Side-Turkey.

Some trips are better shared, and a buggy safari in the Taurus foothills is one of them. Side-by-side buggies are built for two, which makes them a natural fit for couples who want a bit of adrenaline without splitting up into separate machines. One of you drives, the other reads the trail, calls the bumps and laughs at the mud — and you swap whenever you like. This guide explains exactly how a two-up run works on the dusty forest tracks behind Side, Manavgat and Kumköy, and why booking direct with a local operator keeps it simple.

Why a two-up buggy suits couples

A side-by-side buggy puts both of you on the same bench, behind the same windscreen, sharing the same view of the trail. There is no shouting over a quad engine or losing each other in the dust — you are quite literally in it together. The seating is genuinely side by side rather than front-and-back, so neither person spends the trip staring at the other's helmet.

The practical bonus is flexibility. Most couples take turns at the wheel: one drives the outbound leg through the Taurus foothills, then you switch for the way back. If only one of you wants to drive, that works too — the passenger seat is part of the adventure, not a consolation prize.

Driver and passenger: how to split it

Decide before you go who starts behind the wheel, but stay relaxed about it. Driving and licence rules vary by operator and are confirmed at booking, so ask in advance if you both want a turn. The passenger's job is real: spotting ruts, holding on through the mud and keeping the mood light.

What a session in the Taurus foothills feels like

Tours run on dirt tracks in the Taurus Mountains (Toros Dağları) foothills of Antalya province — forest, dust and, after rain, plenty of mud. Expect a short safety briefing, then a guided convoy along the trails with a lead and tail vehicle keeping everyone together. There are usually several daily session departures, so you can match it to your plans.

You will get dusty and, in the wet months, properly muddy — that is the point. Wear clothes and closed shoes you do not mind ruining, bring sunglasses, and tie back long hair under your helmet. The whole experience runs about two hours including hotel transfers, so it slots neatly into a half-day without eating your whole holiday.

What to bring as a pair

One small backpack between you is plenty: water, a phone in a sealed bag, a change of top each and a little cash. Leave valuables at the hotel. A waterproof phone pouch is the single best thing you can pack for the muddy-track photos you will absolutely want.

Quick Facts

• Duration: Approximately 2 hours including hotel transfers, confirmed at booking
• Pick-up: Hotel pick-up from Side, Manavgat & nearby resorts; time confirmed at booking
• Includes: Two-seat side-by-side buggy, safety briefing, guide-led convoy, hotel transfers
• Excludes: Personal spending, photos/videos, tips, anything not listed
• Family Friendly: Yes for couples and families; minimum age and driving rules vary, confirmed at booking
• Best Season: Spring to autumn; muddier and cooler in shoulder months
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate; buggies are designed for first-timers, no prior off-road experience needed

Related Excursions

• Things to do in Side
• Antalya excursions
• Alanya day trips
• Kemer adventures
• Belek activities
• More travel guides on our blog

Frequently Asked Questions

Can two people share one buggy?

Yes — that is exactly what a two-seat side-by-side buggy is for. You ride together on the same bench and can swap driver and passenger between you.

Do we both need a driving licence?

Driving and licence rules vary by operator. If you both want a turn at the wheel, mention it when you book and we will confirm the requirements for you.

How long does the buggy safari take?

About two hours in total, including hotel transfers. Exact timing is confirmed at booking.

Where does it take place?

On dirt forest tracks in the Taurus Mountains foothills of Antalya province, inland from Side and Manavgat.

Will we get muddy?

Most likely, especially after rain. Wear old clothes and closed shoes you do not mind getting dirty, and bring a change of top.

Is hotel pick-up included?

Yes. We arrange hotel pick-up from Side, Manavgat and nearby resorts; the time is confirmed when you book.

Is it suitable if only one of us drives?

Absolutely. The passenger seat is part of the fun, with the same views and the same bumps — no one misses out.

Ready to hit the trails two-up? Book DIRECT with the Murat Atalay team via WhatsApp or info@side-turkey.com. Booking direct cuts out agency and OTA commission, and we back it with a best-price guarantee. Message us and we will confirm pick-up and the details for your dates.