Side Mix Tour: Cabrio Safari & Green Canyon Boat & Waterfall
If you’re seeking a well-rounded day of adventure in the Antalya Province, the Side Mix Tour offers a splendid mix of nature, culture, and scenery. For a price that provides excellent value—around 7 to 9 hours of exploration—you’ll experience everything from a scenic open-top Cabrio safari through the Taurus Mountains to a relaxing boat trip across Green Lake, topped off with a visit to the iconic Manavgat Waterfall. The tour also includes cultural stops, like the Külliye Mosque, and a stroll through a lush orange garden.
What we love most about this experience are the stunning panoramic views from the Grand Dam stop and the knowledgeable guides who make each part of the trip engaging and informative. The mix of active and relaxing moments keeps the day interesting without feeling rushed.
One consideration to keep in mind is that the overall schedule can be quite packed, and sometimes certain stops, like the mosque visit, might be modified for guests coming from different locations, such as Alanya or Side. This means it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with some flexibility and a full day of sightseeing.
This tour is ideal for those who want to get a taste of natural landscapes, local culture, and scenic views without spending a fortune. If you enjoy guided experiences that combine multiple highlights into one day, you’ll find plenty to love here.
Key Points
- Diverse itinerary with scenic mountains, lakes, and waterfalls
- Insightful guides who share interesting facts about the land and culture
- Value for money with included transport, meals, and multiple stops
- Beautiful photo opportunities at Grand Dam and Manavgat Waterfall
- Comfortable transport in a Cabrio bus through Taurus Mountains
- Flexible timing and cancellation options for peace of mind
In-Depth Review of the Side Mix Tour
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The Itinerary Breakdown
When we booked this tour, we appreciated how it combined a variety of experiences into one day. The day begins with a Cabrio safari through the Taurus Mountains. If you’ve never traveled in a convertible bus before, this is a fun way to soak in breathtaking mountain vistas and get a feel for the rugged landscape. The open-air ride feels more personal and immersive than a regular coach, giving you unobstructed views of the lush terrain and traditional villages.
Next, you’ll visit the Külliye Mosque, the largest in the Manavgat region. The architecture, inspired by Ottoman designs, adds a touch of spiritual serenity. While some tours might skip this, the guide makes sure to provide meaningful commentary, making it a worthwhile cultural stop—though note that for guests from Alanya, this visit might be skipped due to time constraints.
One of the tour’s highlights is the panoramic view from the Grand Dam. Sitting atop the reservoir, you’re treated to sweeping vistas of the large water body and surrounding mountains—a perfect moment for photos and a breather before continuing. We loved the way this stop emphasizes the scale and power of Turkey’s engineering feats, giving a new appreciation of the landscape.
From here, the tour drops you in an authentic orange garden—a refreshing change from the usual tourist stops. Walking among the citrus trees, you can breathe in the fresh scent of oranges and enjoy a sample of freshly squeezed juice, which is a simple but delightful treat after some mountain air.
The boat trip on Green Lake is the next major component. Spending about an hour cruising the calm, emerald waters, you’ll see lush scenery and perhaps even take a quick swim if you wish. The boat ride is leisurely and offers a peaceful break from the busier stops, making it a favorite for many travelers. We heard from one reviewer, Anita, that the tour ran smoothly and the guide was both fun and informative, enhancing the experience.
Following the boat adventure, a lakeside lunch is provided, with options such as grilled fish, chicken, or meat served alongside fresh sides. The lakeside setting adds a calm, scenic backdrop, and the meal is generally considered tasty and generous, offering good value for the price.
Our final stop is the Manavgat Waterfall. Although swimming isn’t permitted here, the cascading water creates a lively yet soothing atmosphere—perfect for photos and reflecting on the day’s journey. You might find, as some reviews suggest, that this stop is slightly rushed or optional, but it remains a beautiful natural spectacle.
What the Experience Means for You
The tour’s variety means you’ll get an authentic taste of local landscapes, architecture, and scenery. The guides’ insights bring the places to life, turning simple visits into memorable stories. Plus, the included lunch and transportation help keep costs down without sacrificing comfort.
The small group size and flexible scheduling mean you’ll usually find the experience intimate enough to ask questions and get personalized attention. The tour operates in multiple languages—German, English, Russian, and Turkish—so language barriers are minimal if you speak one of those.
The Authentic and Practical Aspects
What sets this tour apart is its focus on real, local experiences—not just ticking off tourist spots. Visiting a village and orange garden connects you to Turkey’s rural life, while the scenic stops showcase the natural beauty that makes this region special.
The transportation in a Cabrio bus isn’t just for fun; it’s a practical way to comfortably traverse the mountainous terrain, especially since the roads wind through scenic yet sometimes narrow passes. The timing of the tour allows you to see many highlights without feeling overly rushed, though you should be prepared for a full day.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Price & Value
While the tour cost isn’t explicitly mentioned here, reviews suggest it’s a good deal considering the included activities—boat trip, lunch, multiple scenic stops, and professional guides. Paying a bit extra for the convenience of door-to-door pickup and drop-off adds to the value, especially if you’re not keen on organizing separate transport and tickets for each site.
