Side Mix Tour: Cabrio Safari & Green Canyon Boat & Waterfall

Exploring Antalya Province through the Side Mix Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Turkey’s natural beauty and local culture. From the open-top Cabrio safari through the Taurus Mountains to a relaxing boat trip on Green Lake, this excursion caters to travelers seeking both adventure and authentic experiences. It also includes visits to a local mosque, a vibrant orange garden, and the iconic Manavgat Waterfall, making it a compelling choice for those who want a bit of everything in one day.

What I find particularly appealing about this tour is the way it combines scenic landscapes with cultural stops. The Cabrio safari is a highlight, offering panoramic views that are both breathtaking and perfect for photography—if you’re lucky, you’ll even catch the guides sharing interesting tidbits about the land and people. Another favorite is the Green Lake boat trip, which provides a peaceful hour on emerald waters, with the option to take a refreshing swim. However, the overall experience could be a bit packed for some, especially if you’re not keen on long days or busy group outings.

One thing to keep in mind is the entrance fee for Manavgat Waterfall, which isn’t included, and some may find the schedule tight, particularly if they want to linger longer at certain stops. Also, the Mosques visit might not be possible for guests from Alanya due to time constraints, so it’s worth checking with the provider if that’s a priority. Despite these points, many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views, which truly elevate the experience.

Key Points and Takeaways

• Diverse Landscapes: The tour combines mountain scenery, lakes, waterfalls, and reservoirs, offering a wide variety of natural sights.
• Authentic Cultural Stops: Visits to a local mosque and an orange garden give insight into local life and agriculture.
• Scenic Drive: The Cabrio bus ride through the Taurus Mountains offers panoramic views, making it a photographer’s delight.
• Relaxing Lake Trip: The Green Lake boat cruise is a peaceful break, with the option to swim and enjoy lakeside lunch.
• Value for Money: With hotel pick-up, guides, multiple attractions, and a full day’s activities, this tour is a good value, though some attractions have extra costs.
• Guides and Atmosphere: Many travelers mention the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, which makes the day more engaging and informative.

An In-Depth Look at the Side Mix Tour Experience

Starting with the Cabrio Safari in the Taurus Mountains

The day begins with a Cabrio-style open-top bus ride through the Taurus Mountains. The open-air design not only boosts the fun factor but also allows you to breathe in the mountain air and take impressive photos of the rugged landscape. I love how this part of the trip offers a real sense of freedom and adventure, as you wind through traditional villages and get sweeping views of the countryside. From reviews, such as Anita’s, the guides often share interesting facts about the land and its people, making the journey more meaningful.

Exploring the Külliye Mosque and Local Village

Next, the tour includes a stop at the Külliye Mosque, the largest in the Manavgat region. It’s a chance to admire Ottoman-inspired architecture and get a feel for local spirituality. Some guests from Alanya have noted that this part of the tour isn’t always possible for them due to limited time, so it’s worth confirming if this is a priority. Still, those who visit find the mosque’s peaceful atmosphere a refreshing break from the bus ride.

The local village stop lets you experience rural life firsthand. Walking through the streets, you get a glimpse of everyday life outside tourist hotspots. Many travelers appreciate these authentic moments, which add depth to the day.

Grand Dam View and Orange Garden

Following this, you’ll stop at the Grand Dam, where panoramic views of a massive water reservoir unfold before your eyes. It’s an ideal spot for photos and to appreciate the scale of Turkey’s water infrastructure. Many find this a highlight, especially since the views are stunning and the photo opportunities plentiful.

Later, you visit an orange garden, where the scent of fresh citrus fills the air. Walking among the trees, you can taste freshly squeezed juice and enjoy the peaceful countryside. As one reviewer pointed out, this stop provides a genuinely relaxing atmosphere, a contrast to the busier parts of the tour.

Green Lake Boat Trip and Lunch

The Green Lake boat cruise is a refreshing pause—one hour sailing across tranquil waters with a chance to swim if you wish. Many travelers rave about this part as a peaceful and scenic highlight. The boat trip offers a different perspective of the landscape, with emerald waters and lush surroundings. Afterward, a lakeside restaurant serves a hearty lunch, with options like grilled fish, chicken, or meat, complemented by fresh sides. It’s a satisfying meal that adds value to the overall experience.

Manavgat Waterfall: Nature’s Finale

The last stop is the Manavgat Waterfall, a well-photographed natural wonder. While swimming isn’t allowed here, the cascading water and lush setting make it a favorite for photos and relaxation. Entrance fees are extra, but the view alone justifies the visit. Some guests mention that the waterfall environment is invigorating and the perfect way to end the day.

Logistics and Practicalities

The tour lasts about 7 to 9 hours, making it a full-day commitment but one that packs in a lot of sights. Pickup and drop-off are included, which simplifies logistics, and guides speak multiple languages, including English, German, Russian, and Turkish. The tour is well-suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, culture, and comfortable group travel.

However, be aware that the tour is not wheelchair accessible, and the schedule can be tight—so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or special access to certain sites, this might not be your best fit. Also, keep in mind that drinks and some entrance fees are not included, so bring some extra cash.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those looking for an active day with diverse sights, especially if you’re interested in scenic drives, lakes, and waterfalls combined with cultural insights. Families, couples, and solo travelers who enjoy being outdoors and learning about local life will find much to appreciate.

Who Might Want to Skip?

If you’re on a very tight schedule or not comfortable with long days, the packed itinerary might be overwhelming. Also, if you’re not interested in paying extra for attractions like the waterfall, you might find this budget a bit higher than some other options.

Final Thoughts

The Side Mix Tour offers a practical and engaging way to see a variety of what Antalya’s surrounding areas have to offer. It balances natural beauty with cultural stops, guided by knowledgeable hosts. Many reviews highlight the guides’ friendliness and expertise as a major plus, along with the stunning vistas that make the effort worthwhile.

While the day is busy and some attractions have additional costs, the overall value is solid considering the number of sights covered. It’s best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of nature, local culture, and scenic views in one accessible package.

If you’re after a day that combines adventure with authentic moments, and don’t mind a schedule that keeps you on the move, this tour will likely leave you with great stories and plenty of photos.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts between 7 and 9 hours, depending on the day’s schedule and traffic conditions.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel, sunscreen, and beachwear, especially if you plan to swim at Green Lake.

Is lunch included?
Lunch at a lakeside restaurant is included, offering options like fish, chicken, or meat with sides.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, the Manavgat Waterfall entrance fee isn’t included. Drinks, personal expenses, photos/videos, and optional zoo park visit (EUR 5) are also extra.

Is the mosque visit guaranteed?
Not always—due to time constraints, mosque visits might be skipped for guests from Alanya or if schedules are tight.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak German, English, Russian, and Turkish.

Is the tour suitable for children or disabled travelers?
It’s not wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for very young children if they’re sensitive to long days.

How do I know what time I’ll be picked up?
After booking, the company contacts you to confirm your pickup time, and you should be ready at your hotel’s outer door 10 minutes beforehand.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

This tour provides a well-rounded glimpse into the natural and cultural charms near Side, making it well worth considering if you’re looking for a day full of diverse experiences backed by friendly guides and stunning scenery.