If your idea of a great vacation involves more mud than museums, more action than art galleries—Side, Turkey might surprise you. Known for its ancient ruins and beautiful beaches, Side is also a rising hotspot for adventure seekers looking to rev up their holiday with speed, splashes, and adrenaline.
Here’s how to get your heart racing in Side with quad biking, buggy rides, and canyoning—without straying far from the coast.
Kick Up Dust on a Quad Safari
The quad safari experience in Side is the perfect introduction to off-road fun. Whether you’re a first-timer or already a fan of all-terrain rides, this tour delivers. You’ll zoom along dusty mountain trails, splash through shallow rivers, and twist through pine-scented forest paths.
The routes are designed to be safe but still exciting, with just enough bumps and splashes to keep you on your toes. It’s suitable for adults and teens, and many families choose to ride as pairs.
Tip: Wear old clothes—you’ll get dirty (and that’s half the fun).
Go Deeper with Buggy Adventures
If you like the sound of quad biking but want a bit more comfort or stability, the buggy safari is your answer. Buggies come with seatbelts, roll cages, and are great for couples or parents with older kids.
These machines are made for rough terrain, and the Side region offers no shortage of it. Expect mud, water, and more than a few laughs as you rumble through dry creek beds and forest tracks. You don’t need a driver’s license, but a basic sense of control and a love for the outdoors definitely help.
Canyoning: Nature’s Obstacle Course
For those craving a real physical challenge, canyoning in the Köprülü Canyon is next-level adventure. It’s not just a walk through a river—it’s swimming, sliding down natural rock formations, jumping into clear pools, and sometimes even climbing.
You’ll be fully equipped with wetsuits and helmets, and professional guides will lead the way. It’s a fantastic group experience and a chance to see the wild side of Turkey’s interior landscapes. The canyon’s cold, fresh water is especially refreshing in the summer heat.
This one’s best for active travelers with a reasonable fitness level—and a love for the unexpected.
Who Are These Tours For?
You might assume these activities are just for young adults or extreme sports fans—but that’s not the case. In Side, you’ll see couples, families with teens, and even adventurous seniors enjoying these tours. They’re all designed to be safe, beginner-friendly, and incredibly fun.
Most tours offer transfers from your hotel, basic instruction before you begin, and all the necessary gear. And the best part? No long travel times—these adventures are all close to town.
Something Different, Something Memorable
If you’ve already visited Side’s historic old town, lounged on the beach, and taken a boat ride or two, maybe it’s time to switch gears—literally.
These high-energy activities add a new dimension to your holiday and leave you with the kind of memories you can’t make lying by the pool. So go ahead, get dirty, get loud, and experience Side from a whole new angle.