Side : Jeep Safari and Green Canyon See with Lunch

Exploring Side’s Countryside: A Honest Look at the Jeep Safari and Green Canyon Tour

If you’re considering a day out from Side, this Jeep Safari and Green Canyon visit might catch your eye. It’s popular among travelers who want a taste of nature, history, and some relaxed sightseeing — all packed into about six hours. We’ve looked into this tour, and while it’s not perfect, it offers some genuine highlights that could make it a worthwhile addition to your holiday.

What we like most? The small-group vibe makes it more personalized than some large bus tours, and the stunning views of Green Canyon and the Taurus Mountains are pretty hard to beat. Plus, visiting the ancient city of Seleukeia adds a layer of cultural interest that’s often overlooked on natural excursions. On the downside, be prepared for the extra costs for drinks, tips, and small entrance fees, which can add up beyond the initial price.

This tour tends to suit travelers who enjoy a mix of scenery, history, and a bit of adventure, especially if you’re okay with a flexible, sometimes informal setting. Families with older kids might also find it appealing, but keep in mind the road conditions and the 6-hour duration when planning.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Small group size means more personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Stunning views of Green Canyon and Taurus Mountains make for memorable photo stops.
• The cultural element with a visit to Seleukeia adds historical insight.
• The lunch overlooking Green Lake is included, offering a peaceful break.
• Budget-conscious travelers should be aware of extra costs for drinks, tips, and optional entries.
• The roughly 6-hour duration suits those with a full day to spare but might feel long for some.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting with Seleukeia (Lyrbe) Ancient City

Once you’re picked up from your hotel, the first highlight is a visit to the ancient city of Seleukeia. This part is quietly charming; a modest historical site where guides help you piece together what life might’ve been like centuries ago. The visit lasts about an hour and twenty-five minutes and is free to explore, making it a good way to stretch your legs and get a quick history fix before heading into nature.

Traveling around 45 minutes from Side, this stop provides a calmer contrast to the more adrenaline-filled parts of the day. A couple of reviews mention the guide’s helpfulness here, which can really enhance your understanding of the site.

Green Canyon Photo Break

Next, you’ll stop at Green Canyon, about 20 minutes away from Seleukeia. It’s a classic photo stop — a chance to snap some incredible shots of the canyon’s rugged cliffs and serene waters. Expect about 20 minutes here, just enough to get a sense of the scenery. Since it’s a quick stop, don’t expect a boat ride or in-depth exploration; it’s mainly visual and photo opportunity.

Manavgat Dam

The tour then takes you to see the Manavgat Dam, which is the biggest dam in the area. It’s a practical stop that lets you appreciate the scale of local infrastructure, and it’s around 30 minutes long. No entrance fee here, but it’s more about the view than a tour of the dam itself.

Lunchtime at Green Lake

One of the tour’s highlights is the lunch overlooking Green Lake. This takes about two hours, and you’ll dine in a restaurant in a peaceful setting with beautiful surroundings. The included meal is typically simple but satisfying, and the setting offers great photo ops. The reviews praise the food quality and the scenic backdrop, which adds a relaxing pause in your busy day.

Manavgat Waterfall Photo Stop

Finally, after lunch, the safari continues with a quick stop at Manavgat Waterfall. It’s a well-loved photo spot, and you’ll get about an hour here. It’s free to access, and the sight of water tumbling down makes for lovely pictures. Some reviews mention the water fight expectation, which didn’t materialize—so if that was your hope, be prepared it might not happen.

What to Expect from the Experience

Transport & Group Size

The tour uses comfortable vehicle transfers, with a maximum of 10 travelers in your group. This smaller size means more room to move and chat with your guide without the chaos of large crowds. Pickups are arranged from your hotel, and the timing kicks off early at 8:30 am, so start your day with an early breakfast.

Guides & Personal Touch

Reviews highlight the friendliness and helpfulness of the guides, which can really make or break a trip. Having someone who’s knowledgeable about local history and geography adds value, especially at sites like Seleukeia and Green Lake.

