City of Side: Quad Safari Tour

The best part of this tour is the setting: you drive a 250cc quad through the Koprucay River area, with Koprulu Canyon National Park providing the scenery. The route mixes dusty tracks, shallow river driving, turquoise water, canyon views, and a swimming stop.

I like the included hotel pickup and drop-off, especially since the safari base lies well beyond Side. I also like the simple 20 km format, split into two 10 km sections, so you get time to settle in before the faster return run. The main drawback is that the operation can feel crowded, with waiting before your turn and several groups moving through the same circuit.

Key points to know before booking

• 20 km quad route: The ride is split into a first 10 km circuit and a second 10 km section around the river.
• 250cc all-terrain vehicles: You get a proper quad bike rather than a short amusement-park circuit.
• Cold river swimming stop: Bring swimwear, a towel, and dry clothes for the break beside the river.
• Dust is part of the deal: Goggles, sunglasses, a mask, and suitable shoes are worth considering.
• Hotel transfers included: Pickup covers hotels in Titreyengol, Sorgun, Side, Kumkoy, Evrenseki, Colakli, and Gundogdu.
• Good value at $32: The price includes transport, guide, helmet, insurance, and 20 km of riding, but not food, drinks, or photos.

From Side to the Koprucay River

Your day begins with pickup from your hotel in Side or one of the nearby resort areas. The transfer takes place in an air-conditioned bus, which is a practical touch in Antalya Province, particularly during the hot months.

The pickup zone includes Titreyengol, Sorgun, Side, Kumkoy, Evrenseki, Colakli, and Gundogdu. Check your exact hotel area when booking, since the included transfer applies to these listed locations.

During the ride to Koprulu Canyon National Park, the team explains how to operate the quads and how to follow the group safely. That briefing matters. This is not a free-for-all ride where you can choose your own route or race other people. You follow a set course and stay with the group.

The total activity lasts about four hours, including transfers, preparation, waiting, riding, the swimming break, and the return journey. The actual ride may feel much shorter than the headline duration. One account put the riding time at roughly an hour, so set your expectations correctly: this is a half-day outing, not four continuous hours on the quad.

Getting used to your 250cc quad

At the base, you receive a helmet at no extra charge. The quads are insured by Allianz, and an expert guide leads the group. You can take a short test ride around the facility before setting off, which gives you a chance to learn the throttle, brakes, steering, and general feel of the machine.

That test circuit is useful for first-time riders. A quad is easier to balance than a motorbike, but it still takes attention, especially on uneven ground or in water. Listen closely to the guide and keep enough space from the person ahead.

The machines are described as 250cc all-terrain quads. The experience is built around steady group riding, not stunts. You should not expect jumps, drifting, or technical off-road challenges. The route is designed to keep the group moving in line, which makes it more manageable for mixed-ability groups but less exciting for anyone hoping to show off.

You can purchase extra equipment at the base, including a bandana, mask, sunglasses, and suitable shoes. I would budget for eye protection before anything else. Dust can become thick, especially when several quads pass along the same track. Goggles are particularly useful because regular sunglasses may not seal around your eyes.

The first 10 km and the river stop

The first section covers about 10 km on a special circuit in and around the Koprucay River. This is your chance to learn the rhythm of the safari. You follow the guide, manage the quad over the track, and get used to the dust and changing surface.

The setting is the real reward. Koprulu Canyon National Park is known for its canyon walls, river, and watersports activity. The route lets you see the area from ground level rather than from a bus window. You get views of the canyon and the river while the quad supplies the noisy, energetic part of the day.

The river section brings a welcome change. You drive in the water and then stop for a swim. The river can feel cold, but that is exactly why the stop works so well after riding through dust and heat. Bring swimwear under your clothes, plus a towel and a complete change of clothes.

You should protect anything that cannot get wet. The activity information does not specify storage arrangements, so keep valuables to a minimum and ask the staff where personal items should go before you leave the base.

The second 10 km run

After the swimming break, you continue for another 10 km in and around the river. This is usually the more enjoyable part because you already understand the quad and the group routine.

The return section can allow a faster pace, but the guide still controls the group. You may get a stronger sense of speed here, especially on open stretches. The experience remains a guided convoy, though, so do not book it expecting independent exploration.

The route has a fairly repetitive character. You ride, follow the track, watch the terrain, and keep your place in line. Some people will find that wonderfully straightforward. Others may want more changes in terrain, sharper turns, or technical obstacles.

I see that as an important booking decision. If you want a safe introduction to quad riding with scenery and water, the format makes sense. If your main goal is freestyle riding, big jumps, or a demanding off-road course, this is probably not the right outing.

Dust, heat, and what to wear

The practical details make a bigger difference here than they might on an ordinary sightseeing trip. Wear clothes and shoes that can get dirty and wet. The official advice is to bring sunglasses, swimwear, a change of clothes, and a towel.

I would add a mask or bandana for dust, plus closed shoes with a firm sole. Extra equipment is not included, so you may need to buy these items at the facility if you do not bring your own.

Expect your clothes to collect dust. The river helps, but you should still avoid wearing anything valuable or difficult to wash. Keep your phone protected and do not assume that standard holiday footwear will be comfortable on a quad.

