Side: Altinbesik Cave & Ormana Village

Discovering Turkey’s Hidden Gems: Altinbesik Cave & Ormana Village Tour

This full-day excursion from Side offers a wonderful mix of natural wonder and authentic village life. It’s a chance to see a stunning underground cave with a boat ride, then wander through a traditional Turkish village, and enjoy a hearty local lunch. The tour is operated by Seven Tours and garners a solid 4.5-star rating based on a handful of reviews, making it appealing for those wanting a blend of adventure and cultural insight.

What really stands out about this experience are the striking views inside Altinbesik Cave and the chance to walk the old streets of Ormana, a village that feels like stepping back in time. I particularly like that the tour includes round-trip transfers from Side, making logistics straightforward, and that it’s capped at 18 travelers, ensuring a more personal and engaging atmosphere.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour can feel rushed at times, especially during the three-hour stop in Ormana, where you’ll want to take time to truly soak in the surroundings. Also, some reviews mention issues like microphone malfunctions, which can affect the overall experience if you’re hoping for detailed commentary. Still, the staff and guides seem committed to delivering value and making the day interesting.

This tour provides a great balance of natural beauty and cultural authenticity, especially for those curious about rural Turkey beyond the typical tourist spots. Now, let’s explore in detail what makes this day trip a worthwhile choice.

Key points / Takeaways

• Stunning underground formations: The boat ride inside Altinbesik Cave offers a unique view of geological wonders.
• Authentic village experience: The walk through Ormana’s old streets and button houses feels genuinely traditional.
• Inclusion of a hearty Turkish lunch: A homemade-style meal at a local restaurant adds flavor and value.
• Small group setting: With a maximum of 18 travelers, you get more personal attention and a chance to ask questions.
• Convenient logistics: Direct pickup from your Side hotel makes the day hassle-free.
• Cave and village combo: A perfect pairing of natural and cultural highlights in one day.

The Journey Begins: From Side to Altinbesik Cave

This tour kicks off early at 8:30 am, with hotel pickups arranged by the operator. The vehicle is air-conditioned, which is a real plus on warm Turkish mornings. The drive to Altinbesik National Park takes you into the mountains, giving you your first scenic views of Turkey’s rugged landscape. The group size is kept small, meaning you’re more likely to get personalized insights from your guide.

The highlight at this stop is the Altinbesik Cave itself, a true marvel of natural engineering. The cave boasts impressive geological formations, and for about 20 minutes, you’ll slide into a small boat for a short ride inside the cave. The boat trip offers a close-up look at stalactites and stalagmites, with the cool, damp air adding to the atmosphere. The ticket is included in the price, which at $39 per person, offers a pretty good deal for the experience.

Many reviewers comment on the “natural beauty of Turkey” seen here. One traveler noted, “Really enjoyed seeing a different angle to Turkey / Antalya tourist areas,” emphasizing how this trip steers clear of the typical beach resorts and explores more unique landscapes.

Exploring Ormana: A Step Back in Time

After the cave, you’ll head to Ormana, a village that is a stark contrast to the bustling tourist spots. The three-hour stop here means plenty of time to appreciate its old stone streets, button houses, and local atmosphere.

One of the best parts of visiting Ormana is simply walking through its quiet, historic streets. The houses, built from local stone, have a rustic charm, and the locals’ friendliness makes you feel like a welcomed guest. You might stop at little cafeterias for herbal drinks—a nice opportunity to mingle with villagers and savor authentic flavors.

Your guide will probably point out the button houses, an architectural curiosity worth seeing. Many visitors enjoy tasting some of the herbal drinks offered in the cafes—an easy way to connect with local customs. The highlight here, however, is the traditional Turkish lunch at a local restaurant, included in the tour price.

The lunch is hearty and flavorful, often described as “delicious,” giving you a chance to enjoy home-cooked Turkish cuisine. For some travelers, the relaxed pace and opportunity to chat with locals make this part of the trip especially memorable.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour is priced at $39 per person, which covers transportation, the cave boat ride, a guided experience, and the lunch. Given the inclusion of round-trip hotel transfers, this makes it a convenient and cost-effective way to see these highlights without the hassle of arranging separate transport.

While most travelers find the day manageable, some mention the microphone issue in the bus, which can make it harder to follow the guide’s commentary. If you’re someone who loves detailed explanations, you might want to bring your own earphones or prepare to ask questions directly.

The maximum group size of 18 ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd, and your guide is likely to be attentive. However, as with any organized tour, it’s wise to be punctual and prepared for a full day of sightseeing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers and those interested in rural Turkish culture. If you appreciate outdoor adventures, the cave boat ride will be a highlight. For history and architecture fans, wandering through Ormana’s old streets offers a glimpse of traditional village life.

It’s also great for travelers on a budget, since the price covers a lot—transport, meals, and entrance fees—making it a good value overall. Those seeking a more relaxed pace will enjoy the ample time at each stop, while families and small groups will benefit from the personal touch.

Keep in mind, if you’re after a completely smooth, commentary-rich experience, a few reviews suggest that technical issues could detract from the overall narrative. However, most find the tour engaging and authentic.

The Sum Up

For explorers wanting to see a different side of Turkey—away from beaches and resorts—this day trip from Side hits the mark. It combines the thrill of exploring an underground cave with a boat ride and the charm of wandering a quiet Turkish village. The included lunch, small group size, and hassle-free logistics add to the appeal.

While it’s not perfect—expect some minor hiccups like microphone issues—the tour offers real value for the price, especially if you love discovering the natural and cultural layers of Turkey. Whether you’re a curious traveler or someone eager to see Turkey’s scenic mountain landscapes, this tour provides a genuine, engaging experience.

It’s especially suitable for those who want a balance of adventure and authentic local culture, with enough time to relax and soak in the views. For travelers eager to explore beyond the typical tourist trail, this full-day excursion deserves a spot on your itinerary.

FAQ: Altinbesik Cave & Ormana Village Tour

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers round-trip transfers from your Side hotel, making pickup at 8:30 am straightforward and convenient.

How long is the boat ride inside Altinbesik Cave?
The boat ride inside the cave lasts approximately 20 minutes, giving you a close-up view of stalactites and stalagmites in a cool, atmospheric setting.

What’s the duration of the entire tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and lunch.

Are there any additional costs I should know about?
Drinks and private expenses are not included, so if you want beverages during lunch or souvenirs, plan to pay separately.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s good for families or groups, provided they’re comfortable with walking and a bit of boat riding.

What should I wear for the cave visit?
Comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking and some dampness are recommended, especially since parts of the cave can be cool and moist.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your schedule shifts.

This tour from Side offers a well-rounded glimpse into Turkey’s natural beauty and traditional village life. For those wanting a meaningful, authentic day out—at a reasonable price—it’s worth considering.