Full-Day Land Rover Safari From Heraklion With Lunch

Explore the rugged terrain and rich heritage of Crete on a full-day Land Rover safari from Heraklion. This immersive adventure takes you off the beaten path, where you’ll discover ancient caves, quaint shepherd villages, and jaw-dropping mountain vistas. With a delicious traditional Greek lunch and a glass of raki included, this tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into the island’s captivating past and vibrant culture. Let’s dive deeper into what makes this safari a must-do experience for travelers.

Key Points

• Full-day adventure exploring ancient Minoan history and Cretan culture, with over 1,000 reviews and a 100% traveler recommendation.
• Off-roading through Cretan mountains, visiting shepherds’ villages, and exploring the mythological Dikteon Cave.
• Includes lunch and traditional raki liqueur at a local tavern with classic Cretan cuisine.
• Knowledgeable driver/guide, hotel/port pickup and drop-off, and maximum group size of 15 for personal service.
• Suitable for couples, families, and groups, with wheelchair accessibility but not recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions.

Overview and Experience

The Land Rover Safari from Heraklion offers a full-day adventure that allows visitors to discover ancient Minoan history, Cretan farming culture, and stunning island views.

With over 1,000 reviews and a 100% traveler recommendation, the safari showcases off-roading through the Cretan mountains, visits to shepherds’ villages, and exploration of the mythological Dikteon Cave.

Highlights include lunch and traditional raki liqueur at a local tavern, as well as stops at the Aposelemis Basin Reservoir and ancient Roman aqueduct.

The small group size ensures personal service, making this an ideal experience for couples, families, and groups.

Itinerary Highlights

Morning pickup from Heraklion hotels kicks off the adventure.

You’ll drive through Crete’s rugged mountains, stopping first at the Aposelemis Basin Reservoir and ancient Roman aqueduct.

Then, it’s off to the forgotten village of Sfendili to observe the local shepherding lifestyle.

The highlight is a climb to the famous Dikteon Cave, the mythological birthplace of Zeus, with stunning views of the Lassithi Plateau.

Lunch at a traditional tavern features classic Cretan cuisine, including vegetarian options.

The journey continues to the Lassinthos Eco Park and the village of Seli, concluding with a stop in Krassi.

Inclusions and Logistics

This full-day Land Rover safari from Heraklion includes hotel/port pickup and drop-off, a knowledgeable driver/guide, a 3-course lunch, fuel surcharge, local taxes, and bottled water.

The small group size ensures personal service, with a maximum of 15 travelers. Prices start at $98.66 per person, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, though infants must sit on laps. Breakfast is available at an additional cost, and a Greek Mythology Theme Park entrance fee of €6 applies.

The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions.

Accessibility and Recommendations

Although the safari is wheelchair accessible, infants must sit on laps during the tour. The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions.

Breakfast is available at your own expense, and entry to the Greek Mythology Theme Park costs €6.

The safari offers a well-rounded experience for couples, families, and groups, though taller individuals may find the seating a bit tight.

With its knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and immersive local experiences, the full-day Land Rover Safari is a great way to discover the natural and cultural wonders of Crete.

Minoan History and Cretan Culture

As you venture on this full-day Land Rover Safari, you’ll have the opportunity to uncover the ancient Minoan history and vibrant Cretan culture that have shaped this captivating island.

You’ll explore the mythological Dikteon Cave, believed to be the birthplace of Zeus, and gain insights into the traditional shepherding lifestyle of forgotten villages.

The tour also includes a visit to the Lassinthos Eco Park, where you can learn about the agricultural heritage of Crete, from olive groves to vineyards and local produce.

• Discover Minoan historical sites
• Observe Cretan farming and shepherding culture
• Explore the Lassinthos Eco Park

Off-Roading Adventure and Scenic Views

The off-road adventure takes travelers on a thrilling journey through Crete’s rugged, mountainous terrain in the comfort of a Land Rover. Traversing steep inclines and rocky paths, the safari leads to breathtaking viewpoints of the Lassithi Plateau and the mythical birthplace of Zeus. Along the way, guests discover ancient Roman aqueducts and visit remote shepherd villages, seeing Cretan culture. The experience culminates with a traditional Greek lunch and raki at a local tavern, capping off a day of exploration and discovery.

Dining and Local Cuisine

One of the highlights of the Land Rover safari is the included traditional Greek lunch at a local tavern.

Travelers can look forward to a 3-course meal featuring:

• Authentic Cretan dishes using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients
• Vegetarian options to accommodate various dietary needs
• A complimentary glass of the island’s signature ‘raki’ liqueur

The lunch provides a welcomed respite and opportunity to savor the flavors of Crete.

Guests can relax and soak in the ambiance of the cozy tavern, surrounded by the stunning Lassithi Plateau views outside.

Reviews and Traveler Feedback

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the Land Rover safari experience, with an impressive overall rating of 5.0 out of 1,074 reviews. Guests have highlighted the knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and authentic local experiences. While some have noted concerns about the closure of Dikteon Cave, alternative visits were offered. The safari is recommended for couples, families, and groups, though taller individuals may find the seating a bit tight.

Ask Away

What Is the Language Spoken During the Tour?

The tour is conducted in English, as the guide is fluent in the language and caters to international travelers. Greek may also be spoken intermittently to communicate with local vendors and residents along the route.

How Much Walking Is Involved Throughout the Day?

The tour involves moderate walking. Visitors explore caves, villages, and scenic overlooks. While much of the day is spent on the Land Rover, some time is spent getting out to explore the natural and cultural sights on foot.

Can Guests Bring Their Own Food and Drinks?

Guests can bring their own food and drinks, but lunch and bottled water are included in the tour price. Travelers should be prepared for some walking at the various stops, but the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Is Wi-Fi Available on the Vehicle During the Tour?

Wi-Fi is not provided on the vehicle during the tour. The tour focuses on immersing guests in the island’s natural and cultural experiences, rather than relying on technology. Guests are encouraged to be present and engage with their surroundings throughout the excursion.

Can Guests Choose Their Own Lunch Menu Options?

Yes, guests can choose their own lunch menu options at the local tavern. The tour includes a 3-course traditional and vegetarian lunch, allowing participants to select their preferred dishes.

Final Words

Explore Crete’s rich history and stunning landscapes on this full-day Land Rover safari from Heraklion. Venture off-road through the mountains, visit shepherds’ villages, and discover the mythological Dikteon Cave. Savor a traditional Greek lunch and a glass of raki at a local tavern. With a small group size, this tour offers a personalized and memorable experience.