Crete buggy safari

Discover Crete’s Countryside in a Top-Notch Buggy Safari for $164

This Crete buggy safari offers a lively way to explore the island’s diverse landscapes in just 5 hours. Priced at $164 per person, it combines off-road adventure, cultural visits, and scenic drives through small villages and gorges. With 20 reviews rating it a perfect 5/5, the tour proves popular among travelers seeking a unique and active experience.

Starting from a convenient pickup point, the tour guides you through Crete’s historic sites, rugged gorges, and the island’s lush flora. One highlight is the chance to feed wild goats at 700 meters altitude, along with visits to Milatos Cave and Malia Palace. Despite brief instructions for the buggy, the vehicles are user-friendly, making it accessible even for first-timers. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy scenic drives, cultural sites, and a bit of off-road fun.

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Key Points

• Price and Duration: $164 per person for 5 hours of adventure.
• Includes iconic sites: Visit Malia Palace, explore Milatos Cave, and pass through traditional villages.
• Off-road excitement: Drive 700 meters up in rugged terrain and feed wild goats.
• Cultural stops: Tour an olive oil factory and learn about Cretan life at the ethnic museum.
• Food and water fun: Enjoy a lunch in Sissi and swim in a beautiful private beach.
• Guided experience: Multilingual guides (English, French, German, Greek, Italian) lead the way, sharing insights along the route.

Starting from the Crete Hotel Pickup Points

The adventure kicks off with free pickup from over 50 hotel options, including resorts in Malia, Hersonissos, and Crete’s coastal areas. Pickup typically occurs around 9:00 AM, with passengers waiting for a mini-bus that transports you to the base camp. The transfer is included, making logistics smooth and straightforward.

Once at the starting point, a safety briefing of about 20 minutes prepares everyone for the drive, emphasizing safety and vehicle operation. The guides are experienced and provide detailed instructions, ensuring even first-time buggy drivers feel confident before hitting the countryside.

Exploring Historical Crete: Malia Palace and Milatos Cave

The tour takes you past the Malia Palace archaeological site, where you can view the ruins from a distance. While direct entry isn’t included, you’ll get a glimpse of this ancient Minoan palace. The tour then leads to the Milatos Cave, a large site with eight entrances, covering 2,100 square meters and stretching 73 meters long. Visitors will see a church built in 1935 and a memorial commemorating Turks slaughtered in the past.

The guided visit to Milatos Cave lasts about 30 minutes, giving a good opportunity for photos and exploring its impressive size and history. The scenic drive continues through small villages and rugged gorges, offering stunning views and a sense of the island’s rural charm.

Scenic Village Drives and the Sissi Stop

The route includes a drive through the villages of Sissi, Epano Sissi, and Milatos, where the landscape is dotted with traditional homes and olive groves. The longest stop is at Sissi, a picturesque village where lunch is served in a local tavern. The meal provides a taste of authentic Cretan cuisine and a relaxed atmosphere to socialize and enjoy the surroundings.

Following lunch, the tour proceeds to Neapoli, where visitors can explore the Vasilakis olive oil factory. Here, a free olive oil tour in multiple languages gives insights into the production process and the importance of olive oil in Crete’s culture.

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Riding Up to 700 Meters: Off-Road Feats and Goat Feeding

An exciting feature of this tour is the off-road drive reaching 700 meters altitude. This part of the journey takes you through rugged terrain and gorges, where you can feed wild goats and learn about the flora and fauna of Crete. Guides share interesting facts about the island’s natural environment, adding an educational element to the adventure.

The journey also includes a drive past the 14th-century Old Monastery of Saint Georgios, adding a historical touch to this scenic drive. These off-the-beaten-path spots are what set this tour apart from more conventional excursions.

Cultural Stops and Ethnic Museum in Vrahasi

Near the end of the driving route, the tour visits Vrahasi, where an ethnic museum showcases traditional ways of life. Visitors have the chance to learn about local customs and historical living conditions—though the museum’s opening status can vary.

This stop offers a peaceful break with a chance to appreciate Crete’s rural heritage. It’s an optional visit, depending on whether the museum is open during your tour day.

Final Beach Relaxation and Return to Malia

The last major stop takes place at a small, private beach near Malia, where travelers can swim in clear, crystal waters. This relaxing break typically lasts about 30 minutes, providing a perfect way to unwind after the sightseeing. Visitors can enjoy the sun and the sea, with optional beach bar drinks available at their own expense.

The tour concludes with a return transfer to the starting pickup points, arriving back around 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, depending on group size and traffic. The entire experience covers approximately 80 km of scenic routes, blending adventure, culture, and relaxation.

Navigating the Logistics and Equipment

The buggy vehicles are designed for ease of use, with detailed instructions and practice provided before the tour begins. No prior experience is necessary, but drivers must hold a valid driving license for at least one year. The vehicles are two-seaters, allowing for a partner or a guide to accompany travelers.

In case a buggy breaks down, a 520cc ATV is used as a replacement to ensure the route is completed smoothly. The tour is private for groups, and guides communicate in English, French, German, Greek, and Italian. The tour is not suitable for those with back problems, wheelchair users, or individuals over 350 lbs.

Food, Drinks, and Additional Expenses

While lunch in Sissi is included, any purchases at the olive oil factory are paid separately. Drinks at the beach bar during swimming are also not included. Travelers should bring cash for additional purchases or souvenirs.

Pricing and Booking Flexibility

The $164 price offers a good value considering the scenic drives, cultural visits, and off-road adventure. The tour supports free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility in planning. Booking is simple, with the option to reserve now and pay later, catering to flexible travel schedules.

Why Choose This Crete Buggy Safari?

This tour stands out for its blend of adventure and cultural insight. The off-road driving and feeding wild goats create memorable moments, while visits to Milatos Cave and Malia Palace add historical depth. The friendly guides and small-group atmosphere enhance the experience, making it ideal for active travelers eager to see Crete’s less-explored spots.

However, it’s important to keep in mind the brief instructions for buggy driving and the physical demands of off-road terrain. The tour’s scenic stops and relaxed pace suit those who enjoy a mix of adventure, culture, and beach time.

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is designed for adults holding a valid driving license for at least one year. It is not explicitly stated if children can participate, so it’s best suited for adults.

What should I bring for the tour?
Travelers should carry driver’s license, change of clothes, camera, beachwear, cash, and face masks or protective coverings.

Are the vehicles easy to operate?
Yes, the vehicles are user-friendly, and detailed instructions plus practice are provided prior to starting the drive.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a local lunch at a traditional tavern in Sissi is included in the tour price.

What if the buggy breaks down?
A 520cc ATV replaces the broken buggy, ensuring the route continues without interruption.

Can I visit Milatos Cave on my own?
The tour includes a guided visit to Milatos Cave, which lasts about 30 minutes. Visiting independently isn’t specified.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to terrain and vehicle requirements.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for people over 70 years or over 350 lbs.

Will I see many other groups?
The experience is private for groups, so you won’t share the vehicle with strangers, providing a more personalized adventure.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, as long as there is availability, you can reserve and pay later, making last-minute plans possible.

This Crete buggy safari combines fun, culture, and scenic beauty into an engaging five-hour journey. Perfect for those who want an active day with plenty of time for sightseeing and relaxation, all while discovering some of Crete’s most intriguing spots.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby