Discover the Cabrio Bus Safari at the Taurus Mountains from Side

For those seeking an affordable and engaging day trip in Turkey, the Cabrio Bus Safari at the Taurus Mountains offers a full 8-hour adventure for $28.97 per person. Starting from Side, this tour features a specialized Cabrio Bus that provides panoramic views as you travel through the scenic Taurus Mountains. With hotel pickup and drop-off included, it simplifies logistics and ensures you start your day smoothly. This tour combines culture, nature, and stunning vistas, making it an attractive choice for families and curious travelers alike.

While the trip offers great value, it’s important to know that the itinerary includes stops at the ancient city of Seleukia, the Manavgat Waterfalls, and a local village mosque—each providing unique insights into the region’s history and landscape. The tour is designed to balance sightseeing, learning, and relaxation, with a lunch included to keep energy levels high. This tour suits those eager to explore beyond the usual tourist spots without breaking the bank.

Key Points

Affordable full-day trip costing $28.97 per person
8-hour duration with hotel pickup and drop-off included
Panoramic views from a specialized Cabrio Bus through the Taurus Mountains
Visits to Seleukia (Lybre), Manavgat Waterfalls, and a local mosque
Lunch included, perfect for families and culture enthusiasts
Limited to 35 participants, ensuring a comfortable experience

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Scenic Journey in a Cabrio Bus with Panoramic Views

This tour’s main highlight is the specialized Cabrio Bus that offers unobstructed views of the lush Taurus Mountains. The open-top design makes it ideal for taking in the landscape’s sweeping vistas, which many find to be a memorable part of the experience. The bus departs promptly at 9:00 am, setting the tone for a well-paced day packed with sightseeing.

The vehicle’s design allows travelers to enjoy breathtaking scenery during the drive, making every moment visually stimulating. This setup is especially popular among those who enjoy outdoor sightseeing from a comfortable position, without feeling confined inside a typical tour bus.

Exploring the Ruins of Seleukia (Lybre)

One of the key archaeological stops on this tour is Seleukia (Lybre), an ancient city that dates back to the Pamphylian era. Admission is included, and visitors spend roughly one hour exploring the site. While some reviews mention that the guide was initially hesitant to visit Seleukia, the brief 15-minute visit is adequate for those interested in its historical significance.

This stop offers a glimpse into the region’s antiquity with ruins that tell stories of a bygone era. The site is an important part of the itinerary for history buffs or those curious about ancient Turkish civilizations. The short visit ensures the tour continues smoothly without long delays.

Refreshing Stop at Manavgat Waterfalls

The Manavgat Waterfalls is a highlight for nature lovers, offering a beautiful spot to relax and take photos. The tour includes a stop here where visitors can enjoy the sound of rushing water and the scenic surroundings. This natural attraction is ideal for those wanting a break from sightseeing and an opportunity to appreciate Turkey’s natural beauty.

The waterfalls are easily accessible and provide a peaceful environment, making it a popular location for short walks and capturing photos. It’s a refreshing pause in the day’s schedule that many find enjoyable.

Visiting a Traditional Village Mosque

A visit to a local village mosque adds cultural depth to the tour. This stop allows visitors to observe local religious practices and experience a traditional setting. The tour includes a tour of the mosque, offering insights into the community’s spiritual life.

This stop emphasizes the authentic side of Turkish village life and enhances understanding of local customs. It’s a brief but meaningful cultural experience that complements the archaeological and natural highlights of the day.

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Lunch in a Scenic Setting

The tour includes a delicious lunch served at a beautiful scenic restaurant. The reviews praise the quality of the food, noting it as a delightful part of the day. The meal provides a good break and a chance to relax while enjoying the picturesque surroundings.

Since drinks are not included, travelers may wish to bring additional beverages, but the included meal contributes significantly to the overall value of the tour. The scenic restaurant setting makes the dining experience a highlight for many.

Pacing and Group Size for a Comfortable Experience

With a maximum of 35 travelers, the tour maintains a comfortable size that allows for personal interaction with the guide. The pacing is planned to accommodate all stops without feeling rushed, balancing sightseeing with relaxation. The most travelers find the schedule well-organized, with enough time at each site to explore and enjoy.

The duration of approximately 8 hours ensures a full day of sightseeing but remains manageable for most. The timing aligns with the start at 9:00 am and the expected return in the late afternoon, making it suitable for those with a full day available.

Practicalities: Pickup, Drop-off, and Additional Fees

The hotel pickup and drop-off make this tour straightforward, especially for visitors unfamiliar with local transportation. Confirmation of booking is provided upon reservation, and most travelers can participate without special requirements.

It’s worth noting that some entrance fees are not included, so travelers should be prepared for optional costs at certain sites. Also, weather conditions may influence the boat trip component if planned, but this is not guaranteed.

Reviews Highlighting the Tour Experience

The overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 across three reviews reflects a positive reception. One reviewer emphasizes the value for money and the eight individual elements of the day, including the beautiful lunch. Another mentions the fabulous fun despite a scheduling mix-up, praising the scenic restaurant and enjoyable day.

A third review points out that Seleukia was only briefly visited due to the guide’s reluctance but still considers the dinner at a lake and other sites as worthwhile. These insights suggest the tour offers genuine diversity of experiences, though the short visit to Seleukia might not fully satisfy archaeology enthusiasts.

The Sum Up: An Accessible and Varied Day Out from Side

The Cabrio Bus Safari at the Taurus Mountains provides an affordable way to explore Turkey’s natural beauty, ancient ruins, and local culture in one full-day experience. The open-top Cabrio Bus makes the scenic drive memorable, and the stops at Seleukia, Manavgat Waterfalls, and the village mosque add historical and cultural richness.

While some guests note that the visit to Seleukia is brief, most appreciate the delicious included lunch, the scenic stops, and the professional guiding. The small group size ensures a pleasant pace and personal interaction, ideal for families or casual explorers.

This tour suits those eager to maximize sightseeing with good value, especially if they enjoy outdoor scenery and cultural sites. It’s a flexible, well-organized option for a full day of adventure without the hassle of planning each detail.

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