City of Side: Altinbesik Cave & Ormana Tour w/ Boat & Lunch

If you’re looking to escape the busy beaches and dive into some authentic Turkish scenery, the Altinbesik Cave & Ormana Tour offers an intriguing mix of natural wonders, traditional villages, and history. This full-day adventure takes you into the heart of the Taurus Mountains, showcasing some of the most scenic and culturally rich spots around Antalya. From underground lakes to button houses, this experience is packed with memorable moments.

What we love about this tour is how it balances spectacular nature with cultural insights. The subterranean lake boat ride offers a unique perspective, while the visits to mountain villages reveal Turkish architecture and lifestyle that you won’t find in typical tourist spots. The third thing we really appreciate is the knowledgeable local guides who make the experience engaging and informative.

A possible consideration is the long bus ride—some reviews mention it can be quite lengthy, especially on the return trip. But if you’re comfortable with long journeys, you’ll find plenty of stunning scenery and interesting stops along the way.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, cultural exploration, and scenic drives. If you’re after a relaxed day that combines nature, history, and authentic villages, this trip could be a highlight of your Antalya visit.

Good To Know

• Natural Marvels: Visit Turkey’s largest underground lake and explore impressive stalactite formations.
• Cultural Exposure: Wander through traditional button houses and learn about local architecture.
• Scenic Drives: Enjoy the Taurus Mountains and Green Canyon views from a comfortable minibus.
• Authentic Lunch: Savor a meal in Ormana village, experiencing regional flavors.
• Expert Guides: Benefit from the knowledge of friendly, well-informed local guides.
• Long Journey: Be prepared for a full day with some time spent on the bus, but with plenty of sights to break it up.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary: A Day in the Mountains and Villages

This tour begins with hotel pick-up, setting the stage for a day filled with surprises. The first stop is Avasun, a village famous for its bay leaves and vibrant scenery. Here, you’ll get a panoramic view of Green Canyon and Green Lake—perfect for snapping some holiday photos. These stunning natural features are a highlight, with lush landscapes and calm waters that contrast beautifully against the mountain backdrop.

Next, the journey takes you to Ürünlü, renowned for its button houses—small, charming structures with distinctive architecture that make a striking visual. Reviewers highlight this stop as particularly interesting; one noted how these houses are an architectural curiosity unique to this area. You’ll have time to stroll around, take pictures, and even enjoy a traditional tea or coffee break at a local house, adding an authentic touch to your day.

The central highlight is Altinbesik Cave National Park. This is Turkey’s biggest cave, featuring an underground lake that you can explore via a boat ride. The boat trip itself lasts about 20 minutes, offering a rare chance to glide across the translucent waters beneath the mountain. Inside, you’ll see stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations—some reviews mention the Golden Cradle Cavern, named for its captivating mineral deposits and shapes resembling a cradle.

Visitors often mention how impressive the cave’s natural beauty is; one reviewer from Germany called the experience “a special event.” However, some noted that the boat ride can be brief if water levels are low, and the formation viewing in the cave might be quicker than expected.

After the cave adventure, the tour continues to Ormana village for lunch. Here, you’ll enjoy regional Turkish cuisine in a relaxed setting, with the opportunity to see more button houses and absorb the village atmosphere. The combination of rural scenery and local flavors makes this a worthwhile break.

The last stops include Sarihacilar köyü, a village on the historic Silk Road, giving a glimpse into Turkey’s trading past, and a visit to a 650-year-old Ottoman mosque. One reviewer was impressed by the historical significance of this part of the tour, noting the well-preserved architecture and traditional houses.

Transport, Group Size, and Overall Experience

Transport is handled comfortably via an air-conditioned minibus, and the tour is designed for small groups—usually around 8 to 10 people—making for a more personalized experience. The entire day lasts approximately 9 hours, with pickup included, which provides a hassle-free way to explore without worrying about logistics.

The price of $42 per person is quite reasonable considering the variety of sights, the boat ride, lunch, and the guidance provided. Compared to solo excursions or the cost of individual entries, this package offers solid value, especially for those interested in cultural and natural highlights.

One element that stands out in reviews is the knowledgeable guides, such as Thomas, who was praised for providing clear explanations and friendly service. They make the long bus rides more bearable with entertaining stories and helpful information.

Authentic Experiences and Unique Highlights

Travelers often mention the button houses as a highlight—these tiny, distinctive dwellings are a regional architectural feature you won’t find everywhere. The villages you visit are not tourist-centric but authentic, giving you a window into local life.

The subterranean lake and cave formations** are a rare treat, with some reviewers describing the cave as a “special experience” and worth the trip just for the natural spectacle. The boat ride, although sometimes short due to water levels, offers an unusual perspective of the underground landscape.

The lunch in Ormana is seen as a value-add, offering regional dishes and a chance to relax after a busy morning of sightseeing. The villages on the Silk Road and the ancient Ottoman mosque add layers of history and culture that enrich the trip beyond just scenery.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip

• Bring layers and comfortable shoes: Some stops involve walking around villages and uneven terrain.
• Camera or smartphone fully charged: There are plenty of photo opportunities, from mountain vistas to underground lakes.
• Expect a long day: The tour spans about 9 hours, so prepare for some bus time—bring snacks or a water bottle.
• Water levels in the cave can vary, affecting boat ride length; don’t expect a lengthy cruise every time.
• Language options include English and German guides, so clarify your preference when booking if needed.
• Cash might be useful for small purchases or tips at local stops.

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Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, cultural exploration, and scenic drives. It’s ideal for those comfortable with long bus rides and eager to see authentic Turkish villages and landscapes. Nature lovers will appreciate the underground lake and stalactite formations, while history buffs will enjoy the Ottoman mosque and Silk Road village.

It’s also perfect for small groups or those who prefer more personalized guidance, thanks to the friendly, knowledgeable guides. Families with older children, couples, and solo travelers alike will find this tour offers good value and a well-rounded experience of Turkey’s inland treasures.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and lunch.

What is included in the price?
Hotel pick-up and drop-off, lunch, a 20-minute boat trip on the underground lake, a professional local guide, and transportation via air-conditioned minibus.

Are there any additional costs?
Drinks and personal expenses are not included, so bring some cash for extras or souvenirs.

Is the boat ride in the cave long enough?
The boat trip lasts about 20 minutes, but this can vary with water levels. Some reviews mention it being shorter if water is low.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
The largest underground lake in Turkey, the Golden Cradle Cavern, traditional button houses, and scenic mountain views.

Can I take photos inside the cave?
Yes, photography is allowed, but the lighting conditions inside the cave might mean you need a good camera or phone with night settings.

What is the group size?
Small groups of around 8 to 10 people are typical, making for a more intimate experience.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable with long bus rides and walking around villages and caves.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It involves some walking and stairs inside the cave and villages, but most parts are accessible for those with moderate mobility.

This Altinbesik Cave & Ormana Tour balances cultural insight, natural beauty, and a taste of rural Turkish life—all packed into a well-organized, value-for-money day. Whether you’re into geology, history, or traditional architecture, it offers plenty of reasons to explore inland Antalya beyond the beaches.

You can check if your dates are available here: