Full Day Jeep Safari in Side and Manavgat

Exploring Turkey’s Taurus Mountains with a Jeep Safari in Side and Manavgat

If you’re looking for a way to see a different side of Turkey beyond its beach resorts and ancient ruins, a full-day Jeep Safari in Side offers a compelling mix of adventure, nature, and local charm. This tour takes you into the rugged landscape of the Taurus Mountains, revealing striking scenery, historical sites, and the warmth of small villages. It’s a brisk 7-hour journey that combines off-road thrills with moments of relaxation, making it perfect for families, outdoor lovers, or anyone eager to experience Turkey’s countryside firsthand.

What I appreciate most about this tour is the spectacular views of green canyons and waterfalls—you’ll definitely want your camera ready. The second highlight is the opportunity to interact with locals during stops at villages and family homes, offering genuine insight into Turkish hospitality. That said, a small consideration is that some attractions, like the Manavgat Waterfall, require an entrance fee you’ll need to cover separately. Also, the schedule can be flexible depending on your hotel location and weather conditions, so a bit of planning helps.

This Jeep Safari blends scenic beauty with cultural touches and lively off-road fun. It’s a well-priced adventure (around $23 per person) packed with varied activities, making it a solid choice for those wanting an active, authentic day out in the Turkish countryside.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Breathtaking Views: Expect stunning vistas of green valleys, river waterfalls, and mountain scenery—perfect for photo enthusiasts.
• Family-Friendly Fun: Water fights and off-road rides make this a lively, engaging experience for kids and adults alike.
• Authentic Encounters: Stops at local villages and a family-style house provide a taste of Turkish hospitality.
• Active and Adventurous: Includes off-road jeep rides, river and waterfall swims, and a water war—a day packed with movement.
• Good Value: At roughly $23, the tour includes transportation, guiding, lunch, and insurance—making it a budget-friendly option.
• Flexibility: With pickup from your hotel and a full itinerary, it’s designed to maximize sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Entering the Taurus Mountains and Oymapinar Dam

Our adventure kicks off early, with pickup between 8:30 and 9:00 am from your hotel in Side. I love how the Land Rover Defender jeeps immediately set a tone of rugged exploration. The first stop is the Oymapnar Dam, where you’ll get a brief but picturesque look at the Taurus Mountains’ natural beauty. This spot is free to visit, and it’s a great chance to stretch your legs and take photos of the sweeping landscape.

What sets this part apart is how it introduces you to the kind of scenery you’ll be seeing all day—rolling green hills, dramatic mountain peaks, and the dam’s impressive waterworks. It’s a quick start, but a perfect way to set expectations for the adventures ahead.

Manavgat Waterfall: A Refreshing Break

Next, the tour heads to the Manavgat Waterfall, a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The entrance fee (around 1 Turkish Lira for adults, children free) is not included, but it’s a small price for the scenic respite. The waterfall is charming, with a lively river rushing over rocks—often busy with families enjoying the cool spray.

You get about 30 minutes here, which is enough to snap some photos, feel the mist, and soak in the lively atmosphere. One reviewer, Jade_N, highlighted the day’s enjoyment: “Water fights throughout, amazing views, boat ride, and a lovely lunch.” It’s clear that the waterfall adds a refreshing pause in the middle of a busy day of sightseeing.

Green Canyon and Roman Aqueducts

From the waterfall, your journey turns toward the Green Canyon, a highlight for nature lovers. The off-road ride lasting about 45 minutes is a real thrill—clinging to the Defender jeeps as they bounce over rugged terrain. The Canyon itself is a deep, lush gorge, with the historic Roman aqueducts (Akvaduks) providing an intriguing contrast of ancient engineering against the natural backdrop.

You’ll explore Green Lake, a calm, scenic body of water, with the chance to discover local villages along the way. The admission to Green Canyon is included, making this segment of the tour particularly valuable, as it allows you to fully enjoy the breathtaking landscapes and historical sites without extra costs.

Oymapnar Village and Water War Fun

In the charming Oymapnar Village, you’ll have a 30-minute stop at a local family’s house, where Turkish pancakes and drinks await—a true taste of rural hospitality. It’s a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, and many reviews mention how welcoming the hosts are.

The fun doesn’t end there: as you cross the dam again, the water wars begin, with water fights between jeeps adding a lively, family-friendly element. In the heat of the summer, these battles are a highlight for kids—“foam was blown at us,” as one reviewer put it. Then, a 20-minute stop at the top of Oymapnar Dam offers panoramic views of the Green Canyon, an ideal spot to appreciate the scale of Turkey’s diverse landscape.

Lunch and Final Stops

By this point, you’ll be ready for a proper meal, and the tour provides a restaurant stop for about 2 hours. The menu features chicken skewers or trout, accompanied by rice, salad, and fries—filling, simple, and well-prepared. This break is a good time to relax, chat with fellow travelers, and reflect on the morning’s adventures.

The overall pace feels balanced; the stops are well-timed, and the guides—though unnamed—are attentive and engaging. The inclusion of lunch and insurance adds peace of mind, and the pickup and drop-off service means you don’t have to worry about directions or transportation logistics.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for those who want to blend nature, adventure, and local flavor in one day. Families with kids will especially enjoy the water fights and scenic stops, while outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the off-road rides and waterfalls. It suits travelers on a budget, since it includes much of the day’s expenses—just watch out for optional entrance fees.

Those who prefer a relaxed pace and are interested in authentic experiences should find it satisfying. However, if you’re looking for in-depth historical commentary or a more leisurely exploration, you might find this tour a bit fast-paced.

Price and Logistics

At $23.14 per person, this tour offers remarkable value considering the included transportation, guiding, insurance, and lunch. The 7-hour duration is a good investment for a full day of activities, especially given the variety of scenic and cultural stops. Keep in mind, the tour is most often booked 19 days in advance—so planning ahead ensures you secure your spot.

Pickup times are flexible, starting at 8:00 am, which is perfect if you want to maximize your day. The group size is limited to 40, allowing for a comfortable, social atmosphere.

Weather can impact the experience—poor weather might mean a cancellation or rescheduling—so checking the forecast is wise. Also, since some attractions require an entrance fee, bringing a few extra Turkish Lira is advisable.

FAQs

How early do I need to book?
Most travelers book about 19 days in advance, which secures your spot and allows time to coordinate pickup details.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes. Entrance fees to the Manavgat Waterfall are not included (around 1 TL for adults), and any personal spendings, drinks, or photos are extra.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. The water fights and off-road rides are especially popular with kids. The tour’s lively, interactive style keeps children engaged.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing that can get a bit muddy or wet is best. Closed shoes are recommended for off-road sections. Don’t forget sun protection and a hat.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
The tour involves some walking and getting in and out of jeeps, so it might not be suitable for everyone with mobility concerns.

What’s included in the lunch?
You’ll get a choice of chicken skewers or trout, with rice, fries, and salad. It’s straightforward but satisfying after a morning of adventure.

Final Thoughts

This Jeep Safari in Side offers a vivid taste of Turkey’s natural beauty and rural life. With its combination of scenic landscapes, historical sites, and lively water battles, it’s a day packed with variety and authentic moments. The views of the canyons, waterfalls, and dam are truly memorable, making it a great value for the price.

I recommend it for travelers who crave active exploration and local encounters over more structured, museum-style tours. It’s also perfect if you want a full, fun day that balances scenery with interaction. Just remember to bring your camera, some cash for extras, and a sense of adventure.

If you’re in Side and craving a different perspective—away from the beaches and ruins—this Jeep Safari provides a spirited glimpse into Turkey’s lush countryside and warm village life.