City of Side: Quad Safari Tour

If you’re craving a mix of adrenaline, scenic views, and a touch of adventure during your trip to Side, Turkey, the Quad Safari Tour might just be your perfect match. This 4-hour experience takes you on a wild ride across the Koprucay River and its stunning surroundings, all from the seat of a 250cc quad bike. With the option to explore turquoise waters, rugged canyons, and even ancient landmarks, it offers an engaging way to see a different side of the region.

What we really love about this tour is how accessible it is—perfect for first-timers and seasoned riders alike—plus the fact that it includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making the process hassle-free. That said, keep in mind it’s not designed for thrill-seekers looking for jumps or drifting; this is more about a scenic, fun, and safe ride. Ideal for adventure lovers, families with older children, or anyone wanting a memorable outdoor activity, this tour combines excitement with natural beauty.

One potential consideration is the waiting time. As some reviews mention, there can be delays due to the number of participants and limited quad availability, so patience is key. Also, dust can be an issue without goggles, so bringing appropriate eye protection is recommended. This experience offers excellent value for its price, especially given the professional guides and well-maintained equipment.

Key Points

• Scenic Ride: Enjoy 20 km of off-road fun around Koprucuay River and the breathtaking Koprulu Canyon National Park.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides ensure safety and share interesting insights about the area.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for those over 16, with safety briefings and manageable tracks.
• Value and Convenience: Includes hotel transfers, insurance, and professional photos for a reasonable price.
• Limited Jumps or Drifting: Focused on scenic riding rather than stunt tricks, ideal for a relaxed adventure.
• Potential Waiting Times: Be prepared for some delays, especially during busy periods.

What to Expect from the Quad Safari Tour

The adventure kicks off with hotel pickup in an air-conditioned bus, whisking you away from your accommodation in Side to the scenic Koprucay River area. The drive itself offers a chance to enjoy the lush landscape en route to the national park, home to some of Turkey’s most popular watersports and natural attractions.

Once at the site, your guides will give a safety briefing and explain how to operate the quad bikes—most of which are insured by Allianz for peace of mind. They’ll also provide a helmet, and you can purchase additional gear like goggles, masks, or sunglasses, especially if dust or wind might bother you.

Getting comfortable on the quad is straightforward, with a test drive around the facility to build confidence before hitting the trail. The course includes a special circuit in the first 10 km, with a refreshing swimming break by the river—a highlight for many travelers. The second stretch of 10 km takes you further into the scenic surroundings, following the river and exploring the area’s canyons and waters.

Reviewers like Marcelina mention the thrill of driving through the river and the stunning views that come with it. She also highlights the importance of goggles, as dust can be a real bother without them. The journey itself isn’t about jumps or tricks, but rather a steady, scenic cruise that showcases the rugged beauty of Koprulu Canyon.

The Experience Highlights

• Guided Tour: Guides lead the way, offering safety instructions and local insights.
• Stunning Landscapes: Expect views of turquoise waters, canyon walls, and natural rock formations.
• River Drive: Some of the most memorable moments come from driving through the river, which adds a splash of fun and adventure.
• Photo & Video: Professional footage and photos capture your ride, with options to purchase keepsakes.
• Relaxing Break: A well-deserved swim in the river provides relief from the heat and dust.

Practical Details

The tour covers approximately 20 km in total, split evenly between the river circuit and surrounding terrain. It’s designed to last about 4 hours, including pickups, transfers, and breaks. The price at around $32 per person is quite reasonable considering the inclusions—insurance, guides, and hotel transfers—making it a solid value for an adventure activity.

Group sizes tend to be moderate, and guides speak multiple languages including German, English, and Russian, ensuring clear communication. Since children under 16 can only sit in the back seat of the ATV, it’s a good option for families with slightly older kids seeking adventure.

Authentic Experiences and Tips from Reviewers

One of the most consistent themes in reviews is the helpfulness of the guides, who are described as thoughtful and professional—making beginners feel safe and supported. Andrei praises the length of the track, calling it “a very good one,” and notes that everyone kept their line when driving, which speaks to the well-organized nature of the tour.

Marcelina’s review also highlights the delicious river stop, which provides a cooling dip after the ride, and advises bringing goggles to protect from dust. She mentions that the ride is quite “monotone,” without jumps or drifting, but finds it still very worthwhile for the views and the experience.

On the upside, Sylvia sums it up as “the best thing on holiday so far,” emphasizing the value for money and the length of the ride which offers plenty of fun. The overall consensus suggests this tour is an engaging, scenic, and well-organized activity that offers a genuine taste of adventure without overly strenuous or overly tame elements.

Who Is This Tour For?

This quad safari is perfect for adventure seekers who want a scenic ride without the need for jumps or stunts. It’s suitable for those over 16 years old, especially families looking for a fun outdoor activity. The tour is great if you’re after a safe, guided experience that combines natural beauty with a dash of adrenaline.

However, if you’re looking for high-octane tricks or jumps, this might not be your best bet. The activity is more about exploring stunning landscapes and enjoying the thrill of riding through water and canyon terrain. It’s also an excellent choice for travelers who appreciate professional guides, safety standards, and value for their money.

Practical Tips for Your Quad Safari Adventure

• Bring goggles or sunglasses to protect your eyes from dust and wind.
• Pack swimwear, a towel, and change of clothes for the river stop.
• Wear closed-toe shoes suitable for off-road riding.
• Arrive prepared for potential waiting times—a bit of patience goes a long way.
• Confirm your pickup and starting times in advance to ensure smooth logistics.
• Young travelers must be over 16 and sit at the back of the quad.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned bus from Side and nearby areas.

• How long does the tour last? The entire experience takes about 4 hours, including transportation, briefing, riding, and breaks.

• Do I need prior experience? No, the guides provide a safety briefing and test drive to help you get comfortable. The ride is suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike.

• What should I bring? Sunglasses or goggles, swimwear, a towel, change of clothes, and suitable shoes. Extra equipment like masks or bandanas can be purchased on-site.

• Are there age restrictions? Yes, participants must be at least 16 years old to ride; younger children can sit in the back seat.

• Can I cancel? Yes, cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours in advance.

• Are photos available? Yes, professional photos and videos are taken during the ride and can be purchased afterward.

Final Thoughts

The Side Quad Safari Tour offers a wonderful blend of scenic beauty, adventure, and value. With manageable distances and professional guidance, it’s a fantastic way to explore Turkey’s natural landscapes without the need for intense physical exertion or jumping tricks. The experience is well-suited for families, solo travelers, or groups looking for a memorable outdoor activity.

The highlights—riding through the river, the vistas of Koprulu Canyon, and the friendly guides—make this an experience worth considering. While it’s not designed for the thrill of jumps or stunts, it delivers an authentic, fun ride that captures the essence of Turkey’s wild side. Plus, the included hotel transfers and professional photos add to the overall value, making it a smart choice for those seeking adventure on their holiday.

If you’re after a safe, scenic, and enjoyable quad biking experience that balances fun with natural beauty, this tour will not disappoint. Just remember to bring goggles, wear suitable shoes, and be patient for the best possible experience.