City of Side: Buggy Safari Tour

Side Buggy Safari Tour Review

Getting out into nature and feeling the wind in your hair on a buggy ride sounds perfect, doesn’t it? This Buggy Safari Tour offered by River Quad Safari is one of those experiences that promises a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and fun. Spanning about 4 hours and covering a solid 20 kilometers along the Koprucay River in Antalya Province, it’s a great way to add some excitement to your Turkish holiday. We’ve looked into the details, reviews, and what to expect so you can decide if this is the right adventure for you.

What really draws us to this experience is the combination of driving through stunning natural landscapes, the chance to cool off with a river swim, and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. Plus, with a reasonable price point of just $40, it’s good value for a half-day adrenaline rush. That said, a potential downside to keep in mind is the dusty, muddy environment—so if you’re not prepared for getting a bit messy, this might not be your first choice. This tour suits those who love outdoor activities, are comfortable with a bit of dirt, and want an authentic, guided experience in Turkey’s beautiful countryside.

Key Points

• Scenic route along the Koprucay River with excellent natural views
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience
• Suitable for all skill levels, with safety gear provided
• Excellent value at $40 for a 20 km adventure
• Potential for getting dusty and muddy, so dress accordingly
• Great for families and adventure seekers alike

An In-Depth Look at the Buggy Safari Experience

The Starting Point and Organization

Your adventure begins with hotel pickup (note: the pickup point is the main security gate of your hotel, not the lobby), which is a relief if you’re staying in Side or nearby. The transfer takes about 30-40 minutes outside the town, giving you a scenic backdrop even before you start the ride. The guides, often multilingual (English, German, Russian), are described as friendly and knowledgeable—an important element since safety and clear instructions are paramount in such activities.

Once at the base, expect a quick safety briefing on the buggy bikes, helmets, and riding instructions. Reviewers mention that guides like Erkin and his team are professional, making sure everyone feels comfortable before heading out. The group sizes tend to be manageable, with around 10-15 buggies, ensuring the guides can keep an eye on everyone.

The Itinerary: What Happens During the Tour

The main part of the tour involves driving approximately 10 kilometers along the Koprucay River through the Koprulu Canyon National Park. The route is designed with twists, turns, and natural obstacles that keep the ride exciting. Reviewers mention that the buggies are fun and feel safe, even for first-timers, thanks to the thorough briefing.

Midway, there’s a swimming break where you can cool off in the river. Many guests appreciate this pause—it’s not just a photo op but a genuine chance to refresh after some dusty, muddy driving. For those who want to swim, bring your swimsuit and towel; reviews note that the river offers a pleasant, if somewhat muddy, water experience. Some mention that goggles are a must-have to keep the sand out of your eyes, since the environment can get quite dusty.

As you continue the final 10 kilometers, expect more scenic views and fun driving conditions. Several reviewers describe the route as “awesome” and “well organized,” with a mixture of river crossings, forested areas, and open landscapes that showcase Turkey’s rugged beauty.

The Return and Photo Souvenir

Back at the facility, guides will show you the photos they snapped during your ride, which many guests find valuable as keepsakes. Afterward, a comfortable air-conditioned bus will drop you back at your hotel, making the whole experience hassle-free.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included is an expert guide, 20 kilometers of buggy driving, helmets, and hotel pickup/drop-off. That’s a solid package considering the price. However, items like food, drinks, extra gear (bandanas, masks, sunglasses, suitable shoes), and photos or DVDs are not included, so plan accordingly. Many reviewers recommend bringing your own goggles and masks to avoid the dust and mud, which can be quite intense on the trail.

The Challenges and Considerations

A few reviewers mentioned waiting times due to crowd sizes or logistical issues, such as delayed pickups. One pointed out that some drivers forgot to pick them up initially, which caused a delay. While these are minor hiccups, they highlight the importance of patience and planning for possible waiting periods.

The environment itself can be dusty and muddy, especially after rain, so proper clothing and eye protection are wise investments. The tour is not suitable for children under 3 or pregnant women, and those with mobility issues should consider that some parts might be physically demanding or involve getting in and out of the buggies.

