Side Horse Riding On Beach And Through The Forests For 2 Hours

Experience a Horse Ride Along Side’s Beaches and Forests: What You Need to Know

Thinking about adding a unique twist to your holiday in Side? The Horse Safari Tour offers a chance to trot through pine forests and along the stunning beaches—an experience that promises both relaxation and adventure. While it’s not a full-day trek or an adrenaline rush, it’s a gentle, scenic outing that appeals to those looking for a different way to enjoy Turkey’s natural beauty.

What we really like about this tour is how accessible it is—suitable for all riding abilities, and it offers a peaceful, calming environment away from the busy streets. Plus, the guides are helpful and knowledgeable, making even first-timers feel comfortable on horseback. The scenery, with its lush forests and inviting shoreline, naturally makes for some memorable photos, and it’s a good family-friendly option if you’re traveling with older kids or those eager to try riding.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is the mixed reviews about the horses’ condition—some guests have expressed concerns about neglect and the state of the animals, which could be important if you’re sensitive to animal welfare. Also, the tour’s value depends on your expectations; at $35 per person for a two-hour ride, it’s quite reasonable, but the experience’s quality can vary based on the staff and the horses’ treatment.

This horseback ride is best suited for travelers wanting a laid-back, scenic escape and don’t mind a tour that’s more about enjoying nature than intense riding or luxury. If you’re curious about Turkish countryside, love animals, or just want a peaceful outdoor activity, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Scenic Route: Combines forest and beach riding, providing diverse views.
• Suitable for Beginners: No previous riding experience required, with instructions provided.
• Family-Friendly: Ideal for those traveling with older children or teens.
• Hassle-Free Pickup: Convenient hotel pickups and drop-offs included.
• Price-Value Balance: At $35, a reasonably priced way to enjoy outdoor scenery.
• Variable Reviews: Some concerns about horse welfare, so awareness is important.

The Details of the Horse Safari Experience

What to Expect from the Tour

When you book the Side Horse Riding Tour, you’ll be picked up from your hotel—a hassle-free start that’s appreciated after a day of sightseeing. Once you arrive at the facility, the instructors will give you a briefing—covering safety and how to handle the horses. They’ve trained their horses to be safe for riding, so even if it’s your first time, you’ll get clear instructions to help you enjoy the experience.

The riding itself is split into two parts—each lasting about an hour. The first takes you through forests, orange orchards, hamlets, and rivers, offering a peaceful glimpse into rural Turkish life. Here, you’ll likely have opportunities to enjoy scenic photographs of pine trees, countryside farms, and perhaps a river or two. The reviews mention how knowledgeable guides enhance the trip—sharing insights about the surroundings and helping ensure everyone stays comfortable.

The second part of the ride is along the famous beaches of Side, where you’ll get to feel the sand beneath your horse’s hooves and breathe in the salty air. Riding on the beach, especially at sunset or in good weather, can be truly magical. You’ll be led by guides to ensure safe and enjoyable riding, but some guests have noted that their time on the beach was shorter than expected, with one review mentioning they only rode for about 1 hour and 15 minutes instead of the full 2 hours.

The Horses and the Environment

The horses are described as specially trained and safe, making this accessible even if you’re new to riding. However, some reviews have raised concerns about their condition, noting that some horses appeared very thin and tired. This is something to keep in mind, especially if animal welfare matters to you. The staff will provide helmets, and safety is a priority, but the state of the horses has been a mixed point among guests.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour isn’t crowded, allowing for a more relaxed experience. The group size helps the guides give attention to everyone, whether you’re a beginner or have some riding experience. The tour typically lasts about 4 hours in total, including pickup, briefing, riding, and drop-off, making it a manageable half-day activity.

What You Should Know Before Booking

• Price: At $35 per person, the ride offers decent value, especially considering it includes hotel pickup and drop-off, helmets, and guiding services.
• Physical Fitness: You should have a moderate fitness level; the activity isn’t recommended for those with limited mobility or health issues, and it’s not suitable for pregnant women or people over 110 kgs.
• Weather Dependence: The tour is weather-dependent; if it rains or is too windy, the experience might be canceled or rescheduled.
• Duration and Timing: Expect about 2 hours of riding, split between forest and beach, with the rest allocated for transportation and briefings.

Authentic Guest Experiences: The Good and the Not-So-Good

Many guests have enjoyed the scenic aspect of this tour. Anuoreoluwa_A shared, “Had a good experience, it was my first time riding a horse, and the guides were really helpful. Really nice guides and a lovely experience.” That highlights how approachable and supportive the guides are, making it ideal for beginners.

On the other hand, some reviews express disappointment over poor horse welfare. Jessica_G wrote, “Every horse was neglected, you could see the ribcages and hip bones on them. They have to hit the horse for it to walk forward, and they didn’t even give us treats because they didn’t have any.” Such feedback is serious and worth considering, especially if animal ethics influence your choices.

A guest who rode for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, Sandy_T, noted that their ride was shorter than expected and that the helmet fit was not ideal, as it slipped during a gallop. These are small details but can impact how enjoyable the ride feels.

Final thoughts on the experience

While scenic views and helpful guides are definite highlights, the variable condition of the horses and the inconsistent length of the ride might affect those seeking a more polished experience. Your enjoyment will largely depend on your expectations and sensitivity to animal welfare issues.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This horseback riding adventure suits travelers who are looking for a peaceful outdoor activity with stunning natural surroundings. It’s especially good if you want a tour that’s not overly strenuous but still offers a change of scenery from typical beach and city tours.

If you love animals and prefer riding on well-cared-for horses, you might want to inquire further about the conditions beforehand or look for alternatives. Conversely, if you’re interested in a relaxing, family-friendly outing that’s easy to join, this tour could be a memorable part of your trip.

Couples, singles, or small groups can all enjoy this, particularly if you’re keen on capturing scenic photos and want a quiet activity that blends nature with gentle riding.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the horse riding part of the tour?
It’s approximately 2 hours in total, split evenly between forest countryside and beach riding.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the instructors provide guidance and safety instructions, making it accessible for those new to horseback riding.

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, the tour offers hassle-free pickup and drop-off from all Side hotels.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity, along with closed shoes. Helmets are provided for safety.

Can I ride if I weigh over 110 kgs?
This tour is not recommended for those over 110 kgs or with limited mobility or health issues.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Are there any additional costs?
Souvenir photos are available to purchase, but they are not included in the price.

How many people usually join the tour?
Group sizes are capped at 15 travelers, giving a more relaxed and personal experience.

Wrapping It Up

Choosing to go horseback riding along Side’s beaches and forests offers a peaceful, scenic break from more hectic excursions. You’ll love the guides’ helpfulness and the stunning views that make this a memorable part of your holiday. It’s a good fit for those who enjoy nature, animals (despite concerns expressed by some), and a relaxed pace, especially if you’re new to riding.

However, be aware of the mixed reviews regarding the horses’ conditions—they might not meet everyone’s standards for animal welfare. The experience itself is straightforward, with a focus on scenic enjoyment rather than high-adrenaline riding, making it a solid option for most travelers looking to try something different without too much effort.

If you want an uncomplicated, tranquil outdoor activity that yields good photos and a chance to connect with nature, this tour can be a worthwhile addition to your time in Side. Just keep your expectations in check, and do a little research about the horses if that’s important to you.

Overall, this horseback ride is best suited for those who prioritize scenic beauty and a mellow pace. It’s perfect if you’re after a peaceful, nature-focused outing with friendly guides to help you along the way. Just stay aware of the concerns some reviews raise, and you’ll be able to enjoy a lovely ride through Side’s beautiful landscapes.