Istanbul Quad Bike Safari: Belgrad Forest ATV Adventure with Optional Zipline
Swap mosque domes for pine crowns on a two-hour ATV run through Belgrad Forest. This guided quad-bike safari — with an optional zipline — delivers fast dirt, historic dam views, and a quick nature escape 30 minutes from central Istanbul.
The Experience
Before You Go
Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes
ATV controls and rough track demand lace-up shoes with tread — sandals are not permitted.
Bring your own transfer or plan logistics
Meeting point is near the forest edge; transfers are not included so allow 30–45 minutes from central Istanbul.
Protect eyes from dust
Bring goggles or sunglasses — even with a visor, dust and flying grit are common on dry days.
Hydrate and eat light beforehand
A light snack and water before the tour keeps energy steady; carry a small bottle if you get thirsty between stops.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Topuzlu and Valide Dams — Ottoman-era masonry and quiet viewpoints a short walk from many trails
- •Atatürk Arboretum — a botanical collection worth a detour for calmer walking and birdwatching
Wildlife
- •Roe deer
- •Wild boar
Conservation Note
The area is managed as a municipal forest and sees heavy weekend use; stick to marked tracks, pack out trash and avoid disturbing wildlife to limit erosion and habitat stress.
Belgrad Forest supplied water to Istanbul via a network of Ottoman-era dams (known locally as the Bentler), and the name derives from 16th-century settlers from Belgrade.
What to Bring
Closed-toe hiking shoesEssential
Protect feet and provide traction for mounting, dismounting and walking on loose surfaces.
Long pantsEssential
Protects legs from brush, gravel and engine heat during the ride.
Goggles or wraparound sunglassesEssential
Keeps dust and glare out of your eyes on exposed sections of trail.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Staying hydrated is important; bottles are compact and easy to stash on the ATVs or on your person.
Common Questions
Do I need a driving license to ride an ATV?
No — tours are designed for beginners and instructors provide a safety briefing plus a supervised test drive before the route.
Are helmets and insurance included?
Helmets and fuel are included; operator insurance and safety briefing are provided but check their policy on damage or theft before booking.
Is transportation from central Istanbul included?
No — transfers are not included. The forest is roughly 30–45 minutes from central Istanbul depending on traffic; plan your own transport or book a transfer separately.
Who should avoid this activity?
People with recent back or neck injuries, serious heart conditions, pregnant travelers and very young infants (who must sit on an adult’s lap) should not participate.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 hours
Location
Istanbul, Istanbul
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: you should be comfortable seated for short bursts, able to mount/dismount an ATV and manage low-speed balance.
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