Full Day Salda + Pamukkale Tour from Side/Manavgat

Boldly Explore Turkey’s Natural Wonders with the Full Day Salda + Pamukkale Tour

The Full Day Salda + Pamukkale Tour from Side offers an enriching escape from the usual sightseeing, providing a full 13 to 14-hour experience at $46.46 per person. Starting early at 4:00 am, this guided trip takes you across scenic routes to some of Turkey’s most famous natural attractions, including Pamukkale’s white terraces and Salda Lake, often called the “Maldives of Turkey” for its striking appearance. This tour is perfect for those who want to explore beyond Side and dive into unique thermal waters and historical sites.

This tour features transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, breakfast and lunch, and guides who speak English and Russian, making the journey comfortable and informative. While the day is packed with stops and activities, it may feel a bit long for some, especially with the extended travel time, but the stunning sights make it worthwhile. If you’re eager to see Pamukkale’s travertines, Cleopatra Pools, and Hierapolis, this tour offers a well-organized way to experience them all in one day.

Key Points

• Full-day guided tour from Side with 13-14 hours of sightseeing
• Price of $46.46 per person, includes breakfast and lunch
• Stops at Korkuteli for breakfast, Hierapolis, Cleopatra Pools, and the thermal pools
• Visits to Pamukkale’s famous white terraces and thermal waters for swimming
• Transport in air-conditioned vehicles with pickup service
• Guided tours led by English and Russian-speaking guides, with insurance included

From Side to Pamukkale: An Early Morning Departure

This tour departs from Side at 4:00 am, ensuring you maximize your day. The journey begins with a road trip lasting approximately 3-4 hours across scenic Turkish countryside, with a convenient break in Korkuteli for breakfast and snacks. This early start is ideal for those eager to make the most of their day, though it means some may find the early rise challenging.

The transport is comfortable, with an air-conditioned vehicle helping to keep everyone refreshed during the long drive. The early departure also allows for ample time at the main attractions, which are the highlight of this trip.

Exploring the Historic Site of Hierapolis & Its Rich Heritage

The visit to Hierapolis is led by a professional English-speaking guide, who provides insights into the ancient city’s history and significance. The guided tour lasts around one hour, giving enough time to walk through the ruins, see the theater, and learn about its past as a thermal spa city.

While the admission ticket to Hierapolis is not included**, the guide ensures you see the key points and understand the historical context. This stop offers a fascinating glimpse into the area’s ancient civilization, enhancing your appreciation of the thermal pools and the natural landscape.

Pamukkale’s Thermal Pools: Relaxation and Photography

The Pamukkale Thermal Pools are the tour’s centerpiece, where visitors can swim in the thermal waters and take stunning photos at various scenic spots. The allocated time of 3 hours allows for a leisurely experience, whether soaking in the waters or exploring the terraces.

The thermal waters are famed for their healing properties, making this a restorative experience. The pools are open for swimming, and the setting provides excellent opportunities for videos and photos. Note that admission tickets to the pools are not included in the tour price, and they cost approximately 13 EUR.

Cleopatra Pools: A Natural Thermal Bath Experience

A visit to Cleopatra Pools offers a chance to enjoy natural thermal baths famously associated with ancient Egyptians. Known for their therapeutic qualities, these pools are a popular stop during the tour.

The 1-hour visit allows enough time to relax in the warm waters, which are renowned for their health benefits. However, an additional admission fee of around 13 EUR applies, and this expense is not included in the tour price. The pools add a special touch of history and wellness to the day.

Scenic Return Journey to Antalya

After soaking and exploring at Pamukkale, the tour concludes with a bus journey back to Antalya, lasting approximately 4 hours. The return trip features comfortable seating and scenic views, allowing time to relax and reflect on the day’s experiences.

While the long travel segments are unavoidable given the distance, they are balanced by the richness of the stops and the guided commentary throughout the day.

The Practicalities: Inclusions, Extras, and Group Size

The tour includes both breakfast and lunch, making it a good value for the price, especially as all transportation and insurance are covered. The group size is limited to 35 travelers, ensuring a manageable and friendly atmosphere.

Guides speak both English and Russian, providing clear explanations and assistance. It’s also easy to organize as the mobile ticket and pickup service add convenience to your day.

Not included are personal expenses and admission tickets for Cleopatra Pools (around 13 EUR). Travelers should prepare for some extra costs if they wish to visit these pools.

The Long Day: Pacing and Experience Balance

Reviews note that the day can feel quite long due to the numerous stops and the long travel times, with some commenting they left very late—around 10 pm. While the value and attractions are highly appreciated, the extended hours might be tiring, especially for those who prefer a more relaxed pace.

Some suggest that shortening the itinerary by removing a couple of stops could make the day more comfortable while still allowing visitors to see the highlights.

The Honest Verdict: Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This Full Day Salda + Pamukkale Tour delivers on its promise of a comprehensive experience, combining natural beauty with historic sites. It works well for those eager to explore Pamukkale’s terraces, thermal waters, and Hierapolis in one smooth package, especially if they value guided commentary and included meals.

However, the long hours and long drives might not suit everyone, particularly those sensitive to extensive travel. The additional fee for Cleopatra Pools is a consideration for visitors who want that extra thermal bath experience.

The Sum Up: A Solid Choice for Enthusiastic Sightseers

This tour offers good value for money with well-organized logistics, guided explanations, and delicious food. The scenic stops, thermal pools, and historical site visits make for a memorable day, although the length may be a drawback for some.

If you are comfortable with a full, packed schedule and want to see Pamukkale’s highlights plus Hierapolis, this tour can be a rewarding option. It’s particularly suited for travelers eager to maximize their day and explore Turkey’s natural and historical treasures in one trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup service, making it easier to start your day.

What is the duration of the tour?
The total experience lasts around 13 to 14 hours, starting at 4:00 am.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast and lunch are included in the price.

How much are the admission tickets to Cleopatra Pools?
The admission fee is approximately 13 EUR and is not included in the tour price.

Can I swim in the Pamukkale thermal pools?
Yes, you can swim in the pools during the allocated 3 hours.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but those sensitive to long hours or extensive travel may want to consider their comfort.

What guides speak the languages?
Guides speak English and Russian.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 35 travelers for a more manageable experience.