Rhodes Uncharted South Safari: Mountains, Monasteries, & Flavors

Explore Rhodes Off the Beaten Path with the Uncharted South Safari

For those eager to see a different side of Rhodes, Greece, the Rhodes Uncharted South Safari offers a compelling full-day journey for $156.41 per person. Spanning approximately 8 hours, this tour includes port pickup, off-road excursions, visits to traditional villages, and stunning panoramic viewpoints. Designed for small groups of just six travelers, it promises a more intimate and personalized experience. While the tour is packed with scenic stops and cultural highlights, it may appeal most to those comfortable with moderate walking and outdoor travel.

The tour’s strength lies in its focus on remote landscapes and local flavors, making it ideal for travelers seeking an authentic, off-the-radar adventure. The combination of mountain views, monastery visits, and local cuisine ensures a well-rounded day, though those expecting lengthy visits at each stop might find the pace somewhat brisk. Regardless, this safari provides a rewarding way to explore Rhodes’ lesser-known charms.

Key Points

• Small group size of six visitors enhances intimacy and personalized attention.
• Includes port pickup and drop-off, simplifying logistics for cruise ship passengers.
• Combines scenic off-road driving with visits to historic monasteries and villages.
• Offers a traditional Greek lunch with local food and wine, adding culinary delight.
• Multiple panoramic viewpoints deliver breathtaking photo opportunities over the island.
• Duration of around 8 hours makes it a full but manageable day trip.

Starting from Rhodes Port and Personalized Pickups

The tour begins at 8:30 am, with convenient pickup from the port or nearby locations. This ensures a smooth start for cruise travelers, who often prefer tours that handle transportation. The guide-driven, premium 7-seater off-road vehicles are perfect for navigating Rhodes’ rugged terrain, providing a comfortable and exciting ride through mountains and forests. The small group size guarantees fewer crowds and more space for conversation with the multilingual escort-driver.

The first destination is Laerma Village, where the journey kicks off with a scenic off-road drive of about 30 minutes. This village offers a peaceful atmosphere and a chance to learn about the area’s history and spiritual sites. A quick pause for coffee or a visit to the monastery is included, giving travelers time to enjoy the surroundings.

Visiting the Saint John Theologos Monastery

After the initial drive, the tour proceeds to Saint John Theologos Monastery, accessible via an off-road drive of 40 minutes from Laerma. This monastery is a highlight for those interested in religious architecture and tranquil landscapes. Visitors can choose to explore the monastery or enjoy a coffee break, making this stop both relaxing and culturally enriching. Admission at this site is free, allowing visitors to appreciate its historic charm without additional costs.

Capturing Panoramic Views at Mountain Viewpoints

Next, the tour features multiple stops for spectacular photo opportunities. A 10-minute stop at Saint Isidoros Village offers a glimpse into local life, followed by a 15-minute stop at the West Coast for breathtaking sea views. Then, a 30-minute drive brings visitors to the Panorama Mountain Viewpoint, where a 10-minute photo break captures the expansive vistas of Rhodes’ rugged coastline. These stops are perfectly timed for photos, providing stunning images of the island’s diverse terrain.

Exploring Monolithos and Its Scenic Charm

A brief 5-minute drive leads to Monolithos Village, where a 10-minute stop allows for photos of this quiet, historic settlement. Its charm lies in its simplicity and scenic setting, offering a peaceful contrast to busier parts of Rhodes. The visit is quick but gives a good sense of local architecture and rural life.

Savoring a Traditional Greek Lunch in Siana Village

Midday, the tour pauses in Siana Village for approximately 75 minutes to enjoy a lunch of traditional Greek food and wine. This relaxed meal is included, giving travelers a chance to sample local flavors in a casual setting. The village setting enhances the authentic experience, making this stop a highlight for food lovers and those interested in local culture.

Relaxing at Limni Beach

After lunch, the journey continues with a 40-minute drive to Limni Beach. Here, travelers get a 10-minute photo stop to admire the Aegean Sea’s beauty and unwind. The setting offers a peaceful environment to soak in the sun, listen to the waves, or take a short stroll along the shoreline.

Visiting Apolakkia and Reflecting on the Day

The last stop is at Apolakkia Village, accessible via a 10-minute drive. Visitors have a 15-minute photo stop to absorb the village’s understated charm before heading back to the starting point. The return drive lasts about 25 minutes, bringing the tour to a close in the late afternoon.

Practical Details and Inclusions

Included in the price are a traditional Greek lunch with wine, liability insurance, local taxes, and free hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience. The tour uses premium off-road vehicles driven by multilingual guides, ensuring a smooth, informative ride through Rhodes’ backcountry.

However, note that coffee, wine, beer, or refreshments in taverns are not included, so travelers wishing extra beverages should budget accordingly. The tour is designed for most travelers, but it is not recommended for individuals with mobility issues, pregnant women, or children under 7, as there are no baby seats and some off-road segments.

Balancing Views and Pacing

While the tour boasts stunning panoramic viewpoints and visits to authentic villages, some reviews suggest that the itinerary could benefit from better spacing of breaks. The guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge are praised, although the driving through forest and mountain areas can be lengthy for those who prefer more engaging stops. The tour’s pace is generally brisk, giving attendees a taste of many sites but leaving limited time at each.

Notable Strengths and Potential Drawbacks

Among the tour’s strengths are the small group size, off-road adventures, and authentic local meals. The expert driver-guides and spectacular views craft a memorable experience, especially for those wanting to see Rhodes’ rural and mountainous areas.

The main limitation is the short duration at each stop, which may not satisfy visitors seeking in-depth exploration. Plus, the pace and off-road segments might be challenging for those with mobility or kinetic issues, or for taller passengers over 195 cm.

Final Thoughts on the Rhodes Uncharted South Safari

This tour offers a unique glimpse into Rhodes’ lesser-known landscapes, combining mountain views, historic monasteries, and traditional cuisine into a full-day adventure. It is especially suited for adventurous travelers eager to explore remote villages and panoramic vistas with a knowledgeable guide.

While it may not be perfect for those craving extensive stops at each site, the off-road drive, local flavor, and intimate group size make it a worthwhile choice for small group explorers. The balanced itinerary ensures a varied experience of Rhodes’ natural beauty and cultural heritage, all wrapped in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children under 7?
No, the tour is not recommended for children under 7 as no baby seats are provided, and the pace might be too brisk.

What is included in the price?
The tour price includes traditional Greek lunch and wine, liability insurance, local taxes, and free pickup and drop-off.

How long is the drive between stops?
The drives vary but generally last between 5 and 40 minutes, depending on the location, with some off-road segments.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour involves moderate walking and off-road driving, so it may not suit those with mobility issues or back problems.

Can I get extra drinks during the tour?
No, coffee, wine, beer, or refreshments in taverns are not included and must be purchased separately.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 18 travelers, ensuring a small-group experience.

Is the tour accessible for those with car sickness?
It may not be suitable for individuals prone to car sickness, especially due to off-road segments.

What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations later than that are non-refundable.

How do I book this tour?
Booking can be done through the Viator platform, with confirmation provided at the time of booking or within 48 hours if booked close to the date.

Who operates the tour?
The tour is operated by Uncharted Escapes, known for their expert driver-guides and off-road vehicles.

This Rhodes Uncharted South Safari offers a thoughtful blend of adventure, culture, and scenic beauty—perfect for those wanting to see Rhodes beyond the usual tourist spots.