Side : Jeep Safari and Green Canyon See with Lunch

A full-day Jeep safari exploring the scenic countryside surrounding Side offers an engaging way to see Turkey’s natural beauty and some historical highlights. For around $17.80 per person, you get a roughly six-hour tour that packs in visits to ancient sites, stunning viewpoints, and refreshing waterfalls, all with the comfort of hotel pickup and small-group intimacy. This tour is especially appealing if you enjoy adventure in a relaxed setting and want to experience both nature and history in a single day.

What we really like about this trip is how it balances active exploration with moments of calm and beauty—like a lakeside lunch overlooking Green Lake and photo stops at some of the region’s most picturesque spots. It’s also capped at only 10 travelers, which means the experience feels more personal and less rushed than larger bus tours. On the downside, some reviews mention that you should be prepared for potential extra costs, such as drinks and tips, which aren’t included in the base price. This tour suits travelers who thrive on authentic adventures that combine culture, nature, and a bit of fun.

Key Points

• Small-group experience ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere
• Diverse itinerary includes ancient ruins, natural wonders, and a lakeside lunch
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup makes logistics easier
• Cost-effective considering the variety of sights visited and included lunch
• Potential extras like drinks and tips are not included, so budget accordingly
• Ideal for active travelers who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and adventure

An In-Depth Look at the Jeep Safari from Side

What’s Included and How It’s Structured

This 6-hour adventure begins early, with pickup around 8:30 am, making it easy to fit into your travel day. The small-group setting caps at 10 people, promising a more intimate experience and less time waiting around. Your day is packed with six key stops, each offering a different flavor of Turkey’s countryside and historical layers.

The Ancient City of Seleukeia (Lyrbe)

The journey kicks off with a visit to Seleukeia, an ancient city that’s about 45 minutes from Side. Here, a guide provides insights into the ruins, which have free admission. We love that this stop is not just a photo op but a chance to glimpse what life might have been like centuries ago. Reviewers talk about how the guide in Seleukeia makes the history come alive, which adds richness to what could otherwise be just another ruin.

Green Canyon: A Photo Opportunity

After about 20 minutes’ drive, you arrive at Green Canyon for a quick photo break. The canyon’s lush surroundings make for a dramatic backdrop—perfect for pictures. While no entry fee is required, the scenery alone is a highlight. Travelers often comment on the stunning views and the chance to get some memorable shots.

Manavgat Dam: A Massive Engineering Feat

Next, the tour visits the Manavgat Dam, a significant hydroelectric project and a notable landmark. The stop lasts about 30 minutes, giving you time to appreciate the engineering and take photos. Though not a place to linger long, it offers a different perspective of the region’s development.

The Highlight: Green Lake and Lakeside Lunch

The day’s centerpiece is a lunch at a restaurant overlooking Green Lake, which is around a one-hour drive from the dam. This free-flowing, natural setting in the Taurus Mountains offers a welcome break. The included lunch is simple but tasty, with the chance to relax and enjoy views of the water. Reviewers highlight how this lakeside meal is a value-added feature that makes the trip feel well-rounded.

Manavgat Waterfall: A Refreshing End

On the way back to Side, there’s a final stop at the Manavgat Waterfall for a quick photo opportunity. Entry isn’t included, but the waterfall provides a scenic and peaceful spot to finish the day. Several travelers mention how the waterfall offers a nice contrast to the mountain scenery and is worth a brief stop.

What Travelers Say

The majority of reviews emphasize the knowledgeable guides, with comments that guides like Murat or Ali go out of their way to make the experience memorable. One traveler mentioned, “Our driver/guide was very friendly and helpful,” capturing the warmth and friendliness of the team. Many appreciate the value for money—you see multiple sights and enjoy a generous lunch for a very reasonable price.

However, some travelers note that extras like drinks and tips can add up. One review states, “Ask for money for extras all day. Drinks are not included and can range from 4 euros to 17 euros,” so it’s wise to carry some cash for these minor costs. Another reviewer described feeling a bit disappointed when water fights didn’t happen as expected, but overall, most say the adventure and scenery more than make up for it.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who don’t mind a bit of chatter and occasional waiting. It’s perfect if you want a day of varied scenery without feeling rushed. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy natural landscapes, history, and small-group intimacy will find this tour particularly satisfying.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring cash for drinks, tips, and small entrance fees not included in the tour.
• Dress comfortably and wear sunscreen and a hat; some stops are outdoors and sunny.
• The jeep rides involve some bumpy sections, so a sense of adventure is helpful.
• If you’re particularly interested in history, bring a guidebook or notes on the ancient sites.
• Confirm pickup details and be ready at your hotel lobby a few minutes early.

The Sum Up

This Jeep safari from Side offers an excellent mix of history, nature, and fun, wrapped in a cost-effective package. It’s a wonderful way to see sites like Seleukeia, Green Canyon, and Green Lake without the hassle of organizing transports or multiple tickets. The tour’s small size means you get a more personalized experience, with friendly guides providing insights along the way.

While the trip does involve some additional costs for drinks and tips, the included lunch and diverse stops far outweigh these minor expenses. If you’re seeking an active, scenic, and culturally interesting day, this tour ticks many boxes.

It’s especially suited to travelers who want to combine adventure with comfort and are happy to pay a bit extra for the convenience of hotel pickup and intimate group size. Perfect for those craving a balanced taste of Turkey’s landscape and history—this tour makes a memorable day out.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, pickup from your hotel is offered, making it easier to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately six hours, starting at 8:30 am and returning later in the day.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Are drinks and tips included?
No, drinks (soda, bottled water, alcohol) and tips are not included. It’s advisable to carry some cash for these extras.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Most travelers can participate, but be mindful of the bumpy jeep rides and outdoor stops—best suited for active families with older children.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility if your plans change.

This adventure provides a well-rounded glimpse of Turkey’s natural beauty and historical sites, all wrapped in a fun, engaging package. Whether you’re snapping photos at Green Canyon or enjoying a lakeside lunch, this trip offers genuine value and authentic experiences.