If you're staying in Side, a quad safari is one of the easiest half-day adventures to add to your holiday. You leave the beach behind, head inland into the Taurus foothills above the Side-Manavgat coast, and spend a couple of hours on your own single-seat quad (ATV) tackling dusty forest tracks, muddy bends and shallow water crossings. This guide explains exactly what to expect, so you can turn up prepared and enjoy the ride.
Why a quad safari suits guests in Side
Side sits right in the middle of the Side-Manavgat corridor, which is the best possible base for this kind of trip. The off-road trails start in the hills just inland, so transfer times are short and you spend more of your day actually riding rather than sitting in a minibus. Because you ride your own quad, it's a hands-on adventure rather than a passenger experience, which is exactly why it appeals to couples, friends and active families alike.
For the full tour details, prices and free online booking, see our dedicated Side quad safari page. This guide is here to help you decide and prepare.
Pick-up and logistics
Hotel pick-up and drop-off are included free from Side and the surrounding resorts. Departures run in the morning or the afternoon depending on the day, and a member of the team will confirm your approximate pick-up window when you book — we never quote an exact clock time in advance because it depends on your hotel's location on the route. Door to door, plan for a half-day out; the ride itself typically lasts around a couple of hours, with time for the briefing, a break and the drive each way.
What the trails are like
The route runs on genuine off-road tracks through pine forest and farmland in the foothills. Expect plenty of dust in dry spells, muddy bends after rain, and a few shallow water crossings that are more fun than frightening. Every tour begins with a safety briefing and a short practice lap on flat ground, so you get a feel for the throttle and brakes before anything technical. A lead guide sets a sensible pace at the front and a sweep guide follows at the back, so nobody is left behind and the group stays together.
Do I need a licence or experience?
No. You don't need a driving licence or any previous off-road experience. The practice lap and the guide's pace are designed around first-timers, and you can ride as gently or as spiritedly as you like within the group. Helmets are provided, along with goggles for the quads, and the guides keep a close eye on everyone throughout.
Who it suits — and beginners
Quad safaris are ideal for complete beginners and confident riders alike. If you've never touched an ATV before, the briefing and practice lap will get you comfortable quickly. If you're bringing older children, ask at the time of booking about age and rider requirements so we can match you to the right option. The single-seat format means everyone drives their own machine, which is a big part of the fun.
What to wear and bring
- Old clothes you don't mind getting dusty or muddy — this is not a tour to wear your best outfit for.
- Closed shoes (trainers are perfect); no sandals or flip-flops.
- Sunglasses or the provided goggles, plus sun cream in warmer months.
- A change of clothes and a towel for afterwards, as the ride often ends with a friendly water fight.
Because the safari runs on off-road terrain most of the year, conditions vary with the season — dustier in high summer, muddier after rain — but the trip goes ahead in a wide range of weather.
Booking — best price, no prepayment
Booking direct is the best-value way to go. You'll get the best price by reserving with us rather than through a third party, and there's no prepayment required: you simply reserve your place free online and pay the guide on the day. That keeps things flexible and stress-free while you're on holiday.
Ready to lock in your spot? Head over to the Side quad safari page to reserve, or browse everything on offer on our tours page. Turn up in old clothes and closed shoes, listen to the briefing, and get ready for a dusty, muddy, thoroughly enjoyable ride through the hills above Side.