Side: Horse Safari Tour

Looking for a way to combine nature, mild adventure, and some quality time with horses during your stay in Side? The Horse Safari Tour offers a quick escape into the Turkish countryside, riding through the Taurus Mountains and catching glimpses of the sea. While this experience is quite accessible for beginners and budget-friendly at $44 per person, it’s worth understanding both its highlights and some of the limitations before booking.

What we really love about this tour is the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking mountain and sea views in just an hour—perfect for those with limited time or travelers wanting a relaxed outdoor activity. The guided introduction and safety briefing help ease first-time riders, making it a good choice for families or beginners. However, some experienced riders may find the terrain a bit rough, and the tour’s description doesn’t quite match the scenery described—some have noted the sea view may not always be visible.

This tour suits travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic ride rather than an adrenaline rush or a deeply historical experience. It’s best for those who want a taste of horseback riding amid natural beauty without committing to a longer, more challenging trek.

Key Points

• Scenic Views: Offers beautiful vistas of the Taurus Mountains and the sea.
• Beginner-Friendly: Includes a brief training session, suitable for first-timers and kids over 9.
• Duration & Price: A concise 1-hour adventure at $44, good value for a short scenic experience.
• Safety & Comfort: Provided with safety equipment and a guide, though terrain can be uneven.
• Limitations: Sea views might not always be visible, and terrain can be challenging for some.
• Experience Level: Suitable for all, including those with no prior riding experience.

The Itinerary in Detail

The Horse Safari begins with a hotel pickup, which is inclusive but requires you to wait at your hotel’s entrance security gate. Based on reviews and tour information, the exact pickup time varies depending on your location, so it’s best to be prepared and ready in advance.

Upon arrival at the starting point, you’ll meet your guide—known as Eldorado Tasimacilik Turizm—and receive a brief training session. This is particularly helpful if you’re new to riding, as the guide will instruct you on how to handle the horse and what to expect.

The actual 1-hour ride cuts across mountains, forests, and open fields, providing a relaxed yet scenic experience. You’ll be riding in a group, but the guide ensures everyone can enjoy the views comfortably at their own pace. The terrain may include uneven or slippy stones, which some reviewees found challenging, especially if they are not used to riding on rough ground.

Travelers will ride through areas where they can see mountains and natural surroundings, with occasional mentions of sea views—though, as one reviewer pointed out, the sea might not always be in sight, despite descriptions suggesting otherwise. The ride is designed to be accessible, with options to ride at different difficulty levels, although the terrain can still be a bit uneven.

Before riding, you’ll be equipped with safety gear—helmets and other equipment—and given instructions on how to handle the horses. The horses are described as well-treated, and their well-being is a priority. Based on the reviews, it seems that the staff takes good care of the animals, which is reassuring.

After the ride, there is typically no additional activity unless you choose to explore more on your own. The tour concludes with drop-off back at your hotel, making it a convenient half-day activity.

What to Expect During the Ride

Scenic Views: The highlight for many is the chance to see the mountainous landscape and forests in Side, with some travelers mentioning the potential for breathtaking sea views. Even if the sea is not always visible, the rugged terrain and lush greenery provide plenty to admire.

Terrain & Difficulty: The terrain can sometimes be slippery or uneven, especially if it’s a dry season or after rain. Reviewers mentioned that the guide manages the group well, but riders should be prepared for some bumpy patches. Beginners are advised to wear long pants and closed-toe shoes for comfort and safety.

Guide & Equipment: The tour includes a brief safety instruction and proper equipment, which helps new riders feel more comfortable. The guide, although speaking limited English, is experienced and ensures everyone stays safe.

Time & Pace: With around 1 hour of riding, it’s enough to get a feel for horseback riding without feeling exhausted. The pace is leisurely, making it suitable for families or those simply wanting to enjoy the scenery.

Authentic Experiences from Real Riders

One traveler, Mary Teresa, shared that as a beginner, the ride was a little intimidating on the rough terrain and slippery stones. However, she appreciated the professionalism of the instructor, who had everything under control. She also enjoyed seeing the various horses—like the cremello and Appaloosa—and noted the importance of tipping well, as running the operation takes effort.

Another reviewer pointed out that the sea view might be a bit of a misnomer, as the landscape was primarily mountain and forest. Still, they highlighted the well-care of the horses and the friendly staff.

This honest feedback underscores an important aspect: while the scenery is generally beautiful, expectations about the sea view should be tempered. The main draw remains the natural surroundings and the gentle ride suitable for all skill levels.

Is this Tour Worth the Price?

At $44, the tour offers good value for a scenic, guided horseback ride. The inclusion of hotel pickup, safety equipment, and insurance makes it quite convenient. It’s perfect for travelers who want a short outdoor activity that’s easy to fit into a busy schedule.

However, it’s not a deep exploration of the area’s natural history or a challenging adventure. It’s best viewed as a relaxed, family-friendly outing—ideal for those wanting to try horseback riding for the first time or to enjoy some easy scenic views.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for beginners, families with children over 9, or anyone looking for a gentle, scenic ride. If you’re after a quick outdoor activity that offers a glimpse of the Turkish countryside and mountains, this tour will fit the bill. Those expecting extensive sea views or a challenging ride may need to look elsewhere.

On the flip side, experienced riders might find the terrain less exciting or demanding than they prefer, and some might be disappointed if the sea view isn’t as prominent as expected.

The Sum Up

The Side Horse Safari Tour offers a practical, reasonably priced way to enjoy Turkey’s natural beauty through a relaxed horseback ride in the Taurus Mountains. It provides a gentle introduction for those who are new to riding, with the added bonus of scenic surroundings and the chance to see some of the local flora and fauna along the way.

For travelers seeking a family-friendly activity or a short adventure that balances outdoor fun with comfort, this tour is a safe and enjoyable choice. While it may not satisfy those craving more demanding terrain or spectacular sea vistas, it strikes a good balance between accessibility and nature.

All in all, it’s a great way to spend an hour outside, especially if you’re eager to see the Turkish countryside from a different perspective. Just keep your expectations in check about the sea views, and wear appropriate clothing for a comfortable ride.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 9 years old can participate, provided they meet the height and weight requirements and are comfortable on horseback.

What should I wear for the ride?
Comfortable shoes, long pants, a hat, sunscreen, and water are recommended to stay comfortable and protected during the ride.

Are beginners welcome?
Absolutely. The tour includes a brief safety and riding instructions, making it ideal for first-timers.

Is the sea view guaranteed?
Not necessarily. Some reviews mention that the sea may not always be visible from the riding area, despite descriptions indicating otherwise.

What is the terrain like?
The terrain includes mountains, forests, and possibly uneven or slippery patches. Riders should be prepared for some bumpy or challenging spots.

How long is the ride?
The ride lasts approximately 1 hour, giving enough time to enjoy the scenery at a relaxed pace.

Are the horses well cared for?
Yes, travelers have noted that the horses are treated well, and their well-being is prioritized.

What safety measures are included?
Safety helmets and equipment are provided, and a guide is present to ensure safety throughout the ride.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this activity suitable for pregnant women or people with back problems?
No, it is not recommended for pregnant women or those with back issues due to the nature of the terrain and riding.

Whether you’re looking to enjoy a peaceful mountain ride or simply want a fun outdoor activity in Side, this horseback safari offers an authentic way to experience the area’s natural beauty without overextending yourself. Just bring your sense of adventure, a camera, and a smile for a memorable one-hour excursion.