Sarakina Gorge, Kritza, Oliveoil Tasting, Mountains, South Coast

The Sarakina Gorge, Kritza, Olive Oil Tasting, Mountains, South Coast tour offers a full-day adventure into Crete’s less-traveled interior. Priced at $114.95 per person, this guided off-road safari takes you in an air-conditioned Land Rover Discovery through mountain plateaus, dense forests, and scenic viewpoints. With a rating of 5.0 from 86 reviews, it’s a highly recommended way to explore Crete beyond the usual sights, especially for those eager to see natural landscapes, enjoy local food, and experience authentic Cretan hospitality. The tour is designed for about 13 days in advance booking and lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, making it a comprehensive day out that suits most travelers.

While the tour is packed with highlights, it also provides practical touches such as hotel pickup and all-inclusive refreshments. Its most praised elements include knowledgeable guides, stunning panoramic views, and delicious food, all wrapped in a well-paced, adventure-heavy itinerary. This trip is ideal for active travelers ready to enjoy a mix of outdoor exploration, cultural stops, and scenic relaxation in a day.

Key Points

• Full-day, all-inclusive Crete safari for $114.95 with hotel pickup
• Visit Sarakina Gorge, a stunning canyon perfect for photos and bouldering
• Experience olive oil tasting at a family-run factory in Kritsa
• Travel in a climate-controlled Land Rover driven by an insider guide
• Hike through a magical mountain forest resembling a Harry Potter scene
• Enjoy a traditional Cretan lunch at a scenic lookout with views of the Aegean and Libyan Seas

Crete’s Most Scenic Mountain and Gorge Stops

This tour’s core highlights revolve around the spectacular Sarakina Gorge and the mountain forests near Kritza. The Sarakina Gorge is renowned for its impressive rock formations and the opportunity for photos in a landscape that feels both wild and untouched. The group can explore as far as possible without needing special equipment, making it accessible yet adventurous. The highlight is the stunning bouldering spots and the natural beauty of the gorge walls, which come alive in the late afternoon light.

The mountain forests near Kritza resemble scenes straight from a fantasy film, with towering trees and lush greenery. Travelers get a chance to trek into this forest, experiencing the peaceful silence and fresh mountain air. These stops are praised for their unique scenery, providing a break from the more common tourist spots and offering a genuine taste of Crete’s rugged nature.

Exploring Kritsa: One of Crete’s Oldest Villages

A visit to Kritsa introduces travelers to one of the island’s oldest villages. Known for its small houses, historic church, and vibrant community, Kritsa also produces some of the best olive oil in the world. The free 20-minute stop allows time for souvenir shopping and soaking in the village atmosphere. It’s a chance to see authentic Cretan life and purchase quality local products, especially olive oil, which is highly regarded.

The village’s charm lies in its traditional architecture and the opportunity to witness local craftsmanship. It’s a brief but meaningful stop that enhances the overall experience of the tour by connecting visitors with Crete’s rural roots.

Olives, Olive Oil, and Tasting Experiences

A key part of this tour is the visit to a family olive oil factory in Agios Nikolaos. Here, guests sample a variety of olive oils, tasting different qualities and sorts. The 30-minute visit is free of charge and provides insight into the local olive oil production process. Since Kritsa is famous for some of the best olive oil in the world, this tasting emphasizes the importance of olive cultivation in Crete’s culture and economy.

The tasting experience often includes pomegranate or blueberry balsamic vinegar, adding a flavorful twist to the tasting session. This stop offers a genuine opportunity to learn about Crete’s agricultural heritage, as well as to enjoy delicious local products.

Sarakina Gorge: Nature’s Photo Wonderland

The highlight of the tour is the Sarakina Gorge visit, where impressive rock formations and natural scenery create a picture-perfect setting. The group enters as far as possible, with no need for specialized equipment, making it accessible for most. The 30-minute walk allows for plenty of photo opportunities, and the rocks’ shapes and colors are often described as breathtaking.

