Quad and Buggy Off-Road Safari Side

The countryside behind Side

Side is best known for its ancient ruins and sandy beaches, but only a short drive inland the landscape changes completely. The coastal plain around Side and Manavgat gives way to rolling hills covered in red pine, farmland and the first foothills of the Taurus Mountains, crossed by dirt tracks that are perfect for off-road riding.

This is the setting for our quad safari in Side. Away from the hotels and traffic, the convoy rides through quiet forest where the scent of pine fills the air and the only sound is the engines. It is a refreshing change from the beach and a side of the Turkish Riviera that many visitors never see, and it is just a short transfer from your hotel.

Pine-forest trails: dust, mud and rocks

The trails combine every kind of off-road surface. In summer the tracks are dry and dusty, sending clouds of golden dust behind the convoy; after rain they turn into a playground of mud puddles that splash over the wheels. Rocky sections and bends between the trees keep you focused and make every stretch different.

Your instructor rides with the group and sets a pace that suits everyone, so beginners feel safe while confident riders still enjoy the thrill. Anyone searching for an off-road buggy safari in Side will find this route offers the classic mix of forest, dirt and adrenaline. Expect to come back dusty or muddy, so wear clothes you do not mind getting dirty.

Training, safety and the base

Every safari starts with driving training and a full safety briefing at the base. The instructor explains how the throttle, brakes and steering work, shows you the hand signals used on the trail and gives everyone a helmet before a short practice. Insurance is included, and the instructor stays with the convoy for the whole ride.

Instructors speak several languages, including English, German, Russian, Turkish, French and Arabic, so instructions are always clear. This careful start is why the tour suits first-timers as well as experienced riders. Photos and videos are not included, and snacks, souvenirs and other personal purchases are at your own expense, so bring a means of payment only if you want them.

Quad, buggy or family buggy: choosing your vehicle

With a single quad or single buggy you drive alone, with no passenger beside you. The double quad and double buggy are shared by two people, ideal for couples and friends, and the family buggy takes up to four people together. Riders aged 5 to 17 may join only with a parent on the same vehicle.

Buggies have a steering wheel and seats side by side, which many families find more comfortable, while quads offer a more direct, sporty feel. Single options are priced per driver, and shared vehicles by the number of travellers; the booking panel on this page shows the current price of each option. All options follow the same forest route with the same instructor, training and safety equipment, so the choice is simply about how you like to ride.

Best time for a quad safari in Side

The safari runs through most of the year, with starts at about 10:00 and 13:00. Spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons, with green forests and comfortable temperatures. In high summer the morning departure is cooler, and the trails are at their dustiest, which is all part of the experience, so a scarf and sunglasses are worth packing.

After winter and spring rain, the mud sections are deeper and the ride is wetter and wilder. Whatever the season, the whole outing takes about three hours from pickup to drop-off, leaving plenty of time for the beach or a visit to the ancient city of Side, with its Temple of Apollo by the sea and its great Roman theatre, on the same day.