Rafting and Jeep Safari in Side 2 in 1

• Morning pick-up from Side hotels by 4x4 jeeps.
• About 3 hours of off-road Jeep safari through the Taurus Mountains, passing forests, villages, orange groves, and ancient ruins.
• Arrival at the rafting base in Taşağıl village (on the Köprüçay River); safety briefing by instructors and distribution of helmets and life jackets.
• Start of the rafting adventure on the Köprüçay River (approximately 14 km route through Köprülü Canyon).
• Lunch break at a riverside restaurant (grilled chicken, rice, salad, bread).
• Continuation of rafting after lunch, with opportunities to swim and jump into the river at designated spots.
• End of the rafting route and return transfer to Side hotels by jeep.

Double Adventure in Side: Rafting and Jeep Safari – 2 in 1

If you can’t choose between a thrilling off-road safari and an exciting river rafting trip, why not do both in one day? The Rafting and Jeep Safari in Side – 2 in 1 tour combines two of the most popular outdoor adventures in Side into a single, action-packed excursion. In one full-day journey, you’ll venture deep into the beautiful Taurus Mountains on a 4x4 Jeep Safari and conquer the rapids of the Köprüçay River on a white-water rafting adventure. This unique combo tour lets you experience the best of Side’s rugged terrain and refreshing river canyons, making it an ideal choice for adrenaline lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Why Choose the 2-in-1 Jeep Safari & Rafting Tour?

Side is known for its numerous adventure tours, but this 2-in-1 combo stands out as a time-saving and value-packed option for those eager to double the fun. Instead of booking separate Jeep safari or rafting excursions on different days, the combined tour allows you to enjoy both thrilling activities in a single day without missing out on anything. It’s perfect for travelers with limited time who want to maximize their experience, as well as for families or groups who have varied interests. One part of the group might be excited about off-roading through the mountains while others can’t wait to go rafting in Side’s clear waters – on this tour, everyone comes away happy. With professional guides leading each segment, you can be sure that you’ll experience the Jeep Safari and rafting to the fullest in a safe, organized manner.

Jeep Safari: Explore Side’s Rugged Terrain

The day begins with an off-road Jeep Safari, taking you from the coastal resorts of Side into the heart of the Taurus Mountains. You’ll hop into a sturdy open-top 4x4 Jeep driven by an experienced local driver. As the convoy of Jeeps sets off, get ready to enjoy a scenic and bumpy ride through Side’s countryside. The route spans about 70 km on a mix of muddy tracks, dirt roads, and asphalt, ensuring an authentic off-road experience. Along the way, you’ll drive through dense pine forests and past quaint Anatolian villages, orange groves, and farms. Don’t be surprised if you get a little dusty or even splashed – part of the Jeep Safari fun is an occasional water fight or driving through shallow streams to beat the heat!

The Jeep Safari isn’t just about the adrenaline of off-road driving; it’s also a journey through history and local culture. During the ride, you’ll have opportunities to stop and appreciate points of interest. Keep an eye out for ancient Roman ruins such as old aqueducts and bridges hidden in the lush landscape – reminders that this area has a rich history. Your guides might pause at panoramic viewpoints on hilltops where you can take in breathtaking vistas of the Green Canyon and the surrounding valleys. Don’t forget your camera – the Taurus Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for photos. Breathing in the fresh mountain air scented with wild herbs and pine is a refreshing change from the coast. By the end of the Jeep Safari portion, you’ll have seen a side of Side that most beach-goers miss, from traditional rural life to unspoiled nature.

White-Water Rafting on the Köprüçay River

After the dusty trails of the mountains, the adventure shifts from four wheels to the flowing waters of the Köprüçay River. The Jeeps will arrive at the rafting base located by the river in the village of Taşağıl, which sits at the edge of the famous Köprülü Canyon National Park. Here, you’ll meet the professional rafting instructors and get prepared for the second half of your day. First, everyone receives a safety briefing. The guides will explain rafting techniques, safety rules, and how to paddle as a team. Don’t worry if you’re a beginner – no prior rafting experience is required. The Köprüçay River’s rapids are class II (2+), which means they’re fun and bouncy but not dangerous; even kids (usually ages 6 and up) and first-timers can enjoy this rafting in Side safely.

You’ll be provided with high-quality safety gear for the rafting: helmets and life jackets are mandatory for all participants. Once geared up, it’s time to hop into the rafts. Each raft usually holds about 8-10 people plus a guide who steers and commands the boat. To help everyone get used to the water temperature (which stays cool even in summer), the adventure often begins with a quick “body rafting” session – essentially, a short swim or float in the calm part of the river. Then, all aboard the rafts for the main event: an exhilarating 14 km journey down the Köprüçay River, winding through the steep walls of Köprülü Canyon.