This stop is praised for its natural beauty and the chance to experience a relatively untouched part of Crete. It’s a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts and photographers, with many capturing stunning landscapes during this time.

Relaxing at Paralia Myrtos: Swimming in the Libyan Sea

After exploring the gorge, the tour pauses at Paralia Myrtos, a scenic beach where travelers can enjoy a one-hour swim in the Libyan Sea. The beach’s clear waters and gentle waves make it an ideal spot for relaxation after a morning of adventure.

This stop also provides an opportunity to unwind, soak up some sun, and appreciate the natural beauty of Crete’s southern coast. It’s a refreshing break that balances the morning’s hiking and sightseeing with leisure.

Scenic Views from Mountain Lookouts

One of the most striking features of this tour is the view from a peak where it’s possible to see both the Aegean and Libyan Seas. The guide leads the group to scenic vantage points accessible via the off-road vehicle route, offering sweeping views of Crete’s diverse landscape.

The scenic lookout provides a memorable photo opportunity and highlights the island’s geographical breadth. Travelers often comment on how these vistas make the entire day feel worthwhile, bringing a sense of achievement and awe.

Convenient Logistics and Group Size

The tour departs at 9:00 am and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics straightforward. The air-conditioned Land Rover Discovery ensures comfort during the entire journey across rugged terrain. Group sizes are capped at 30 travelers, which helps maintain a personal and engaging atmosphere.

Most stops are brief but packed with visual and cultural interest, allowing for a relaxed pace that keeps the day enjoyable without feeling rushed. The full-day format comfortably balances active exploration with moments for rest and dining.

All-Inclusive Experience and Meals

This tour is fully all-inclusive, featuring lunch at a scenic lookout, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages. The Cretan lunch is often praised for its quality and authentic flavors, providing a satisfying meal after the morning’s adventures.

Refreshments are available throughout the day, ensuring travelers stay hydrated and energized. The inclusion of drinks and a hearty meal adds significant value, especially given the overall affordability of the tour.

The Guide’s Role and Local Knowledge

Reviewers consistently highlight the knowledgeable guides, such as Michael, Thomas, Rolf, and others, as a major strength of this tour. These guides share insights into local traditions, land features, and history, making the experience more engaging and educational.

Guests appreciate guides who are friendly, professional, and eager to go beyond basic commentary. Their ability to spot herbs, explain plant uses, and assist with photo opportunities enhances the overall enjoyment.

Safety, Physical Requirements, and Accessibility

The tour involves some bouldering in Sarakina Gorge and walking in forested areas, so a reasonable level of mobility is recommended. However, the route is designed to be accessible without specialized equipment, making it suitable for most active individuals.

Since transportation is by climate-controlled vehicle and stops are brief, the tour remains comfortable and manageable for most travelers, including those with mild mobility challenges.

Final Thoughts on the Crete Mountain Safari

This full-day adventure in Crete’s interior offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and local flavors. The off-road journey in a comfortable Land Rover takes guests through scenic mountain vistas, lush forests, and impressive gorges, providing a more authentic look at Crete’s rugged landscape.

The olive oil tasting, combined with the scenic stops and delicious lunch, ensures a well-rounded day that balances outdoor activity with culture. The high ratings and positive reviews reflect its appeal to active travelers and those looking for a genuine experience.

While some may find the bouldering in Sarakina Gorge physically demanding, the overall route remains accessible and rewarding. The hotel pickup, all-inclusive pricing, and small group size make this tour a convenient and value-packed option for exploring Crete’s wild side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but some stops involve walking or light climbing, so it’s best suited for those with reasonable mobility.

What should I bring for this tour?
Comfortable clothing for outdoor activity, sunscreen, camera, and swimwear for the beach stop.

How early should I book?
Booking around 13 days in advance is recommended, as this tour tends to fill up quickly.

What is included in the price?
The full-day experience includes hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, bottled water, alcoholic beverages, and all visits and tastings.

Are there any optional extras?
No additional optional extras are listed; the tour is fully inclusive, with no mention of extra charges for specific activities.