City of Side: Jeep Safari & Green Lake Boat Trip with Lunch

A day exploring the Antalya Province’s lush landscapes, rugged mountains, and tranquil lakes sounds like a dream, and this City of Side Jeep Safari & Green Lake Boat Trip manages to deliver just that. For around $18, you’ll spend about 7 hours immersed in nature, with a lively guide leading the way through off-road adventures, scenic stops, and a relaxing boat cruise.

What we love most are the stunning panoramic views from mountain stops and the refreshing swim in Green Lake—a chance to cool off after the bumpy ride. Plus, the delicious lunch by the lake earns high praise for its freshness and setting. However, keep in mind that the jeep ride can be quite dusty and bumpy, so bringing a bandana or sunglasses is wise. This tour suits adventurous travelers eager for a mix of excitement and natural beauty, especially those who enjoy lively guides and authentic experiences.

This experience made our article of The 16 Top Boat Tours & Cruises In Side: Which Is Best?.

Key Points

Affordable Value: At just $18, this full-day tour offers a combination of off-road adventure, scenic views, and a boat trip.
Diverse Activities: From jeep safaris and photo stops to swimming and a boat cruise, the itinerary keeps things varied.
Stunning Scenery: Experience Green Canyon, Oymapinar Dam, and lush mountain vistas that make excellent photo opportunities.
Authentic Experiences: A visit to the old mosque and natural stops make this trip feel genuine rather than overly commercialized.
High Ratings: With a 4.9 out of 5 from over 1,300 reviews, it’s clearly a favorite for many travelers.
Flexible & Family-Friendly: The tour suits small groups and families, with departures that are easy to fit into a day’s plans.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Detailed Review of the Jeep Safari & Green Lake Boat Trip

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Introduction: A Mix of Adventure and Relaxation

This tour offers a balanced blend of adrenaline-pumping off-road driving and peaceful moments by natural sights. Starting in Side, a popular base for exploring Turkey’s southwestern coast, it’s designed to give you a taste of the region’s diverse landscapes. For just $18, it’s hard to beat the value, especially considering the full 7-hour itinerary packed with activities and scenic stops.

What makes this experience stand out is the off-road drive through the Taurus mountains, which promise sweeping views, and the boat trip on Green Lake, where you can dip your toes or enjoy a swim. The delicious local lunch near the lake is another highlight, offering a chance to relax and refuel surrounded by nature.

What We Love About This Tour

Firstly, the off-road Jeep adventure is a real treat. The professional drivers and enthralling guides keep the energy high and the scenery coming. The dusty, bumpy ride may not be for everyone, but it’s exactly what adventurous travelers seek. Many reviews highlight the fun of the water fights between jeeps and the great music played during the drive, adding a lively, communal feel.

Secondly, the scenic stops are well-chosen. The view of the Roman aqueducts, Green Canyon, and the Oymapinar Dam give insight into the area’s natural and historical beauty. The swimming break at Green Lake is universally praised, with travelers describing it as refreshing and a perfect way to cool down after a bumpy ride. One reviewer mentioned how their whole group, from young children to seniors, enjoyed the day, emphasizing its broad appeal.

A Consideration: Be Prepared for the Dust and Bumps

The main drawback is that jeep safaris are inherently dusty and bumpy. Many reviews note that you should not wear your best clothes, as you’ll likely get dirty. If you’re sensitive to noise or rough rides, keep this in mind. Also, waterfights between jeeps can mean electronic devices should stay packed away to avoid damage.

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Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is perfect for thrill-seekers and those eager to see some of Turkey’s most beautiful landscapes up close, in a lively group setting. It’s also suitable for families, couples, and small groups who enjoy authentic outdoor adventures with some comfort — like included lunch and a boat ride. If you’re looking for a relaxing, luxury experience, this probably isn’t it, but if you want fun, scenery, and a taste of local nature, it’s a fantastic choice.

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The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Introduction

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Side, often early in the morning. Expect a friendly guide to brief you on the day’s plan and safety tips. From there, you’ll hop into jeeps—usually small groups of 4-8 people per vehicle—ready for a 7-hour adventure.

Off-Road Through the Taurus Mountains

Your first major activity is the off-road drive through the Taurus Mountains, which offer spectacular views and a sense of rugged wilderness. The professional drivers navigate the uneven terrain, while the guide fills the air with lively commentary and music. There are photo stops along the way, especially at a viewpoint overlooking the lake.

