Land Rover Safari Katharo Route

Explore Crete’s Central Plateau with a 4×4 Adventure

The Land Rover Safari Katharo Route offers a full-day exploration of Crete’s rugged, mountainous heart. With a price of $111.05 per person and a duration of about 9 hours, this tour provides a mix of breathtaking scenery, local culture, and mythology. It includes pickup service and a mobile ticket, making logistics straightforward. The tour is suited for most travelers and maximizes the adventure with a 4×4 vehicle driving through challenging terrain, dirt tracks, rivers, and goat valleys.

The tour stops at several iconic sites, including the Kritsa village, famous for its olive oil, and the Katharo Plateau, where panoramic views span both the Cretan Sea and the Libyan Sea. A highlight is the Eco Village, where visitors witness local crafts being made as they were in olden times. Despite some construction activity at Zeus Cave, an alternative visit to the Vidiani Monastery is included, ensuring a full experience of the area.

Key Points

• 9-hour full-day tour exploring Crete’s central mountains and plateaus
• Price of $111.05 per person, including pickup, escort, and BBQ lunch with unlimited wine
• Visit Kritsa village, Katharo Plateau, Eco Village, and Zeus Cave (or Vidiani Monastery)
• Expert guide and 4×4 vehicle traverse rugged terrain and dirt tracks
• Suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to join
• Cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Starting Point and Logistics of the Land Rover Safari

This tour departs at 9:00 am from a centrally located meeting point in Crete, with pickup included. The whole journey is designed to be comfortable and convenient, especially given the diverse terrain traveled by 4×4 vehicle. The group size is limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience with plenty of room for questions and individual attention.

Travelers benefit from a professional escort who guides the group through the day, providing explanations about each stop. The pickup service adds ease to the day, making transportation part of the adventure. Most travelers report that the timing is well-paced, with enough stops to enjoy the scenery and local sites without feeling rushed.

Discovering the Katharo Plateau and Surrounding Wilderness

The Katharo Plateau is a key highlight of this tour, offering sweeping views from a mountain top that overlooks both the Cretan Sea and the Libyan Sea. The drive takes you through the largest forest on the island, with roads that are mostly non-existent, adding an element of adventure to the ride. A refreshment stop at a local kafenion gives travelers a taste of local hospitality amidst the wilderness.

The route continues through dirt tracks, crossing rivers and passing by goat valley, which underscores the rugged beauty of Crete’s interior. The terrain is rugged, and the roads are challenging, making this tour ideal for those who enjoy off-road exploration. The 4×4 vehicle handles these conditions comfortably, making the journey accessible despite the wilderness.

Kritsa Village and Its Olive Oil Heritage

On the way to the mountain areas, the tour passes through Kritsa, an award-winning village renowned for its olive oil. Kritsa’s cobbled streets and traditional architecture give a glimpse of local Cretan life. Though not included in the ticket price, the stop here offers excellent photo opportunities and a chance to explore a village that has preserved its old-world charm.

Kritsa’s reputation for high-quality olive oil makes it a worthwhile visit, especially for those interested in local food production. The village also provides a scenic backdrop for photographs, with narrow alleys and vibrant market stalls.

Eco Village and Traditional Crafts

A visit to the Eco Village gives insight into traditional Cretan crafts. Here, you see artisans making crafts just as they did generations ago. This stop showcases local skills and offers a look at sustainable practices on the island. It’s an engaging place to learn about the cultural heritage of Crete without the crowds typical of larger tourist sites.

The Village emphasizes the importance of preserving old crafts and lifestyle, making it a meaningful part of the tour for those interested in culture and tradition. It also provides opportunities for photos and possibly purchasing handmade souvenirs.

Zeus Cave and Its Alternative: Vidiani Monastery

Traditionally, the Zeus Cave on the Lassithi Plateau is a notable stop, linked mythologically to the king of gods. However, from October 1st, the cave is closed for construction and remains inaccessible until the end of the year. As a replacement, the tour includes a visit to the Vidiani Monastery, ensuring that travelers still experience a significant historical and cultural site.

This change does not diminish the overall experience, as the monastery offers its own unique insights into local history. The tour ensures that visitors still get a taste of Crete’s ancient and spiritual landscape.

Lunch and Refreshments in the Wilderness

A core part of the tour is the BBQ lunch, served at a local spot in the wilderness. The meal includes unlimited wine, adding a relaxed, convivial atmosphere to the day. The lunch is typically prepared in a traditional style, with hearty dishes that complement the outdoor adventure.

The inclusion of lunch and drinks adds value, allowing travelers to unwind and socialize after exploring the mountains and villages. The meal is a highlight for many, blending delicious local flavors with the scenic surroundings.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

This tour involves traveling on rugged dirt tracks, river crossings, and mountain roads reaching up to 1,500 meters in elevation. The terrain may pose challenges for travelers with mobility issues or those uncomfortable with off-road driving. However, the 4×4 vehicle ensures that the journey remains manageable for most.

Most of the stops involve short walks, and the tour is designed to be suitable for most travelers, provided they are comfortable with some physical activity and outdoor conditions. The guide’s attentiveness and the vehicle’s comfort help make this an accessible option for many.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour the Most

This tour is perfect for those who love off-road adventures and scenic mountain landscapes. It suits travelers interested in local culture, mythology, and nature, especially if they appreciate guided excursions with knowledgeable guides. The lunch with unlimited wine makes it appealing for those seeking a relaxed, social atmosphere in beautiful surroundings.

It’s less suited for travelers who prefer easy, urban sightseeing or have mobility constraints, given the rugged terrain and outdoor nature of the stops.

Final Thoughts on the Land Rover Safari Katharo Route

The Land Rover Safari Katharo Route offers a well-rounded day of exploring Crete’s mountainous interior, combining stunning views, local culture, and adventure. The expert guides, authentic stops, and scenic drive make it a rewarding experience for those seeking a deeper connection with Crete’s landscape and heritage.

While the Zeus Cave closure might disappoint some, the inclusion of Vidiani Monastery and visits to Kritsa and Eco Village maintain the tour’s richness. The lunch with unlimited wine is a delightful finishing touch, making the day both enjoyable and memorable.

This tour provides a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and scenery at a reasonable price, perfect for active travelers eager to see Crete’s less accessible, yet breathtaking, regions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes escort services, pickup transfer, BBQ lunch with unlimited wine, and the 4×4 vehicle transportation.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the Zeus Cave entrance fee is not included and costs 4 euros. Other than that, most activities and sites are covered.

What is the maximum group size?
The group is limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour involves traveling on rugged terrain and some walking, so it’s best suited for most able-bodied travelers. Special considerations are needed for those with mobility challenges.

What happens if Zeus Cave remains closed?
The tour includes a visit to the Vidiani Monastery as an alternative, so the experience remains comprehensive.

Is lunch included, and what does it feature?
Yes, lunch is included, featuring a BBQ meal with unlimited wine, prepared in a traditional style in the wilderness.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

What should I wear?
Comfortable outdoor clothing suitable for mountain terrain and possibly variable weather conditions is recommended.

Do I need to prepare for physical activity?
A moderate level of physical activity is involved, mainly walking and sitting in a vehicle with rugged terrain.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The tour follows a set schedule, but the guide ensures enough time at each stop for photos and exploration.