Side Green Lake Boat Tour and Jeep Safari Full Day Trip

Side Green Lake Boat Tour and Jeep Safari Full Day Trip offers an appealing blend of adventure, nature, history, and local culture. Priced at $593 and lasting around 6 hours, this tour takes you from your hotel in Side to explore the Oymapnar Dam, Green Canyon, and the charming Nomad Family Village. Expect off-road jeep rides, breathtaking views, a boat trip on Green Lake, and a hearty Turkish lunch.

What we love most about this experience are the diverse scenery—from rugged mountain terrain and ancient aqueducts to tranquil green lakes—and the professional guides who make safety and enjoyment their priority. The other standout feature is the opportunity to combine adventure with cultural insights—visiting villages and historical sites that give you a taste of authentic Turkish life.

A possible consideration for travelers is the rough terrain during the jeep safari, which may not suit everyone, especially those with mobility issues or a preference for more relaxed outings. But if you’re craving adventure and picturesque landscapes, you’ll find this trip well worth it.

This tour is ideal for adventurers, nature lovers, and families seeking a full-day activity that balances outdoor fun with cultural exposure. If you’re interested in off-road thrills paired with scenic boat rides and local village visits, this is a package worth considering.

Key Points

• Scenic Diversity: Combines mountain terrain, lakes, waterfalls, and historical sites for a well-rounded experience.
• Active Adventure: Off-road jeep safaris and water activities keep the trip lively and engaging.
• Authentic Culture: Visits to a Nomad Family Village and local orchards offer insight into traditional Turkish life.
• Value for Money: Includes transportation, guide, boat tour, and lunch, adding up to a convenient and comprehensive day.
• Flexible & Family-Friendly: Suitable for most travelers, with free time for swimming, canoeing, and relaxing at Green Lake.
• Professional Guides: Known for safety, enthusiasm, and making sure everyone is looked after.

A Deep Dive into the Side Green Lake Boat and Jeep Safari Tour

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure that mixes nature, culture, and a bit of adrenaline, this tour from Side hits the mark. Starting at 9:00 am, you’ll be picked up from your hotel and whisked away in open-top Land Rover jeeps, ready to explore some of Turkey’s most scenic and historically interesting spots. For about two hours, you’ll venture through off-road terrain near the Oymapnar Dam, at the base of the Taurus Mountains. This part of the trip is what many travelers rave about, especially for the thrill of riding on rugged mountain paths while soaking in stunning views.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Manavgat Dam and Green Lake
The highlight here is a one-hour boat tour across Green Lake, a serene, emerald body of water. The boat ride is a favorite among visitors, offering a chance to see the canyon from the water and enjoy some quiet time surrounded by nature. You’ll also get the chance to try free canoeing and pedal boating, which adds a playful element to the experience. Many reviewers, like Scott, mentioned the “lovely” meal by the lake and appreciated the value of being able to enjoy drinks and water sports for free.

Second Stop: Manavgat Waterfall
This is a brief but picturesque stop where you can snap some photos of the Manavgat Waterfall. While the admission fee isn’t included, visitors often find it worth a quick visit for the scenic view and photo opportunities. Some reviews mention it’s a bit of a bonus—an extra layer of beauty to the day.

Lunch Time: Near Oymapnar Dam
A one-hour lunch break offers a chance to enjoy a grilled chicken or fish barbecue, with salads and rice or spaghetti. The food is described as good quality and satisfying—perfect fuel for the next part of your day. Many travelers appreciate that lunch is included in the price and is served at a scenic spot close to the water.

Afternoon: Second Off-road Safari & More Water Fun
Post-lunch, you’ll head back into the jeeps for another round of adventure through the hills and scenic terrain. The off-road portion provides more breathtaking views and a taste of local rural life. During free time, you can swim or relax at Green Lake, making this a flexible opportunity to cool off or explore at your own pace.

The Experience and What It Means for Travelers

The guided jeep safaris are praised for their professionalism and safety, with reviews highlighting drivers who make the ride exciting yet secure. The scenic stops at aqueducts and waterfalls add historical and natural interest, breaking up the day’s adventure. Many reviewers, like RDPRIOR_P, commented that the trip was “fantastic” and “organized well”, emphasizing the professionalism of the tour operators.

The boat tour on Green Lake is considered a key highlight, providing a peaceful respite amidst the adventure. As one reviewer noted, the views from the ground and water are impressive, and the free water sports are a bonus.

While most travelers are very pleased, some, like Michel, felt that the Green Canyon might not fully meet their expectations—perhaps because the canyon’s grandeur is somewhat more subdued compared to more famous canyons worldwide. However, the overall experience remains positive, especially considering the value packed into the full day.

Practical Considerations

The tour is perfect for those who enjoy active outdoor experiences and are comfortable with off-road driving. It’s also suitable for families, given the free time for swimming and relaxing at Green Lake. Keep in mind that the terrain can be rugged, so travelers with mobility issues might want to prepare for that.

The cost of $593 includes hotel pickup and drop-off, all transportation, guides, the boat tour, and lunch, which makes for good value especially considering the full day of varied activities. However, entrance to Manavgat Waterfall costs an additional TRY50 per person, which is something to plan for.

Why Travelers Recommend It

Reviewers like Scott mention that the knowledgeable guides and safety measures made the trip enjoyable and worry-free. Others emphasize the breathtaking views and the variety of activities—from jeep safaris and boat rides to local village visits—as key reasons to choose this tour.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This full-day trip suits adventure seekers and nature lovers who enjoy off-road rides and scenic boat trips. It’s also great for families or groups wanting a diverse, active day with opportunities for swimming and relaxation. If you appreciate authentic experiences—like visiting a Nomad Family Village or tasting local cuisine—this tour offers plenty of those moments.

If you’re someone who prefers a more relaxed, less physically demanding day, this might not be your best choice. But for those eager for a lively, scenic, and culturally rich experience in Turkey’s beautiful landscape, this tour hits all the right notes.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation via Land Rover jeeps, a guide, a boat tour at Green Lake, lunch, and insurance. Drinks and entrance fees for Manavgat Waterfall are not included.

How long is the total tour?
The whole experience lasts approximately 6 hours, starting around 9:00 am and ending with hotel drop-off.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most reviews mention it as great fun for all ages, especially with the free time at Green Lake for swimming, canoeing, and pedal biking.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, comfortable shoes suitable for off-road terrain, and extra cash if you want to buy additional drinks or visit the waterfall.

Are there any physical requirements?
While most of the tour is accessible for most travelers, the jeep safaris involve off-road terrain that may be rough or bumpy. Travelers with mobility issues should consider this.

How much does the Manavgat Waterfall entrance fee cost?
It’s TRY50 per person, paid separately if you wish to visit.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the tour good value for money?
Given the inclusion of transportation, guide, boat tour, and lunch, most travelers find it good value, especially considering the variety of activities packed into one day.

Final Thoughts

This Side Green Lake Boat and Jeep Safari is a well-rounded adventure, blending scenic landscapes, historical sights, and fun water activities. It stands out for its professional guides, diverse itinerary, and inclusive pricing. Whether you’re an adventurer looking for thrill and exploration, or a family wanting a full day of varied activities, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

While it may not satisfy those seeking a leisurely or luxury experience, it offers authentic, active, and scenic fun at a fair price. The combination of off-road rides, spectacular views, and local culture makes it a solid choice for travelers eager to see the Turkish countryside beyond the usual tourist spots.

Make sure you’re prepared for a full day of outdoor activities, and you’ll leave with memories of mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and a taste of Turkish rural life that you’ll talk about long after your trip ends.