The southern Turkish town of Side is nestled between the rugged and untamed mountains and the marvelous Gulf of Antalya and here, nature beckons.

Answer the call of your adventurous spirit and take a quad tour in Side to venture off the literal beaten track and explore the true essence of the Turkish wilderness. Let the roar of the engines whisk you away to corners of untold beauty as you explore Side to the fullest.

Here's all you need to know about quad tours, one of the most exhilarating outdoor activities in Side.

What are the best quad tours in Side?

Manavgat quad bike tour

The most popular quad bike tour in Side takes you along the incomparable Manavgat River for an unforgettable journey. This 2-hours tour takes you on a 20-kilometer adventure in the backcountry of Side as you zoom over dirt roads and past forests to find thrills and beauty alike.

You will be pickup up from your hotel and taken to the starting point, where you will have a moment to test drive your ATV and get a safety briefing. After the tour, you will have a chance to watch the footage from the trip and buy photos.

Koprucay River quad bike tour

North of Side is the Koprulu Canyon National Park, famous for its mesmerizing turquoise river and impressive canyon. This ATV tour from Side starts with hotel pickup and a transfer to the park, where you will meet your guide and have a safety demo. The quad bike ride covers 20 km as you wind your way along the Koprucay River to see the canyon and a few ancient landmarks.

Are there any combos available with quad tours in Side?

Quad bike tour and rafting combo tour

Koprulu Canyon is one of the most popular places for adventure and watersports in Turkey, so double down on the adrenaline with this combo tour in Side. This 9-hour experience starts with a 15 km rafting adventure, interjected with a lovely lunch enjoyed by the riverside.

At the end of the rafting route, you will be met by your ATV bikes to take on the second part of the tour, a 20 km quad bike ride. Your day also starts and ends with hotel transfers to ensure the utmost convenience.

Quad bike tour, zip lining and rafting combo

This combo quad bike experience in Side is the ultimate adventurous opportunity. Enjoy three thrilling activities over the course of 10 hours as you head deep into the Turkish backcountry, so get your adrenaline fix on land, in the water and the air.

The tour kicks off with a river rafting adventure on the Koprucay River followed by a buffet lunch on the banks of the river. Then you will fly high with a thrilling zip line experience before getting on an ATV to complete this adrenaline-fueled trifecta.

How much do quad tours in Side cost?

All quad tours in Side cost around US$30 per adult and US$20 for children aged 3-15. The age limit for discounts differs between operators, so double-check the cut-off age before booking.

Quad bike tours that include a rafting experience and lunch cost US$45 per person on average and include all the activities for the day as well as transportation.

The most comprehensive outdoor experience in Side is a combo of an ATV ride, a zip lining experience and a rafting tour. This 3-in-1combo costs around US$60 per person and also includes lunch and transportation.

What is included?

All quad bike tours in Side include hotel pick-up and drop-off and your tour operator will arrange the exact details thereof the day before. Tours typically start with a training demonstration and you will have about 15 minutes to test drive your quad bike and get comfortable.

You will also be given a helmet, but extra protection like a buff or appropriate shoes will not be included. Your tour is led by an expert guide that will ensure non-stop action but also keep you informed and safe all the way. Quad tour combos all include lunch at a riverside restaurant, but you must buy your own drinks.

Where does it start?

Quad bike tours in Side all start with hotel pick-up in the town but tour operators also offer hotel pick-up at a select few locations close by. You should be ready at least 15 minutes before the arranged time and wait outside your hotel for the driver.

How long does it last?

A basic quad-bike tour at the Manavgat River lasts around 2 hours while tours that go to the Koprucay River last around 3.5 hours as the driving time to the starting point is longer. Despite the longer time, you can rest assured that all ATV tours in Side give you an equal amount of time driving the quad bikes, as all the routes are roughly 20 km long.

Combo tours last all day, taking between 8 and 10 hours. These tours include rafting for around 2 hours and lunch before your 20 km quad ride.

When is the best time for a quad tour in Side?

The best time to go on a quad bike tour in Side is during the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to November) seasons. These periods offer milder temperatures and lesser crowds compared to the summer, making your adventure more enjoyable. Aim for a morning tour to avoid the peak daytime heat.

Is it safe?

Quad bike tours in Side are generally safe, provided you follow the safety instructions provided by the tour operator. Due to their nature, these tours are not recommended for pregnant travelers and people with mobility impairments, heart problems, or other serious medical conditions.

Are children allowed?

Yes, children over the age of 3 are generally allowed to join quad tours in Side, provided they are accompanied by an adult.

Do I need a driving license?

No, you are not required to have a driving license to operate a quad bike in Side, however riders must be over 16 years old. Before the excursion is set to begin, you will be given a safety briefing and demonstration to get acquainted with the quad bike.

What happens in case of bad weather?

Quad bike tours in Side depend on good weather, so if the conditions are bad, it will either be rescheduled for a later date, or you can request a refund.

Which other outdoor activities can be done in Side?

Travel tips

Your tour provider should supply a helmet, and you may want to consider bringing along goggles or sunglasses to protect your eyes from dust.
Wear comfortable clothes that you don't mind getting dirty, as quad biking can kick up dust and mud.
Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months.
Follow all safety instructions given by your guide. Remember, quad biking is fun, but can be dangerous if not done responsibly.
Respect the environment by sticking to the designated paths and do not disturb the local flora and fauna.

Quad Tours in Side