Book With Confidence

This full-day cultural and nature tour takes you deep into the Taurus Mountains to discover several traditional Anatolian villages and one of Turkey's most impressive natural wonders: Altınbeşik Cave, home to one of the largest underground lakes in the country. Away from the busy coast, this excursion offers a slower, more authentic side of Turkey, with village life, a boat ride through the cave and a traditional lunch in Ormana. Tour Program – Step by Step Hotel pick-up: Between 08:30 and 09:30 you will be picked up from your hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle. The exact pick-up time depends on your hotel location and is confirmed after booking. Sarılar village orange orchard: The first stop is an orange orchard in Sarılar village, where your guide explains the different types of oranges grown in the region and when they are harvested, followed by a short break with fresh orange juice. Avasun village: You continue to Avasun village for a glimpse of everyday village life, followed by a short walk to a viewing terrace with beautiful views over the surrounding lake and countryside. Ürünlü village – buttoned houses: In Ürünlü village you take a guided walk of approximately 15 minutes to see some of the finest examples of the region's traditional "buttoned houses," built from stone and cedar wood without a single nail. Afterwards there is a short coffee or tea break of about 15 minutes at a café in the village. Altınbeşik Cave: You continue to Altınbeşik Cave, home to the third-largest underground lake in the world and the largest in Turkey. After a short introduction from your guide about the cave's formation, you board an inflatable boat for a ride of approximately 15–20 minutes across the underground lake, admiring the golden-toned natural rock bridge, travertine formations, stalactites and stalagmites. Ormana village lunch: From the cave, a short drive of about 20 minutes brings you to a restaurant in Ormana village, on the outskirts of Karadağ, where a traditional lunch is served. Belenalan village: After lunch you visit Belenalan village, where you can see historic landmarks such as an old primary school and an Ottoman-era mosque, with approximately 30 minutes of free time to explore. Return transfer: In the afternoon you return to the vehicle for the drive back to Side, arriving at your hotel between approximately 17:30 and 18:00, depending on your hotel location. The total duration of the tour is approximately 8–9 hours. Included: Hotel transfer (round trip), professional guide, entrance fees, inflatable boat ride in Altınbeşik Cave, lunch and insurance. Not included: All drinks (except the orange juice and tea/coffee breaks mentioned above) and personal expenses. What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and a camera. A light jacket is recommended, as the mountain air is noticeably cooler than the coast. Good to know: Payment is made during the tour. No prepayment is required. All tours are insured. This tour involves walking on uneven terrain and some stairs, and is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or serious walking difficulties. As these are living villages, the exact route and order of stops may occasionally vary depending on local conditions.

explore Enjoy professional service, fully insured activities, and carefully selected experiences. No prepayment required. Pay during the tour and experience our commitment to quality, comfort, and customer satisfaction.