City of Side: Altinbesik Cave & Ormana Tour w/ Boat & Lunch

Discovering the Hidden Gems of Antalya Province: A Detailed Review of the Altinbesik Cave & Ormana Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Turkey’s stunning Antalya region and want to experience local culture, breathtaking landscapes, and extraordinary underground sights, this Altinbesik Cave & Ormana Tour offers a well-rounded day. This tour provides a blend of nature, history, and authentic village life—all within a reasonable price point of $42 per person.

What makes it particularly appealing are the visit to Turkey’s largest underground lake, the chance to see traditional button houses, and the boat ride through a subterranean lake. We also love that it includes a delicious local lunch and visits to charming mountain villages.

One possible downside is the length of the journey—the drive can be quite long, especially if you’re sensitive to lengthy bus rides. But, for those craving a full immersion into rural Turkey’s beauty and history, this tour hits many of the right notes.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, cultural insights, and natural wonders, especially if you’re keen to see less touristy, authentic sights rather than just beaches and resorts.

Key Points

• Authentic Villages: You’ll get to see mountain villages and traditional houses, offering a glimpse into local lifestyle.
• Underground Wonder: The highlight is Turkey’s largest underground lake, made even more special by a boat ride.
• Cultural Stops: Visits to button houses and a 650-year-old Ottoman mosque make this a culturally rich experience.
• Scenic Views: Expect beautiful vistas over Green Canyon and Green Lake, perfect for photos.
• Guided Experience: A professional local guide enhances the trip with insights, making the journey both educational and enjoyable.
• Value for Money: For just $42, you get multiple highlights—lunch, transportation, boat trips, and expert guiding.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Inside Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Starting with the Drive into the Taurus Mountains

The day begins with a comfortable pick-up from your hotel in Antalya, followed by a scenic drive into the Taurus Mountains. This journey alone offers an instant escape from city life, with views that reveal the rugged beauty of the landscape.

Travel times can be a consideration—reviews mention the ride home feeling a bit long, especially if you’re eager to get back sooner. One traveler remarked, “The ride home was a bit long,” but acknowledged that the stops along the way made up for it. The bus is air-conditioned, which helps in Turkish summer heat, and the group size is small (max 8-10 people), making it easier to stay comfortable and engaged.

Avasun Village and Green Canyon Views

The first stop is Avasun, a village famous for its bay leaves. Here, you’ll be able to take in panoramic views over Green Canyon and Green Lake—sites that are truly postcard-worthy. This stop is perfect for snapping some memorable photos while enjoying the fresh mountain air.

Ürünlü Village and Button Houses

Next, you’ll visit Ürünlü, renowned for its distinctive button houses—a fascinating architectural curiosity. These houses are a local specialty and tell a story of regional building techniques, making this stop both visually interesting and culturally enriching.

Guests mention enjoying a tea or coffee break in a traditional house, which adds a warm, authentic touch to the experience. It’s a chance to relax and absorb the local vibe before heading towards the caves.

More Great Tours Nearby

Altinbesik Cave and the Underground Lake

The crown jewel of the day is the visit to Altinbesik Cave National Park. The cave itself is Turkey’s largest underground lake, and the boat trip across it is a memorable highlight. You’ll get about 20 minutes on the boat, gliding across crystal-clear subterranean waters, surrounded by stalactite and stalagmite formations.

This part of the visit is often praised for its awe-inspiring natural beauty. One reviewer shared, “The cave was the highlight of the tour,” although they noted the boat ride was shorter than expected due to low water levels. Still, even a brief cruise in such an extraordinary setting leaves a lasting impression.

Inside the cave, you’ll see formations like the Golden Cradle Cavern, where stalactites hang from the ceiling in shapes that resemble a cradle. The guide’s commentary enhances the experience, though some reviews mention that language barriers occasionally limit communication—so reading the info boards is helpful.

Visiting Ormana Village and Lunch

After exploring the caves, the tour takes you to Ormana, a charming mountain village where you can see more button houses and sample hearty Turkish cuisine at a local restaurant. The lunch is included in the price, and reviews indicate the food is a good value, providing local flavors in a relaxed setting.

Sarihacilar Köyü and Ottoman Heritage

The day continues with a visit to Sarihacilar Köyü, a village along the historic Silk Road. Here, you’ll explore a traditional house and an impressive 650-year-old Ottoman mosque. These stops give a tangible sense of the region’s historical significance and local architecture.

Optional Stops and Additional Insights

Some reviews mention extra stops, which can extend the tour or provide additional photo opportunities. The guide, often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, helps make these extra moments worthwhile.

Final Thoughts on the Experience

The tour wraps up with the return journey to Antalya, providing ample time to reflect on the day. While some found the bus ride long, they appreciated the variety of sights and the chance to learn about Turkey’s culture and natural beauty from a knowledgeable guide.

Analyzing the Value

At $42 per person, this tour offers a fair balance of cost and experience. You’re paying for transportation, a guided tour, lunch, and access to some of the country’s most interesting natural and cultural sites.

The boat ride on the underground lake and visits to unique villages make this an affordable way to see a side of Turkey that’s often missed by travelers. The small group size ensures a more personal experience, and the inclusion of local guides helps enrich your understanding of the sites.

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and exploring caves.
• Bring a light jacket or sweater for underground areas, as caves can be cool.
• Photography is encouraged, but check with your guide about flash usage inside caves.
• Be prepared for a full day—long bus rides are part of the experience, but they’re worth it for the sights.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who love a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural insights, and scenic drives. If you’re interested in authentic local architecture, underground wonders, and mountain landscapes, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

It’s also suitable for those who prefer guided tours to navigate cultural sites and appreciate having a knowledgeable guide to explain the history and significance of each stop.

However, if you’re sensitive to long bus rides or prefer a more relaxed, shorter experience, you might want to consider other options.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable with bus rides and exploring caves. The overall pace is moderate.

What language is the guide speaking?
Guides typically speak both German and English, increasing accessibility for international travelers.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, but you can purchase beverages at the lunch stop or bring your own.

How long does the entire tour last?
It’s a full-day experience, with most of the day spent traveling and exploring, so plan for a long but rewarding day.

Is it possible to cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended, especially for cave exploration. A light jacket may be useful indoors.

Can I take photos inside the cave?
Yes, photography is allowed, but check with guides about flash use to protect the formations.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a traditional Turkish lunch is part of the package, served at a local restaurant in Ormana.

Are there any hidden costs?
Drinks and personal expenses are not included, so budget accordingly.

What’s the maximum group size?
Small groups of around 8-10 people ensure a more intimate experience.

Final Thoughts

This Altinbesik Cave & Ormana Tour is a fantastic choice for those wanting to dive deeper into the cultural and natural beauty of Turkey beyond the usual tourist spots. The combination of scenic mountain views, authentic villages, and the awe-inspiring underground lake makes for a memorable day.

While the journey can be lengthy, the stops along the way are thoughtfully chosen, offering both relaxation and visual delight. The knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, ensuring you gain insight and context about each site, making your trip both informative and fun.

Overall, it’s a well-priced adventure that balances natural wonders with cultural richness, perfect for curious travelers eager to see the less-traveled side of Antalya.

Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or cultural enthusiast, this tour offers a compact but immersive experience that adds real value to your trip. It’s a day that combines scenic beauty, authentic stories, and memorable moments—all with the comfort of a guided small-group tour.

You can check availability for your dates here: