Jeep Safari Tour

An Honest Look at the Side Jeep Safari Tour

If you’re eyeing a day filled with outdoor adventure, scenic views, and a mix of Jeep rides and boat trips in Side, Turkey, this Jeep Safari Tour might just be worth considering. We’ve gathered plenty of insights from travelers who’ve experienced it firsthand, and what shines through is how much fun and value this tour offers — with a few caveats to keep in mind.

What we love most? First, the combination of different activities—jeeps, boat trips, and waterfalls—keeps the day dynamic and engaging. Second, the professional guides and well-organized schedule make it easier to relax and enjoy the scenery without stressing over logistics. The only thing to think about? It’s a group tour, so if you prefer more personalized experiences or have specific needs, this might not be your ideal pick.

This tour suits travelers looking for a cost-effective way to see diverse highlights around Side with minimal hassle. It’s especially good for those who want a mix of adventure, nature, and some time to swim and relax. If you enjoy outdoor activities and scenic drives, this could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Variety of activities keeps the day lively — jeep rides, boat cruises, waterfalls, and swimming.
• Group tour offers affordability and social fun, ideal for making new friends.
• Well-organized itinerary ensures you see multiple sights comfortably in one day.
• Transportation, lunch, and boat trip are included for convenience, reducing extra planning.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour offers peace of mind.
• The price provides decent value for a full day of exploration in scenic Turkey.

A Detailed Look at What You Can Expect

Starting the Day: Pickup and Group Vibe

Most travelers begin their day around 8:30 am, with hotel pickup arranged by the tour company, Golden Goat Travel. This is a major plus — no need to worry about finding meeting points or navigating local transport. The group size can go up to 100 people, but during peak season, it feels lively without being crowded, especially since the itinerary spreads out the stops well.

Driving in Nature: Jeep Adventures

The day kicks off with jeep rides through Turkey’s rural landscapes. We loved the way this immediately set the tone—fun, slightly adrenaline-fueled, and a chance to see the countryside up close. Travelers who enjoy a bit of off-road excitement will appreciate how these rides add a sense of adventure early on. It’s a great way to get your adrenaline going and enjoy the fresh air.

Stop 1: Manavgat Dam

Our first official stop was at the Manavgat Dam, where we took a quick 10-minute photo break. The view of the dam is quite scenic, and it’s a good chance to stretch your legs. There’s no admission fee here, so it’s a straightforward photo op.

Stop 2: Green Canyon

Next, we headed to Green Canyon, which is often described as stunning. The 15-minute stop at the summit offers a chance to snap some photos of the canyon’s sprawling greenery and water. The view here is genuinely impressive, and the peacefulness of the area makes it a memorable moment.

Stop 3: Oymapinar and Green Lake

This is the highlight for many — a 2-hour break in Oymapinar, where lunch, a boat tour, and swimming in Green Lake all happen. The boat trip around Green Lake is particularly popular, with travelers praising the scenery and the opportunity to take a swim. One reviewer noted, “The boat cruise was lovely, stunning countryside,” highlighting how relaxing and beautiful this part is.

The included lunch is simple — mainly pasta with some chicken on the side. While not gourmet, it’s enough to keep you energized for the rest of the day. If you’re looking for more variety or dietary options, you might want to bring your own snacks or inform the guides beforehand.

Stop 4: Manavgat Waterfall

The final stop is at Manavgat Waterfall, where you can take photos and enjoy the natural beauty. Keep in mind that entrance is paid, so if you want to go closer or explore the waterfall, budget extra. Some travelers found this a peaceful end to the day, though it’s a shorter stop at 30 minutes.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Guides and Organization

Many reviews rave about the knowledgeable and friendly guides. One reviewer shared, “The tour guides were great fun,” which echoes how important good guidance is when navigating multiple stops and activities. It’s clear that the team works hard to keep everyone engaged and safe.

Scenic Highlights and Diverse Stops

From the dam and canyon to the boat cruise and waterfall, each part offers something different, making the day feel well-rounded. Travelers often mention how the stunning scenery keeps the tour engaging. The boat trip, in particular, stands out as a highlight — a relaxing way to see the countryside with an option to swim.

Affordability and Inclusion

At just $32.56 per person, this tour provides an affordable way to explore some of the most popular sights around Side. The price includes transportation, lunch, and the boat tour, which simplifies planning and helps travelers avoid hidden costs.

Real Experiences from Travelers

One reviewer called it an “awesome fun day out,” emphasizing water fights and the lively atmosphere. Another mentioned that the “well-organized” schedule makes the experience smooth and enjoyable. The feedback about the boat trip and scenic stops being particularly beautiful is consistent.

Things to Keep in Mind

While the tour offers a lot, there are a couple of points worth considering. The lunch is quite basic, so if you prefer more substantial or diverse meals, it might be worth bringing some snacks. The Manavgat Waterfall stop involves an entrance fee if you want to go closer, which isn’t included. Also, since it’s a group tour, it may not suit those seeking a highly personalized experience or traveling with very young children.

Duration and Pacing

The full day lasts around 8 hours, which is quite decent for a sightseeing tour. The itinerary is paced to give enough time at each stop without feeling rushed, but it does involve a fair bit of moving around.

Suitability

This experience is generally suitable for most travelers. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy outdoor activities, scenic views, and a mix of adventure and relaxation. Families with older children, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking to meet new people will find it fits well.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Jeep Safari Tour is perfect for those wanting a cost-effective, active day exploring Side’s natural beauty. It’s well-suited for travelers who appreciate scenic drives, boat trips, and outdoor fun. If you enjoy being part of a lively group and value a straightforward, organized day without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour checks those boxes.

However, if you’re seeking a more personalized experience, gourmet meals, or have specific accessibility needs, you might want to explore other options. Overall, for most visitors wanting a varied and memorable day out, this tour offers a solid mix of adventure, scenery, and local flavor.

FAQ — Your Quick Questions Answered

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are provided, making it easy to start and end the day without extra fuss.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including all stops and activities.

Are meals included?
Yes, a simple lunch is provided as part of the tour. Special dietary requests aren’t mentioned, so bring snacks if needed.

Can I swim in Green Lake?
Yes, the boat trip includes swimming in Green Lake, so remember to bring a towel.

What are the main stops?
The main stops are Manavgat Dam, Green Canyon, Oymapinar (including lunch and boat tour), and Manavgat Waterfall.

How much does the tour cost?
It’s priced at $32.56 per person, offering good value for a full day of activities.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While most reviews mention families enjoying the day, it’s best suited for children who are comfortable with outdoor activities and group settings.

What’s not included?
Alcoholic beverages, soda, and the entrance fee for Manavgat Waterfall are not included. The tour includes the rest.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, giving you peace of mind.

To sum it up, the Side Jeep Safari Tour is a lively, well-organized adventure packed with diverse highlights. It balances scenic beauty, fun activities, and good value, making it a solid choice for those wanting an active day exploring outside the typical tourist spots. Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a group, or traveling with older kids, this tour offers enough variety to keep everyone entertained while showcasing some of Turkey’s most picturesque landscapes.