From Side: Rafting & Buggy Safari & Zplayn with Lunch & Transfer

If you’re staying in Side, Turkey, and craving a day packed with adrenaline and scenic views, this 8-hour outdoor adventure offers a fantastic way to break from sightseeing and get your blood pumping. For just around $25.22 per person, you’ll enjoy a mix of whitewater rafting, buggy safaris, and zipline—all in the stunning setting of Koprulu Canyon. The tour also includes lunch, round-trip transfers, and all the necessary equipment, making it a worry-free, action-packed day.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances high-energy activities with professional guidance and family-friendly options. The guides seem knowledgeable and friendly, which makes all the difference when trying new, sometimes intimidating activities like rafting or buggy riding. Two things that stand out: the diverse mix of activities keeps it interesting from start to finish, and the smooth transfer service ensures a comfortable journey to and from the canyon.

Of course, the main consideration is that this tour involves getting wet, dirty, and dusty, so packing spare clothes and sunscreen is wise. Also, since it’s a group of up to 50 people, if you prefer a more intimate experience, keep that in mind. But overall, it’s well-suited for families, adventure lovers, and anyone wanting a full day of fun in natural surroundings.

Key Points

• Affordable package that combines multiple activities for great value
• Professional guidance and equipment provided, suitable for beginners
• Family-friendly, with experiences that children as young as 9 can enjoy
• Includes lunch, transfers, and insurance—no hidden costs
• Highly praised guides make the experience more enjoyable and safe
• Expect to get wet and dirty, so prepare accordingly

A Deep Dive into the Adventure

The journey begins with a comfortable pickup from your hotel—whether in Side, Antalya, or Alanya—making logistics hassle-free. After about an hour’s drive, you arrive at the Koprulu Canyon National Park, a striking natural area approximately 14 km long, known for its clear waters and rugged landscape. This setting offers the perfect backdrop for an adrenaline-filled day.

The Buggy Safari: Rough Trails and Rugged Fun

Your first stop is the buggy safari, lasting about 45 to 60 minutes. You’ll hop into a all-terrain vehicle, guided along rocky, uneven trails that wind through the canyon’s landscape. This is the kind of activity where you can feel the wind in your hair and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Reviewers like Serban_D praised it as a “superb trip with many activities and very nice staff,” emphasizing how well-organized and enjoyable the buggy ride was.

Ziplining with Zplayn: Aerial Views and Exciting Moments

After the buggies, you’ll try out Zplayn, which involves ziplining or jumping—the details are not fully elaborated, but based on the name, expect a short, exhilarating zipline experience or similar aerial activity. It’s a fun way to get a different perspective of the canyon’s natural beauty and adds a thrill factor that appeals to both kids and adults.

The Highlight: Whitewater Rafting

Next, it’s time for the main event—rafting on the Koprulu River. You’ll be equipped with all necessary safety gear free of charge, including life jackets and helmets. The river features exciting rapids that are suitable for beginners, making this an accessible but adrenaline-pumping experience for most. The 14 km long river provides plenty of stretches for splashing and teamwork, with the water often described as “refreshing” and “fun” in reviews.

Expect to get wet and muddy, much to the delight of many travelers. As Babli_B notes, “You should be ready to get dirty and wet,” but she also reassures that “everything was so nice,” emphasizing the positive, memorable nature of the experience. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, which enhances safety and enjoyment during the river trip.

Lunch and Rest

Following the rafting, a delicious Turkish lunch is included, giving you a chance to refuel. The meal usually features local flavors and is appreciated for its generous portions and authentic taste. After lunch, you’ll have some free time to relax or explore before the transfer back to your hotel.

Optional Activities and Extras

While not included, the tour also covers insurance, transfer, and all equipment, so you can focus on having fun without worrying about extra costs or safety concerns. Not included are personal expenses, so you might want to bring some cash for souvenirs or additional snacks.

Why Travelers Love This Tour

Reviewers consistently highlight the professional guides and the variety of activities. Christina_B shared, “we had booked buggy and rafting, both great experiences,” and others emphasized how well the organizers handled the entire day from pickup to drop-off. It’s clear that the guides make a difference—friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable, they add a layer of reassurance that makes even first-timers feel comfortable.

Babli_B called it “one of the best excursions we’ve done in Side,” and many appreciated that children could participate, making it a versatile choice for families. The value for money is also consistently praised, especially considering how many activities and inclusions are packed into the roughly 8-hour day.

Practicalities and Tips

• The tour departs promptly at 9:00 am, so aim to be ready a little early.
• Wear comfortable clothes suitable for getting wet and muddy, and don’t forget sunscreen—the sun can be intense.
• Bring spare clothes and towels if you want to change after rafting.
• Expect a group size of up to 50 travelers, which is lively but manageable.
• The price includes lunch, transfers, equipment, and insurance, making it a cost-effective adventure.
• The round-trip transfer from Antalya-area hotels is a big plus for convenience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families looking for active fun, adventure lovers craving diverse outdoor activities, or groups wanting a full day of outdoor excitement without the hassle of organizing separate activities. If you’re comfortable getting a little dirty and wet, and you appreciate guided safety and local flavor, you’ll find plenty to love here.

It’s especially suitable if you want a balanced mix of adrenaline, scenic views, and cultural authenticity—the included Turkish lunch is a nice touch.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For just over $25, you get a well-organized, multi-activity day that combines adventure, nature, and local cuisine. It offers excellent value, especially considering the professional guidance and all-included setup. Whether you’re a solo traveler, family, or part of a group, this tour delivers fun, excitement, and memorable experiences.

Travelers praise the friendly guides and diverse activities, making it a top recommendation for anyone in Side wanting a lively, outdoorsy day. Keep in mind the physical activity and getting wet—if you’re prepared, this is a great pick for thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, round-trip transfers from Antalya, Alanya, or Side hotels are included, making logistics simple.

What should I wear for the activities?
Wear comfortable, quick-drying clothes suitable for getting wet and dirty. Bringing spare clothes and a towel is advisable.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, children as young as 9 can participate, and reviews mention families with kids enjoying the activities.

What’s the main highlight of this tour?
The whitewater rafting is the star, offering fun rapids and scenic views, but the buggy safari and zipline add extra excitement.

Are all safety equipment provided?
Yes, all necessary equipment like life jackets, helmets, and guides are included, ensuring a safe experience.

How long does each activity last?
The buggy safari takes about 45-60 minutes, and rafting spans roughly 14 km of river. The entire day is approximately 8 hours.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While not specified, Turkey’s warm months from late spring to early fall are ideal for outdoor water activities.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a Turkish lunch is part of the package, offering local flavors and a chance to rest after the morning’s activities.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Less notice means no refund.

In all, this tour offers a best-of-outdoor adventure in the beautiful Koprulu Canyon region—great for those looking to combine fun activities with stunning natural scenery. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline or a family-friendly outing, it’s an experience worth considering during your stay in Side.