Side Altinbesik Cave And Ormana Village Tour With Boat Tour

If you’re hunting for a balanced mix of natural beauty, local culture, and a dash of adventure while visiting Side, Turkey, this tour offers quite a bit to love. From exploring Turkey’s largest underground lake to wandering through historical villages, it promises a full day packed with memorable sights and experiences.

What we really appreciate about this trip is the diverse itinerary—it combines breathtaking natural features, culture, and fun activities all at a reasonable price of around $45 per person. Plus, with guided tours and included meals, it’s a hassle-free way to make the most of your time in the region.

That said, a few travelers mentioned that the long drive and brief cave visit might be less satisfying if you prefer more time at each stop. Still, for those looking for a mix of adventure and culture, it’s a compelling option.

This tour suits travelers eager to see Turkey’s hidden natural marvels, enjoy local hospitality, and explore charming villages, especially if you’re okay with a busy schedule and some group travel.

Key Points

• Natural Wonder: Visit the third-largest underground lake in Europe, with an exciting boat ride inside the cave.
• Cultural Experience: Explore traditional villages, including Ormana, with its distinctive Buttoned Houses and historic mosque.
• Guided Tour: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, providing insights and translating between languages.
• Inclusive Value: Price includes all entry fees, a hearty traditional lunch, and transportation.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics simple.
• Time Management: The full-day schedule offers a lot, but some may find the drive and brief stops less relaxing.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Side and the Taurus Mountains

Your day begins with a hotel pickup around 8:30 am, making it easy to start stress-free. The group travels comfortably towards the Antalya region, with scenic stops for photos amidst the rugged Taurus Mountains. Depending on your guide, you’ll get a taste of local life even before reaching the main attractions—perhaps a quick visit to a traditional coffee shop in a mountain village, adding a layer of authenticity.

Visiting Altinbesik Cave and its Underground Lake

The highlight for many is the Altinbesik Cave in Altinbesik National Park. Known as the Golden Cradle Cave, it boasts the third largest underground lake in Europe. Inside, natural bridges and stalactite formations create a surreal landscape. The constant temperature of around 16°C makes it comfortable year-round, so no need to worry about weather conditions.

The boat tour inside the cave is a real treat, lasting about 30 minutes. Inflatable boats with a capacity of 10 people glide across the calm waters, offering an intimate view of the natural wonders. Reviewers like Hope underscore this: “Got a lot of great photos and really enjoyed the meal,” highlighting how this boat ride is a memorable part of the experience.

Lunch at Ormana Village

After the cave exploration, the tour heads to Ormana, a village known for its Buttoned Houses—over 300 structures built without cement or mortar, showcasing traditional architecture. Lunch here is a highlight for many, featuring stewed fish, grilled chicken, or Turkish pizza, alongside fresh salads and yogurt.

Reviewers like Lubov praise the meal as “way better than regular included meals,” and the chance to explore the Buttoned Houses offers a glimpse into rural Turkish life. The houses’ unique construction makes for great photos and cultural understanding.

Historical and Cultural Stops

Next, the group visits a 300-year-old mosque, an important relic in Ormana. Visitors often find the community’s hospitality genuine; locals are happy to open the doors of their sacred space, making the visit both informative and warm.

The final stop is at Sarcahlar village, where you can soak in more traditional scenery before heading back to Side. The return journey is approximately an hour, giving you time to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights.

The Experience You’ll Love

Guiding and Information: Reviewers consistently mention guides like Umit and Denise, praising their knowledge, humor, and translation skills. Knowing that someone is on hand to explain history or cultural nuances adds depth to the experience.

Natural Beauty: Expect spectacular mountain views and the intriguing underground lake, which is an awe-inspiring sight. The boat ride inside the cave is a unique way to experience the natural formations, and many travelers mention capturing fantastic photos during this part.

Authentic Culture: Visiting villages with traditional architecture and meeting local families enriches this tour beyond just sightseeing. The Button Houses reflect a style of construction that’s rare and fascinating, especially for architecture buffs.

Value for Money: With all entry fees, transportation, guided service, and lunch included, the tour offers a solid value. The price point feels justified for the variety of experiences packed into roughly 6-7 hours.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Long drive: The bus ride from Side to the mountains and villages takes some time, so be prepared for a full day. If you prefer shorter excursions, this might feel a bit tiring.
• Brief cave visit: If you’re a cave enthusiast, it’s worth noting that the inside exploration is around 1.5 hours, which some reviews find too quick for such a significant natural site.
• Weather: The cave maintains a consistent temperature, so packing light layers is advised, especially if you tend to get chilly inside.
• Group size: The tour caps at about 25 travelers, providing a balance between social experience and comfort.

The Sum Up

This Side Altinbesik Cave and Ormana Village Tour with Boat Ride offers a compelling blend of natural beauty, cultural discovery, and practical convenience. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see Turkey’s underground marvels and rural charm without sacrificing comfort or spending a fortune.

The tour’s highlights—namely the underground lake boat ride, the authentic village visits, and the knowledgeable guides—make it a memorable way to understand more about the region’s landscape and history. The included lunch and hassle-free pickup add significant value, making it a practical choice for most visitors.

While the long drive and quick cave visit may not satisfy those craving more relaxed pacing or extensive exploration, overall, this tour delivers a meaningful glimpse into Turkey’s scenic and cultural riches. It’s perfect for curious adventurers, photography lovers, and anyone eager to experience Turkey beyond the typical tourist spots.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are provided, making logistics seamless.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 6 to 7 hours, starting around 8:30 am.

What’s the cost?
The tour costs about $45 per person, which covers entrance fees, lunch, and transportation.

Is it suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind that the pace is full, and some stops are brief, which might not appeal to very young children.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, so bring your own if you want beverages during the day.

What’s the highlight of this tour?
Many rave about the boat ride inside the underground lake, as well as exploring the authentic villages.

Can I expect guided commentary?
Yes, guides like Umit and Denise provide insightful commentary and translations, enhancing your understanding.

Is the cave visit physically demanding?
The inside walk involves natural bridges and formations, but generally, it’s manageable for most.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for most travelers, but always check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking and mild outdoor conditions are recommended.

This tour strikes a good balance of adventure, culture, and value. It’s a fantastic way to discover some of Turkey’s lesser-known natural and historical treasures while enjoying the company of fellow travelers and expert guides.