Fethiye: Guided Quad Mountain Safari with Pickup

Venturing into Turkey’s scenic countryside on a quad bike sounds like a thrill for many travelers—and it is, at least on paper. This guided quad mountain safari around Fethiye offers a mix of adrenaline, stunning views, and a peek into local history with a stop at Kayaköy, an abandoned Greek village. It’s a popular choice for those looking to combine adventure with a taste of rural life and beautiful landscapes.

What really catches the eye is the convenience of hotel transfers, included safety gear, and the promise of roughly two hours of riding on forest trails and rugged terrain. The tour’s affordability, at just $51 per person, makes it a tempting way to spice up your Fethiye trip. But, as with all adventure activities, there are some caveats that you should consider before booking.

This tour works best for adventure seekers, families with older children, and casual riders eager for a fun, active experience. It’s less ideal for travelers with mobility issues, pregnant women, or those expecting a detailed historical tour—despite the appearance of a “mountain safari” that includes a stop at the Greek village.

Key Points

• Inexpensive and accessible: Great value for a quick thrill, with hotel pickup included.
• Scenic views and forest trails: Expect to enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains.
• Safety and guidance: Clear instructions and full insurance ensure a worry-free experience.
• Limited historical content: The stop at Kayaköy offers a glimpse of abandoned Greek houses, though the tour does not include a historical tour.
• Mixed reviews: Some riders felt the experience didn’t fully meet expectations, especially regarding the “tour” aspect.
• Dress accordingly: Expect to get dusty and dirty; bring extra clothes if you want to change afterward.

What to Expect from the Quad Safari Experience

This tour kicks off with a hotel pickup—a real plus if you’re staying in Ölüdeniz, Hisarönü, or Ovack. The transfer is smooth and straightforward, with drivers waiting at the main security gate of your hotel about 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup. The entire process is designed for hassle-free participation, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

Once you arrive at the starting point, the staff from Capella Tourism will gear you up with safety equipment—helmets, goggles, and gloves—and give a detailed safety briefing. If you’re new to quad biking, don’t worry: instructors emphasize how easy it is to drive. The bikes are manageable, and the instructions are clear, making this activity accessible for most.

The Drive and Trails

The core of the experience is about driving for almost two hours through forest trails, dusty paths, and rocky terrain. The routes are designed for fun and adrenaline, with sections that include water and mud, so expect to get a little dirty. Reviewers mention that the track is “dusty, rocky, and at some points there are water and mud,” which adds to the thrill but also means you should dress accordingly.

The instructor-led group follows a designated track, allowing for some friendly competition among friends or family members. The terrain can be bumpy, but the pace is generally suitable for beginners and those with some riding experience. The guides keep the group safe and offer encouragement throughout.

Scenic Stops and Photo Opportunities

A highlight is the stop at Kayaköy, the abandoned Greek village just outside Fethiye. Here, you can stroll amidst the old houses and listen as the instructors share quick stories about the settlement’s history. Reviewers mention that while it’s a “nice photo stop,” the tour does not dive into a detailed historical tour—more of a quick glance at the architecture, which is still worth the visit.

You’ll love the views from the mountain trails, with panoramic vistas of the surrounding hills and forests. The sounds of nature—birds chirping and the rustling of leaves—add a peaceful dimension to the otherwise adrenaline-fueled activity.

Return and Reflection

After about two hours of riding, the group returns to the starting point, where a bus is waiting to take you back to your hotel. The entire experience lasts approximately three hours, including transfers, briefing, riding, and the stop at Kayaköy.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• 70 minutes of quad biking (roughly two hours on the bikes)
• Hotel transfer (from Ölüdeniz, Hisarönü, and Ovack, both ways)
• Safety equipment and guiding service
• Full insurance coverage

Not included:

• Personal spendings (snacks, souvenirs)
• DVD or personal photos (some reviewers mentioned paying extra for goggles or masks, which is a minor extra)

Real Traveler Insights

While the tour offers a straightforward adventure, some reviews highlight areas where expectations might not align with reality. For example, one traveler noted that the “tour of ancient ruins” was missing, emphasizing that the activity is more about fun on dirt trails than cultural exploration. They felt that the experience was limited to “going around in circles on a flat course,” suggesting that not everyone might find this the most authentic or immersive activity.

On the positive side, many appreciated the friendly guides and the smooth logistics. One reviewer, Kaci, mentioned that “the tour guides were lovely,” and that the overall fun was worth the price, even if some felt they shouldn’t have had to pay separately for goggles or masks.

Another user commented on the safety measures—full insurance and instructions made them feel confident, even if they had no prior quad biking experience.

However, some critics argued that since the activity is somewhat short and focused mainly on the ride, it might be better to explore local providers once in Fethiye for a more tailored experience.

Practical Tips for Booking and Preparing

• Dress comfortably: Expect to get dusty and muddy. Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty and bring extra ones for after. Comfortable shoes are a must.
• Camera restrictions: Cameras are not allowed during riding, likely for safety reasons, so plan to take photos beforehand or at the stop.
• Children: Kids under 17 can participate as passengers, but they cannot drive.
• Physical limitations: The activity isn’t suitable for guests with mobility difficulties or pregnant women.
• Timing: Check the availability as start times vary, and plan to arrive 10 minutes early for pickup.
• Cost considerations: While the price is attractive, be prepared for optional extra costs like goggles if not included.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely—if you’re after an exciting, scenic outdoor activity that doesn’t break the bank. The combination of forest trails, mountain views, and the chance to ride a quad bike makes for an energetic day out. The stop at Kayaköy adds a touch of local history, even if it’s brief. It’s particularly suitable for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers wanting a quick adrenaline fix without intensive planning.

However, if your expectations lean toward a cultural tour or a deep historical experience, this might not be the best fit. Some travelers felt the “tour” aspect was minimal, and the focus was mainly on riding and fun.

Overall, it’s a good-value activity that delivers a memorable outdoor experience—so long as you’re okay with dust, dirt, and a brief visit to an abandoned village.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, pickup and drop-off from all Fethiye hotels in Ölüdeniz, Hisarönü, and Ovack are included to make logistics simple.

How long does the quad biking last? You’ll get approximately 70 minutes of riding, which is about two hours on the bikes, with additional time for briefing, transfers, and the stop at Kayaköy.

Is the activity suitable for children? Children under 17 can participate as passengers but cannot drive. It’s suitable for families with older kids who are comfortable with outdoor activities.

Do I need prior experience with quad biking? No, the guides provide clear instructions, and the bikes are manageable for beginners. Even those with no experience will find it easy to pick up.

What should I wear? Comfortable clothes, sturdy shoes, and something you don’t mind getting dirty. Bring an extra change of clothes for after the activity.

Are cameras allowed during riding? No, cameras are not permitted during riding sessions, likely due to safety concerns.

What’s the main highlight of this tour? The scenic forest trails, mountain views, and the stop at Kayaköy, which provides a glimpse into local history and architecture.

Is there full insurance coverage? Yes, the activity includes full insurance, adding peace of mind for participants.

Final Thoughts

This guided quad safari around Fethiye offers a fun, affordable, and scenic outdoor adventure. It’s perfect if you’re seeking a quick thrill, enjoy nature, and want an easy introduction to quad biking. The experience’s simplicity and the inclusion of hotel transfers make it a practical choice, especially if you’re pressed for time or prefer organized activities.

For families with older children and groups seeking a lively activity, it’s a reliable option. Just keep in mind that if you’re after an in-depth cultural tour or more challenging terrains, you might want to consider other local options. This tour provides a happy balance of adventure, scenery, and convenience—a lively addition to your Fethiye holiday.