If you’re considering a way to see more of Crete than just the beaches or popular tourist spots, a quad safari like this one from Ela Quad Safari offers a fantastic option. This tour promises to take you off the beaten path into the island’s less-explored corners, revealing traditional villages, abandoned towns, and stunning viewpoints you won’t find on typical sightseeing itineraries.
What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines adventure and culture in a way that feels both fun and meaningful. You get the excitement of riding on rugged terrain, coupled with insights into local life and history—plus, a chance to taste some authentic products. The only thing to keep in mind is that, given the nature of the terrain and activities, it’s best suited for those comfortable with outdoor adventures and who want a more active way to explore Crete.
This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy a mix of adrenaline, scenery, and culture. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or simply want to see a different side of the island, this quad safari could be a highlight of your trip. Just note that it’s not suitable for pregnant women and involves some off-road dust, so come prepared with comfortable clothes and a bandana if you like.
Key Points
- Authentic Crete: Experience parts of the island largely untouched by mainstream tourism.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas and viewpoints accessible only via off-road routes.
- Cultural Insights: Visit traditional villages, learn about local crafts, and explore a ghost town.
- Active Adventure: Ride rugged terrain on well-maintained ATVs, with guidance ensuring safety and fun.
- Local Flavors: Taste regional products in villages like Fodele, birthplace of El Greco.
- Flexible and Friendly Guides: Experienced local guides make the trip enjoyable and informative.
The Experience in Detail
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Starting Point and Safety First
The adventure kicks off at Ela Quad Safari, located just a short drive after the Blu Bay hotel. The safety briefing, lasting about 20 minutes, is essential and well-conducted. We appreciated how the guides clearly explained the controls and safety measures, making novices feel comfortable even if it’s their first time on an ATV.
Riding Through Crete’s Rugged Terrain
The core of this tour is the quad riding itself. Over approximately 30 minutes, you’ll traverse rocky paths and dirt tracks with panoramic views that stretch across the landscape. You’ll see Agia Pelagia from above, a perfect spot for photos, and experience a sense of freedom as you wind through Crete’s greener, less developed areas.
Multiple reviews highlight how much fun the off-road sections are. Sven from Belgium mentioned that they spent more than three hours riding, enjoying the “really good and well-maintained vehicles” and the “stunning environment.” The terrain varies, giving you a genuine adrenaline rush while also taking in scenery that’s often inaccessible by car.
Exploring the Ghost Town
One of the most intriguing parts of this tour is the visit to a deserted village, often called a ghost town. This stop offers a mixture of history and curiosity. You can wander through the alleys, observe architecture frozen in time, and learn about life in this once-thriving community. As a bonus, some residents still live there, giving you the chance to exchange greetings and ask questions—an authentic slice of Cretan life.
Reviews from Harry and others note that this stop is not only visually captivating but also educational. The quiet streets and remnants of old buildings provide a unique window into the island’s past, making it much more than a quick photo stop.
More Great Tours NearbyVisiting Fodele, the Birthplace of El Greco
Next, the tour takes you to Fodele, a charming village famed as the birthplace of the Renaissance painter El Greco. Here, you’ll get to see his family home and the 11th-century Panagia church, showcasing Byzantine architecture. This visit combines cultural exploration with relaxed downtime, giving you a chance to stroll the streets, snap photos, or enjoy refreshments in a riverside café.
The reviews mention the village’s “picturesque” surroundings, with lush olive and orange groves adding to the peaceful atmosphere. It’s a perfect contrast to the rugged outdoor riding, offering a taste of local life and history.
Return Route and Final Rides
After exploring Fodele and the ghost town, the tour continues with more quad riding, passing through Achlada, an area with lovely scenery and local sights. The ride back to the starting point is relaxed, allowing you to reflect on the day’s highlights and enjoy the landscapes from a different perspective.
What’s Included and What to Expect
The tour package covers helmets, hairnets, and a thorough driving lesson on a private off-road course, making it accessible even for beginners. You’ll also receive photos and videos, so you can relive the experience later. Refreshments include raki and a sweet, adding a local touch to the trip.
Price-wise, at $95 for up to two people, it offers great value considering the duration (around 3.5 to 4 hours) and the variety of experiences packed in. The guides are multilingual and highly praised for their friendliness, humor, and professionalism. Safety is clearly a priority, with guides managing traffic and obstacles expertly.
Practical Tips
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for off-road riding.
- Bring a bandana or scarf to help with dust.
- You need a driver’s license, so make sure to have it handy.
- No alcohol or drugs are permitted, for safety reasons.
- This activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women, given the nature of the ride.
Authentic Moments and Genuine Reviews
Many travelers rave about the guides, like Alessandro from Italy, who called it the “best experience in Crete” thanks to the kindness and friendliness of the team. Sven appreciated the “safe and well-maintained vehicles” and the ample time spent riding, emphasizing how the stunning scenery and educational stop at the ghost town made it memorable.
Others like Paige and Paulina highlight how the guides shared interesting information about plants, animals, and locals, making the ride both fun and informative. The safety measures, including guides at the front, middle, and back of the group, gave everyone confidence to enjoy the ride fully.
The cultural stops, especially the visit to El Greco’s birthplace and the Byzantine church, are appreciated as a way to connect more deeply with Crete’s heritage. The balance of action, scenery, and culture makes this tour versatile and engaging.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This quad safari is best suited for active travelers who want to combine sightseeing with adventure. If you enjoy outdoor activities and are comfortable riding ATVs over uneven terrain, you’ll find this trip rewarding. It’s perfect for those interested in authentic villages, abandoned towns, and scenic views.
However, if you have mobility issues, are pregnant, or dislike dust and outdoor dust, it might not be ideal. The experience is designed to be fun and safe, but the off-road nature means it’s more suited to adventurous spirits.
Crete: Quad Safari traditional hidden villages – nature
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour includes a driving lesson on a private, off-road course, making it accessible even if you’ve never ridden an ATV before.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended. A bandana is suggested to help manage dust and dirt during the ride.
Are there age or health restrictions?
The activity is not suitable for pregnant women, and participants need to hold a valid driver’s license. No other specific age restrictions are mentioned.
How long is the tour?
The total experience lasts approximately 220 minutes, including safety briefing, riding, and sightseeing stops.
What’s included in the price?
Helmets, hairnets, a driving lesson, photos/videos, and local refreshments like raki and a sweet are included. Food and drinks are not covered.
How many people are in each group?
Prices are for groups of up to 2 people, but the group size may vary depending on the number of ATVs available at the time.
Is the activity safe?
Guides are experienced, and safety procedures are emphasized. They manage the group during street crossings and obstacles, ensuring everyone’s safety.
What if I get late or want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility if plans change.
Can I combine this with other activities?
Yes, the tour is similar to many other quad safaris and outdoor adventures in Crete, some of which include tasting local products or visiting other villages.
This quad safari in Crete offers a compelling mix of adventure, culture, and breathtaking scenery. It’s a great option if you want to see parts of the island that are usually hidden from travelers, all while enjoying the thrill of riding on rugged terrain. The guides’ friendliness and the well-organized stops make it a worthwhile addition to your Crete itinerary.
Perfect for active travelers who crave a bit of adrenaline but also want meaningful cultural stops, this tour is likely to leave you with a lot of stories and photos to cherish. While it’s not a casual sightseeing trip, the value in both fun and authentic experiences makes it a standout choice for those ready to explore Crete differently.
If you’re looking for an energetic, scenic, and culturally enriching adventure, give this quad safari a serious thought—you might just find it’s one of your favorite memories from Greece.
Note: Always check availability and specific details directly with the tour provider before booking.
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