Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Experience the Best of Side with a Jeep Safari and Green Canyon Visit
Taking a day out to explore beyond the usual tourist spots in Side can reveal some truly memorable sights. This Jeep Safari and Green Canyon Tour offers an exciting mix of natural beauty and cultural history, all packed into approximately six hours. With a small group of just 10 people, you’ll enjoy a more personalized experience, complete with comfortable transfers and an engaging guide.
One of the standout features is the variety of stops: from ancient ruins to stunning waterfalls and mountain vistas. Plus, the included lunch overlooking Green Lake adds a peaceful touch to the adventure. However, it’s worth noting that the trip isn’t entirely budget-free—expect to pay extra for drinks and some entrance fees, which travelers have pointed out as an important consideration.
This tour is perfect for those who want a comprehensive, value-packed day that combines history, nature, and a touch of adventure. If you’re keen to see the highlights around Side without the hassle of planning each stop yourself, this trip offers a good mix of organized sightseeing and free time.
Key Points
- Small-Group Experience: Only 10 travelers, ensuring more intimacy and personalized attention.
- Diverse Itinerary: Visits include ancient city ruins, Green Canyon, Manavgat Dam, Green Lake, and Manavgat Waterfall.
- Comfortable Transport: Jeep rides and transfers make navigating the countryside easy and fun.
- Inclusive Lunch: A scenic meal at Green Lake provides a relaxing break with beautiful views.
- Additional Costs: Drinks, extra entrance fees, and tips are extras to budget for.
- Ideal for: History lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a full-day adventure from Side.
Exploring the Itinerary in Detail
You might also be interested in these Side experiences
Start at Seleukeia (Lyrbe) Ancient City
Your adventure begins with pickup from your hotel, typically around 8:30 am. After a roughly 45-minute drive, you’ll arrive at Seleukeia, an ancient city that offers a glimpse into the area’s historical tapestry. Guided tours here can deepen your understanding of the site’s significance, and the best part? Admission is free.
Some reviewers, like Lorraine_M, highlight the value of knowledgeable guides who enrich the experience. She mentions the “amazing day out,” though she also notes that extra costs for drinks and tips can add up, so be prepared for some additional expenses.
Scenic Break at Green Canyon
Next, you’ll stop at Green Canyon, where you can snap photos of the turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs. This quick 20-minute stop gives you a chance to breathe in the fresh mountain air and capture some memorable shots. It’s a brief but visually striking highlight, with free access for photos.
Manavgat Dam – A Powerful Feat of Engineering
The tour then takes you to the Manavgat Dam, the largest dam in the area. From the jeep, you’ll get a good view of the massive structure that plays a key role in local water management. The stop here lasts about 30 minutes, giving enough time for photos and a quick explanation from your guide about its importance.
Lunch at Green Lake
One of the most appreciated parts of this trip is the lunch overlooking Green Lake. After about an hour’s drive through the Taurus Mountains, you’ll enjoy your meal at a riverside restaurant. We loved the way this spot combines peaceful scenery with good food, making it a perfect pause in your busy day.
Reviews like Susan_H’s mention that the guides are friendly and go above and beyond, ensuring everyone has a good time. She describes this as the “best trip ever” and praises the value for money, especially since the jeep rides, stops, and lunch are included.
You might also want to explore these Side activities
Manavgat Waterfall – A Refreshing Photo Op
On the way back, there’s a final stop at Manavgat Waterfall for a quick photo break. While access to the waterfall itself isn’t included in the price, you can admire the rushing water from the viewing area. Travelers like Rariba_R shared mixed feelings, citing some unruly behavior and extra charges, so be aware that the overall experience can vary based on the group.
What You Get for Your Money
At $17.80 per person, this tour offers excellent value for money considering the variety of stops and inclusions. The lunch alone, with scenic views, adds a lot to the overall experience. The transportation in a Jeep means you get to enjoy the mountain scenery comfortably, and the small group size keeps things intimate.
However, several reviews highlight the importance of being prepared for additional costs—like drinks, tips, and small entrance fees (such as 2 euros for the waterfall). These extras, while not included in the base price, are common in tours of this kind and shouldn’t come as a surprise if you read the fine print.
Transport and Timing
The tour starts at 8:30 am with hotel pickup (if arranged). The day is well-paced, with enough time at each stop to explore without feeling rushed. The jeep ride in the Taurus Mountains is a highlight, offering both fun and scenic views, especially when climbing higher into the hills. The group is capped at 10 travelers, ensuring you get a more personalized experience compared to larger tours.
Guide and Group Experience
Reviews consistently praise the guides for their friendliness and knowledge. One reviewer mentioned that the guide, in particular, was helpful and made the trip memorable. Having a small group also means more opportunity to ask questions and enjoy the sights at your own pace.
Practical Considerations
Since drinks are not included, you might want to carry some bottled water or snacks, especially if you’re sensitive to dehydration or simply want to avoid extra purchases. The included lunch is a real highlight, offering a wholesome meal with a scenic view of Green Lake.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This tour is ideal for travelers who:
- Want a well-rounded day trip with a mix of history, nature, and adventure.
- Prefer a small group for a more relaxed and personal experience.
- Are interested in visiting both natural wonders and cultural landmarks.
- Are comfortable with some optional extra costs for drinks and small entrance fees.
- Appreciate scenic views and a leisurely lunch in beautiful surroundings.
It might not be the best choice if you’re seeking a very active water fight or high-energy adventure—some reviews pointed out the absence of certain expected activities like water fights—but overall, it hits the mark for a balanced day out.
The Sum Up
This Side Jeep Safari and Green Canyon tour offers a compelling blend of scenic beauty, cultural sights, and relaxed dining, all within a manageable six-hour itinerary. It provides solid value, especially given the included lunch and small-group atmosphere. The stops at ancient sites, waterfalls, and dams allow for a varied experience that suits curious travelers wanting to see more than just the beach.
While extra costs for drinks, tips, and small entrance fees are something to plan for, they don’t diminish the overall value when considering the scenery and convenience offered. The knowledgeable guides, like those praised in reviews, help bring the sights to life and make the journey more engaging.
If you’re after a day that combines adventure, culture, and natural beauty with personal attention, this trip is a fine choice. It caters well to those who want a taste of the countryside surrounding Side without the hassle of organizing each stop independently.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup, making it convenient to start your day without extra planning.
What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 6 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and lunch.
How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a cozy and personalized atmosphere.
Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included. You should budget for bottled water, sodas, or alcohol separately.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.
What stops are included in the itinerary?
Stops include Seleukeia ancient city, Green Canyon, Manavgat Dam, Green Lake for lunch, and Manavgat Waterfall.
Is admission to the Waterfall included?
No, entrance to Manavgat Waterfall is not included, with a small fee of 2 euros per person requested at the site.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, sun protection, bottled water, and any personal items you might need for the day.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best for those comfortable with jeep rides and outdoor activities.
What is the cost of the tour?
The tour is priced at $17.80 per person, a very reasonable rate considering the itinerary and inclusions.
This jeep safari around Side offers a well-balanced mix of history, natural beauty, and relaxed dining, making it a memorable way to see the countryside. Just be prepared for some extra expenses along the way, and you’ll have a fun, authentic day adventure.
