With peaks that rise to heights of other 3,700 meters, the Taurus mountain range isn’t easy to ignore. Littered with limestone cliffs, cypress forests and cavernous ravines, this colossal outdoor wonderland is an ideal destination for adventure seekers, and nature lovers.

Taurus Mountains day trips from Side enable tourists to explore a side of southern Turkey that they never knew existed and participate in a range of knuckle-biting activities.

Here's all you need to know about Taurus Mountains, one of the most exciting day trips from Side.

How to get to the Taurus Mountains from Side?

The Taurus Mountains run parallel to the coast along more than 500 kilometers of southwern Turkey. This lofty range surrounds Side, separating the coastal town from Central Anatolia.

From Side to the Taurus Mountains by car

The journey to the Taurus Mountains from Side by car differs depending on which part of this vast expanse of peaks you wish to visit. One way you can travel into the region is by traveling out of Side in a southeasterly direction, along the D400.

You’ll then merge onto the D695 and continue along until you find yourself deep within the mountainscape.

While the duration of this road trip varies depending on specific locations, you can find yourself in the Taurus Mountains within an hour.

Guided tour to the Taurus Mountains from Side

Public transportation in this corner of Turkey is limited, and so the best way for those without access to a car to make the jaunt to the Taurus Mountains is via an organized tour.

These can last anywhere from 2 to 9 hours, and all include a convenient hotel pickup around 9 AM. Once your adventure has ended, you’ll be dropped back to the same point to relax and reminisce on your experience.

What is the typical itinerary?

After pickup from a friendly guide, each day trip to the Taurus Mountains heads inland toward the dramatic peaks that surround the town.

All excursions journey to different destinations, such as Green Lake, Köprülü Canyon National Park or mountainside villages where you’ll engage in a variety of activities, which range from exploring historic buildings to spine-tingling rafting adventures through towering canyons.

You’ll have a guide with you to ensure the smooth running of the day, guard your safety and assist you in any of these activities. At some point throughout the day, you’ll stop for lunch, which is included in the tour price, where you’ll have the opportunity to bond with members of your group over your shared experience.

At the end of the day, you’ll board your vehicle and begin the route back to your accommodation in Side where your Taurus Mountains day tour ends. There might be several drop-offs before yours or you may be lucky enough to be the first to return to your hotel and unwind.

What kinds of tours are available to go to the Taurus Mountains?

There are several different types of Taurus Mountains day tours to choose from, depending on how adventurous you are.

Jeep tour to the Taurus Mountains from Side

Hopping in the back of a jeep, you’ll journey away from Side and into the rugged wilderness of southern Turkey on this Taurus Mountains day trip.

You’ll explore the traditions of the region at a historic village home and sample local stuffed flatbreads before admiring aqueducts that have stood the test of time since being built by the ancient Romans.

Witness the pilgrimage site of Green Lake where many come to drink its healing waters before slipping into the dazzling waterway yourself. Moving on, you’ll discover religious monuments before ending your tour at Manavgat Waterfall, which was once featured on Turkish banknotes.

Off-road tour to the Taurus Mountains plus rafting experience from Side

After being transported from Side to Köprülü Canyon National Park, you’ll have the opportunity to get behind the wheel of your off-road vehicle and bump through the nature reserves’ forests, and valleys.

Take a wander surrounded by the fragrant aromas of cypress and pine trees to reach the deep ravine of the Adler Canyon, and also witness the remarkable history of the ancient ruins of Selge. This derelict Roman city still showcases the remains of two temples and a theater.

Finally, head to the Eurymedon River, which meanders through the mountains and all the way into the Mediterranean Sea, where you’ll engage in an adrenaline-fueled rafting experience through its white waters before returning to Side where your Taurus Mountains excursion ends.

How much does a day trip to the Taurus Mountains from Side cost?

Taurus Mountains day tours vary in price according to the activities you participate in and the duration of the excursion.

A jeep tour from Side costs just under US$30 per adult, while children between the ages of 3 and 11 can participate for US$20 each. You can choose to include a boat cruise on this day trip for an additional US$3 per adult and US$5 per child. These excursions usually operate in groups. However, you can book as a private group for US$100 per person of any age.

If you opt for a Taurus Mountains day trip that includes both an off-road tour, as well as rafting, you’ll pay between US$70 and US$80 per adult. Youngsters between the ages of 14 and 17 can participate for a slightly reduced fare of US$70 each while children aged 6 to 13 cost just over US$40 per head. You’ll be part of a group limited to 45 guests.

What will you see and do?

The Taurus Mountains cover over 560 kilometers along the southern stretch of Turkey and are so vast that they are separated into three sections —the Western Taurus, Central Taurus, and Southeastern Taurus.

There are numerous soaring peaks within the region, the tallest of which is Mount Kizilkaya at 3,767 meters.

Alongside its famous mountains, the area is also home to five passes, the most renowned of which is the Cilician Gates — often referred to as Gülek Pass. While its roads are now modernized, this pass has been used as a route to connect the Mediterranean Sea with Central Anatolia for over 6,000 years, with many civilizations, including the Romans and Hittites passing over the stretch of land.

Because of its diversity, the Taurus mountain range encourages a wealth of outdoor activities, from hiking tours in Sapadere Canyon to rafting excursions through Köprülü Canyon.

Alternatively, many visitors choose to explore the jagged terrain on the back of an ATV on their day trip to the Taurus Mountains, stopping along the way to explore its many natural wonders.

When is the best time to visit the Taurus Mountains?

The best time to visit the Taurus Mountains in Turkey is during spring from April to May and autumn from September to November when the weather is mild and pleasant, and the landscapes are at their most vibrant with greenery in spring and colorful foliage in autumn.

Are there any tours to the Taurus Mountains from other cities in Turkey?

Yes, there are tours departing from other cities in Turkey:

Travel tips

The weather in the Taurus Mountains can vary, so be prepared for changes in temperature and dress in layers.
Wear sturdy footwear suitable for hiking or walking on uneven terrain.
Pack essentials such as sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent.
Consider bringing a small backpack to carry water, snacks, and any personal belongings you may need during the day.
Follow the instructions and guidance provided by your tour guide. They will have knowledge of the area and can help ensure your safety and enjoyment throughout the day.
Capture memorable photos and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes while respecting the environment and leaving no trace behind.

Taurus Mountains: Day Trips and Tours from Side