Side Cabrio Bus Tour With Green Lake And Manavgat Waterfall

Exciting Full-Day Exploration for Just $25

The Side Cabrio Bus Tour with Green Lake and Manavgat Waterfall offers an engaging way to see the diverse sights around Side, Turkey, for only $25 per person. This tour spans approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting with a hotel pickup and including visits to natural wonders, ancient sites, and scenic villages. Its price makes it accessible for travelers looking for a comprehensive day trip that combines culture, history, and nature.

The tour is designed for those eager to explore off-the-beaten-path locations in an exciting and comfortable way. The specialized Cabrio Bus adds a sense of adventure, especially during off-road sections with plenty of opportunities for water fights and photo stops. While the itinerary is packed, it’s best suited for active guests who want to see multiple highlights in one day, with some optional entrance fees at key stops.

Key Points

• Affordable full-day tour at $25 per person with hotel pickup
• Includes boat tour on Green Lake and a lunch at a lakeside restaurant
• Visits to Manavgat Waterfall, ancient Seleucia, and Roman aqueducts
• Off-road safari with fun water and dust fights
• Multiple photo stops and opportunities to learn about local culture and history
• Tour operates with a mobile ticket and is booked on average 42 days in advance

The Tour Starts with Hotel Pickup and Introduction

The Side Cabrio Bus Tour kicks off in the morning with hotel pickup, making it convenient to start your day without extra planning. A knowledgeable guide accompanies the group, offering insights about each stop, helping you understand the history and culture of the places visited.

The initial stop is in Side, where you’ll get a brief overview of the area. This part is free of charge and lasts around 30 minutes, giving you a relaxed start before heading into the countryside. The guide’s storytelling helps set the tone for the full-day adventure ahead.

Visiting the Mosque in Manavgat

The first stop outside Side is in Manavgat, at a local mosque. This visit lasts approximately 30 minutes and provides a window into religious traditions and local culture. The guide explains the significance of the mosque and offers context about the area’s religious practices. It’s a simple yet meaningful introduction to the local way of life.

Admiring the Manavgat Waterfall

Next, the tour visits the famous Manavgat Waterfall, where around 30 minutes are set aside for observing and photographing this natural attraction. The waterfall’s powerful flow and turquoise waters make it a popular photo spot, and the scenery is ideal for capturing memories. Entrance to the waterfall itself has an additional charge, which is not included in the tour price.

This stop is particularly popular for photo opportunities, so bring your camera or phone ready to capture the cascading waters. The proximity to the waterfall allows enough time to enjoy its beauty without feeling rushed.

Off-Road Safari Through Countryside Villages

One of the most lively parts of the tour is the off-road safari, where the specially designed Cabrio Bus takes you over dusty and wet roads in the rural areas. Expect a fun-filled experience with water and dust fights, adding a playful twist to the journey. During this off-road drive, you pass through villages and enjoy scenic views of the countryside.

The safari lasts about 1 hour, and it’s a highlight for those seeking adventure. It also offers an authentic look at local village life, with the chance to visit a tea garden where Turkish pancakes or gözleme are served during a short break.

Exploring the Ancient City of Seleucia

The tour continues with a visit to Seleucia, an ancient city located near Bucakeyhler village. This part of the trip lasts around 30 minutes and provides a glimpse into 2500-year-old architecture. The guide explains the significance of Seleucia, highlighting its Hellenistic mosaics and ancient design.

This stop enriches the experience with a tangible connection to Turkey’s historical past and the remnants of Roman influence. It’s a compact but meaningful site for history enthusiasts and photography fans alike.

Roman Aqueducts and the Naras Bridge

Throughout the off-road drive, several historical landmarks are visible from the bus, including the Naras Bridge, Roman aqueducts, and the Oymapinar Dam. These structures date back to the Roman period and showcase impressive ancient engineering.

Multiple short photo breaks are scheduled to admire and capture these archaeological marvels, with free viewing and learning opportunities provided by the guide. The hour-long segment is ideal for understanding the region’s ancient infrastructure.

Relaxing at Green Lake with Lunch and Leisure

The next major highlight is Green Lake, where a lakeside restaurant awaits with a lunch buffet. The meal includes options like grilled fish, chicken, or meatballs, served with rice, pasta, salad, and fruits. The lunch duration is about 1.5 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy the scenic surroundings.

After eating, visitors have free time to swim in the crystal-clear waters, try kayaking, or go fishing using the provided tackles. The lake’s turquoise waters and peaceful environment are a perfect setting to relax and enjoy nature.

One-Hour Boat Tour on Green Lake

Following the free leisure time, a one-hour boat tour takes guests across Green Lake’s calm waters. This scenic cruise provides a different perspective of the natural beauty, with opportunities to take photos from the water and appreciate the surrounding landscape.

The boat ride is part of the included activities, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the lake visit. It’s a relaxing way to connect with nature and wind down after the busy sightseeing.

Visiting the Mini Zoo and Returning to Side

The tour concludes with a visit to a mini zoo, a charming spot among the woods where you can see rare animals and take photos. This stop lasts about 1 hour and offers a light-hearted end to the day.

After the zoo visit, the bus departs back to Side, arriving around 4:30 pm. The tour’s logistics, including hotel drop-off, ensure a smooth and comfortable conclusion to the experience.

Practical Details and Booking

The Side Cabrio Bus Tour is operated by Payless, with most travelers booking 42 days in advance. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a boat tour on Green Lake, guiding services, and a lunch.

Not included are the Manavgat Waterfall entrance fee and the zoo entrance fee. The tour starts at 9:00 am and is suitable for most guests, with a maximum of 50 travelers per group. It’s a flexible experience, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before.

Honest Look at the Experience

The Side Cabrio Bus Tour delivers an enjoyable full-day adventure, blending natural scenery, ancient ruins, and cultural insights. The off-road safari and photo stops add excitement, while the lakeside lunch and boat tour provide leisure and relaxation.

While the Manavgat Waterfall requires an extra fee, the other stops are included, making this tour good value for the price. Guests who appreciate knowledgeable guides, stunning landscapes, and a mix of activities will find this trip particularly satisfying.

However, those expecting a fully guided historical tour might find the focus more on scenic and cultural highlights rather than deep archaeological exploration. The long day’s pace may challenge less active participants, but overall, it suits travelers looking for variety and adventure.

Side Cabrio Bus Tour: A Balanced Day of Sightseeing and Adventure

This tour offers an accessible way to experience key sights around Side without the need for extensive planning. The combination of natural beauty, ancient sites, and fun off-road driving creates a well-rounded experience.

The cost-benefit ratio is strong, especially considering the lunch, boat tour, and multiple stops are included in the price. It’s especially suitable for those who want a full day of diverse activities with the convenience of hotel pickup.

While it’s not without optional extra costs, the overall experience is engaging and informative. You’ll leave with great photos, new knowledge, and memories of a lively adventure in Turkey’s scenic countryside.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning around 4:30 pm.

What is included in the price?
The price of $25 includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a boat tour on Green Lake, guiding services, and lunch. Entrance fees for the Waterfall and zoo are not included.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for most travelers, especially those comfortable with active participation and long day trips. The off-road safari adds some fun but may not be suitable for guests with mobility issues.

Are there any optional costs?
Yes, the Manavgat Waterfall entrance fee and the zoo entry fee are additional and not covered by the tour price.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing flexibility if plans change.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 42 days in advance, ensuring good availability and planning.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of scenic drives, cultural stops, and a lakeside boat ride makes this tour a lively and varied experience, especially appealing for those who enjoy adventure, history, and nature in one package.