This part of the journey is often praised for the thrill of the ride and the panoramic vistas. Several reviews emphasize the fun water fights between jeeps, adding a playful element to the bumpy ride.

Roman Aqueducts and Scenic Photos

The journey leads to Roman aqueducts, where you can stretch your legs, take photos, and learn a bit about the area’s history. It’s a brief stop, but one that offers a glimpse into ancient engineering amidst natural beauty.

Green Canyon and Oymapinar Dam

Next, you arrive at Green Canyon, often described as a roughly 30-minute photo stop. The views of the deep canyon and the Oymapinar Dam are stunning. Many travelers note how the blue-green waters contrast sharply with the surrounding landscape, making this a perfect backdrop for photos.

Green Lake and the Old Mosque

The tour continues to Green Lake, where you’ll experience off-road driving on the way. Here, your guide might take you to visit a historic mosque, adding a cultural touch. The lake itself is tranquil and scenic, often described as peaceful and beautiful.

Lunch and Water Swim

Around midday, you’ll stop at Green Lake Restaurant for a delicious, freshly prepared meal. You can order your choice of food, then enjoy a swim break while waiting. Many reviews mention the quality of the lunch and the refreshing swim in the lake. It’s an ideal way to relax and recharge before the final activities.

Boat Trip on Green Lake

After lunch, a boat waits at the lake, ready for an about one-hour cruise. The boat ride offers relaxing views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Travelers rave about the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to jump in for a swim if they wish. Several reviews highlight that this part of the tour is really enjoyable, with one noting it’s like a party on the lake.

Final Stop at Manavgat Waterfall

The last stop is at Manavgat Waterfall, where you can snap photos and breathe in fresh air. The break lasts about 30 minutes, giving everyone a chance to stretch before heading back to Side.

Return and Drop-Off

Post-waterfall, the jeeps return you to your hotel. Many reviews mention timely pickups and drop-offs, making this a reliable option for those with busy schedules.

Additional Details & Practical Tips

Duration: The entire experience lasts about 7 hours; check the availability for starting times.
Included: Hotel pickup and drop-off, jeep off-road adventure, tour guide, lunch, boat trip, and insurance.
Not Included: Drinks, photos, and the waterfall entrance fee.
Group Size: Small or private groups are available, making it more personalized.
What to Bring: Sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear—think practical for a day in the sun, water, and dust.
Restrictions: Not suitable for children under 2; no pets allowed.
Language: Tours are conducted in English, German, and French.

Real Traveler Insights

Many reviewers emphasize the energetic and humorous guides—Johnny Cash, Luca, Joseph, and others—who keep the day lively and safe. “Ato was our driver who was brilliant,” said Donna, while Katie described their driver as a DJ who kept everyone singing along. Such personal touches bring the tour to life and make it memorable.

The value for money consistently earns praise, especially given the diverse activities, scenic locations, and included lunch. Multiple travelers mentioned that they would do it again or recommend it to friends, which speaks volumes about its appeal.

Some highlight the adrenaline rush of the water fights and off-road driving, making it perfect for adventure lovers. Others appreciated the peaceful moments at Green Lake and the stunning canyon views.

Final Thoughts

This Jeep Safari & Green Lake Boat Trip offers a robust day of adventure, scenery, and cultural sights for a very reasonable price. It’s especially suited for travelers who seek a lively, fun-filled outdoor experience with plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to cool off in nature.

While it isn’t a luxury tour—expect some dust, bumps, and a bit of noise—it delivers authentic excitement and beautiful landscapes. The glowing reviews attest to its popularity, and the variety of activities ensures there’s something for all. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this trip packs a punch and leaves you with plenty of stories to tell.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included, starting from your hotel in Side.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts around 7 hours, so plan your day accordingly.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, and swimwear. Also, consider a bandana for dust and water shoes if you plan to swim.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for most ages, but not for children under 2 years. Keep in mind the bumpy ride might not suit very sensitive travelers.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, but you can buy them during the stops or at the restaurant.

Can I upgrade to a private group?
Yes, private or small groups are available to make the experience more intimate.

This trip is a fantastic way to see some of Turkey’s most beautiful scenery with fun, energy, and great value. Perfect for those craving outdoor adventure, stunning photo ops, and a lively atmosphere.