As you paddle downstream, you’ll navigate a series of rapids that splash and spray, giving you an instant adrenaline rush. Expect plenty of laughter and teamwork as your group works together to raft through the bubbly white-water. Between the rapids, enjoy calmer stretches of river where you can take in the scenery – crystal clear waters below, blue sky above, and towering canyon cliffs covered in greenery on either side. The surroundings are truly spectacular; Köprülü Canyon is one of Turkey’s most beautiful natural wonders, home to rich flora and fauna and dramatic rock formations carved by the river over millennia. Halfway through the rafting route, you’ll take a well-deserved break to rest and recharge for the second half of the river.

Lunch by the River

The mid-way point of the rafting course is not just a pit stop, it’s a chance to refuel and relax amidst nature. The tour includes a lunch break at a riverside restaurant situated on a peaceful bank of the Köprüçay. Here you’ll disembark from your rafts and enjoy a delicious lunch while overlooking the flowing river. The typical lunch menu features grilled chicken straight off the barbecue, flavorful rice or pasta, fresh salad, and crusty bread. Vegetarian options are usually available on request if you inform the guides in advance. As you sit in the shade of trees and savor your meal, you can swap stories with fellow rafters about the thrilling rapids you just conquered. There’s nothing quite like dining outdoors with the sound of the river in the background and the scenic canyon walls around you.

Lunch is included in the tour price, so you don’t have to worry about carrying cash for the meal. Cold drinks (sodas, water, maybe even fresh juices) are typically available for purchase to cool you down. After lunch, you’ll have a bit of free time to stretch, use the facilities, or even take a quick dip in the river to freshen up before resuming the rafting adventure. The break usually lasts around 30 minutes to an hour, giving everyone a nice rest before tackling the next section of rapids.

Continuing the Rafting Adventure

Once lunch is done, it’s back into the rafts to complete the remaining stretch of the river. Re-energized, you and your crew will paddle through more exciting rapids. By now, you’re probably feeling more confident and synchronized with your teammates, so the second half of the rafting journey can be even more fun. The rapids might come one after another in some sections, splashing everyone aboard and possibly prompting friendly water fights between rafts! You’ll laugh and shout with excitement as the river carries you downstream.

The guides often make brief stops at particularly scenic or safe spots along the river. During these breaks, you might get the chance to jump off a rock into the river (for those who seek an extra jolt of adrenaline) or go for a quick swim in the calmer pools. If you brought a waterproof camera or a GoPro, this is a great time to capture some epic shots of your friends mid-jump or the group paddling together. Even if you didn’t bring a camera, don’t worry — the tour operators usually have professional photographers capturing the best moments of your rafting experience. Later on, you’ll be able to view and purchase these photos or a DVD of the trip if you like, giving you a lasting memento of your adventure.

After approximately 2 hours on the river (varies with water flow and group pace), you will reach the end point of the rafting route. Congratulations, you’ve conquered Köprüçay! You’ll carry the rafts back up to the river bank with your team, and all participants gather at the finish area to celebrate the completion of the course. It’s common to feel a mix of exhilaration and fatigue at this moment — and a big sense of accomplishment.

Return Trip and Hotel Drop-off

As the rafting comes to an end, you’ll have a chance to change into dry clothes and enjoy some relaxation. The jeeps that brought you here will be waiting at the finish point to take everyone back. Once everybody has dried off and is ready, the convoy of jeeps will depart for the return journey to Side. The drive back is a great time to sit back and reflect on the day’s activities as you pass again through the gorgeous landscapes of the Taurus foothills. You might even do a different route on the way home for variety, or make one last stop for a panoramic photo if time allows.

By late afternoon or early evening, you’ll arrive back at your hotel in Side. Tired but happy, you’ll carry incredible memories of a day where you experienced two of Side’s top adventures. Many guests love that they can tick off both a Jeep Safari and a rafting trip in one go. It’s the ultimate adventure sampler for Side, Turkey – a perfect blend of land and water thrills.

Who Can Join & What to Know

The Rafting and Jeep Safari 2-in-1 tour is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of people. You don’t need to be an athlete or have any previous experience in rafting or off-roading. The professional team is there to help beginners and ensure everyone’s safety. Generally, children as young as 6 years old can participate in the rafting (with parental supervision) since the rapids are moderate. The Jeep Safari portion is suitable for most ages – kids find it just as exciting as adults do, bouncing along the trails (families often love this tour!). However, if you have serious mobility issues, chronic back or neck problems, or if you’re pregnant, it’s advised to skip this adventurous tour as the bumpy jeep ride and rafting bumps might not be comfortable. Always consult with the tour operator if you’re unsure about health restrictions.

