Side Cabrio Bus Tour With Green Lake And Manavgat Waterfall

Experience the Beauty and History of Turkey’s Countryside on the Side Cabrio Bus Tour

Imagine a day immersed in natural beauty, ancient ruins, and vibrant local culture—all at an accessible price of just $25 per person. This 7 to 8-hour guided adventure takes you through the lush Taurus Mountains, past historic sites like Seleucia and Roman aqueducts, and finally to the stunning Green Lake. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour offers a lively, off-road safari experience that’s perfect for travelers craving more than just the typical sightseeing.

What we really love about this tour is its combination of cultural storytelling and adrenaline-filled off-road driving—think dusty roads, water fights, and panoramic mountain views. Plus, the opportunity to swim or kayak in Green Lake or enjoy a boat ride makes it a well-rounded day.

One thing to keep in mind is the additional fee for Manavgat Waterfall entrance, which might catch some by surprise if not prepared. And because the tour involves off-road driving and several stops, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a bit of adventure and uneven terrain. This tour is ideal for active travelers interested in history, nature, and a taste of rural Turkish life.

Key Points

• Affordable and well-paced: At $25, this tour offers great value for a full day of diverse experiences.
• Rich cultural insights: Learn about local traditions, religious sites, and ancient history from expert guides.
• Adventure-filled journey: Off-road safari with water fights and dusty countryside roads adds excitement.
• Stunning natural sights: Green Lake, waterfalls, and mountain views provide plenty of photo opportunities.
• Flexible activities: Swimming, kayaking, boat tours, and exploring ruins cater to different interests.
• Some additional costs: Entrance fees for Manavgat Waterfall and zoo are not included, so budget accordingly.

A Thorough Look at the Tour Experience

The Start: Hotel Pickup and Introduction

Your day begins with a convenient hotel pickup around 9:00 am—a real bonus for those staying in Side. The tour is led by a guide who will share interesting tidbits about each stop, making the journey both educational and lively. Having a guide who’s ready with stories about local life, culture, and history enhances the experience, especially as you traverse the scenic countryside.

First Stop: Side Historical Highlights

Less than thirty minutes into the tour, we arrive in Side, where you get a taste of the town’s history and charm. The guide introduces you to the area’s ancient roots, setting the tone for a day immersed in Turkey’s past. The short stop allows you to get your bearings and snap photos of the streets and ruins.

Discovering Manavgat: Mosque and Waterfall

Next, you’ll visit a local mosque in Manavgat—a peaceful spot that offers a peek into the religious traditions and local life. The guide explains the significance of the mosque, which makes this stop more meaningful than just a photo op.

The highlight here is the Manavgat Waterfall. With about 30 minutes allocated, you’ll have time to marvel at the rushing waters and capture some stunning photos. The waterfall is known for being a perfect photo spot, thanks to its natural beauty. Do note, however, that entrance to the waterfall has an extra charge, so be prepared for that additional expense.

Off-Road Safari: Dust, Water Fights, and Village Life

One of the real standout features of this tour is the off-road safari. The vehicle hits dusty and sometimes wet countryside paths, which leads to some of the most memorable moments—like water fights with fellow travelers and splashing through puddles. It’s messy, noisy, and loads of fun, especially if you’re up for a bit of adventure.

During this drive, you’ll stop at a village where you can relax at a tea garden, taste Turkish pancakes or gözleme (a traditional flatbread filled with various ingredients), and enjoy local hospitality. This authentic experience offers a glimpse into rural Turkish life, far from tourist crowds.

Exploring Ancient Ruins: Seleucia and Roman Engineering

Continuing the journey, you’ll visit the ancient city of Seleucia, which dates back roughly 2,500 years. Your guide will point out mosaics from the Hellenistic period and explain the historical significance of the site. Walking through the ruins, you’ll see remnants of Roman architecture like aqueducts—testaments to the engineering prowess of bygone civilizations.

Roman Engineering Marvels: Bridges and Dams

Further along, the tour stops for short photo breaks at sites like the Naras Bridge, Roman aqueducts, and Oymapinar Dam—all dating back to Roman times. These structures are impressive to see and give a sense of how centuries-old engineering still influences the landscape.