The helmet is included. Food and drinks are not, so carry anything you need only if the operator allows it during the transfer or at the base. The supplied information does not specify meal or refreshment stops.

How the group setup affects the day

The main operational weakness is the waiting time before departure. The base can have more people than available quads, so you may wait while other groups take their test rides and leave on the safari.

That can make the start feel less polished, especially if you arrive eager to ride. It is worth treating the first part as preparation time rather than expecting an immediate launch. Once your group is underway, the experience becomes much more focused.

The riding itself follows a line. This keeps the activity controlled and helps the guide manage different driving abilities. It also means you should not expect to stop wherever you like or set your own pace.

The guide leads from the front and gives directions throughout the ride. German, English, and Russian are available, which helps the operation serve a mixed international group. Ask questions during the safety briefing if anything about the controls or route is unclear.

Photos, videos, and extra costs

When you return to the facility, the team shows professional photos and video footage taken during the ride. These are available to buy, but they are not included in the $32 price.

This is a common add-on for a quad safari, and the images may be tempting because your hands are occupied while riding. Still, decide in advance how much you want to spend. The advertised price covers the core experience, not the souvenir media.

You can also purchase extra equipment at the facility. Bandanas, masks, sunglasses, and suitable shoes are specifically listed as extras. Bringing your own eye protection and dust cover is the easiest way to keep the final cost under control.

Is $32 good value?

At $32 per person, this is a strong value if you want hotel transport and a proper half-day activity. You get an air-conditioned transfer, a 250cc quad, 20 km of riding, a guide, Allianz insurance, and a free helmet.

The value is especially clear for couples and families staying in the Side resort area, since arranging transport to Koprulu Canyon separately would add time and cost. You also get a swimming break and scenery, not just a short ride around a fenced facility.

The price is less complete than it first appears if you want every extra. Food, drinks, additional protective equipment, photos, and video cost extra. You also pay with some patience, since waiting at the base can reduce the amount of time spent actually riding.

For a low-cost adventure near Side, I think the package works well. Just compare the $32 price with your likely extras and do not confuse four hours of total activity time with four hours on the quad.

Who should book this safari?

This tour suits adults and older teenagers who want an active break from beach and pool time. It is also a good fit for first-time quad riders, since you receive a safety briefing, a test ride, a helmet, and a guide-led route.

People who enjoy scenery with a little adrenaline will get the most from it. The river, canyon views, dust, and speed provide enough variety for a memorable half-day without requiring advanced riding skills.

It is less suitable for anyone wanting a quiet nature visit. The quads are noisy, the group format is structured, and the route can feel repetitive. It is also not suitable for pregnant women or children under three.

Anyone under 16 can only sit in the back seat of an ATV. The information does not state specific driver-license rules or passenger arrangements beyond that age restriction, so check the booking details if your group includes younger riders.

Booking and cancellation basics

You can cancel up to 24 hours before the activity for a full refund. The reserve-now-and-pay-later option lets you hold a place without paying immediately, which is useful if your Side plans are still shifting.

Pickup is included only from the listed areas: Titreyengol, Sorgun, Side, Kumkoy, Evrenseki, Colakli, and Gundogdu. Confirm your hotel location and pickup time before the day of the tour.

Bring swimwear, a towel, dry clothes, sunglasses, and footwear that can handle mud and water. Pets are not allowed.

Should you book the City of Side Quad Safari?

Book it if you want a reasonably priced, guided quad ride with hotel transfers, canyon scenery, and a cold river swim. The best features are the 20 km route, the 250cc machines, and the excellent value of transport plus insurance at $32.

Go in knowing that the base may be crowded, the ride follows a set line, and dust protection is important. Bring goggles or sunglasses, wear clothes you do not mind dirtying, and allow extra patience before the first group leaves.

For a beach holiday in Side, this is a lively change of pace and a practical way to see part of Koprulu Canyon National Park. It is not an extreme off-road challenge, but it delivers speed, water, scenery, and a good deal of fun for the price.

FAQ

How long does the quad safari last?

The full activity lasts about four hours, including hotel pickup and drop-off, preparation, waiting, riding, and the river stop. The riding itself may last about an hour, depending on the group and schedule.

How far do you ride?

The advertised route covers 20 km. It is divided into a first 10 km circuit, a swimming break, and a second 10 km section in and around the Koprucay River.

Is hotel pickup included?

Yes. Pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned bus are included from hotels in Titreyengol, Sorgun, Side, Kumkoy, Evrenseki, Colakli, and Gundogdu.

What languages are available?

The live tour guide service is available in German, English, and Russian.

Is a helmet included?

Yes. A helmet is provided free of charge. Extra items such as a bandana, mask, sunglasses, and suitable shoes are not included.

Can I swim during the tour?

Yes. The itinerary includes a swimming break beside the river. Bring swimwear, a towel, and a change of clothes.

Can children join the quad safari?

Children under three are not permitted. Anyone under 16 can only sit in the back seat of an ATV.

Are photos and videos included?

No. Professional photos and video footage taken during the ride are available to purchase separately at the facility.