Side: Cabrio Bus and Boat Day Trip at the Green Lake

Exploring Side’s Green Lake by Cabrio Bus and Boat: An Authentic Day Trip

If you’re looking for a single day that combines stunning scenery, cultural insight, and a bit of adventure in Antalya Province, this Cabrio Bus and Boat Day Trip at Green Lake offers just that. While the trip packs in several highlights—from mountain vistas and a boat cruise to a visit to a local mosque and a waterfall—the experience also has its quirks.

What I find most appealing is how this tour balances nature and cultural exploration without feeling rushed. The scenic drive through the Taurus Mountains provides breathtaking views, especially as the specially designed cabrio bus offers panoramic vistas. The boat cruise on Green Lake is a calming highlight, giving you a fresh perspective on the area’s beauty. Plus, the cultural stops—visiting a mosque and witnessing the stunning Manavgat Waterfall—add meaningful local flavor.

On the other hand, the price point of $25 per person for such an extensive day out is quite reasonable. But it’s worth noting that the bus’s design—with plastic roll-up windows—may not appeal to everyone, especially those sensitive to weather or noise. Some reviews mention the bus condition but emphasize that the guides and itinerary compensate for it. Also, be prepared for a full schedule, including multiple stops and some walking, which might be tiring if you’re not used to a busy day.

Key points / Takeaways

• Spectacular Views: The ride through the Taurus Mountains offers panoramic countryside vistas that are perfect for photography.
• Cultural Insights: Visiting a mosque and exploring local villages gives a taste of Turkish religious and rural life.
• Relaxing Cruise: The boat ride on Green Lake provides a peaceful hour in nature, ideal for unwinding and appreciating the lush surroundings.
• Value for Money: At $25, including lunch, boat trip, and transport, this tour offers a lot for the price—especially considering the number of stops and activities.
• Guides and Commentary: Knowledgeable guides, some multilingual, bring the stops to life with stories and background, making the trip more engaging.
• Flexible and Suitable: The trip is designed to be manageable for all ages, with accessible stops and activities that cater to different interests.

If you’re visiting Side and want a well-rounded taste of the local landscape, history, and culture, this day trip might be worth considering. It’s operated by Spass Tour, a provider known for well-organized excursions that emphasize value and authentic experiences. The trip starts with a hotel pickup around 08:30 AM, which is convenient, especially if you’re staying in one of the surrounding areas like Kumköy, Evrenseki, or Sorgun.

The Scenic Bus Ride Through the Taurus Mountains

The journey kicks off with a 30-minute bus ride that takes you into the Taurus Mountains. Here, the specially designed cabrio bus dazzles with panoramic views, thanks to its transparent plastic roll-up sides. Some travelers find the design charming and practical, offering an affordable way to enjoy the scenery, while others note that it’s not the most insulated or weatherproof.

What stands out is how knowledgeable guides like Tomas and Alex add depth to this part of the trip. They share stories about the region’s history and geography, making the scenery more meaningful. As one reviewer pointed out, “the guide was very helpful, and we learned a lot about the region’s rich past.” You’ll pass through orange gardens and lush farmland, which give a real sense of rural life and agriculture in Turkey.

Manavgat River and Waterfall: Nature’s Showcase

Next, the trip moves to the Manavgat River, where a guided tour and scenic bus ride highlight the river’s importance and beauty. The Manavgat Waterfall is a major draw, with some reviews noting that the waterfall is “breathtaking” and worth the entry fee of about 100 TL for two people. The cascading water offers great photo opportunities, and the sound of rushing water adds to the peaceful ambiance.

Traveler reviews love how the waterfall is a signature highlight—a perfect place to take pictures and enjoy the raw power of nature. Having visited, I can say that the sight of water tumbling over the rocks, surrounded by greenery, is genuinely impressive. Be sure to bring your camera and some waterproof gear if you want to get close.

Off-Road Adventure at Green Lake

Arriving at Green Lake (Oymapinar), the next stop is an off-road adventure lasting about 30 minutes. This part of the tour involves some light walking and exploring, with a chance to see the lake’s tranquil waters and surrounding landscape. It’s often cited as a peaceful spot, perfect for a quick walk or some photos.

