This Side Jeep Safari & Green Lake Boat Tour offers a diverse mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and good food, making it an attractive choice for those wanting to see more of Turkey’s natural side. It’s particularly well-suited for adventure seekers and nature lovers who appreciate an affordable, lively experience with plenty of photo opportunities.

Many reviewers have highlighted the friendly and entertaining guides, breathtaking views, and tasty lunch, all of which contribute to a memorable day. While the tour can stretch beyond its advertised time and include some touristy stops, those are minor trade-offs considering the overall value.

If you’re after a fun-filled day outside the beach, want to see Green Lake’s tranquil waters, or enjoy a rugged jeep ride through scenic trails, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for travelers who enjoy adventure, but keep in mind that the jeep safari involves dusty, bumpy roads. Younger children should be comfortable with off-road rides and should be brought along with appropriate safety measures.

How long does the whole tour last?
The tour is scheduled for about 6 hours but can sometimes extend to around 8.5 hours depending on stops and delays. The core activities, however, are well spread out to keep it manageable.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel for swimming and protection for your phone or camera, especially during the jeep safari. A water-resistant bag is handy to keep your belongings dry and dust-free.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the tour price. You can purchase soft drinks or beer during the boat cruise and at lunch.

Is the boat ride long?
The boat cruise on Green Lake is about 2 hours, which many travelers find just right for relaxing and enjoying the scenery.

Are there any extra fees I should know about?
Yes, the Manavgat Waterfalls entrance fee (~2 euros) is not included in the tour. Some optional visits, like a zoo, are extra and not part of the main itinerary.

What’s the food like?
Lunch typically includes pasta, rice, salad, and grilled chicken, which most visitors find tasty and satisfying without being fancy.

How’s the scenery?
Expect lush greenery, turquoise waters, and scenic views at Green Lake and along the jeep routes—many reviews mention how beautiful it all is.

Can I skip some parts?
The itinerary is pretty fixed, but if you have special interests or time constraints, it’s worth discussing with the guide beforehand.

This tour offers a solid, reasonably priced way to see a different side of Turkey—adventurous, scenic, and tasty. Just go with an open mind, pack appropriately, and enjoy the ride!

You can check availability for your dates here: