City of Side: Taurus Mountains Guided Buggy Cross Riding

Mud meets mountains on a guided buggy run. This 20-kilometer Taurus Mountains buggy cross ride turns Side’s beachside ease into full throttle dirt fun, with pickup and gear included. You’ll learn how to drive with a guide, then spend most of the 2-hour outing out on the trails for a real adrenaline hit.

I like that the start is structured. You get outfitted, get basic instruction, and do a quick test drive near the base so you are not guessing when things get bumpy. I also love the route flavor, you ride near the Manavgat River, so you get that mix of breeze and speed when you’re rounding tight curves.

One thing to consider is comfort. The seats can be pretty firm, and if your body is sensitive, you may feel it after a few circuits, especially in the second half.

Key things to know before you go

• 20 km of guided riding: You do two main stretches of driving, a short break, then another loop.
• Manavgat River area: Expect curves and speed plus that open, breezy feel.
• You’ll get dirty and wet: Bring what you can change out of later, and plan for puddles rather than “mud bath” fantasies.
• Firm seating possible: One review noted hard seats, so wear forgiving clothes.
• Action footage after: You’ll watch your ride and can buy the video or photos for an extra cost.

Getting from Side to the base station without stress

This tour starts with pickup around Side, in front of the security doors of your hotel area. From there, you ride in an air-conditioned bus to the base station, which matters in Antalya Province because the heat can make “getting to the fun” feel like a chore.

Once you arrive, the rest of your time is very hands-on. You get equipped and you meet your live guide, who works with German, English, and Turkish speakers. That language coverage is a real plus if you want clear driving instructions, not guesswork.

Learning the buggy cross in the Taurus foothills

Right away, you’ll focus on control. The tour doesn’t just throw you onto the trail, you get the basics of driving with your guide and you can practice near the base station first. That short test drive is where you learn how the buggy reacts in tighter turns.

Then you set off with your guide. This part is important because buggy cross driving is different from casual off-road riding, you are managing curves and uneven ground while staying on the route. A guide helps you keep your line, which also means you spend more time actually riding and less time losing momentum.

Expect a steady rhythm: instruction, practice, then the real circuits begin. If you’re new to off-road driving, this structure is one of the best reasons to book a guided tour.

The Manavgat River circuit: where the speed feels real

Your first stretch brings you near the Manavgat River. This is where the ride earns its adrenaline reputation, because you get breeze in your hair while you quickly round tight curves. Even if you are not trying to max out the throttle, you’ll feel the motion in your body.

The route is built around two main driving segments. You ride for about 10 kilometers, then you stop briefly. After that, you complete another 10 kilometers before heading back to the base.

That setup is great for most people. It gives you a chance to reset before the ride ends, and it also keeps the tour from feeling like one long session where everyone’s attention fades.

The short break you actually need

After the first 10 kilometers, you get a short stop. In practice, this break is where you catch your breath and check how you feel before the final loop.

It also helps with the “you will get dirty and wet” reality of buggy cross. You’ll likely be dealing with water from puddles and spray, so this is the moment to wipe down what you can, adjust anything uncomfortable, and be ready to go again.

If you were picturing heavy mud the entire time, temper expectations a bit. One rider noted they only hit a couple of small puddles, so the mess level may vary depending on trail conditions.

The second 10 km loop, and what to wear

The second 10 kilometers is your final circuit before you return. By then, you’ll generally feel more confident because you’ve already done a practice run and the first driving stretch.

This is also where clothing choices matter. If you want to enjoy the ride instead of thinking about discomfort, wear shoes you don’t mind getting scuffed, and pack a change of clothes. You will have towel time later, but the tour itself is not a “clean and dry” activity.

A useful tip from the way the tour is run: at the beginning, neck scarves may be offered for sale. If you have your own, bring it. It can help with dust and sun, and it gives you one less thing to decide on the spot.

Post-ride video, shower time, and the return to Side

When you finish, the fun doesn’t end immediately. At the station, you watch action-packed footage of your adventure. If you want it, you can purchase the DVD and photos, but that is an extra cost.

