Hersonissos: South Eastern Crete & Sarakinas Gorge Day Tour

Discover the Best of Southeast Crete on a Jeep Tour for $99

The Hersonissos: South Eastern Crete & Sarakinas Gorge Day Tour offers an engaging way to see some of the most captivating spots in Crete. Priced at $99 per person and lasting around 9 hours, this tour is perfect for travelers eager to explore by jeep, enjoy scenic views, and experience authentic local villages. It departs from 20 pickup locations across Crete, including Heraklion, Agios Nikolaos, and Malia, making it accessible no matter where you’re staying.

What makes this tour stand out is the well-balanced combination of adventure, cultural sights, and relaxation. Visitors get to venture into Sarakinas Gorge, ascend to the Katharo Plateau, and unwind at the famous Voulisma beach with plenty of time to swim. The tour also includes free meals and experienced guides who lead you through the highlights of southeastern Crete, making it an excellent choice for those seeking both fun and insight during their day.

While the tour is designed to be gentle and family-friendly, it involves some off-road driving and walking, so guests should be comfortable with moderate activity levels. This trip provides a hearty taste of Crete’s natural beauty and traditional charm, with the added benefit of free pick-up and drop-off for a seamless experience.

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Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $99 per person and lasts for 9 hours.
• Comprehensive Route: Includes stops at Kritsa village, Katharo Plateau, Sarakinas Gorge, and Voulisma beach.
• Inclusive Features: Free meal, fuel, and experience-guided driving ensure a smooth day.
• Multiple Pickup Locations: 20 options across Crete, including Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for most, but not recommended for travelers over 70 years old.
• Languages: Guides speak Dutch, English, French, and German.

Starting from the Pickup Points to Crete’s Traditional Villages

The tour begins with convenient pickup options from 20 locations across Crete, including popular spots like Elounda, Heraklion, and Gouves. After a brief wait in your hotel lobby, a knowledgeable driver collects you for a day of exploration. The journey kicks off with a visit to Kritsa, a famous traditional village known for its narrow alleys and local shops.

In Kritsa, you get about 30 minutes to stroll, take photos, and soak in the authentic Cretan atmosphere. The village’s charm lies in its old-world architecture and handmade crafts, making it an ideal spot to appreciate local culture before heading into nature.

Ascending to the Scenic Katharo Plateau

From Kritsa, the adventure continues with a scenic drive up to the Katharo Plateau, situated at 1250 meters altitude. This part of the tour features an off-road adventure that highlights Crete’s rugged terrain and panoramic views. The scenic route showcases breathtaking landscapes, with sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

At the plateau, guests enjoy a 25-minute stop to take photos, breathe fresh mountain air, and sip coffee at a traditional cafe. This brief pause offers a great chance to appreciate the vast natural beauty from one of the highest points on the tour.

Exploring the Selakano Forest and Off-Road Adventure

Next, the tour guides you through the Selakano Forest, a lush area perfect for guided sightseeing and walking. The guided tour lasts about 50 minutes, during which you will see regional flora and experience off-road driving through forested terrain.

The route through Selakano allows visitors to appreciate Crete’s diverse landscape and enjoy scenic views of the forest and mountains. This part of the trip is ideal for those who enjoy nature walks and outdoor exploration, with the opportunity to learn about local plant life and the environment from your guides.

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The Stunning Sarakinas Gorge: A Natural Wonder

One of the tour’s main highlights is the visit to Sarakinas Gorge, where you spend about 2 hours exploring guides’ tours and regional food. The gorge impresses with its dramatic cliffs and lush greenery, providing a spectacular backdrop for photos and nature walks.

Guests can expect scenic walking paths, with optional off-road activities and sightseeing. During the visit, there’s also a brunch featuring regional dishes, giving a taste of local cuisine amid stunning natural surroundings. This stop enables visitors to fully appreciate Crete’s rugged landscape and enjoy some quiet time in a peaceful environment.

Relaxing at Voulisma Beach and Swimming Time

After the gorge, the tour heads to Voulisma beach, a famous Crete destination known for its crystal-clear waters and soft sand. The free time at the beach lasts approximately 105 minutes, offering plenty of opportunity to swim, sunbathe, or simply relax in the beautiful surroundings.

This beach stop provides a perfect chance to cool off after a day of adventure and sightseeing. The calm waters and scenic views make it an ideal spot for families or anyone looking to unwind before the journey back.

Scenic Return Routes and Drop-Off

The return journey is along a beautiful route that showcases more of Crete’s landscape. After a full day, the tour concludes with drop-offs at the original pickup locations, including Elounda, Gouves, Heraklion, and others. The seamless transfer ensures a relaxed end to the day, allowing travelers to reflect on the diverse sights and experiences.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What to Prepare

The tour includes free pick-up and drop-off, a free meal, and fuel costs. The guides are experienced and speak Dutch, English, French, and German, making communication straightforward. The pick-up is arranged from your hotel lobby, with timing details provided after booking.

Guests should bring sunglasses, swimwear, and a towel for beach and outdoor stops. The tour is not suitable for travelers over 70 years old, due to the off-road driving and walking involved.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour the Most?

This tour appeals most to those who want a balanced mix of scenic drives, cultural stops, and beach relaxation. The guided walking in the gorge and forest, combined with the off-road adventures and mountain views, suit travelers who enjoy outdoor activities. The free meal and comfortable transport make it accessible and convenient.

Travelers who appreciate local villages, natural beauty, and crystal-clear beaches will find this tour offers a comprehensive taste of southeastern Crete in just one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is designed to be family-friendly and interests children with its scenic views and outdoor activities, but it involves some walking and off-road driving.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Dutch, English, French, and German, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

How long is the beach stop at Voulisma?
Guests have about 105 minutes at Voulisma beach to swim and relax.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour provides a free meal, typically regional dishes, during the Sarakinas Gorge stop.

Is the tour accessible for travelers over 70?
No, the experience is not suitable for travelers over 70 years old due to the nature of the off-road and walking portions.

How do I know my pickup time?
Your exact pickup time is communicated after booking, with instructions to wait in your hotel lobby 10 minutes before scheduled pickup.

This South Eastern Crete & Sarakinas Gorge Tour offers a well-rounded day exploring Crete’s stunning nature, charming villages, and pristine beaches—perfect for adventurous spirits and those eager to see the island’s diverse landscapes.

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