If you’re visiting Side, Turkey, and craving an adventure that gets your adrenaline pumping while offering a chance to see the countryside in a whole new way, the Side Quad and Buggy Safari might just be your ticket. Though we haven’t taken this tour ourselves, the detailed reviews and features suggest it’s a fun-filled 3.5-hour escapade, packed with off-road excitement, scenic views, and a touch of adventure.
What really stands out about this experience are the friendly guides, stunning natural landscapes, and the accessible nature of the activity—no prior driving experience needed. It’s perfect for thrill-seekers craving muddy tracks and forest trails, but it’s worth noting that some reviews mention the activity can be a bit slow and that the vehicles aren’t brand new. Overall, if you’re looking for a lively outdoor activity with a friendly vibe, this safari seems like a solid choice.
This adventure probably isn’t best if you’re after high-speed racing or a very intense, adrenaline overload. However, for most travelers wanting to combine a bit of fun off the beaten path with some scenic sightseeing, it hits the mark. It’s ideal for groups, families, or couples who want a memorable outdoor experience without requiring previous driving skills.
Good To Know
- Accessible for all: No driving license or experience needed; suitable for most ages, with passengers allowed on the back seat.
- Includes hotel transfers: Comfortably shuttle you from your accommodation to the adventure starting point.
- Varied terrains: Expect muddy, watery, rocky, and forest tracks, with some physical obstacles and water splashes.
- Safety and equipment: Helmets and safety gear are provided, along with lockers and showers at the base.
- Flexible timing and cancellation: Book in advance, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
- Authentic scenery: Enjoy the natural beauty of pine forests and rugged hills with expert guidance.
The Itinerary and What It Entails
The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort from the start. The driver takes you to a specially designed off-road track that promises muddy, watery, and rocky challenges. This track isn’t just a straight shot; it’s crafted to include physical obstacles like uneven paths and water crossings, which add to the thrill.
Once at the base, you’ll meet your instructors who will give a detailed safety briefing. No previous experience is necessary, but they focus on making sure everyone understands how to control their buggy. A brief 20-minute test drive helps everyone get comfortable before the main event.
The self-driving portion lasts a minimum of 1 hour 15 minutes, allowing plenty of time to explore different terrains. You’ll zoom through pine forests, navigate rocky paths, and splash through water, all while enjoying the natural landscape that makes Side so special. Two people can share a buggy—so if you’re traveling with a buddy or partner, you can take turns driving or sit behind the driver.
More tours and activities we've covered in Side
The Terrain and Driving Experience
Expect a variety of terrains—from muddy hills to water crossings and rocky stretches. The routes are selected to maximize fun and challenge, but some reviews note that vehicles can be worn out, which might affect the overall excitement. One reviewer mentioned that the buggies were “already pretty worn out,” which could impact the thrill factor if you’re used to newer, more powerful machines.
Participants also shared that the guides were knowledgeable, providing clear instructions and safety tips, which makes the activity accessible even to first-timers. The adventurous routes are designed to be fun, even if they’re not the most high-speed or intense.
Scenic Views and Natural Beauty
While the primary focus is on off-road driving, the scenery along the route is a big plus. You’ll pass through pine forests and rugged hills, offering plenty of photo opportunities. Some reviewers mentioned splendid roads and beautiful landscapes, confirming that the experience is as much about the views as it is about the ride.
What’s Included and What’s Not
For the price of around $23 per person, the package offers safety equipment, helmets, lockers, and showers at the base. You get approximately 1 hour 15 minutes of self-driving, which is a good chunk of time to enjoy the thrill and explore the terrain.
The tour includes hotel transfers, making it easy to coordinate without worrying about transportation logistics. However, personal expenses, photos, and videos are not included, so you might want to bring your own camera or buy souvenirs at the end.
The Reviews: What Travelers Say
While the overall rating is 4.0 out of 5, reviews highlight both positives and areas for improvement. Several travelers appreciated the friendly guides and stunning landscapes. One noted, “The day was beautiful, and the roads to admire the landscape were great,” which underscores how scenic the route can be.
On the downside, some reviews mention delays—such as a 30-minute late pick-up and waiting for the return bus—so planning extra time for logistics is wise. Others felt the activity was slightly slow and that the vehicles could be more adventurous or newer, but most still found the fun factor to be sufficient.