Authentic Feedback from Tour Participants

Reviewers consistently praise the value for money, with many saying the experience far exceeded expectations. As one noted, “The buggy riding was fun and felt safe,” while another shared, “It was lots of fun getting a lovely mud bath and would come back again sometime.” The guides, like Erkin, often receive special mention for their friendliness and professionalism.

Many guests, including families, couples, and solo travelers, found this tour to be a highlight of their trip. Kids as young as 16 have enjoyed driving their own buggies, and even those who only wanted a passenger seat rated the experience highly. The reviews also highlight the importance of bringing goggles and covering your nose and mouth for comfort—some guests bought goggles on-site, but most agree they’re a good idea.

The Adventure’s Best Features

The scenic drive along the river, the adrenaline rush from driving through rugged terrain, and the opportunity to take photos of stunning canyon landscapes make this tour memorable. Several reviews mention the sense of achievement and fun that comes from mastering the buggy, especially if you’re new to such activities.

What We’re Slightly Less Enthusiastic About

While the majority of reviews are glowing, a few mention that the ride duration felt slightly shorter than expected. One reviewer noted that they were on the buggies for about 1.5 hours, which is still a good chunk of time but not a full four hours overall. Also, some guests experienced queues or waiting times, so flexibility is key.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This buggy safari is ideal for adventure lovers eager for a fun, outdoor activity in a beautiful setting. It’s particularly great for families with teenagers, as those 16 and older can drive their own buggies. The experience appeals to nature enthusiasts who want to explore Turkey’s forests and rivers in an active way, combined with the convenience of hotel pickup.

It’s perfect for those who don’t mind getting dusty or muddy, and who appreciate guided tours with friendly, professional staff. If you’re looking for a relaxing day at a beach or a city tour, this isn’t the activity. But if you want a memorable, adrenaline-filled adventure that combines scenery, fun, and a bit of challenge, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

The Side Buggy Safari Tour offers a fantastic mix of adventure, natural beauty, and convenience. For just $40, you get a 20 km drive through stunning landscapes, a refreshing river swim, and the chance to drive your own buggy while being supported by experienced guides. The reviews reflect consistent satisfaction, highlighting the safety, fun, and value.

While it’s not for everyone—especially those who prefer a more passive experience or are wary of getting dusty—the majority of guests find it to be a highlight of their stay in Antalya. It’s especially suited for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking to add some thrill to their Turkish holiday.

In short, if you’re after an authentic, action-packed outdoor outing that will leave you with great photos and memories, this buggy safari is well worth considering.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included and take place at the main security gate of your hotel, making it easy to join the tour without extra hassle.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 4 hours, including transportation. The actual buggy riding is around 1.5 hours, with additional time for briefing, breaks, and photos.

Can I drive my own buggy?
Yes, guests over 16 can drive their own buggies after a safety briefing. Younger guests can sit on the side seat and enjoy the ride.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, a towel, and a scarf. It’s also recommended to wear suitable shoes and goggles to protect your eyes from dust and mud.

Is the activity suitable for children?
Children under 3 are not allowed. Those aged 16 and above can drive, making it suitable for teenagers and adults. Pregnant women and people with mobility issues should avoid participating.

What’s not included?
Food, drinks, extra equipment like goggles and masks (which are recommended), and photos or DVDs are not included but can be purchased on-site.

What if I want to swim in the river?
You should bring your swimsuit and towel. Many guests enjoy taking a quick dip during the break, but be prepared for muddy water and bring goggles for comfort.

Are there any safety concerns?
Guides are experienced and provide helmets and instructions. Following their advice and wearing the provided gear keeps the activity safe and fun.

What if I get delayed or the driver doesn’t pick me up on time?
Some reviews mention delays or initial no-shows, so it’s wise to confirm pickup details beforehand and be patient in case of minor delays.

How much does the tour cost?
The standard price is $40 per person, offering good value considering the length and variety of experiences included.

In summary, this buggy safari in Antalya’s Koprucay River area offers a genuine dose of adventure and natural beauty. With friendly guides, scenic routes, and the thrill of driving your own buggy, it’s a memorable outing that can suit a variety of travelers looking for fun in the Turkish outdoors. Just pack your goggles, wear suitable shoes, and prepare for a dusty, muddy, and exhilarating ride.