City of Side: Taurus Mountains Guided Buggy Cross Riding

If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure in Turkey that combines excitement with breathtaking scenery, the Taurus Mountains Guided Buggy Cross Ride might just be your next must-do activity. Priced at around $41 per person, this tour offers a 2-hour guided journey through rugged terrain, with plenty of opportunities to get a little muddy, wet, and utterly exhilarated.

What really stands out is how accessible and organized the experience is — from hotel pickup to a quick safety briefing and a chance to see your own adventure on video. It’s perfect for those who want a pulse-racing activity that also delivers some fantastic photo ops.

One thing to consider is that this experience is quite active — you’ll be riding a buggy for a total of 20 kilometers — so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a bit of physical activity and some dirt. It’s especially appealing if you’re craving authentic outdoor fun in the mountains, but not ideal if you’re after a more relaxed or luxurious excursion.

This tour suits adventure lovers, families with older kids (over 15, as drivers must be at least that age), and anyone eager to experience Turkey’s natural beauty from a unique perspective. If you enjoy off-road driving, scenic landscapes, and a bit of dirt under your nails, you’ll find this tour a worthwhile thrill.

Key Points

Authentic off-road adventure in the Taurus Mountains.
Guided experience with professional instruction and safety gear.
Includes transportation from Side, making it hassle-free.
A fun, active way to see mountain views and feel the rush.
Video footage of your ride available afterward, for memories.
Suitable for those over 15, with some physical activity involved.

An In-Depth Look at the Taurus Mountains Guided Buggy Cross Ride

The Itinerary and What You’ll Experience

This tour begins with a convenient hotel pickup in Side, with transportation provided in an air-conditioned bus to the base station. The journey itself is comfortable and reassuring, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area. Once there, you get outfitted with all the necessary equipment — helmets, gloves, and protective gear — and are given a brief safety and riding tutorial by your guide, who speaks English, German, or Turkish.

A test drive near the base station offers a low-pressure opportunity to get a feel for the buggy, which is especially helpful for first-timers or those a little nervous about off-road driving. This initial practice helps boost confidence before heading out into the mountains.

The main part of the tour involves two circuits of 10 kilometers each, totaling 20 kilometers of mountain trails, river crossings, and tight curves. You’ll ride alongside the Manavgat River, where the breeze and the natural surroundings create a scenic backdrop to your adrenaline rush. As one reviewer notes, “It was fun to feel the wind in your hair and the thrill of navigating the curves.”

The Ride and Scenic Highlights

The Taurus Mountains are known for their rugged beauty, and the tour’s route takes you through parts of this impressive landscape. Expect to drive through areas with varied terrain, from rocky paths to dirt tracks, with enough obstacles to keep the experience exciting but safe.

Several reviewers mention that the guides are knowledgeable and attentive, ensuring safety while encouraging fun. They often share interesting facts about the local flora, fauna, and geography, enriching the experience beyond just fun and speed.

You’ll have a short break after the first 10 kilometers, which is a good time to cool down, take some photos, and chat with your fellow riders. Then, after reloading with a quick safety check, you’ll hop back onto your buggy for the final circuit.

The Post-Ride Experience

Back at the base station, you can watch a video montage of your ride — a fun way to relive the highlights and share with friends. While the DVD and photos are available at extra cost, the footage captured during the ride is usually enough to give you a memory-packed souvenir.

A refreshing shower facility is available before heading back to your hotel, providing a much-needed clean-up after getting a bit muddy and wet. The return journey is smooth, with hotel drop-off included, making the entire experience seamless and stress-free.

The Value and Practicalities

At $41 per person, this experience offers great value given the quantity of fun and the scenic payoff. The tour includes everything you need — transportation, equipment, and insurance — which simplifies planning.

The duration of 2 hours makes it an excellent half-day activity, leaving you space to explore other sights or relax later. Plus, the tour’s flexible start times mean you can fit it into most itineraries without trouble.

What To Bring and Keep in Mind

To fully enjoy your ride, bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a change of clothes, and a towel. Be prepared to get dirty or wet — it’s part of the fun. While children under 15 can’t drive, they are welcome as passengers, making it a family-friendly option.

Note that the activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues or heart problems, or pets. The tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to confirm with the provider if you have specific needs.

Realistic Expectations and Reviews

Looking at reviews from previous participants, we see a common theme: “The guides are attentive and make you feel safe” while still keeping the experience exciting. One reviewer mentions that the initial test drive helps nervous drivers feel more comfortable, which is important when navigating mountain trails.

Many appreciated the spectacular views of the Taurus Mountains and the fact that the ride wasn’t overly technical, making it accessible to a wide range of fitness levels. Some mention the video footage as a fun keepsake, although it does come at an extra cost.

The group size tends to be moderate, which helps keep the experience personal and manageable. The professional staff and organized nature contribute to a smooth, enjoyable day.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This buggy cross ride offers a fantastic combination of adventure, scenery, and professional guidance. It’s ideal for adventure enthusiasts eager to experience Turkey’s wild side without the hassle of planning or technical expertise. The inclusion of hotel pickup and a safety briefing helps make it accessible for many travelers, and the scenic backdrop of the Taurus Mountains delivers some truly memorable moments.

However, keep in mind the activity requires some physical effort and a willingness to get a little dirty. If you’re after a high-energy outdoor experience that’s both fun and scenic, this tour ticks all those boxes.

For families with older kids, groups seeking a unique photo opportunity, or solo travelers wanting a taste of adventure, this ride offers value for money and a chance to enjoy Turkey’s rugged natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned bus is included, making the entire experience easy and stress-free.

Can children participate?
Children under 15 are not allowed to drive but can join as passengers, making it suitable for families with older kids.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a change of clothes, a towel, and clothes that can get dirty are recommended.

Are safety helmets provided?
Yes, helmets and safety gear are included in the equipment provided.

Is the activity suitable for pregnant women?
No, it’s not recommended for pregnant women due to the physical nature of the ride.

How long is the ride?
The guided buggy ride covers 20 kilometers in total, divided into two circuits, lasting approximately 2 hours including breaks.

To sum it up, this Taurus Mountains guided buggy ride offers an energetic, scenic, and well-organized adventure that’s perfect for thrill-seekers and outdoor lovers. It combines the joy of off-road driving with spectacular mountain views and a friendly, professional guide team. Whether you’re looking for a fun day out, a memorable photo opportunity, or just something different from typical sightseeing, this experience fits the bill—just be ready to get a little muddy!