This safari caters well to families with children (ages 5 and up, with children sitting as passengers), groups of friends, or couples looking for a fun outdoor activity. It’s a perfect choice if you want to explore Side’s countryside in an active way without needing prior experience.
It’s not ideal for those seeking a fast-paced, adrenaline-fueled race, but for a relaxed, scenic, and playful off-road adventure—this tour hits the spot. Keep in mind that if you’re after a more adventurous route or newer equipment, you might find the experience slightly below expectations.
The Side Quad and Buggy Safari offers a well-rounded outdoor adventure for those eager to get off the beaten path and enjoy the natural beauty of Turkey’s countryside. It combines scenic views, fun driving, and easy accessibility, making it a solid choice for all ages and levels of experience.
While some reviews mention minor delays or worn vehicles, the overall experience appears to be enjoyable and memorable—especially thanks to the friendly guides and stunning landscapes. It’s a good value for the price, particularly if you want a lighthearted, active day that gets you into nature.
This tour is ideal for adventure lovers, families with kids, or anyone wanting a taste of Turkish wilderness in a safe, guided setting. Just remember to plan for some waiting time and verify if you’re comfortable with slightly older vehicles.
Is transportation included? Yes, hotel transfers are part of the package, making it easy to join without extra logistics.
Do I need a driving license? No, no license or prior experience is necessary. The guides will explain everything and ensure you’re comfortable before starting.
Can children join? Yes, children between 5 and 17 can participate as passengers sitting behind the driver.
How long is the self-driving part? Expect around 1 hour 15 minutes of driving, giving ample opportunity to explore the terrain.
What should I wear? Comfortable clothes suitable for getting muddy and possibly wet—think quick-dry fabrics and closed-toe shoes.
Are safety equipment provided? Yes, safety helmets and gear are included, along with lockers and showers at the base.
What if the weather is bad? The activity requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
If you’re seeking a fun, scenic, and accessible off-road adventure in Side, the Buggy Safari could be the perfect addition to your holiday. Just pack your sense of adventure and a camera for those picturesque forest and hilltop views.
More Safari Tours in Side
- Antalya Rafting, Jeep Safari, Zipline, Buggy Safari Combo Tour
- Full Day Antalya 2 in 1 Tour Rafting and Quad Safari With Lunch
- Thrilling Rafting and Buggy Safari Adventure from Antalya
- Alanya/Side/Antalya: Rafting, Zipline, Quad & Jeep Safari
- From Side & Belek: Buggy Safari Adventure & Hotel Transfers
- From Side/Manavgat: Hovercraft Safari Experience in Nature
More Tour Reviews in Side
- Buggy/Quad & Rafting Combo Tour
- Side : Manavgat Sea Fishing Tour With Transfer
- Köprülü Canyon( 4 in 1 ) Combo Rafting , Buggy & Jeep & Zipline
- Alanya Tour with Cable Car, Boat Trip and Lunch at Dimcay
- Antalya Rafting, Jeep Safari, Zipline, Buggy Safari Combo Tour
- Aloevera Turkish Bath & Spa+ Full Body Massage & Transfer
Looking for something different? Other Side activities we've written about
- Buggy/Quad & Rafting Combo Tour
- Side : Manavgat Sea Fishing Tour With Transfer
- Köprülü Canyon( 4 in 1 ) Combo Rafting , Buggy & Jeep & Zipline
- Alanya Tour with Cable Car, Boat Trip and Lunch at Dimcay
- Antalya Rafting, Jeep Safari, Zipline, Buggy Safari Combo Tour
- Aloevera Turkish Bath & Spa+ Full Body Massage & Transfer
- Side & Manavgat to Antalya Airport Private Transfer
- Ancient Perge, Aspendos Amphitheater & Manavgat Waterfalls Tour
- Full Day Antalya 2 in 1 Tour Rafting and Quad Safari With Lunch
- From Side or Manavgat First Tourist Hovercraft Adventure
- Side: Electric Catamaran Cruise, Waterfall, Seleukia, Mosque
- Side Traditional Turkish Bath and Massage Experience
