4×4 Landrover Safari Lasithi Plateau Free Pick up and Drop off

Experience Crete’s Off-Road Adventure in a 4×4 Landrover

For those eager to explore Crete beyond the usual tourist spots, the 4×4 Landrover Safari Lasithi Plateau offers an exciting full-day journey that takes you off the beaten path. Priced at $99.49 per person, this tour covers approximately 8 hours and includes pickup and drop-off services from various locations across Crete. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want to see the island’s more secluded sights while enjoying the comfort and thrill of a 4WD vehicle.

What sets this tour apart is its focus on exploring hidden villages, the Cave of Zeus, and the Windmills of Lasithi Plateau—areas often missed by typical day trips. The tour is highly rated, with a perfect 5.0/5 score from 28 reviews and 100% recommendation. It’s particularly popular, usually booked 18 days in advance, indicating strong demand among visitors seeking a comprehensive and authentic Crete experience.

While the tour includes a delicious lunch, it does not include the ticket to the Cave of Zeus, which costs extra for most visitors. The enthusiastic guides and intimate group size—up to 150 travelers—ensure a friendly, personalized atmosphere. It’s well-suited for most travelers, including those who appreciate off-road adventure and cultural exploration.

Key Points

• Full-day off-road excursion exploring Crete in a 4×4 Landrover
• Visit secluded villages, the Cave of Zeus, and Windmills of Lasithi Plateau
• Includes lunch, but cave ticket costs extra
• Pickup and drop-off available from many areas across Crete
• Perfect for travelers wanting to see less-visited sites and experience authentic local culture
• Designed for most participants, with a maximum group size of 150

Starting Point and Logistics of the Crete Safari

This tour departs from Malia at 8:00 am, with pickup and return included in the package. The pickup service makes it easy to begin your day without worrying about transportation logistics. The tour ends back at the same meeting point, offering convenience for travelers staying nearby or exploring other parts of Crete afterward.

The transportation involves a comfortable 4WD vehicle, with fuel included, led by experienced guides who provide commentary throughout the day. The mobile ticket system allows for easy access, and the tour’s timing ensures you experience Crete’s sights comfortably over approximately 8 hours.

Exploring Sfendili: The Sunken Village

The first stop takes you to Sfendili, a submerged traditional village that’s visible from above, offering a glimpse into Crete’s landscape changes. The area is free to visit and allows close-up views of the site, which is considered a beautiful goddess by local lore. This stop lasts about 20 minutes, providing a quick but memorable introduction to the area’s unique history.

This site’s free admission makes it an accessible and intriguing start to the day’s adventure. Visitors appreciate the chance to see something different from typical mainland landscapes.

Discovering Avdou: The Traditional Cretan Village

Next, the tour heads to Avdou, a picturesque village renowned for its traditional architecture. Here, the highlight is a visit to a local olive mill, where guides explain the process of Cretan olive oil production. The stop lasts about 40 minutes, and the experience offers a tangible connection to Cretan craftsmanship and agriculture.

Admission to the olive mill is free, and this stop offers insight into local agricultural life that most travelers miss. It’s a great chance to learn about the region’s olive oil heritage, which is deeply woven into Crete’s culture.

Admiring the Oldest Plane Tree and Ancient Aqueducts in Krasi

The village of Krasi presents two historic marvels: Crete’s oldest plane tree, with a diameter over 10 meters, and Roman aqueducts that still stand as a testament to ancient engineering. This stop lasts about 25 minutes, providing enough time to marvel at these natural and man-made wonders.

There’s no admission fee for these sights, making it an easy and enriching addition to the tour. Visitors love the opportunity to stand beneath such an ancient tree and explore the remnants of Roman infrastructure.

Visiting the Windmills of Lasithi Plateau and Meeting Shepherds

The Windmills of Lasithi Plateau are a major highlight, where the tour visits a shepherd’s house to showcase traditional Cretan shepherding life. Guides share stories about cheese production and introduce visitors to local Cretan animals, creating an immersive experience. This stop is about 40 minutes long.

It’s a great chance to see the authentic rural lifestyle and learn how the local inhabitants have farmed and maintained their traditions over generations. The area’s scenic beauty combined with the cultural insights make this a favorite among visitors.

Exploring the Mythical Cave of Zeus

The Cave of Zeus is perhaps the most famous site on this tour, where legend holds that Zeus was born. The cave’s stalagmites create a striking landscape, and visitors can explore at their own pace for about 1 hour.

Note that admission to the Cave of Zeus costs extra, with a fee of €6 for regular visitors, but free for students and those over 65 years old. The cave’s natural formations and mythological significance appeal to history buffs and fans of Greek mythology alike.

Food and Comfort During the Tour

Rest assured, the tour provides lunch included in the price, giving travelers a convenient break without the need to pack food or seek local eateries. The meal is well-regarded by past participants, and the experience allows for relaxation and socializing amid beautiful scenery.

Participants are advised that the ticket to the Cave of Zeus is not included, so preparing for the additional fee is wise. The tour offers a good balance of sightseeing, cultural learning, and comfort.

Who Will Enjoy This Crete Safari?

This full-day adventure is best suited for those who enjoy off-road driving and want to explore less touristy sites. The stops at traditional villages, ancient ruins, and mythological sites** make it appealing to history enthusiasts, culture seekers, and nature lovers.

The guided nature of the tour, along with experienced drivers and guides, ensures a smooth experience, even for those unfamiliar with Crete’s terrain. It’s particularly popular with families and small groups looking for an informative yet leisurely day.

Final Thoughts on the Crete 4×4 Landrover Safari

The Lasithi Plateau safari offers a rich combination of scenic beauty, local culture, and mythology. The $99.49 price point provides excellent value for a full-day adventure with lunch included and several free stops at sites of interest. The guided commentary enhances understanding, and the off-road vehicle makes it easy to access remote areas.

While the ticket to the Cave of Zeus is extra, the opportunity to enhance the experience with this legendary site makes the trip even more memorable. Travelers who enjoy exploring rural Crete, learning about traditional lifestyles, and seeing iconic sights will find this tour rewarding.

This tour balances adventure, culture, and comfort, making it a standout choice for those wanting an authentic Crete experience. It’s a well-organized, highly-rated option that caters to most travelers seeking a full day of discovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the pickup included in the tour price?
Yes, pickup and return are included from many areas across Crete, making logistics simple and convenient.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 8:00 am.

Is lunch provided on the tour?
Yes, a lunch is included, so no need to worry about packing food during the day.

Do I need to pay for the Cave of Zeus separately?
Yes, admission to the Cave of Zeus costs €6 for most visitors, though free for students and over 65s.

What makes this tour different from other Crete excursions?
This tour offers off-road exploration of secluded villages, visits to mythological sites, and local cultural experiences not typically included in standard sightseeing trips.

Can most travelers participate?
Yes, the tour is designed for most participants, with a group size capped at 150 travelers for a more personalized experience.