Side: Jeep Safari Adventure with Lunch at Green Lake

Discovering the Jeep Safari Adventure at Green Lake

Taking a jeep safari through the Taurus Mountains near Side offers a blend of off-road excitement, scenic beauty, and cultural insights. While I haven’t personally tackled this tour, it’s clear from reviews and details that this experience delivers a genuine taste of Turkish countryside life, with a dash of adventure thrown in. Expect a full day of driving through rugged terrain, visiting charming villages, and enjoying a hearty mountain lunch—all wrapped in the promise of spectacular views.

One of the standout features I love about this trip is the opportunity to see village life up close. Visiting Iklar and Sartlar lets you peek behind the scenes of rural Turkey, with chances to learn about local traditions and religious practices, like visiting a village mosque. Also, the off-road drive itself sounds exhilarating. Many reviews mention how the guides and drivers make the ride lively, fun, and safe, often turning dusty roads into a party with music, water fights, and friendly banter.

A potential concern is the bumpy terrain—these jeeps are not luxury vehicles, and the ride can get quite dusty and wet, especially during water fights or when riding on rugged paths. If you’re sensitive to rough rides or have small children, this might be something to consider. However, many travelers appreciate the authentic, unpolished experience over a smooth, touristy one.

This safari offers excellent value for money when you factor in the variety of sites covered—from waterfalls to mountain viewpoints—and the inclusive lunch. Plus, the knowledgeable guides like Johnny Kash and Ahmet seem to add a lot of personality and local insight, making it more than just a sightseeing tour.

Key Points/Takeaways

• Authentic cultural visits: Explore villages and learn about local Turkish traditions firsthand.
• Scenic off-road drive: Prepare for dusty, bumpy rides with stunning mountain views and unique landscapes.
• Variety of stops: From waterfalls to mountain reservoirs, each stop offers a new perspective on the region.
• Enjoy mountain lunch: Savor traditional Turkish food in a picturesque setting, often with a view.
• Family-friendly: Many reviews highlight how guides check on young children and make accommodations for families.
• Active and lively atmosphere: Water fights, music, and friendly guides create a fun, party-like vibe.

Full Review of the Side Jeep Safari Adventure with Lunch at Green Lake

An Excursion into the Taurus Mountains

This full-day adventure begins with hotel pickup from Side, a hassle-free start that sets a relaxed tone. The group is typically small enough that you can enjoy the journey without feeling lost in a crowd, and the guides speak multiple languages—Turkish, English, and German—making it easy to connect and learn about each stop.

The first part of the day involves driving through the rugged terrain of the Taurus Mountains. These are not gentle slopes—they’re challenging enough to get your adrenaline pumping, but the guides ensure safety and make the ride lively with music and water fights. Many reviews mention how the “crew make a party atmosphere throughout,” which helps keep boredom at bay during the bumpy ride.

Visiting Villages: Sartlar and Iklar

One of the trip’s most authentic moments is the visit to Sartlar and Iklar villages. Here, you get a real feel for rural Turkish life—narrow streets, traditional houses, and local residents going about their day. Learning about their religious traditions at a village mosque adds depth to the experience, connecting you with the local culture beyond typical tourist spots.

A highlight, especially for food lovers, is a stop at an old house in Oymapinar, where you’ll get to try gözleme—a traditional Turkish flatbread often filled with cheese or herbs. This personal touch, often praised in reviews, makes the trip memorable and flavorful.

Marveling at Manavgat Waterfall

Next, you’ll visit Manavgat Waterfall, a wide and foaming cascade that’s perfect for photos and just soaking in nature. Many travelers enjoy the scenic landscape and the diversity of nature on display, making it a refreshing break from the mountain roads.

Lunch in the Mountains

The highlight for many is the mountain lunch at the Gölba Restaurant & Hotel. The setting is typically picturesque—think mountain views and fresh air. The food, often described as “great” and “delicious”, includes traditional Turkish dishes, providing good value given the scenic backdrop and the quality of the meal.

Ending with a Small Zoo Visit

Before returning to Side, the tour includes a brief visit to a small zoo, where you can see animals like a baby lion. Reviews suggest this part is light and fun, especially for families or animal lovers, though some caution that the animals may look tired and it’s best to keep expectations modest.

The Overall Experience

This trip is well-rated (4.7/5 from over 445 reviews), with many travelers praising the knowledgeable guides like Johnny Kash and Ahmet for enhancing their experience with humor and insights. Reviewers frequently mention the good value for money, considering the variety of stops, the scenic views, and the included lunch.

Who Will Enjoy This?

This safari suits adventurous travelers, families, and those interested in local culture. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a full-day, active experience that combines scenic drives, cultural exchanges, and fun. However, if you prefer very smooth rides or are pregnant, it might be less suitable.

Practical Tips

• Bring a sun hat and swimwear if you plan to enjoy the waterfall or swimming spots.
• Be prepared for a dusty, bumpy ride—consider bringing a bandana or buying a balaclava from the jeep for just 4 euros.
• Don’t forget water bottles for water fights and to stay hydrated.
• The tour lasts about 7 hours, so wear comfortable clothing, especially if you plan to sit in the back of the jeeps.
• If you have young children, note that the ride can be quite bumpy and may not be suitable for pregnant women.

Price and Logistics

The tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, which is a major convenience. The included lunch and insurance add value, and the entire experience is designed to be hassle-free. You can reserve now and pay later, giving you flexibility in planning. It’s worth noting that the jeeps are not luxury vehicles—they’re rugged and well-used, which adds to the charm for many but may disappoint those expecting a plush ride.

Duration and Timing

Spanning about 7 hours, the tour’s starting times vary, so it’s best to check availability when booking. Be prepared for an active day, with plenty of stops and a lively atmosphere.

Who Should Consider This?

If you’re seeking adventure, cultural insight, and scenic beauty rolled into one day, this trip checks all boxes. It’s particularly good for families, groups of friends, or anyone wanting a fun, authentic experience. Not the best choice if you’re expecting luxury or very smooth rides, but if you’re up for some dusty, lively fun, this is a solid pick.

The Sum Up: Is This Safari Worth It?

For travelers who want a full day of exploration in the mountains with a mix of adventure, culture, and scenery, this jeep safari offers great value. The guides’ friendly approach and the variety of stops turn what might seem like just a drive into a well-rounded day of authentic Turkish experiences. The delicious mountain lunch and the chance to see waterfalls and local villages make it stand out.

It’s best suited for active, curious travelers who don’t mind getting a little dusty and wet. If you’re traveling with family, especially older children who can handle bumpy rides, this tour provides a memorable way to see the countryside beyond the usual tourist spots.

This jeep safari is a fun, engaging, and worthwhile way to spend a day outside of Side, offering a genuine look at rural life, stunning landscapes, and mountain adventure—all packed into one lively trip.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 7 hours, with starting times based on availability. It’s a full-day experience but keeps a good pace with multiple stops.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off from Side, making logistics easy and stress-free.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat and swimwear if you want to enjoy the waterfall or swimming spots. A bandana or scarf is recommended to protect against dust, and water bottles are useful for staying hydrated, especially during water fights.

Is the ride comfortable?
The jeeps are rugged and not luxury vehicles. Expect bumpy, dusty rides, but many reviews say guides keep the atmosphere lively and fun. It’s part of the authentic experience.

Can I take young children?
Yes, many families enjoy this trip, but keep in mind the ride can be quite bumpy. It’s not recommended for pregnant women or very small children who might find the ride uncomfortable.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes a mountain lunch with traditional Turkish dishes, often praised for its quality and setting.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your plans.