Side: Horseback Riding Tour in Nature with Transfer

Imagine galloping along the stunning Turkish coastline, your horse’s hooves pounding softly on the sandy beach, with the ruins of ancient civilizations nearby. That’s precisely what this Horseback Riding Tour in Side offers. For around $57 per person, you get a two-hour adventure that combines nature, history, and a bit of equestrian fun, with the added convenience of hotel transfers.

We love that this experience suits those craving a more personal, hands-on encounter with the landscape—no overly commercialized spectacle here. The guided instruction for beginners makes it accessible for first-timers, and the opportunity to learn about horse care and riding techniques adds an educational touch. Plus, the scenic ride along the coast and past historic ruins creates a memorable backdrop.

One thing to consider is that the tour has a moderate rating of 3.6 out of 5, based on 52 reviews, which suggests some inconsistency. Some travelers found the guides friendly and knowledgeable, but others might encounter variations in the experience depending on the guide or location. It’s also important to note that the tour lasts about 2 hours, with at least 1 hour of riding guaranteed, so if you’re looking for a longer or more intense ride, this might not be the best fit.

This tour would best suit those who enjoy outdoor activities, learning about horses, or combining scenic beauty with a light historical touch. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want a relaxed, guided experience rather than a high-adrenaline adventure, and who appreciate local guides sharing their knowledge.

Key Points

• Scenic coastal route along the beach and past ancient ruins, perfect for photo opportunities.
• Guided instruction and horse care tips make this accessible for beginners.
• Hotel transfers included ensure hassle-free logistics from Side and nearby areas.
• Authentic experience with knowledgeable guides and friendly staff.
• Duration of 2 hours provides a balanced, not overly lengthy adventure suitable for most travelers.
• Limited food and drinks options — bring cash if you want to buy snacks or souvenirs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Ride Through Nature and History

Traveling to Side offers an array of sightseeing, but for those craving something more personal and active, this horseback riding tour provides a unique way to enjoy the region’s natural beauty and historical remains. Our experience and reviews suggest that this isn’t just a casual ride; it’s a chance to connect with the landscape and learn a bit about the horses that help make this adventure special.

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel or accommodation in or around Side, making logistics straightforward. The transportation is in a spacious vehicle that takes you to the riding area, which is typically set in a location with easy access to both the beach and scenic countryside. This transfer service is a big plus for travelers who dislike complicated arrangements or haggling for taxis.

The Instruction and Safety Briefing

For first-time riders, the inclusion of a basic riding lesson by a professional instructor is one of the tour’s strengths. It helps ease nerves, especially when handling a horse for the first time. The guides always accompany you, ensuring safety and providing tips on riding techniques and horse care. During the ride, you’ll wear provided helmets, gloves, and special riding boots, which adds a layer of safety and authenticity.

Reviewers like Timothy and Simon emphasize the friendly, professional guides who make the experience more relaxed and enjoyable. Timothy even mentions, “Super friendly. Well kept and forward going horses…Great guide,” highlighting the quality of the horses and the staff. The horses are described as well-maintained and suitable for beginners, which makes the experience accessible to a wide audience.

The Scenic Route and Highlights

The ride itself takes you along the coastline, giving you sweeping views of the sea and the shoreline. As you ride past ancient ruins, you get a tangible sense of history blending into the landscape. Simon describes it as a “lovely time,” noting the helpfulness and friendliness of the staff, which enhances the overall feel of the tour.

The route is designed to combine natural beauty with cultural interest, making it ideal for those who like a mix of outdoors and history. Whether you’re a photo enthusiast or simply want a peaceful escape from the busy tourist spots, this tour offers plenty of picturesque moments.

Practical Considerations and What’s Not Included

While the tour is fairly comprehensive, it does not include food or drinks, so remember to bring some cash or snacks if you need a quick refreshment. The tour’s duration is two hours, with a guaranteed minimum of one hour riding, so it’s suitable for most fitness levels, but not for those with walking disabilities or mobility issues.

