City of Side: Forest Quad-Bike Tour with Hotel Transfers

If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure just outside of Side, this forest quad-bike tour offers a fantastic way to explore Turkey’s natural beauty. With round-trip hotel transfers, a knowledgeable instructor, and plenty of off-road fun, it’s a great option for travelers wanting a mix of excitement and scenery. The tour lasts around three hours, with approximately 70 minutes on the bikes, making it a manageable yet memorable activity.

What draws many to this experience is the combination of guided support and scenic exploration. You’ll zoom through lush pine forests and rugged mountain trails, crossing small rivers and muddy patches that promise plenty of fun—especially if you’re prepared to get a little dirty. One thing to keep in mind, though, is that you should wear old clothes and be ready for a bit of mud and water, as some parts of the route are quite wet and challenging.

This tour is best suited for adventure-seekers, groups of friends, or anyone curious to experience Turkey’s countryside in an active way. While it’s accessible for unexperienced drivers, it’s not ideal for very young children or pregnant women. Overall, it offers a value-packed day that combines scenic views with a healthy dose of excitement.

Key Points

• Guided Experience: Expert instructors ensure safety and offer helpful tips throughout the ride.
• Scenic Trails: Explore pine forests and mountain terrain away from crowded tourist spots.
• All-Level Friendly: Suitable for beginners, no license required, but drivers must be 17+.
• Good Value: At around $36, the 70-minute quad session plus transfers provides a memorable adventure for the price.
• Wet and Muddy Terrain: Expect to get dirty and wet, so dress accordingly.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, ideal for spontaneous plans or weather changes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

The adventure begins with a hotel pickup from your accommodation in Side. The pickup is straightforward—just be ready at the main security gate about 10 minutes before your scheduled time. Many reviewers mention that the pickup runs smoothly and on time, making the start of your day stress-free, such as Stacey’s comment about the “pick-up arriving on time and the activity running very smoothly.”

Once picked up, you’ll enjoy a short drive into the Taurus Mountains, where the real fun begins. The ride to the starting point is often described as a bit nerve-wracking, especially due to local drivers’ energetic style—some describe it as “terrifying,” but in a fun way. It’s a quick journey, and once there, your safety equipment is handed out, including a helmet, and a safety briefing is given by the instructor.

The instructor will give a training session—an essential step, especially for those who haven’t driven a quad before. Many reviews highlight how well the guides, like Eric, make everyone feel at ease, switching bikes if needed or providing extra guidance for inexperienced drivers. A good example is Mel, who appreciated the “safety briefing and helmet issuance,” saying that she was able to do a few practice laps before heading out confidently.

Once you’re ready, the main ride kicks off. The trail is an off-road playground—dusty, rocky, and occasionally muddy. Expect a mix of flat forest paths, river crossings, and steep inclines. The terrain keeps you on your toes and adds an element of adventure, with some parts so wet and muddy that reviewers recommend bringing goggles or bandanas to protect your face.

One of the standout moments is crossing a small river, which many find exhilarating. The guides often lead the group with enthusiasm, stopping at scenic viewpoints or photo stops, where you’ll see some action shots taken by a photographer—these are available for purchase at a reasonable price, as Mel notes: “15 euros for around 45 photos.”

The ride isn’t just about speed; it’s about control and enjoying each moment. As Stacey mentions, the guides “switched vehicles if we were unable to handle the quad,” emphasizing how safety and fun are prioritized. The trail offers plenty of opportunities to pause and absorb the views—expect to see pine-scented forests and mountain vistas that are well worth the slightly dusty ride.

After about 70 minutes of riding, you’ll return to the starting point, where a comfortable vehicle awaits to take you back to your hotel. Many travelers, like Michael, mention how seamless the process is, with “communications from guide Eric ensuring the booking ran smoothly” and the entire experience feeling well-organized.

The Quality of the Experience: What Travelers Say

The overall reviews paint a picture of a well-organized and enjoyable activity. Stacey praises the “no waiting around” process, while Michael highlights the attentive communication from the guides. Although some mention the drive to the site as “terrifying,” it’s generally viewed as part of the adventure—an exciting start to the day.

