Balos Beach Off-Road Bus Daily Departure from Kissamos

Visiting Balos Beach in Crete is often considered a highlight of any trip to the island, but getting there can be a bit of an adventure. This off-road bus tour from Kissamos offers a practical way to experience this iconic beach without the stress of navigating rough terrain yourself. Based on numerous reviews and detailed descriptions, this tour combines comfort, spectacular scenery, and a more peaceful experience away from the crowds.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? We love the comfortable 4×4 transportation, the breathtaking views of Kissamos Gulf and the lagoon, and the chance to enjoy Balos before it gets overwhelmed by day-trippers. However, it’s worth noting that this tour involves a 40-minute dirt-road drive and a 20-minute walk, which could be tiring for some travelers. Still, if you’re after an authentic and less crowded Balos experience, this tour hits all the right notes.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a hassle-free journey, appreciate spectacular scenery, and are okay with a bit of walking and dirt-road driving. It’s especially appealing if you want to beat the crowds and arrive early to enjoy the tranquility of one of Greece’s most stunning beaches.

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Key Points

Comfortable Transportation: Fully air-conditioned 4×4 bus makes the journey smooth and relaxing.
Spectacular Views: Expect panoramic vistas of Kissamos Gulf and the lagoon en route.
Early Access: Beat the crowds by arriving before the big boats, enjoying a quieter beach experience.
Moderate Walk: About 20 minutes walk from the end of the dirt-road to the lagoon, offering great photo opportunities.
Affordable Price: At $35, this tour offers excellent value considering the convenience and scenery.
Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for pregnant women, mobility-impaired, or those over certain weight and age limits.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Details of the Tour

Looking for more options in Greece? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

The Journey to Balos: Scenic and Off-Road

Starting from Kissamos, the tour departs in a comfortable, air-conditioned 4×4 bus that can handle the rough terrain better than an ordinary vehicle. This is a major advantage, especially considering the dirt-road that leads to the top of Balos Beach. As the driver navigates the twists and turns, you get sweeping views of Kissamos Gulf, a perfect backdrop for photos and just to soak in the landscape.

Travelers often mention that the drive is around 40 minutes on dirt-road, which can seem long if you’re expecting a quick hop. However, most reviews note that the drive is part of the adventure, with the driver’s expertise making it comfortable and safe. The vehicle’s air-conditioning is a welcome feature, especially during the warmer months, ensuring you arrive at the top of the path refreshed.

Arrival and the 20-Minute Walk

Once you reach the end of the dirt-road, you’ll face a short walk of about 20 minutes down the path to the lagoon and beach. The walk is quite manageable but can be tiring depending on your footwear and the heat. Reviewers recommend wearing sneakers or comfortable shoes and bringing a hat and sunscreen. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning vistas of the lagoon, with many noting that these views are just as mesmerizing as the beach itself.

The Lagoon and the Beach: Less Crowded, More Authentic

One of the standout features of this tour is arriving before the crowds. Many boat trips and daytime visitors arrive later, filling the lagoon with hundreds of travelers and their boats. Guests who travel early with this tour often mention that they get to enjoy the crystal-clear waters with fewer people, making the experience far more peaceful and authentic.

The reviews highlight the beautiful aquamarine waters and the magical colors of the lagoon, which are among the most photographed sights in Greece. The water is famously clear, inviting you to swim or simply relax on the sandy shore. With fewer visitors, you get a more intimate feel of this natural wonder, which many describe as “probably one of the best beaches in Greece, if not the entire world.”

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Additional Tips from Reviewers

Many reviewers suggest going early in the morning (departure options are 8:00 am or 9:30 am from Kissamos) to maximize your time at the lagoon and avoid the main crowds.
The 1 euro entrance fee is paid on the way, so carry some change.
Bring sunglasses, water, and a camera to capture the scenery.
For those seeking comfort, wear sneakers and a hat as the climb can be tiring, especially in the heat.