Green Canyon and Boat Cruise

One of the trip’s highlights is the boat cruise on Green Lake, a 1-hour trip that offers serenity and scenic beauty. Many reviews praise this part as a calming and refreshing experience, with some noting it’s a great way to unwind after the mountain drive. The boat ride includes some spots for photos and a chance to appreciate the lush greenery from the water.

Cultural Visits: Mosque and Village

After the boat, the excursion includes a visit to a local village mosque, providing an authentic glimpse into Turkish religious life. The guide will explain some customs, adding cultural depth to your day. Some travelers appreciate this stop as a chance to see everyday local life.

Lunch – A Turkish Meal

A hot lunch is included around 2 PM, featuring chicken, pasta, rice, salad, and bread. According to reviews, the meal is good value, with drinks available cheaply nearby. Some wish it had been served earlier, especially if you’re hungry after a morning of sightseeing—so consider eating a hearty breakfast beforehand.

The Final Sight: Manavgat Waterfall Revisited

The trip wraps up with a visit to the Manavgat Waterfall again or a quick stop at a cafe by the river. It gives you one last chance to snap photos before heading back to Side, arriving around 5 PM.

This day trip is ideal if you’re after a moderate-paced, value-packed excursion that combines natural beauty with cultural insights. It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate scenic drives, boat trips, and a taste of local Turkish life without the need for strenuous activity or long hikes. The price point makes it accessible for most travelers, and the variety of stops ensures there’s something for all—whether you’re into nature, history, or simply relaxing.

It’s also a good choice if you want a family-friendly outing or are traveling with seniors, as many stops are manageable and the itinerary is designed for comfort. The guides’ helpfulness and multiple language options (English, German, Russian) add to the appeal.

At $25 per person, including hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, and boat trip, this tour offers excellent value. It’s a well-organized way to see a broader slice of the region’s landscapes and culture without breaking the bank. The tour’s duration of about 8 hours means you get a full day of sightseeing, with enough variety to keep you engaged.

However, the cabrio bus design, while innovative, might not suit everyone—those sensitive to weather or noise might prefer a different kind of vehicle. Still, many find that the guide’s commentary and the scenic stops outweigh this minor inconvenience.

This Green Lake day trip manages to combine scenic beauty, cultural exposure, and affordability into a single package that suits a wide range of travelers. The guides’ knowledge and the stunning vistas are what most reviewers rave about. It’s a day that balances relaxation and activity, making it a solid choice for those wanting to see more of Turkey’s natural landscapes without the hassle of arranging individual visits.

If you enjoy outdoor scenery, local culture, and a well-organized schedule, this trip deserves your consideration. Just remember to bring your camera, some water, and a good mood—you’re likely to walk away with plenty of memorable moments.

• What’s included in the tour?
  Hotel pickup and drop-off, a guided tour, lunch, and a boat trip are included. Drinks, photos, entrance to the Manavgat waterfall, and the zoo are not included.

• How long is the tour?
  The full-day experience lasts about 8 hours, starting around 8:30 AM and returning around 5 PM.

• Is the bus comfortable?
  The bus is a cabrio-style with plastic roll-up sides. Some find it fun for the views, others may wish for more insulation from weather and noise.

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

• What should I bring?
  Sunglasses, camera, water, weather-appropriate clothing, sun hat, and swimwear if you want to swim at the lake.

• Is the tour suitable for children and seniors?
  Yes, it is designed to be manageable for all ages, with stops and activities that aren’t strenuous.

• How much free time do I get at each stop?
  Most stops are around 20 to 30 minutes, enough for photos and quick walks, with some longer for meals and specific attractions.

• Are guides bilingual?
  Guides speak English, German, and Russian, making it accessible for many travelers.

• What’s the best time of year for this tour?
  While it runs year-round, the reviews mention winter visits are cold, so dress warmly. Spring and fall are ideal for comfortable weather.

• How good is the value for the price?
  Considering the included lunch, boat cruise, and multiple sightseeing stops, this tour offers very good value compared to exploring independently or doing separate excursions.

This tour offers a practical, engaging way to see a slice of Turkey’s countryside and culture, with enough flexibility and highlights to make it worthwhile for most travelers.