Rethymno, a picturesque town on the island of Crete, serves as the starting point for an exciting day trip to the stunning Elafonisi Beach. Travelers can expect to be captivated by the breathtaking Balos Lagoon, a renowned photo-stop along the way. This 10-hour excursion promises an unforgettable adventure, complete with hotel pickup, a professional guide, and the opportunity to relax on Elafonisi’s white sandy shores. But what lies beyond the idyllic beaches and stunning vistas? The journey holds more surprises in store.
Key Points
- A day trip from Rethymno to Elafonisi and Balos Lagoon, priced at Kč 1,126 per person for a 10-hour excursion.
- Highlights include relaxation on Elafonisi’s white sandy shores, a photo-stop at Balos Lagoon, and exploration of Crete’s stunning landscapes.
- Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, and free time at Elafonisi; optional boat ride available at an additional cost.
- Customers rate the tour positively, with high praise for the professional guide and good value for money.
- Elafonisi offers renowned white sandy beaches with shallow, crystal-clear waters, scenic strolls, and exploration of rock formations and hidden coves.
Trip Overview and Pricing
The Rethymno: Elafonisi Day Trip offers travelers a chance to explore the stunning white-sand beaches of Elafonisi and marvel at the breathtaking views of Balos Lagoon.
Experience the stunning white-sand beaches of Elafonisi and the breathtaking views of Balos Lagoon on this day trip from Rethymno.
Priced from Kč 1,126 per person, the 10-hour excursion includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, and free time at Elafonisi.
Travelers can opt for an additional boat ride for 30 Euros and pay a 1 Euro entrance fee.
The trip features a photo-stop at Balos Lagoon and a journey to Cape Vouxa via an 8-kilometer dirt track in a 4×4 bus.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.
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Highlights and Activities
Visitors can relax and swim on Elafonisi’s white shores with shallow waters, where they’ll find a tranquil atmosphere.
The tour also includes:
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A photo-stop above the breathtaking Balos Lagoon.
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Exploration of the natural surroundings, including a walk to the beach.
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Travel to Cape Vouxa via an 8-kilometer dirt track in a 4×4 bus.
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Free time to enjoy Elafonisi at leisure.
The tour provides an opportunity to immerse in the stunning natural beauty of Crete’s landscapes and coastal attractions.
Inclusions and Additional Costs
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as a professional guide.
Free time is provided at Elafonisi for visitors to relax and swim. An optional boat ride is available for an additional cost of 30 Euros. Visitors must also pay a 1 Euro entrance fee.
It’s recommended to bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, swimwear, water, and breathable clothing to fully enjoy the natural surroundings and activities during the day trip.
What to Bring
Though the day trip involves various activities, it’s important to pack the essentials to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
The list of recommended items includes:
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Comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
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A sun hat or visor to shield from the Mediterranean sun.
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Swimwear and a towel for relaxing on the white sandy beaches of Elafonisi.
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A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Bringing these key items will help travelers make the most of their Elafonisi day trip and photo-stop at the breathtaking Balos Lagoon.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Reviews and Ratings
Customers who’ve taken the Rethymno: Elafonisi Day Trip have provided valuable feedback on their experiences.
The tour has an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars based on 34 reviews. Customers praised the professional guide, rating them 4.5 out of 5 stars.
The tour has an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars, with customers praising the professional guide, who received a 4.5 out of 5 rating.
Transportation was also positively received, earning a 4.1 rating. Reviewers felt the tour offered good value for money, with a 4.2 rating in this category.
However, some customers mentioned issues with pickup coordination. The feedback highlights the tour’s strengths while identifying areas for potential improvement.
Exploring Elafonisi’s White Shores
As part of the Rethymno: Elafonisi Day Trip, visitors can relax and swim on Elafonisi’s renowned white sandy shores with their shallow, crystal-clear waters.
The natural surroundings offer a serene and picturesque experience:
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Stroll along the beach, taking in the stunning views of the turquoise lagoon and the distant mountains.
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Dip your toes in the warm, inviting waters and enjoy the sensation of the soft sand between your toes.
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Explore the nearby rock formations and coves, discovering hidden pockets of natural beauty.
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Witness the vibrant hues of the sea, ranging from deep blue to pale green, as the light dances across the surface.
Breathtaking Views of Balos Lagoon
After exploring the serene shores of Elafonisi, the day trip takes visitors on a photo-stop above the breathtaking Balos Lagoon.
The stunning turquoise waters and white sand beaches create a picturesque scene that’s a photographer’s dream. Perched on a cliff, the vantage point offers sweeping views of the lagoon and the surrounding rugged landscape.
Visitors can snap memorable shots of this natural wonder before continuing their journey. The photo-stop allows them to witness the beauty of Balos Lagoon without the need to actually visit the beach, making it an efficient addition to the day trip.
Traversing the rugged 8-kilometer dirt track to Cape Vouxa is a thrilling part of the day trip. The 4×4 bus navigates the uneven, winding path with ease, offering passengers a unique perspective.
Along the way, travelers experience:
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Stunning coastal vistas with crystal-clear waters and towering cliffs.
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Rugged terrain dotted with hardy, drought-resistant vegetation.
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Glimpses of local wildlife, like goats and birds, navigating the challenging landscape.
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A sense of adventure and exploration, as the bus climbs and descends the remote, untamed road.
This adventurous journey sets the stage for the breathtaking sights to come at Elafonisi.
Since You Asked
Is Transportation to the Starting Point Included?
Yes, the trip includes hotel pickup and drop-off, so transportation to the starting point is included. The customer only needs to get themselves to their hotel before the tour begins.
Can the Tour Be Customized for Personal Preferences?
The tour can’t be customized, but it does offer some flexibility. Travelers can opt for an optional boat ride at Elafonisi for an additional cost. Otherwise, the itinerary and activities are fixed as part of the day trip.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for Participants?
The tour doesn’t have any specific age restrictions or requirements. It’s suitable for participants of all ages, though parents should ensure young children are supervised. Travelers should be able to comfortably walk short distances and get in and out of the 4×4 bus.
Can the Tour Be Combined With Other Activities in the Area?
The tour can be combined with other activities in the area, though it’s not explicitly included. Travelers may opt to extend their stay and explore nearby attractions independently before or after the day trip.
What Are the Safety Precautions Taken During the 4×4 Drive?
The 4×4 bus ride on an 8-kilometer dirt track is overseen by experienced drivers who prioritize passenger safety. They navigate the rugged terrain carefully, ensuring the vehicle remains stable and secure throughout the journey.
Final Words
The Rethymno to Elafonisi day trip with a Balos Lagoon photo-stop offers an unforgettable adventure. Visitors can bask in the stunning natural beauty of Crete’s landscapes, relax on Elafonisi’s renowned white sandy beaches, and capture breathtaking views of the Balos Lagoon. With a professional guide, hotel pickup, and optional activities, this highly-rated excursion promises an unforgettable day in paradise.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Boat Tours & Cruises in Crete
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- Heraklion, Malia & Agia Pelagi:Boat Trip to Koufonisi Island
- Rethymno: Pirate Boat Cruise with Swimming Stop
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