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The Return Trip

The tour provides a scheduled return from Balos lagoon, with options at 13:00 or 16:30, depending on your chosen departure time. The bus ride back offers the same scenic views, giving you a relaxing conclusion to a busy day. Most reviewers find the timing well-organized, allowing enough time to swim and take photos without feeling rushed.

The Value of This Tour

At $35 per person, this tour offers remarkable value, considering it includes the full transportation service, expert driver, and early access to Balos. The alternative—driving your own vehicle or waiting for a boat—can be more expensive or less convenient, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the dirt-road terrain or want to avoid the crowds and noise of boatloads of travelers.

People who have taken this tour praise the professional and courteous guide (notably from STRATA TOURS BY STELIOS), who makes the journey comfortable and informative. The small group feel adds to the overall experience, giving you room to relax and take in the scenery.

Limitations and Considerations

This tour isn’t suitable for everyone. It involves a 40-minute dirt-road drive, so those with mobility issues or pregnant women should consider this carefully. Plus, the walk down to the lagoon might be tiring, especially in high heat. The weight restrictions and age limits noted by the operator mean this isn’t a tour for everyone, but for most active travelers, it’s a manageable adventure.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you love stunning landscapes, prefer avoiding the crowds of boat tours, and value comfort and convenience, you’ll find this experience worthwhile. It’s ideal for those who want to maximize their time at Balos without the stress of driving or navigating rough terrain. Photographers and nature lovers will especially appreciate the early access to the lagoon’s serene waters.

However, if you have limited mobility, prefer a more relaxed walk, or are traveling with very young children or seniors over 95, this might not be the best fit.

The Sum Up

This Balos Beach Off-Road Bus Tour provides a compelling combination of scenic beauty, comfort, and exclusivity. For around $35, you get a smooth, guided journey to one of Greece’s most breathtaking beaches, with the advantage of arriving early and avoiding the crowds. The experience offers a good balance of adventure and relaxation, making it suitable for travelers who want to make the most of their Balos visit.

Travelers will love the spectacular views, the peaceful waters, and the professional guidance that adds peace of mind to the trip. It’s especially perfect for those who value authentic moments without the hassle, and who want a cost-effective way to access this natural wonder.

This tour offers excellent value, memorable scenery, and a chance to enjoy Balos in a way that few other options can match. It’s a smart choice for active explorers eager to see one of Greece’s most iconic beaches with a bit of comfort and a lot of natural beauty.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Since the tour involves a dirt-road drive and a walk down to the lagoon, it’s best for children who are comfortable with these activities. Check with the provider about age restrictions and suitability.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, a camera, sunscreen, water, comfortable clothes, flip-flops or sneakers, beachwear, and cash for the entrance fee.

What are the departure times?
There are two options: 08:00 am from Kissamos and 13:00 return, or 09:30 am from Kissamos and 16:30 return.

How long does the whole trip take?
The journey from Kissamos to Balos and back usually takes around 5-6 hours, depending on the selected departure time and the time spent at the lagoon.

Is it a group tour?
Yes, it operates with small groups, led by professional, English-speaking guides from STRATA TOURS BY STELIOS.

What is the cost?
The tour costs $35 per person, which includes transportation and guide services.

Are there any hidden fees?
You’ll need to pay a 1 euro entrance fee to access Balos lagoon, paid on the way to the beach.

Is the walk to the lagoon difficult?
The walk takes approximately 20 minutes and can be tiring in the heat. Comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended.

Can I swim in the lagoon?
Absolutely. The waters are famously clear and inviting, perfect for swimming or lounging by the beach.

What makes this tour stand out?
Early arrival to avoid crowds, scenic off-road drive, professional guides, and great value for money make this experience unique.

Whether you’re after a scenic, hassle-free adventure or a peaceful spot to enjoy one of Greece’s most celebrated beaches, this Balos Beach tour from Kissamos offers a practical, unforgettable option.