Cost & Extras

At $17.80 per person, the initial price seems quite reasonable for six hours of varied sightseeing. However, it’s important to remember that drinks (ranging from €4 to €17), tips, and some small entrance fees aren’t included. Some travelers found this a bit cheeky, especially if you’re on a tighter budget. The waterfall, for example, is free, but there’s a €2 fee per person if you want to enter.

Timing & Pacing

The schedule is quite packed, with stops averaging 20 to 30 minutes, and a two-hour lunch break. Some reviews mention that the trip feels quite long, especially if you’re not used to 6-hour excursions. The vehicle rides in the Taurus Mountains offer scenic views, but the roads can be bumpy, which is typical for such terrain.

The Realities of the Tour: Pros & Cons

Pros

• The small-group format enhances comfort and personal interaction.
• The scenic stops at Green Canyon and Green Lake are genuine highlights, offering stunning views and memorable photo opportunities.
• Visiting Seleukeia adds an interesting cultural element, especially if you’re into history.
• The included lunch by Green Lake is a lovely touch, providing a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery.
• The overall value for money is good if you’re prepared for the extras, and the guide’s friendliness gets many positive remarks.

Cons

• The additional costs for drinks, tips, and some minor entrance fees can quickly add up.
• The long duration might be tiring for some, especially if you’re not accustomed to full-day tours.
• Some reviews mention unfulfilled expectations, like the water fight, which could lead to slight disappointment.
• Road conditions and the bumpy ride could be uncomfortable for some travelers.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re after a balanced mix of natural beauty, history, and a bit of adventure, this trip will likely appeal. It works well for those who appreciate small-group experiences and want to avoid large crowded tours. The scenic stops are perfect for photography and relaxing breaks, making it suitable for travelers who enjoy taking their time and soaking in the views.

People who like a bit of cultural insight, combined with stunning landscapes, will find this tour rewarding. The included lunch by Green Lake is an added bonus that balances the sightseeing with a peaceful meal in nature.

Final Thoughts

This Jeep Safari and Green Canyon trip offers a solid way to explore the diverse countryside surrounding Side. It’s not a high-adrenaline adventure, but the combination of natural beauty, historical sites, and a friendly guide makes it a worthwhile outing. For a price under $20, you get a full day of sightseeing, with some scenic highlights that are hard to beat.

Keep in mind the extra costs associated with drinks and tips, and consider whether a longer day of bumpy rides and sightseeing fits your style. It’s best suited for travelers who value intimate group settings and enjoy a varied itinerary. If you’re flexible, open-minded, and want a taste of Turkey’s scenic and cultural highlights, this tour could be a good fit.

FAQ about the Jeep Safari and Green Canyon Tour

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup, making it convenient to start your day without worries about transportation.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about six hours, starting at 8:30 am, with various stops, lunch, and sightseeing breaks.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are not included. You might find that beverages cost between 4 euros and 17 euros, so it’s good to bring some cash if you want extras.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the trip’s length and bumpy vehicle rides suggest it’s better suited for older children or teens who can handle a full day of travel.

What are the main highlights?
The highlights include a visit to Seleukeia, Green Canyon, Manavgat Dam, lunch at Green Lake, and a quick stop at Manavgat Waterfall.

Can I cancel this tour easily?
Yes, cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund offered if canceled in time.

What is the group size?
The tour caps at 10 travelers, which can make for a more personalized and relaxed experience.

Are there any hidden fees?
Some minor fees like entrance to waterfalls (€2 per person) and optional drinks are not included, so budget accordingly.

How scenic are the stops?
Expect breathtaking views at Green Canyon and Green Lake, with plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxing breaks in nature.

In the end, this tour is a practical and scenic way to see some of Side’s most appealing sights. It’s not a fancy, all-inclusive experience, but if you’re up for a day of varied scenery, friendly guides, and a taste of local history, it’s worth considering.