Side Altinbesik Cave And Ormana Village Tour With Boat Tour

Exploring the Side Altinbesik Cave and Ormana Village Tour: A Detailed Look

Taking a full-day trip in the Taurus Mountains around Side offers a mix of natural wonders, local culture, and enjoyable moments on the water. This tour, priced at $45 per person, promises an accessible way to experience one of Turkey’s most impressive underground caves, quaint villages, and scenic landscapes. With a solid 4.5-star rating based on 55 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find value and authentic charm in this outing.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the seamless combination of natural exploration and culture—plus, the inclusion of lunch and entry fees makes it a practical choice for budget-conscious travelers. A potential consideration? The long drive and brief cave visit might challenge those with limited patience or mobility. Still, if you’re a fan of scenic mountain views, cultural villages, and unique geological features, this trip is likely to hit the right notes.

This tour suits those who love nature, enjoy discovering hidden corners of Turkey, and want to experience local life firsthand. It’s especially good for curious travelers seeking an active, yet manageable day out that balances sightseeing with comfort.

Key Points

• Natural Wonder: Explore Turkey’s third-largest underground lake in Altinbesik Cave, with a boat trip inside for a memorable experience.
• Cultural Insights: Visit traditional villages, including Ormana, with a chance to see over 300 historic houses built without cement or mortar.
• Historical Sites: Discover a 300-year-old mosque and enjoy warm hospitality from locals.
• Full-Day Convenience: Includes hotel pickup, transportation, entrance fees, guided commentary, and a delicious Turkish lunch.
• Authentic Experience: Meet a local family, learn about Turkish village life, and enjoy picturesque scenery.
• Value for Money: At $45, this tour delivers a lot—natural wonders, cultural highlights, and meals—all in one package.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Picking Up and Starting Out

The adventure kicks off early, with hotel pickups around 8:30 am, which is ideal for making the most of the day. The comfortable bus ride through the Taurus Mountains offers scenic views and occasional photo stops—perfect for snapping shots of lush greenery, rugged peaks, and traditional villages. Reviewers mention enjoying the ride, noting that the driver and guide, Umit, kept the journey informative and lively, translating smoothly between English and German. If you’re traveling with a guide like Umit, you’ll find the commentary adds a layer of understanding and humor that makes the long drive more enjoyable.

The Magnificence of Altinbesik Cave

The highlight for many is definitely the Altinbesik Cave, home to Turkey’s largest underground lake and the third biggest in Europe. Inside, you’ll see natural bridges and formations that look as if they belong to a fairytale. The temperature stays steady at around 16°C, making it a comfortable exploration in any season. The boat trip inside the cave—lasting about 30 minutes—offers a unique perspective. Inflatable boats accommodate around 10 people, allowing you to glide across the tranquil waters and admire the natural beauty up close.

One reviewer, Hope_B, appreciated the guide’s humor and knowledge, noting that the boat ride was a major highlight. They also mentioned capturing some excellent photos, which is a good sign that this part of the tour is visually rewarding. The brief visit might leave some wanting more, but the experience is well-paced considering the overall day’s schedule.

Cultural and Historical Stops in Ormana

After the cave adventure, the tour moves to Ormana, a charming village where lunch is served at a traditional restaurant. The menu options—stewed fish, grilled chicken, or Turkish pizza—are all accompanied by yogurt and fresh salad, making for a hearty meal that’s well-reviewed for its quality and taste.

Post-lunch, visitors can explore the restaurant’s backyard, which features Buttoned Houses—over 300 of these traditional structures built without cement or mortar. As one reviewer pointed out, these houses are a testament to local craftsmanship and architectural ingenuity, offering a vivid glimpse into Turkish rural life that’s rarely seen in tourist spots.

The visit to a 300-year-old mosque adds a spiritual dimension and offers insight into local religious history. The warm hospitality displayed by the villagers, as noted by multiple reviewers, rounds out the cultural experience, making it more than just a sightseeing stop.

Scenic Village of Sarhaclar and Return

The final scenic stop is in Sarhaclar, a peaceful village with authentic charm. Here, you’ll get a chance to walk around and soak in the rural atmosphere before heading back to Side. The return trip is approximately one hour, giving you a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights.

Practical Aspects and Value

The tour, priced at $45, covers all entry fees—including the Altinbesik National Park—and the boat ride inside the cave. It also includes hotel pickup and drop-off, guiding services, and a substantial lunch. Drinks are not included, so you might want to carry some water or purchase beverages during the stops.

The group size is capped at 25 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable. Travelers generally find that the logistical organization is smooth, with most reviews praising punctual pickups and thoughtful guidance.

Duration and Pacing

Spanning around 6 to 7 hours, the tour balances active exploration with enough downtime to enjoy each site. The itinerary is well-structured, but be prepared for a longer travel day if you’re not used to bus trips or mountain roads.

Authentic Moments and Hidden Gems

Many reviewers highlight the guides’ knowledge and friendliness as a key part of their positive experience. Umit, in particular, is praised for his humor, translation skills, and ability to keep guests engaged, making the long ride feel shorter.

The inside of Altinbesik Cave is described as a “natural wonder” with “beautiful bridges,” and the boat ride inside is considered a “spectacular” way to see the underground lake. One visitor mentioned how the cave’s constant temperature makes it a comfortable visit, even in summer heat.

Food and Hospitality

Lunch at Ormana is a standout element, with several reviews emphasizing the quality and taste of the traditional Turkish dishes. The setting of the Buttoned Houses and the warm welcome from locals make the cultural stop more meaningful than just a photo opportunity.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who love natural landscapes, historic villages, and authentic local culture. It’s suited for those who are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing, including some bus travel. The tour’s balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation makes it ideal for families, couples, or solo explorers eager to see a different side of Turkey.

However, those looking for a quick, intense dose of adventure might find the pace a bit slow and the cave visit a little brief. Also, travelers with limited mobility should consider the walking involved and the temperature inside the cave.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making transportation hassle-free.

How long does the entire tour last?
Expect about 6 to 7 hours from start to finish, including travel time, stops, and sightseeing.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, so consider bringing water or purchasing beverages during stops.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
The underground lake inside Altinbesik Cave, with its boat ride, is the star attraction. It’s one of Turkey’s largest underground lakes and offers a unique experience.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers find it suitable, but consider the long bus rides and walking, especially inside the cave, for younger children.

Are all entrance fees included?
Yes, all entry fees, including those for Altinbesik National Park, are covered.

Can I expect guides to speak English?
Yes, guides like Umit are fluent in English and German, providing translations throughout the day.

What kind of food will I get at lunch?
You’ll have traditional Turkish dishes like fish stew, grilled chicken, or Turkish pizza, plus yogurt and salad.

Final Thoughts

The Side Altinbesik Cave and Ormana Village Tour offers a well-rounded day of natural beauty and cultural discovery. From the awe-inspiring underground lake to the historic villages and traditional Turkish lunch, it delivers a slice of authentic local life alongside stunning scenery. The inclusion of transportation, entry fees, and guiding services at this price point makes it a strong value proposition.

If you’re a traveler who loves exploring natural wonders, discovering rural villages, and enjoying hearty Turkish food, this tour will likely satisfy your curiosity. It’s especially good if you appreciate knowledgeable guides, scenic boat rides, and cultural authenticity.

While it may not be for everyone—those seeking a more relaxed pace or quick visit—this experience offers a memorable, insightful glimpse into the Turkish countryside that’s worth considering for your Side itinerary.

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