Reviewers also appreciate the value for money. At $36, the tour provides a substantial amount of riding, a safety briefing, equipment, and transportation—all crucial for a hassle-free experience. The availability of photos for purchase adds a nice memory, and many guests leave with a sense of accomplishment and fresh stories to tell.

A recurring theme in reviews is the expert guidance provided by instructors like Eric, who are described as friendly, professional, and attentive. Many mention that even those with no prior quad experience felt safe and comfortable, thanks to clear instructions and supportive staff.

Some practical tips from reviews include wearing old clothes—as mud and water are unavoidable—and bringing protective gear like glasses or bandanas. While cameras and cellphones aren’t allowed during the ride, most participants recommend taking photos beforehand or purchasing action shots afterward.

The Value of This Tour

Let’s talk about the cost versus experience. For just $36, you’ll enjoy nearly an hour of off-road driving through some stunning natural scenery. When you consider the included hotel transfers, safety gear, instructor guidance, and the scenic adventure, it’s a solid deal. Guests note the long ride time on the quads, with Simona saying, “had a good long time on the bikes” and Stephanie calling it “absolutely amazing from start to finish.”

The tour offers a balance of thrill and scenery, making it suitable for solo travelers, groups, or couples looking for a fun, active day. The fact that unexperienced drivers can participate—thanks to the instructor support—bresents a great entry point for newcomers to quad biking.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for adventure lovers who want a taste of Turkey’s rugged mountains in a fun, controlled environment. If you’re after stunning views mixed with excitement, this is a good choice. It’s also well-suited for those wanting a value-for-money activity that doesn’t require a long commitment.

However, those with mobility issues, pregnant women, or travelers with very young children might want to consider other options, as the terrain can be rough, and the activity is physically demanding. As noted, drivers must be at least 17, and unlicensed riders can join if they are confident behind the wheel.

More Great Tours Nearby

Final Thoughts

This forest quad-bike tour offers an authentic and exhilarating way to explore the countryside near Side. You’ll get a taste of local mountain scenery, with the added thrill of muddy trails and river crossings. The guides are experienced, safety-conscious, and enthusiastic, making the experience accessible even for newcomers.

The combination of scenic beauty, practical organization, and value for money makes this adventure stand out. Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a group, or a couple looking for a memorable day out, this tour delivers plenty of fun and fantastic views.

For those who enjoy active experiences with a bit of dirt and water, and want to explore Turkey’s natural side rather than just lounging on the beach, this quad-bike adventure is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included. Just wait at your hotel’s main security gate about 10 minutes before your scheduled pick-up time.

What is the duration of the quad-bike activity?
The actual riding time is around 70 minutes, within a total tour duration of approximately 3 hours including transfers and briefing.

Can beginners participate even without a driving license?
Yes, unexperienced drivers or guests without a license can join, as long as they are confident behind the wheel. The instructors provide full training and support.

What should I wear for the activity?
Comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended. It’s best to wear old clothes, as you will likely get muddy and wet. Protective gear like goggles or face masks is also advisable.

Are cameras or cellphones allowed during the ride?
No, cameras and cellphones are not permitted during the activity for safety reasons. Photos can be purchased afterward from the photographer.

Is there an age limit?
Drivers must be 17 years or older. The activity isn’t suitable for children under 5 years or pregnant women.

What if the weather is bad?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the activity for a full refund. Weather conditions may affect availability or the experience, so check the forecast.

How much do photos cost?
Photos taken during the ride are usually around 15 euros for approximately 45 images, a good deal for memorable action shots.

Is this activity suitable for couples or groups?
Absolutely. It’s a flexible activity that appeals to solo adventurers, couples, and groups looking for a fun and scenic outdoor experience.

This quad-bike forest tour is a lively, scenic, and well-organized activity that offers great value and a memorable way to see Turkey’s mountainous countryside. If you’re seeking a balance of adventure and beautiful views, it’s a worthwhile addition to your Side itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby