Side-Turkey.

Booking your very first horse riding tour in Side is exciting, but if you have never sat in a saddle before it is normal to wonder what you should wear and how the day will actually run. The good news: rides around Side and Manavgat are designed for first-timers. The horses are calm and trained, a guide leads the group, and you get a short briefing before you set off through the pine forest and countryside near the Taurus foothills. This guide walks you through what to pack, what to wear and what to expect, so you arrive relaxed and ready to enjoy it.

What to Wear for Horse Riding in Side

You do not need special equestrian gear for a beginner ride. The aim is comfort and safety, not fashion.

Clothing

Long trousers are your best friend in the saddle. Leggings, jeans or comfortable sports trousers protect the inside of your legs from rubbing against the saddle, which is the most common cause of soreness for new riders. Avoid loose, flapping fabrics. In the hot Side summer, breathable cotton or sportswear works well; in cooler months bring a light layer you can tie around your waist.

Footwear

Wear closed shoes with a small heel if possible, such as trainers or boots. Closed-toe footwear keeps your feet protected and helps them sit properly in the stirrups. Avoid sandals, flip-flops and open shoes completely.

Sun protection and extras

The Mediterranean sun is strong. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat or cap. A helmet is provided and worn during the ride, so choose a hat that fits comfortably underneath or save it for before and after. Keep valuables and loose items to a minimum, as you will want both hands free.

What to Expect on the Day

After hotel pick-up, you will meet your horse and guide. There is a short instruction and safety briefing covering how to hold the reins, how to start and stop, and how to sit in the saddle. The guide leads the group at a calm, relaxed pace, so you are never left to figure it out alone. The route typically winds through shaded pine forest and open countryside, sometimes near the Manavgat river, with plenty of fresh air and quiet scenery.

Tips for a comfortable first ride

Relax your shoulders, sit tall and breathe. Trust the horse, it has done this route many times. Tell your guide if anything feels uncomfortable. Minimum age and weight limits apply and vary, so confirm these when you book if you are riding with children or have any concerns.

Quick Facts

• Duration: A shorter activity, around an hour or two of riding plus hotel transfer, confirmed at booking
• Pick-up: Hotel pick-up from Side, Manavgat & nearby resorts; time confirmed at booking
• Includes: Guided ride, trained horse, helmet, safety briefing, hotel transfer
• Excludes: Personal items, tips, photos unless stated, confirmed at booking
• Family Friendly: Yes, suitable for first-timers and often families; minimum age and weight limits apply and vary
• Best Season: Spring and autumn for mild temperatures; available through the warm season
• Difficulty: Beginner-friendly, no experience needed

Related Excursions

• Tours in Side
• Tours in Antalya
• Tours in Alanya
• Tours in Kemer
• Tours in Belek
• More travel tips on our blog

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need riding experience?

No. These rides are designed for beginners. The horses are calm and trained, and a guide leads the group at an easy pace after a short briefing.

What should I wear?

Long trousers and closed shoes such as trainers, plus sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat. Avoid sandals and loose, flapping clothing.

Is a helmet provided?

Yes, helmets are provided and worn during the ride for your safety.

Can children ride?

Often yes, but minimum age and weight limits apply and vary. Please confirm these at booking.

How long is the ride?

It is a shorter activity, usually around an hour or two of riding plus hotel transfer. Exact timing is confirmed at booking.

Where does the tour go?

Routes typically pass through pine forest and countryside near Side and Manavgat, sometimes close to the Manavgat river, with a guide leading throughout.

Will I be picked up from my hotel?

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

What if I feel nervous?

That is completely normal. Tell your guide, who will adjust the pace and stay close. The trained horses are used to first-time riders.

Ready to ride? Book DIRECT with the Murat Atalay team and skip the agency and OTA commission. Message us on WhatsApp or email info@side-turkey.com for availability and our best-price guarantee, no middleman, just a friendly local team.