While in Side, here are other experiences we've covered
- Side Buggy Car Safari (Adventure Tour) w/ Free Hotel Transfer
- Side Quad Safari Experience (Adventure Tour) w/ Hotel Transfer
- Mix. Tour (Jeep Safari and Boat Tour in Green Lake with Lunch)
- Jeep Safari Tour
- Side Green Lake Boat Tour and Jeep Safari Full Day Trip
- Side Jeep Safari Tour Around Taurus Mountains with Lunch
Who Would This Tour Suit Best?
If you enjoy active sightseeing with a mix of nature, culture, and scenic views, this is a great choice. It’s especially suited for those who want a guided experience to learn about the land and local life without the hassle of planning every detail.
However, if you prefer a very relaxed pace or are interested in swimming at waterfalls, you might find some parts of the tour less appealing. Also, those with mobility issues should note that the mosque visit might be skipped for guests from certain locations, and the walk through some outdoor areas could be challenging for some.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely yes, as the activities are outdoor and scenic, but you should check with the provider for specific age restrictions or recommendations.
How long does the entire tour last?
Between 7 and 9 hours, depending on the group size and traffic. It’s a full-day experience with multiple stops.
Is lunch included?
Yes, a lakeside lunch with options like grilled fish, chicken, or meat is part of the package.
Will I get enough time at each stop?
Generally, yes. Stops like the Grand Dam, orange garden, and Manavgat Waterfall are designed to be peaceful and photo-worthy, but some reviews note that the water falls might feel rushed.
What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and possibly a change of clothes if you plan to swim.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Are drinks included in the tour?
No, drinks are considered personal expenses, so plan to bring your own or purchase at stops.
Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, it appears not to be suitable for wheelchairs, as the terrain and stops may be challenging.
Final Thoughts
The Side Mix Tour offers a well-crafted day of outdoor exploration, cultural insights, and scenic beauty. The combination of a Cabrio safari, boat trip, and nature stops gives travelers a comprehensive taste of what the Antalya region has to offer. The knowledgeable guides and the variety of experiences make it a strong choice for those wanting to see a lot without the stress of organizing each part independently.
While it’s not perfect—for instance, some stops might feel a bit rushed—the overall experience is highly valued by past travelers, especially for the stunning views and authentic cultural visits. If you’re looking for a full-day adventure that balances activity and relaxation, this tour fits the bill nicely.
Travelers who enjoy scenic drives, picturesque landscapes, and learning about local life will find this tour both fun and rewarding. Just remember to bring your camera, some comfortable walking shoes, and an appetite for a day full of captivating sights.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Boat Tours & Cruises in Side
- From Side/Alanya: Alanya City Tour w/Lunch, Boat & Cable Car
- Side: Dolphin Island Boat Trip with Lunch & Unlimited Drinks
- Dolphin Island Boat Trip with Swimming & Lunch
- From City of Side: Cabrio Bus Safari & Boat Tour with Lunch
- Side: All Inclusive Luxury Boat Trip & Free Time in Alanya
- Manavgat Boat Tour from Side
More Tours in Side
- From Side/Alanya: Alanya City Tour w/Lunch, Boat & Cable Car
- From City of Side: Cabrio Bus Safari & Boat Tour with Lunch
- Antalya City Tour From Side With A Local Guide
- Green Lake Mixed Tour Combo 5 in 1 With Lunch
- Side:Golden Cradle Cavern & Ormana Village Tour
- Full-Day Antalya City Tour & Düden Waterfall from Side
More Tour Reviews in Side
- From Side/Alanya: Alanya City Tour w/Lunch, Boat & Cable Car
- Side: Dolphin Island Boat Trip with Lunch & Unlimited Drinks
- Dolphin Island Boat Trip with Swimming & Lunch
- From City of Side: Cabrio Bus Safari & Boat Tour with Lunch
- Antalya City Tour From Side With A Local Guide
- Green Lake Mixed Tour Combo 5 in 1 With Lunch
More Side experiences we've covered
- From Side/Alanya: Alanya City Tour w/Lunch, Boat & Cable Car
- Side: Dolphin Island Boat Trip with Lunch & Unlimited Drinks
- Dolphin Island Boat Trip with Swimming & Lunch
- From City of Side: Cabrio Bus Safari & Boat Tour with Lunch
- Antalya City Tour From Side With A Local Guide
- Green Lake Mixed Tour Combo 5 in 1 With Lunch
- Side-Alanya: Rafting, Zipline & ATV/Buggy Safari Combo
- Side:Golden Cradle Cavern & Ormana Village Tour
- Side: Adler Canyon
- Full-Day Antalya City Tour & Düden Waterfall from Side
- Side Off-Road Quad / Buggy Safari Tour With Hotel Transfer
- From Side: Perge, Aspendos and Kursunlu Trip