City of Side: Altinbesik Cave and Ormana Tour with Boat Ride

Key Points

• Price and Duration: This full-day tour costs $48 per person and lasts approximately 7 hours.
• Highlights: Visit Altinbesik Cave, explore Ormana Village, and enjoy a boat trip inside the cave, plus a traditional Turkish lunch.
• Transportation: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Side and comfortable bus travel through the Taurus Mountains.
• Unique Experiences: Experience Turkey’s biggest underground lake in Altinbesik Cave and see natural bridges at a steady 16°C year-round.
• Cultural Touch: Meet a local family and visit a 300-year-old mosque and traditional house in Ormana Village.
• Reviews: Rated 4.3/5 from 67 reviews, with praise for knowledgeable guides and well-organized logistics.

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Discover the Altinbesik Cave and Ormana Village Tour from Side

The City of Side offers a memorable full-day trip for those eager to explore Turkey’s natural wonders and authentic countryside life. For $48 per person, travelers spend about 7 hours experiencing Altinbesik Cave, a boat ride inside this impressive underground lake, and a visit to Ormana Village. The tour begins with a hotel pickup, making it a hassle-free way to see some of the most beautiful sights near Antalya.

What makes this tour stand out is access to Altinbesik Cave, known for being Turkey’s largest underground lake and the third largest in Europe. The combination of nature, culture, and local hospitality provides a well-rounded day that appeals to nature lovers and curious explorers alike. A traditional Turkish lunch in a scenic village setting adds to the charm, making this tour suitable for those looking for a relaxed yet enriching experience.

Starting Point: Convenient Hotel Pickup in Side

The tour departs in the morning, with hotel pickup from most accommodations in Side. Travelers are asked to wait 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup at the main security gate, ensuring smooth and timely transfers. The bus ride takes you toward the Taurus Mountains, offering scenic views along the way.

During the drive, there are stops for photos and a visit to a local coffee shop, where you can enjoy a taste of Turkish hospitality. The comfortable coach ensures a relaxed journey through the countryside, setting the tone for a day of exploration and discovery.

Exploring Altinbesik Cave: Turkey’s Largest Underground Lake

The highlight of the tour is the visit to Altinbesik National Park, home to the famous Altinbesik Cave. Inside, travelers observe natural bridges and spectacular scenery in a cool, consistent 16°C environment. The cave’s underground lake is the third largest in Europe, offering truly unique scenery for nature enthusiasts.

What sets this experience apart is the boat ride across the lake, which lasts around 30 minutes. Inflatable boats with a capacity of 10 people allow visitors to glide across the water, experiencing the cave’s natural beauty from a different perspective. This boat tour creates a memorable way to explore the cave’s stunning features, making it a favorite part of the day.

Visiting Ormana Village and Traditional Turkish Life

After exploring the cave, the tour continues with a lunch break in Ormana Village. The local restaurant offers delicious options like stewed fish, grilled chicken, or Turkish pizza, served with yogurt and salad. The idyllic backyard setting provides a peaceful atmosphere to relax and enjoy authentic Turkish cuisine.

Following lunch, visitors can explore a traditional house with classic architecture, gaining insight into local building styles. A visit to a 300-year-old mosque allows appreciation of the region’s spiritual and cultural history, with the locals’ warm hospitality adding to the welcoming atmosphere.

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Scenic Drive Through the Taurus Mountains with Fruit Picking

The journey through the Taurus Mountains provides gorgeous views and a sense of rural Turkey. Guides often pick fresh fruit during the trip, giving travelers a taste of local produce. The relaxed pace and natural scenery make this part of the tour particularly enjoyable for those who appreciate outdoor landscapes and authentic countryside.

The stop at Sarhaclar, a picturesque local village, offers additional opportunities for photography and leisurely exploration. The entire route showcases the region’s diverse scenery, from mountain peaks to lush farmland.

Practical Details: Logistics and Accessibility

The tour is designed for comfort and convenience, with hotel pickup and drop-off included. The bus is modern and spacious, making the 7-hour experience manageable even for those with limited mobility, although the visit to the mosque and traditional house may involve some walking.

This activity is not suitable for pregnant women or individuals with mobility impairments, due to the nature of some stops and terrain. Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring a camera for photos, and dress in comfortable clothing suitable for 16°C temperatures inside the cave.

What Makes This Tour Different from Others in the Area

Compared to other Side excursions, this tour’s main attraction is the inside boat ride on the underground lake—a rare experience that adds a sense of adventure. The combination of natural wonders and cultural visits ensures a diverse day out.

The local guides, praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, greatly enhance the experience. The tour’s well-organized nature means that even visitors with limited time can enjoy key highlights without feeling rushed.

Final Thoughts: A Balanced Mix of Nature and Culture in Antalya

This 7-hour tour in Antalya Province offers a great value for those interested in natural wonders like Altinbesik Cave, combined with cultural insights into Turkish village life. The boat ride inside the cave provides a unique adventure, while the visits to Ormana Village and the mosque add depth to the experience.

Thanks to professional guides and smooth logistics, the trip appeals to a broad range of travelers. The price of $48 is reasonable for the variety of sights and activities packed into one day. However, travelers should be prepared for some walking and coordinate their expectations regarding short cave visits—the highlight remains the lake and boat ride.

This tour suits nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and those seeking a relaxed yet enriching day outside the busy tourist spots. It’s especially perfect for visitors who want an authentic taste of the Antalya countryside and Turkey’s underground marvels.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, with instructions to wait at the main security gate of your hotel 10 minutes before departure.

How long is the boat ride in Altinbesik Cave?
The boat trip inside the cave lasts approximately 30 minutes and takes place on inflatable boats with a capacity of 10 people.

What should I wear for the cave visit?
Comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for 16°C inside the cave are recommended, along with a camera to capture the scenery.

Are drinks included in the tour price?
No, drinks are not included in the tour package.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is suitable for most ages but not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility impairments.

What kind of lunch is provided?
A traditional Turkish lunch is served, with options such as stewed fish, grilled chicken, or Turkish pizza, with yogurt and salad.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers lunch, hotel pickup and drop-off, Altinbesik National Park entrance fee, and the inflatable boat tour.

How do I pay for the tour?
You can reserve now and pay later, giving flexibility to your travel plans.

Is this tour available in languages other than English?
The tour guide speaks English, with some reviews noting explanations in German as well.

How long is the overall tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, making it a full but manageable day in the Antalya area.

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