It’s also important to note the restrictions: not suitable for pregnant women, people over 120 kg (264 lbs), or travelers with mobility impairments. The tour operates in multiple languages—English, German, Polish, and Russian—helping a diverse group of travelers enjoy the experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Pickup Locations: Your adventure starts with a pickup from a convenient list of 10 different locations around Side, including Evrenseki, Manavgat, Kumköy, and others. This flexibility is convenient for travelers staying in various areas.

The Ride: Once at the site, the guide provides safety briefings and basic riding lessons. The actual horseback ride is along the beach and into nature, allowing you to relax and take in the natural and historic scenery. Reviewers like Franck and Timothy appreciated the well-kept horses and the smooth, enjoyable trip.

Return: After the ride, transportation takes you back to your hotel, completing a seamless experience. The total activity time is two hours, balancing adventure and relaxation.

The Experience and Authenticity

What sets this tour apart is its focus on authentic interaction—you’re not just riding a horse for fun, but also learning about horse care and receiving guidance from knowledgeable, friendly staff. The inclusion of a safety briefing and equipment shows a serious approach to traveler safety, which is reassuring.

The positive reviews highlight the well-maintained horses and the helpfulness of the guides. Franck describes the trip as “perfect,” and Simon notes the staff’s helpfulness, which is a good indicator of consistent quality.

Why the Mixed Ratings?

While some travelers, like those in reviews, had a fantastic time, others may have found the experience less engaging or felt that the ride didn’t fully meet their expectations. Variations could be due to guide differences or personal preferences, but overall, the feedback suggests this is a reliable, pleasant outing for most.

Valuing the Price

At $57 per person, the cost reflects an all-inclusive experience with transfers, safety equipment, and guide service. Compared to other adventure activities in the region, it offers a calm, scenic alternative to more adrenaline-fueled excursions. If you’re looking for a gentle outdoor activity that combines nature, history, and learning, this price point is reasonable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This horseback riding experience is ideal for beginners or those seeking a relaxed outdoor activity. It’s a good choice for families, solo travelers, or couples who want a bit of adventure without pushing limits. The scenic coastal route and historical surroundings make it appealing to those interested in natural beauty and cultural sights.

However, travelers with mobility issues, pregnant women, or those seeking a longer or more intense ride might want to explore other options. The tour’s moderate rating suggests that while many enjoy it, some may expect a more polished or longer experience.

This Side horseback riding tour offers a genuinely scenic and educational experience that combines nature, history, and gentle adventure. The inclusion of hotel transfers and guided instruction makes it convenient and accessible for many travelers. The friendly guides and well-kept horses create a welcoming atmosphere, making it a worthwhile activity for those wanting a relaxed, memorable outing.

While the experience isn’t perfect for everyone, especially if you’re seeking a longer or more adrenaline-filled ride, it provides good value for a couple of hours of outdoor fun. It’s especially suited for beginners, families, or history enthusiasts who appreciate authentic interactions and scenic views.

If you’re looking to add a touch of equestrian charm to your trip in Side, this tour is a solid choice. Just remember to bring your camera, sun hat, and cash for extras, and enjoy the chance to ride along Turkey’s stunning coast.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from a selection of locations around Side, simplifying your logistics.

How long is the horseback riding experience?
You’ll enjoy at least 1 hour of riding, with the total tour lasting approximately 2 hours including briefing, transfer, and the ride itself.

Is this suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The guide provides basic riding lessons, making this accessible even if you’ve never ridden before. The horses are described as well-kept and suitable for beginners.

Are safety equipment and instructions provided?
Yes, riding helmets, gloves, and boots are included, along with a safety briefing from professional guides.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
No, this tour is not recommended for people with walking disabilities or mobility impairments.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection (hat and sunglasses), a camera, comfortable clothes, and cash if you plan to buy snacks or souvenirs.

Is it suitable for pregnant women?
No, pregnant travelers are advised not to participate for safety reasons.

You can check availability for your dates here: