2 in 1 Side Combo Rafting & Buggy Safari With Lunch

Side’s 2-in-1 Rafting & Buggy Safari Tour: A Detailed Review

Getting out into the wild can be one of the most memorable parts of a holiday, and in Side, Turkey, this combination tour offers just that — a full day of adrenaline, stunning views, and authentic local encounters. While it’s designed to be accessible for all, including families and first-timers, it’s also packed with enough action to satisfy thrill-seekers.

One aspect we genuinely appreciate about this experience is how it balances excitement with the chance to see local scenery and meet the community along the Köprüçay river. Plus, the fact that no prior experience or driving license is necessary makes it approachable for everyone. On the flip side, some reviewers have highlighted issues with the organization and pace, so it’s worth knowing what to expect beforehand.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy getting wet, exploring off-road terrain, and sharing laughs with new friends. It’s also a solid choice for those who want an active day without complicated logistics, thanks to the included hotel pickup and drop-off. Now, let’s take a detailed look at what this adventure involves, what makes it special, and how to make the most of your day.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At around $32 per person, this combo offers tremendous value for a full-day adventure.
• All-Inclusive: Equipment, lunch, hotel pickup, and transportation are included, minimizing extra costs.
• Suitable for Everyone: No experience needed for rafting or buggy driving—perfect for beginners and children.
• Scenic Beauty: Expect stunning views of local villages, mosques, and the Taurus Mountains.
• Dynamic Activities: Combining river rafting with off-road buggy safaris keeps the day energetic and varied.
• Mixed Reviews on Organization: While some praise the fun and scenery, others find the pace rushed, so manage expectations accordingly.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting the Day: Pickup and Briefing

Your adventure kicks off early around 8:00 am, with a hotel pickup in Side. The convenience of being collected from your accommodation means you can relax and focus on the day ahead. Once at the meeting point, your guide — whose detailed explanations and friendliness we appreciated — will introduce you to the schedule and share interesting facts about the Köprüçay river and surrounding landscapes.

This initial briefing is helpful, especially for first-timers, as the guide will clarify safety procedures and answer questions. Since the tour is open to all ages and no prior experience is required, the emphasis is on fun and safety, rather than technical skills.

The Rafting Adventure: Navigating the Köprüçay River

The rafting portion takes place on the foamy waters of the Köprüçay river, renowned for its lively rapids and picturesque scenery. Instructors provide all necessary gear — helmets, life jackets, and paddles — ensuring safety for novices and seasoned paddlers alike.

What makes this stand out is the chance to feel the thrill of white-water rafting in a controlled, guided environment. A reviewer shared their surprise at how much fun they had, despite being a first-timer, because the instructors maintained a reassuring, professional vibe. They also mentioned the chance to cool down in the river’s fresh waters, which can be especially welcome on hot days.

Expect to get wet — this isn’t a dry ride — but that’s part of the charm. The instructor-led journey includes navigating lively rapids and enjoying scenic views of small villages and the Taurus Mountains. The river’s calm stretches also allow for some relaxing moments, soaking in the natural beauty.

The Buggy Safari: Off-Road Thrills

After the river adventure, it’s time for the buggy safari. You’ll hop into a buggy, with no driving license needed, and follow your guide along rugged, off-road trails. The terrain varies from dirt tracks to rocky paths, offering a genuine sense of adventure.

Many reviews highlight the fun of this segment, especially due to the scenic backdrop. The Taurus Mountains provide a stunning backdrop, with views of local mosques and villages that look like scenes from a postcard. The guides are friendly and attentive, ensuring everyone’s safety while letting you enjoy the thrill of off-road driving.

One reviewer recalled feeling like a “kid again” behind the wheel, emphasizing how accessible and enjoyable this experience is, even for complete beginners. The buggies are easy to handle, and the guided nature means you won’t feel lost or overwhelmed.

Midday: Lunch and Relaxation

A well-deserved lunch break follows, included in the tour. While the details aren’t heavily elaborated, typical Turkish fare might include grilled meats, salads, and bread — enough to refuel for the rest of the day. Some reviewers appreciated the simplicity and flavor of the meal, making it a practical break to recharge.

Ending the Day: Return and Reflection

The tour wraps up with hotel drop-off, usually in the late afternoon. While some travelers mentioned the overall organization feeling a bit rushed, most agree that the day’s highlights were worth it. The mixture of adrenaline, scenic views, and fun group moments creates a memorable experience.

What We Loved About This Tour

Beautiful Scenery: The views of the Taurus Mountains and local villages are truly picture-perfect, providing the ideal backdrop for both activities. Many reviewers noted how stunning the landscape was during the buggy ride and rafting.

Inclusive & Easy for All: No driving license required for the buggy, and no experience needed for rafting. Families with children and first-timers find this accessible.

Value for Money: At around $32, the comprehensive package — equipment, lunch, pickup, and activities — offers great bang for your buck.

Guided Experience: The guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and safety-conscious, which adds to the comfort and enjoyment of the trip.

Some Considerations

Pace and Organization: A couple of reviews voiced frustration about the tour feeling rushed, especially with the time allocated for each activity. If you prefer a more leisurely experience, keep this in mind.

Weather Dependence: As with any outdoor adventure, poor weather can lead to cancellations or adjustments. The tour policy states a full refund if canceled due to bad weather, but it’s worth checking the forecast.

Crowd Size: The maximum group size is 99 travelers, which is manageable but could mean some busy moments. Early booking might help ensure a more personalized experience.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This 2-in-1 combo in Side is a fantastic choice for those craving a day full of adventure and scenic beauty without breaking the bank. The mix of river rafting and buggy safaris offers variety and keeps energy levels high. The inclusions of equipment, lunch, and hotel pickup make it straightforward and stress-free.

While some travelers have expressed concerns about the tour’s organization, most agree that the activities themselves are fun, safe, and rewarding. If you’re after authentic landscapes, a chance to cool off in the river, and an off-road adventure that’s suitable for all ages, this experience hits the mark.

It’s particularly suited for families, first-time adventurers, or anyone who loves to explore nature actively. Just keep in mind the possibility of a fast-paced day and bring waterproof gear for your electronics. This tour promises a memorable, action-packed day amid stunning scenery.

FAQ

Is hotel pick-up included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off in Side, making logistics simple and convenient.

Do I need previous experience for rafting or buggy driving?
No, neither experience nor a driving license is required. The activities are designed for beginners and all ages.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection like sunscreen and sunglasses, swimwear, towels, comfortable shoes suitable for water (not flip-flops), a T-shirt to wear under your life jacket, and spare clothes for after. Electronics should be waterproof or left behind.

How long does the tour last?
The full-day experience is approximately 10 hours, starting around 8:00 am and ending with hotel drop-off.

Are there any age restrictions?
While specific age restrictions aren’t listed, the activities are suitable for children and adults alike, with safety instructions in place.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is canceled if the weather is unsuitable, and a full refund or alternative date is offered if canceled due to poor conditions.

In summary, this tour offers a well-rounded mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and value. If you’re eager to spend a fun-filled day in nature, enjoy easy access, and love trying new activities, this combo could be a highlight of your trip to Side. Just be prepared for a lively, sometimes rushed pace, and you’ll likely leave with plenty of stories and great photos.