All necessary safety gear is provided, so you only need to bring your personal items. It’s recommended to wear a swimsuit under your clothes (since you will get wet during rafting) and comfortable quick-drying clothes for the day. For the Jeep Safari, you might want a bandana or scarf to cover your mouth/nose when it gets dusty, and sunglasses to shield your eyes. Don’t forget to apply sun cream before you set out, as you’ll be exposed to the sun both on the jeeps and on the river. Sturdy water shoes or old sneakers are a must – flip-flops are not allowed during the rafting because they can easily slip off and get lost. If you don’t have appropriate shoes, you can usually rent or buy them at the rafting base before the trip starts. Also, leave your valuables and electronic devices back at the hotel or in the jeep (the guides will tell you where to securely store your belongings during the rafting). Bringing non-waterproof cameras or phones is not recommended unless you have a dry bag or case, as they will likely get wet.

Included Services

This all-in-one adventure comes with the convenience of several services included in the price. The tour price covers your hotel pick-up and drop-off in the Side area, so transportation is taken care of. It also includes full insurance throughout the trip, giving you peace of mind as you enjoy the activities. You’ll have an English-speaking guide (or multilingual guides) accompanying the group, providing information and assistance during the tour. All the necessary equipment for both the Jeep Safari and rafting is provided – the jeeps themselves with drivers, helmets and life jackets for rafting, paddles, and boats. As mentioned, a hearty lunch by the river is also included to keep you energized. Basically, once you book this tour, you won’t have to worry about any logistics or extra costs for the core activities.

However, it’s good to note what is not included so you can plan accordingly. Personal expenses like extra drinks at lunch (soda, bottled water, etc.) or any snacks are usually not covered, so have a bit of cash if you think you’ll want additional refreshments. If professional photos or videos are taken during the tour, those are offered for purchase separately – you are under no obligation to buy, of course, but you might be tempted when you see the fun moments they captured! Also, as highlighted, bring your own appropriate footwear or expect to rent/buy on site, since special rafting shoes are not provided in the package. And lastly, tips for the guides or drivers are not included; if you feel they did an excellent job, a small gratuity is always appreciated as a thank you (this is totally optional at your discretion).

Best Time for a Jeep Safari & Rafting in Side

This combo tour is available from spring through autumn, which is the main tourist season in the Side region. The weather is typically warm and sunny, ideal for outdoor adventures. During the peak summer months (June, July, August), expect hot temperatures on land – the Jeep Safari can get quite dusty and warm, but that makes the plunge into the cool river even more refreshing! In spring (April-May) and fall (September-October), the temperatures are a bit milder, which some people find more comfortable for the jeep portion. The river flow in springtime can be a little higher due to rain, adding some extra excitement to the rapids, whereas in late summer, the water level drops slightly, making the ride a bit easier but still plenty of fun.

Regardless of when you go, be prepared for a day of physical activity and sun exposure. Wear sunscreen and maybe a hat or cap that can be secured on your head (especially useful during breaks or at the lunch stop). If you tour in the cooler months, you might want a light jacket for the morning jeep ride and consider renting a wetsuit for rafting if you’re sensitive to cold water. Always check with the tour provider what days the trip runs – in high season, it’s usually daily, while in shoulder seasons it might be on specific days of the week. It’s recommended to book a day or two in advance to secure your spot, as the Rafting and Jeep Safari combo is quite popular in Side.

Experience the Thrill of Side’s Great Outdoors

By the end of this Rafting and Jeep Safari in Side – 2 in 1 experience, you’ll have a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty and adventurous spirit of Side. Few other activities pack so much variety into one day: one moment you’re high in the mountains traversing rough paths in a Jeep, and the next you’re paddling down a wild river in a canyon. It’s a perfect blend of adrenaline and exploration, giving you stories to tell and memories to cherish. Whether you’re a hardcore adventure seeker or just looking to try something new and exciting during your beach holiday, this combo tour delivers a satisfying taste of both land and water adventures.

Side, Turkey offers many excursions, but the Jeep Safari & Rafting 2-in-1 Combo Tour has a special appeal. It’s not every day you get to drive through remote mountain villages and raft through a stunning national park all in a single outing. The convenience of having everything arranged – from equipment to lunch – means you can simply focus on enjoying the experience. So, if you’re ready to double your fun and make the most of your time in Side, don’t miss out on this unforgettable journey. It’s an adventure that will leave you drenched, delighted, and definitely wanting more!