Side Quad and Buggy Safari Experience

If you’re visiting Side, Turkey, and craving a dose of adrenaline mixed with scenic views, the Side Quad and Buggy Safari might be just what you need. Priced around $23 per person, this 3.5-hour adventure promises to challenge your driving skills on rugged tracks while immersing you in the natural beauty of the area. From muddy paths to pine forests, it’s a chance to experience Side from a whole new perspective — behind the wheel of a powerful buggy.

One thing we really appreciate is how this tour offers self-driving time of over an hour and 15 minutes—plenty of opportunity to get the feel for your buggy and enjoy the ride. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off adds convenience, especially after a day of exploring or unwinding. However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention moments of slowness or route variations from the images advertised, which might impact those seeking high-speed thrills. This tour best suits adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and families with older children looking for a safe yet exciting experience.

Key Points

• Accessible for all: No previous driving license required, making it perfect for beginners.
• Safety & equipment: Helmets and safety gear supplied, emphasizing a responsible approach.
• Varied terrain: Muddy, watery, rocky, and forested tracks for a real off-road challenge.
• Guided experience: Professional instructors explain controls and safety procedures.
• Relaxing amenities: Showers, lockers, and changing facilities available at the base.
• Mixed reviews: Some mention slower pace and route differences, important for expectations.

An Introduction to the Side Buggy Safari

This tour is designed for those wanting a fun-filled, off-road adventure that combines excitement with the chance to see more of Side’s natural landscape. It’s not just about speed; it’s about mastering a buggy on different terrains and soaking in the stunning views around you. The tour is operated by Book From Locals, a provider with a reputable track record, and it includes hotel transfers, which simplifies logistics.

The experience balances adventure, safety, and scenic beauty. For many, the real highlight is the guidance and safety briefings—professional instructors ensure everyone knows how to control their buggy, making it accessible even for complete beginners. The fully air-conditioned pick-up vehicle and the relaxed pace help create a stress-free environment.

What to Expect from the Tour

Pickup & Transfer

Your day starts with a convenient hotel pickup in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle. The driver, who is praised as very friendly and professional, takes you to the specially designed off-road track. This transfer is essential because it saves you the hassle of navigating to the meeting point and ensures a comfortable start.

Arrival & Briefing

Once at the base, expect a warm welcome and a thorough safety briefing from trained instructors. They’ll explain the controls, safety rules, and what to expect during your ride. Interestingly, no prior driving experience is necessary—the instructors ensure all participants are comfortable before heading out.

Trial & Self-Driving

After a quick 20-minute test drive, you’ll be ready to get behind the wheel for at least 1 hour 15 minutes of self-driving time. The buggies are designed to accommodate two people, with up to one passenger sitting behind the driver, which is ideal if you’re traveling with a partner or family member. One review described the vehicles as “pretty worn out,” so don’t expect showroom condition, but they are maintained to meet safety standards.

The Off-Road Track

The driving route takes you through muddy, rocky, and watery terrains, including pine forests and physical obstacles, offering a variety of challenges that keep the adventure engaging. You’ll splash through water, climb hills, and navigate around rough patches—perfect for those who enjoy off-road driving and nature scenery. Expect to encounter wet paths and rugged hills, providing both a physical challenge and scenic payoff.

Scenic Stops & Views

While the route isn’t identical to the pictures on the website, reviewers mention beautiful landscapes and roads that are fun to explore. Some noted that the route could have been more adventurous or different from the images, but the fun factor remains high thanks to the varied terrain.

Facilities & Return

Back at the base, you can freshen up with showers and lockers, a nice touch after getting muddy. The return transfer is smooth, though some reviewers mention waiting times of 25-30 minutes for pickup after the tour, which is worth considering if you’re on a tight schedule.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

What We Loved

• The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making safety a priority while keeping the atmosphere relaxed.
• The stunning natural scenery—pine forests, water splashes, rocky tracks—keeps the ride visually engaging.
• The self-driving component allows for a sense of freedom and adventure, especially for beginners.
• The included safety equipment and instructions mean everyone can participate confidently.

Considerations

• Some reviews mention the vehicles are a bit worn out and the routes are not as adventurous as expected, which could impact those looking for high-speed thrills.
• The pace was described by some as “too slow,” with participants being one behind the other, which could lead to boredom for thrill-seekers.
• The route might differ from online images, so expectations should be adjusted accordingly.
• Waiting times for pickup or return can total around 30 minutes, which might be inconvenient for travelers with tight schedules.

Is It Worth It?

Considering the price (~$23), the value for money seems good, especially given the full self-driving experience, safety gear, and scenic environmental exposure. Compared to more adrenaline-heavy activities, this tour leans toward a fun, scenic adventure suitable for a broad range of travelers, including families with kids aged 5 and above (as passengers).

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari is perfect for families, couples, and friends looking for an engaging outdoor activity without requiring prior experience. It’s highly suitable for beginners who want to try off-road driving in a safe environment. Adventure seekers wanting fast-paced, high-speed thrills might find this a tad slow, but those interested in scenic exploration, nature, and a relaxed yet fun experience will find plenty to enjoy.

Travelers interested in photography or scenic views will also appreciate the opportunities for memorable photos during stops and driving through lush landscapes. It’s a great way to break up a holiday and add some excitement to your stay in Side.

Final Thoughts

The Side Quad and Buggy Safari offers an affordable, enjoyable, and family-friendly way to explore the rugged terrains and lush scenery around Side. It’s a well-organized tour with friendly guides, safety at the forefront, and enough off-road fun to keep everyone entertained. Although some might find the pace slow or the route slightly different from the images, the overall experience delivers value for money and memorable landscapes.

This tour is best suited for beginners, nature lovers, and those wanting a relaxed adventure with the thrill of navigating challenging terrains. It’s a fantastic option for anyone wanting to add a little bit of adrenaline to their Turkish holiday without overdoing it.

FAQ

Is previous driving experience required for this buggy safari?
No, you do not need to have a driving license or prior experience. The instructors teach you how to control the buggy, and safety equipment is provided.

How long do I get to drive the buggy?
You will have over 1 hour and 15 minutes of self-driving time, allowing you to get comfortable and enjoy the ride.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, children aged 5 and above can join as passengers sitting behind the driver. Only one passenger per buggy is allowed.

What should I wear?
Comfortable outdoor clothing suitable for getting muddy and wet. The tour provides helmets and safety gear, but it’s wise to wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty.

Are the buggies suitable for all terrains?
Yes, the route includes muddy, watery, rocky, and forested tracks, designed to challenge the vehicle’s capabilities and provide an exciting experience.

What if the weather turns bad?
The tour requires good weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How do I book this tour?
Booking is straightforward through their platform, with most travelers booking about 19 days in advance. Confirmation is received at booking unless done within three hours of the tour.

To sum it up, the Side Quad and Buggy Safari provides an accessible, scenic, and fun outdoor adventure suited for a broad audience. Whether you’re a family, couple, or group of friends, it’s a great way to connect with nature, challenge yourself a little, and enjoy the Turkish landscape in a relaxed yet thrilling manner.