Quad Safari Tour – Explore The Wild Side of Crete

Discover the Crete Quad Safari: An Off-Road Adventure for Car Drivers

The Quad Safari Tour offers a unique way to explore the lesser-known landscapes of Crete, Greece. Priced at $104.27 per group (up to 2), this 3-hour 30-minute journey is perfect for licensed car drivers eager to venture beyond typical tourist routes. The tour is highly rated, with a perfect 5.0 out of 5 from 382 reviews, and is 96% recommended by participants.

This experience stands out for its combination of rugged off-road tracks, scenic mountain villages, and relaxing beachside drives. The tour includes a comprehensive driving lesson, helmet, fuel, and action photos, making it an excellent choice for those looking for an active, photo-worthy adventure. It’s suitable for most travelers who hold a valid Car Driving License, and groups are limited to 20 participants to ensure personalized attention.

While the tour is well-loved for its guides and stunning views, potential participants should be aware of the cancellation policy—full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. The tour generally books 29 days ahead, so planning ahead is advised.

Key Points

• Duration and Price: About 3.5 hours for $104.27 per group of up to 2 people
• Highlights Include: Mountain villages, Fodele Beach, and El Greco’s hometown
• Includes: Helmet, fuel, safety briefing, and free action photos
• Stops: Achlada village, Fodele Beach, and the Museum of El Greco
• Group Size: Max 20 travelers, with scheduled departures throughout the day
• Physical Requirements: Must have a valid Car Driving License

The Starting Point in Agia Pelagia

This tour begins at ELA Quad Safari Crete on Unnamed Road, Mononaftis, near Agia Pelagia. The meeting point is accessible via public transportation, making it convenient to join from various parts of Crete. The activity concludes back at the starting location, allowing for easy planning of your day.

Off-Road Tracks and Mountain Villages

The core of this adventure unfolds on rugged off-road tracks and mountain roads. The guide leads you through Achlada, an almost abandoned mountain village that offers breathtaking landscapes and a glimpse into local history. Walking through this nearly deserted village, visitors learn about its past while capturing memorable photos.

The tour then skirts Fodele Beach, where the ATV is driven alongside the tranquil shoreline. The view of the ocean horizon and the fresh sea air provide a relaxing contrast after the mountain excursions. This stop is very brief—just one minute—but leaves a lasting impression.

Visiting El Greco’s Hometown and Museum

One of the tour’s highlights is the visit to Fodele, the birthplace of El Greco, the renowned Renaissance painter. The village is famous for its freshly squeezed orange juice, which visitors can enjoy during the walk. Travelers explore the streets El Greco himself walked, get a sense of traditional Cretan village life, and may visit his childhood home.

While admission to the Museum of El Greco is not included, the 30-minute stop allows free time to soak in the local atmosphere, enjoy a cool drink by the river, or relax in the shade. This stop adds cultural depth to the adventure and offers excellent photo opportunities.

Safety and Equipment: Helmets and Guided Support

Safety is a priority on this tour. Every participant is provided with a helmet before setting off on the quad. The introductory driving lesson ensures all drivers are comfortable before tackling the terrain, which varies from easy roads to more challenging off-road sections.

The guide is knowledgeable and friendly, explaining how to operate the ATV and sharing insights about each stop. The tour is designed to balance fun with safety, making it suitable even for those with limited off-road experience.

Photos and Videos: Free Action Shots

A standout feature of this tour is the complimentary action photos and videos at the end of the safari. These captured moments showcase the stunning scenery, village streets, and off-road thrills, providing lasting souvenirs without extra cost. Guests often appreciate this inclusion as it enhances the overall value and helps memory-making.

Route and Scenic Highlights

The off-road drive includes a mix of high and low vantage points, offering fabulous views of the Cretan landscape. Participants can enjoy breathtaking vistas of the coast, mountains, and traditional villages. The balancing of on-road and off-road segments ensures the experience is dynamic, with opportunities to practice driving skills and enjoy nature.

The guides’ storytelling adds context to the scenery and history, making each stop informative as well as picturesque. The view of Fodele beach from the hillside is often cited as particularly spectacular.

The Experience of the Guides and Tour Staff

Based on reviews, George and other guides are praised for their enthusiasm and friendliness. They make sure everyone feels confident and engaged throughout the tour. Many mention how guides share personal stories and provide local insights, enriching the adventure beyond just riding quads.

Participants note the good balance of informative narration, safety instructions, and fun driving. The guides’ passion for the area and their patience during practice sessions make the experience accessible and enjoyable.

Booking and Flexibility: Planning Your Day

The quad safari departs multiple times daily, allowing visitors to select a time that fits their schedule. Because the tour is often booked 29 days in advance, early planning is recommended, especially during peak season. The free cancellation policy adds flexibility, with full refunds available if canceled more than 24 hours ahead.

The tour is suitable for most travelers with a valid Car Driving License, but those unfamiliar with ATV driving should pay attention to the safety briefings and practice time.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Similar Experiences

Compared to other Crete excursions, this quad safari emphasizes off-road driving combined with visits to authentic villages and beautiful beaches. The action photos and friendly guides are recurring highlights, making it a well-rounded adventure.

The cost-efficiency—including fuel, helmet, safety instruction, and photos—provides good value for the overall experience. The diverse stops and scenic variety make it stand out among other outdoor activities in Crete.

Limitations and Considerations

The main limitation is the brief stop at El Greco’s museum and village, which may leave visitors wanting more culture. The off-road terrain can be challenging for some, so physical readiness and confidence in driving are helpful.

Plus, cancellation policies require cancellation at least 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund, so flexible plans are advisable.

Final Verdict: A Thrilling and Scenic Crete Adventure

The Quad Safari Tour offers an exciting way to see Crete’s countryside, combining adventure, culture, and stunning scenery. The professional guides, well-prepared equipment, and free photos enhance its appeal.

This experience particularly suits licensed drivers who enjoy outdoor activities and want to explore villages, beaches, and mountain views. While it might not be ideal for those seeking a purely cultural or relaxed trip, it delivers a fun, active day with great value.

This tour earns high praise for its scenic variety, friendly staff, and off-road excitement—a memorable way to discover Crete’s hidden sides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a driving license required for this quad safari?
Yes, a valid Car Driving License is necessary to participate.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 3 hours 30 minutes.

What’s included in the price?
Participants receive a helmet, fuel, taxes, action videos and photos, and a driving lesson.

Are there any stops at cultural sites?
Yes, the tour includes visits to Achlada village and El Greco’s hometown in Fodele.

Can I cancel the tour if I change my mind?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
The driving lesson and safety briefings make it accessible, but a valid driving license is required, and participants should be comfortable operating an ATV.

Where does the tour meet?
The starting point is ELA Quad Safari Crete on Unnamed Road, Mononaftis.

What is the group size limit?
Groups are limited to 20 travelers to ensure personalized attention.

Are food and drinks included?
No, coffee and/or tea are not included, but there are stops where you can enjoy local refreshments.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Most travelers with a valid license can participate; however, the terrain may be challenging for very young or less physically confident individuals.