Side: Jeep Safari Adventure with Lunch at Green Lake

This 7-hour jeep safari from Side, Turkey, offers an exhilarating way to explore the Taurus Mountains, scenic waterfalls, and authentic village life. The tour, rated 4.7 out of 5 based on 445 reviews, combines off-road adventure with cultural highlights and a delicious mountain lunch. With hotel pick-up and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, and all taxes included, it provides a well-organized day for those looking to escape the beaches and discover rural Turkey.

The tour is suitable for most travelers except pregnant women and those who are not comfortable with bumpy rides or getting a little dusty and wet. It features several stops at eye-catching locations, lively water fights, and a visit to a small zoo—all making the experience lively and engaging. This tour excels in offering spectacular views and a chance to see local village traditions, making it a popular choice for families, adventure seekers, and nature lovers alike.

Key Points

• Full-day adventure lasting approximately 7 hours, including multiple scenic stops
• Explores the Taurus Mountains with off-road jeep rides led by professional drivers
• Visit traditional villages such as Sartlar and Iklar to learn about local life
• Enjoy lunch at a mountain restaurant with stunning views at Gölba Restaurant & Hotel
• Includes visits to Manavgat Waterfall, Green Canyon, and Oymapinar Dam
• Family-friendly tour, but not suitable for pregnant women or very young children due to the bumpy rides

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Taurus Mountains by Jeep

The core of this tour is the off-road jeep adventure through the scenic Taurus Mountains. You travel with a professional team of drivers who take you to places that are inaccessible to regular vehicles. Expect dusty, bumpy roads, and a lively atmosphere with loud music and water fights, which add excitement to the whole experience.

The journey offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way. The jeeps are not brand new, but their reliability and the fun factor more than make up for this. The guides ensure safety and keep the energy high, making the journey as enjoyable as the destinations.

Visiting Sartlar and Iklar: Local Village Life

Two of the main stops are the villages of Sartlar and Iklar, where you can observe traditional rural life in Turkey. In Iklar, you’ll learn about the villagers’ religious traditions at a local mosque, giving insight into their daily practices and cultural heritage.

In the village of Oymapinar, travelers can try Turkish gözleme—a traditional flatbread—at an old house, adding a culinary touch to the cultural experience. These stops are appreciated for their authenticity and the opportunity to connect with local customs beyond tourist spots.

Marveling at Manavgat Waterfall

The tour makes a stop at the impressive Manavgat Waterfall, where foaming cascades of the Manavgat River create a dramatic natural display. Visitors enjoy soaking in the scenic landscape and taking photographs of the wide waterfall and surrounding greenery. This stop offers a refreshing break and a chance to appreciate Turkey’s diverse natural beauty.

The waterfall area is a highlight for many, offering beautiful scenery and a peaceful atmosphere, contrasting the lively jeep rides. There is also an option to buy ice cream, perfect for a quick treat.

Green Canyon and Oymapinar Dam: Nature’s Spectacles

The Green Canyon, with its lush surroundings, provides a one-hour walk and photo stops that showcase Turkey’s stunning waterways. This area is known for its crystal-clear waters and verdant cliffs, making it a favorite photo spot.

Following that, the Oymapinar Dam offers another photo stop and visit, where visitors can admire this impressive engineering feat and the calm waters of the reservoir. Both stops emphasize the natural and man-made beauty of Turkey’s landscape, giving travelers a taste of the country’s diverse scenery.

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Mountain Lunch at Gölba Restaurant & Hotel

One of the trip’s highlights is the lunch break at the Gölba Restaurant & Hotel, set in a picturesque mountain location. The one-hour meal includes local dishes and offers a relaxing respite from the bumpy rides. Many reviews praise the good quality of the food and the beautiful mountain views that enhance the dining experience.

This stop is also a great opportunity to unwind, take in the peaceful surroundings, and enjoy the fresh mountain air. The setting contributes significantly to the overall charm of the tour.

Stops at Deirmenli Köyü and Bucakeyhler

After lunch, the tour continues with shorter stops such as Deirmenli Köyü, where visitors can take photos and explore the village environment. The 30-minute stop allows for quick sightseeing and fresh air.

Next, Bucakeyhler offers another 30-minute break with free time and additional photo opportunities. These stops help pace the day and give travelers a moment to relax and absorb the scenery.

Visiting the Small Zoo and Final Highlights

The tour concludes with a visit to a small zoo, where visitors can see animals and perhaps hold a baby lion—a favorite among many. This stop adds a fun, lighthearted ending to the day, especially appreciated by families and animal lovers.

Afterward, the group is returned to the original pickup points in Çolakl, Side, Evrenseki, and Kzlaaç, with the drop-off process running smoothly based on reviews.

Practical Details and Booking Flexibility

This 7-hour adventure begins with hotel pick-up from designated locations in Side, including Çolakl, Kzlaaç, Evrenseki, and Side. The tour includes an English-speaking guide, insurance, and all taxes, offering good value.

Booking is flexible, with free cancellation allowed up to 24 hours in advance and reserve now, pay later options available. Travelers are advised to bring a sun hat and swimwear, as there are water fights and potential swimming opportunities.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The jeep safari format, combined with visits to authentic villages, waterfalls, Green Canyon, and mountain lunch, makes this tour a comprehensive day out. The lively atmosphere, friendly guides, and scenic stops contribute to high praise, with many describing it as “lots of fun” and “great value.”

While the jeeps are not luxury vehicles, the adventure, scenery, and cultural insights more than compensate. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, cultural stops, and group excitement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this jeep safari suitable for children?
Yes, it is family-friendly and well-rated for families with young children, thanks to the attentive guides and fun water fights. However, very young children or babies might find the bumpy rides challenging.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking also offers reserve now, pay later flexibility.

What should I bring?
A sun hat and swimwear are recommended. Bringing a bandana is suggested to handle the dust, and water bottles should be refilled at stops for water fights and hydration.

Are vegetarian or special meal options available?
The provided information does not specify meal options, but the lunch at Gölba Restaurant & Hotel is included. It’s best to check with the provider if dietary restrictions are needed.

How intense is the off-road driving?
The ride is bumpy and dusty, with water fights and fast-paced driving that may be vigorous. It’s not suitable for pregnant women or travelers sensitive to rough rides.

What are the main stops included?
Stops include Oymapinar, Green Canyon, Oymapinar Dam, Gölba Restaurant & Hotel, Deirmenli Köyü, Bucakeyhler, and a small zoo.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a mountain lunch at Gölba Restaurant & Hotel is part of the tour, praised for its quality and setting.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Turkish, English, and German.

How long is each stop?
Stops vary from 30 minutes to about 45 minutes, allowing for sightseeing and quick explorations.

Do I need to prepare for water fights?
Yes, water fights are a key part of the fun, so refilling water bottles and wearing suitable clothes are recommended.

This jeep safari adventure from Side offers a lively, scenic, and culturally enriching day in Turkey’s Taurus Mountains. It balances adventure, nature, and local culture, making it an exciting choice for those eager to experience more than just the beaches.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby