Side-Turkey.

If you have never sat on a horse before, the idea of a horse safari can feel a little intimidating. The good news: a horse safari near Side is one of the most relaxed outdoor activities on the Turkish Riviera, and it is genuinely built for beginners. You ride at a calm walking pace, an experienced guide leads the way, and the route winds through pine forest, quiet village tracks and open countryside rather than down a racetrack. This guide walks you through exactly what to expect, start to finish, so you can step into the saddle knowing what is coming.

What a Beginner Horse Safari Actually Looks Like

Forget the dramatic galloping you see in films. A horse safari here is a slow, scenic trail ride. The horses used for beginners are chosen for their calm temperament — they know the route, they are used to first-time riders, and they follow the guide steadily. You will move at walking pace through the landscape that makes the Side and Manavgat region so special: shady pine, cypress and cedar woodland, dirt tracks between fields, and in some areas glimpses of a river or stream.

Before you set off, the team gives a short safety briefing: how to hold the reins, how to sit, how to ask the horse to stop and start, and what to do if you feel unsure. Basic safety equipment such as a helmet is usually provided. An instructor stays with the group the whole time, so you are never left to figure it out alone.

Do I need any experience?

None at all. Complete beginners ride alongside more experienced riders, and the pace is set for comfort, not speed. If you have ridden before and want a calmer day in nature, this still fits perfectly.

How to Prepare and What to Wear

A few small choices make the ride far more comfortable. Wear long trousers — they protect your legs against the saddle and stirrups — and closed shoes rather than sandals or flip-flops. Bring sunscreen, a hat or cap that fits under a helmet if needed, and water. Long sleeves or a light layer help in the shaded forest sections, and sunglasses are handy in the open stretches.

Children, age and weight guidelines

Horse safaris are popular with families. There are commonly minimum-age and sometimes weight guidelines for riders, and small children may ride with a guide leading the horse. These details vary, so they are confirmed at booking — just tell us the ages of everyone riding and we will let you know what works.

Quick Facts

• Duration: A relaxed, scenic ride led at walking pace; exact duration confirmed at booking.
• Pick-up: Hotel pick-up from Side, Manavgat & nearby resorts; time confirmed at booking.
• Includes: Experienced guide/instructor, calm horse suited to your level, short safety briefing, basic safety equipment such as a helmet.
• Excludes: Personal items, tips, and any extras — confirmed at booking.
• Family Friendly: Yes; minimum-age and weight guidelines confirmed at booking.
• Best Season: Spring through autumn, with shaded forest sections welcome in the warmer months.
• Difficulty: Easy — beginner-friendly, walking pace, guide stays with you.

Related Excursions

• Tours & excursions in Side
• Things to do in Antalya
• Excursions from Alanya
• Adventures around Kemer
• Tours from Belek
• More travel guides on our blog

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a horse safari safe for someone who has never ridden?

Yes. The horses are calm and used to beginners, the pace is a gentle walk, and an instructor stays with the group throughout. A short briefing covers everything you need before you set off.

What should I wear for the ride?

Long trousers and closed shoes are recommended for comfort and safety. Add sunscreen, water and a light layer for the shaded forest parts.

Can children join the horse safari?

Often yes. There are usually minimum-age and sometimes weight guidelines, and small children may ride with a guide leading the horse. The exact limits are confirmed at booking.

Will I be galloping?

No. This is a relaxed, scenic ride led at walking pace, not a fast gallop — that is part of why it suits beginners and families so well.

What kind of scenery will I see?

The Side and Manavgat countryside features pine, cypress and cedar woodland, village tracks and open fields, with rivers and streams in some areas — a calm, green side of the region.

Do I need to bring my own helmet or equipment?

No. Basic safety equipment such as a helmet is usually provided. Just bring suitable clothing, sun protection and water.

How do I get to the starting point?

Hotel pick-up is available from Side, Manavgat and nearby resorts; the exact pick-up time is confirmed at booking.

Why book directly with you instead of an agency?

Booking direct with the Murat Atalay team removes agency and OTA commission from the price, and you are covered by our best-price guarantee. You also deal with a local operator who can answer your questions personally.

Ready to try horse riding in Side the easy way? Book DIRECT with the Murat Atalay team via WhatsApp or info@side-turkey.com. As a local operator we cut out agency and OTA commission and back every booking with our best-price guarantee — message us with your dates and group, and we will sort out the rest.