I like this touch because it gives you something to remember beyond just the “I drove a buggy” feeling. You can also see how much speed and turning you actually did, which is fun if you were focused on staying in control.

After the video, you take a shower at the station. That small detail can make a big difference on the rest of your day in Side, because you do not want to spend your evening in damp clothes.

Price and value: what $34 buys you

At $34 per person for a 2-hour outing, you’re paying for more than a seat in a vehicle. You’re getting round-trip transportation from Side by air-conditioned bus, equipment for the buggy cross ride, and insurance during the tour.

You’re also paying for guided driving, which is the real value. Off-road driving can be intimidating if you do not know what to do in curves and ruts. Here, the guide helps you learn quickly, so you spend your time riding rather than watching others.

Food and drinks are not included, and DVD or photos are extra if you want them. Still, the core experience is strong value for the time, especially because you get 20 kilometers of guided riding plus shower time.

If you’re comparing to other thrill activities around Antalya Province, this one is time-efficient. Two hours total is short enough to fit into a holiday schedule, but the actual driving distance is long enough to feel substantial.

What’s included, and what you should plan yourself

Included in the tour:

• Round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned bus
• Buggy and driving equipment
• 20-kilometer guided buggy ride
• Insurance during tour

Not included:

• Food and drinks
• DVD movie and photos (available at extra cost)
• Extra equipment (examples include sunglasses, mask, comfortable shoes)
• Safe box

So, you’ll want to think ahead about essentials. If you don’t have what you want to wear, the “extra equipment” list suggests the operator may have options, but you should plan to bring your own key items if you can.

What to bring so you enjoy every minute

You’ll be much happier if you pack for getting dirty from the start. Bring comfortable shoes you can walk in, because you might be moving around the base station area before and after the ride.

Bring:

• Sunglasses
• A change of clothes
• A towel
• Clothes that can get dirty

That change of clothes piece is non-negotiable in my book. You do get a shower later, but you still need dry clothes to enjoy your evening after.

Who this buggy cross ride fits best

This tour is best for people who want action, movement, and a guided off-road experience. If you like roller-coaster energy on the ground, and you enjoy tight turns and fast stretches, you will probably have a great time.

It is not suitable for:

• Children under 3 years
• Pregnant women
• People with mobility impairments
• People with heart problems

One nuance: the tour is marked wheelchair accessible, but it is also listed as not suitable for people with mobility impairments. If that part applies to you, your safest move is to ask the operator directly what adaptations are possible for the driving portion.

Kids policy is clear. Children under 15 are not allowed to drive, but they can ride as passengers. So families can still do it, as long as the child is in the passenger role.

Should you book Taurus Mountains Guided Buggy Cross Riding?

Book it if you want a focused, high-energy day in the Taurus Mountains without the hassle of planning an off-road route yourself. The guided format, the test drive near the base station, and the near Manavgat River riding all point to a ride that is built for real beginners as well as experienced riders.

Skip it or think twice if you’re sensitive to firm seating or you hate getting wet and dirty. Also, be cautious if you fall into the “not suitable” categories, especially heart conditions.

My practical take: if you can dress for mess, enjoy speed, and want a memorable video of your ride afterward, this is a solid value choice for Side. It’s short, intense, and managed by a guide from start to finish.

FAQ

How long is the buggy cross tour from Side?

The duration is 2 hours.

How far do you ride on the buggy cross?

The guided buggy ride covers 20 kilometers.

Is hotel pickup included?

Yes. Pickup is included from in front of the security doors of your hotel within the Side area.

Do you get transportation to the base station?

Yes. You take a round-trip ride in an air-conditioned bus.

What happens after the ride is over?

At the station, you watch action-packed footage of your ride. You can purchase the DVD movie and photos if you want, and you can also take a shower before returning to Side.

Is food included?

No. Food and drinks are not included.

What should I bring with me?

Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a change of clothes, a towel, and clothes that can get dirty.

Are children allowed to drive?

Children under 15 are not permitted to drive the buggy, but they can ride as passengers.

Is the tour allowed for pets?

No, pets are not allowed.

What is the cancellation policy?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later.