Side: Jeep Safari Adventure with Lunch at Green Lake

Taking part in a jeep safari adventure in the Antalya Province is undeniably one of the most exciting ways to explore Turkey’s rugged natural beauty. This particular tour offers a 7-hour excursion through the stunning Taurus Mountains, combining off-road thrills with cultural stops, scenic waterfalls, and a delicious mountain lunch. With a high 4.7-star rating from over 445 reviews, it’s clear this experience resonates with many travelers.

What we love most about this safari is the chance to see authentic village life firsthand, away from the usual tourist spots. The guides are praised for their knowledge, making the journey not just fun but also informative. That said, it’s a dusty, bumpy ride—so if you’re looking for a smooth, luxury experience, this might not be your best fit. However, if you’re craving adventure, stunning views, and a taste of local culture, this trip has plenty to offer.

This tour is particularly well-suited for active travelers, families with children (who are comfortable with rougher rides), and anyone eager to witness Turkey’s countryside, mountains, and waterfalls. It’s a full immersion into nature with a bit of adventure and history thrown in, ideal for those looking to combine scenic sightseeing with a bit of adrenaline.

Key Points

• Authentic Village Visits: Learn about local Turkish traditions and religious customs and enjoy homemade gozleme.
• Spectacular Scenery: Expect breathtaking views of waterfalls, mountain landscapes, and the Green Canyon.
• Off-Road Thrills: Drive through unpaved paths that most vehicles can’t reach, with plenty of dust, bumps, and water fights.
• Cultural Insights: Visit village mosques and traditional houses, gaining a deeper understanding of rural life.
• Value for Money: Includes hotel transfers, lunch, insurance, and a knowledgeable guide, making it a comprehensive experience.
• Family-Friendly: Many reviews highlight how guides, especially Joseph, checked in on young children, making it suitable for families.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Your Adventure: The tour begins with convenient hotel pick-ups from Side, with four pick-up locations to choose from. Once onboard, the fun truly begins as you head into the Taurus Mountains in a convoy of sturdy jeeps, equipped for off-road exploration. The small group setting means a more personalized experience, with professional guides leading the way.

Oymapinar Stop: Your first major stop is the charming village of Oymapinar, where you’ll visit an old house and get to try traditional Turkish bread (gözleme). Per reviews, this is a highlight—”Johnny Kash” (the guide) makes the experience engaging, and visitors appreciated the chance to see local homes and learn about rural life. Plus, the short guided tour here offers a glimpse into the local customs and history.

Green Canyon: Next, you’ll visit the famous Green Canyon area, where scenic walks and photo opportunities await. Expect a peaceful 1-hour break to soak in the lush scenery, with crystal-clear waters and rugged cliffs providing the perfect backdrop for photos.

Oymapinar Dam and Waterfall: The tour continues with stops at the Oymapinar Dam and the impressive Manavgat Waterfall. Visitors often describe the waterfalls as “foaming cascades,” with some noting it’s a chance to admire Turkey’s natural water features up close. You can typically take photos, enjoy the scenery, and sometimes buy ice cream for a sweet break.

Lunch in the Mountains: The highlight for many is the mountain lunch at Gölba Restaurant & Hotel. The setting is picturesque, perched amid the mountains, and reviews mention the good quality of the food, often including traditional Turkish dishes. It’s a perfect rest stop before continuing the adventure.

Additional Stops and Free Time: After lunch, visits to Deirmenli Köyü and Bucakeyhler offer more photo opportunities and a chance to stretch your legs in the fresh mountain air. There’s also some free time, which most guests use to take photos, buy souvenirs, or just enjoy the landscape.

Water Fights and Fun: One of the most praised aspects is the water fight element—bottles are supplied, and the jeeps are equipped for some friendly splashing. As one review states, “water bottles supplied to have water fights with the other jeeps—great fun and much needed in the heat.”

Zoo Visit: The trip ends with a visit to a small zoo, where visitors can hold a baby lion. Reviewers mention the animals can appear tired, and some suggest skipping this part if you’re looking for a more natural experience.

Return and Drop-off: After a full day of adventure, you’ll be dropped back at your hotel, often with a smile on your face and many photos to remember the day.

What’s Really Valuable About This Tour

The off-road driving provides an exhilarating sense of adventure—think dusty trails, bumps, and scenic dust clouds behind the jeeps. Many reviews comment on the crew’s ability to keep the mood upbeat, with lively music and a party atmosphere that lasts throughout the day.

The guides stand out as a major positive. One reviewer, Sarah, called the guides “excellently explained extras with no pressure,” and others praised Johnny Cash for his “brilliant vibe.” The guides’ attentiveness, especially to families with young children, makes the trip feel safe and inclusive.

The scenery is another star of the show. From waterfalls to mountain vistas and the Green Canyon, the landscapes are diverse and stunning. Expect plenty of opportunities for photos, especially at the canyon, waterfalls, and mountain viewpoints.

Food and drinks are included in the price, with many guests mentioning the lunch as satisfying and authentic, providing good value for the overall cost. Be sure to bring your own sun hat and swimwear, as the day is sun-intensive and water-based fun is part of the experience.

However, the rough terrain and dusty conditions mean this trip isn’t suitable for everyone—pregnant women and those with mobility issues might want to consider other options. Also, the jeeps are not luxury vehicles; they are practical, rugged off-road vehicles, so don’t expect a smooth ride.

The Value Proposition

This tour strikes a balance between adventure, culture, and natural beauty. For the price, you get hotel transfers, guidance in multiple languages, lunch, insurance, and access to some of Turkey’s best scenic spots. The group size tends to be small, which enhances the experience and allows guides like Joseph and Johnny Kash to give more personalized attention.

Guests consistently mention the excellent organization and friendly crew, which make the day flow smoothly. The water fights, scenic stops, and cultural visits combine to create a lively, memorable day out. It’s a well-rounded option for those wanting a bit of everything—adventure, cultural insights, and beautiful landscapes.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This safari is perfect for adventure-loving travelers who don’t mind getting dusty and wet. Families with children who are comfortable with bumpy rides will find it especially enjoyable, thanks to guides who check in on young ones. If you’re seeking nature, scenic views, and a taste of rural Turkish life, this tour delivers.

It’s not suited for pregnant women or those with limited mobility, given the off-road nature and bumpy rides. If luxury and comfort are your priorities, you might prefer a more relaxed, less rugged experience.

FAQ

Is hotel pick-up available?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off from Side, with four specific locations available.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, and a bandana or head covering, especially since the trip involves dusty, bumpy roads and water fights.

How long is the tour?
The adventure lasts approximately 7 hours, but check availability for specific starting times.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes a traditional mountain lunch at Gölba Restaurant & Hotel, along with water bottles for the water fights.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this suitable for young children?
Many reviews mention children as young as 3 and 5 years old. Guides are attentive and check on their wellbeing, but the bumpy, dusty ride might not suit everyone.

What language do guides speak?
Guides are available in Turkish, English, and German, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after an active day of adventure, with a mix of scenic beauty, local culture, and fun water fights, this jeep safari is a fantastic pick. The guides’ friendly attitude, the stunning waterfalls, and the mountain lunch create a well-rounded, memorable experience.

It’s especially appealing if you enjoy off-road driving, learning about local traditions, and snapping plenty of photos. The trip offers great value considering the range of included activities and transfers, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious explorers who crave authentic fun.

For those who can handle a dusty, bouncy ride and are eager to see Turkey’s natural and rural charms, this safari promises a day full of excitement and beautiful sights. Just remember to pack your essentials, brace for some bumps, and prepare for a lively, adventurous journey into the Taurus Mountains.