Lunch and Leisure at Green Lake

The tour’s highlight for many is the visit to Green Lake. Here, at a lakeside restaurant, you’ll enjoy a generous meal of grilled fish, chicken, or meatballs, complemented by rice, pasta, salad, and fruits. After lunch, you get around 90 minutes of free time—a perfect window to swim in the clear waters, try kayaking, or even fish using the available tackle.

Many reviewers, like Johnny, mention how “the guides and driver were top-notch” and how the beautiful scenery made the day especially memorable. The lake is often praised for its turquoise waters and peaceful atmosphere, making it a relaxing break from the busier sites.

Boat Tour on Green Lake

After some leisure, you’ll hop onto a boat for about an hour-long tour on Green Lake. This gentle cruise offers a different perspective of the area’s stunning natural beauty—an ideal way to unwind and enjoy the scenery.

Final Stop: Mini Zoo and Return

The last stop is a small zoo among the woods, where you can take photos of rare animals. It’s a quaint way to finish the day before heading back to Side, arriving around 4:30 pm. The tour concludes with your guide dropping you off at your hotel, ready to reflect on a day filled with history, nature, and adventure.

Practical Aspects and Value

The price of $25 is quite competitive when you consider the included boat tour and lunch. While entrance fees for Manavgat Waterfall and the zoo are not included, the overall cost remains a good deal for what’s on offer. The tour is suitable for most travelers, as most can participate, and the group size, which is capped at 50, keeps it intimate enough for personal interaction.

Transportation is by specially designed Cabrio Bus—open-top, which enhances the experience of the scenic countryside and mountain views. The pickup and drop-off service adds convenience—no need to worry about navigating yourself.

The timing is well-structured, balancing active exploration with downtime, and the guides are generally well-regarded for their knowledge and enthusiasm. Some reviews mention water fights and lively guides, adding a fun and informal vibe.

Considerations for Travelers

• The additional cost of entrance fees can add up, so bring some extra cash.
• Be prepared for dusty, muddy roads, especially during the safari—water fights and splashes are part of the fun.
• The longer stop at Green Lake offers plenty of options but may not suit those looking for a quick tour.
• The off-road elements might be challenging for those with mobility issues or a dislike of getting dirty.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and off-road fun. It’s also suitable for families or groups of friends looking to explore Turkey beyond the usual sights. If you appreciate guides who are knowledgeable and personable, you’ll find the experience engaging and informative.

Those seeking a relaxing, purely cultural tour might find the off-road elements and outdoor activities a bit too lively. Conversely, if you love photo opportunities and outdoor adventures, this tour delivers plenty of both.

The Sum Up

The Side Cabrio Bus Tour with Green Lake and Manavgat Waterfall provides a great balance of culture, history, natural beauty, and excitement. For just $25, you gain access to stunning scenery, ancient ruins, and lively off-road fun, all with the comfort of a guided tour. The expert guides, coupled with the chance to swim, kayak, or enjoy a boat ride, make it a well-rounded day out for active or curious travelers.

This experience is best for those who enjoy learning about local traditions, exploring historic sites, and embracing outdoor activities. While there are some costs for entrance fees not included, the overall value remains strong, especially considering the variety of stops and activities packed into one day.

For anyone eager to see a slice of rural Turkey, appreciate ancient engineering, or just have a fun, energetic day, this tour is a reliable and enjoyable choice.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins with hotel pickup at 9:00 am, making it easy to plan your day without early morning stress.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the off-road safari with water fights can be fun for older children and teenagers. However, very young kids might find the bumpy ride less enjoyable.

How long is the boat tour on Green Lake?
The boat ride lasts about one hour, offering a relaxed way to enjoy the lake’s scenery.

Are meals included?
Yes, a lunch featuring grilled fish, chicken, or meatballs with sides is included, served at Green Lake’s lakeside restaurant.

What about entrance fees?
The tour includes visits to historical sites, but Manavgat Waterfall and zoo entrance fees are not included in the price. Be prepared to pay extra at these stops.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund, providing peace of mind for flexible travelers.

This lively, well-rounded tour offers a genuine taste of Turkey’s scenic, historical, and cultural treasures—all packed into a single, adventure-filled day. Whether you’re into history, nature, or just having fun outdoors, this experience deserves a spot on your Turkey itinerary.