Malia:Afternoon Quad Safari Tour Lunch Hotel Pickup Drop-off

Planning a trip to Crete and craving a blend of adventure, scenic beauty, and a taste of local life? The Malia: Afternoon Quad Safari Tour might just be what you’re looking for. It promises a 4.5-hour journey through some of the island’s most stunning landscapes, with the added perks of hotel pickup, a hearty lunch, and a guided experience. But before you book, let’s unpack what this tour offers—what makes it great, what to watch out for, and whether it’s a fit for your travel style.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience are the opportunity to explore off-the-beaten-path areas and the chance to learn about authentic Cretan life through local stops. The tour’s route takes you through olive groves, vineyards, and traditional villages, giving a genuine feel of the island. Plus, the guides seem to be quite knowledgeable and friendly, which always makes a big difference.

On the flip side, one potential consideration is the physical requirement—you need to be comfortable riding a quad, which involves some level of balance and coordination. Also, drivers must be between 23 and 65 years old with a valid license, so not everyone will qualify. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities and are okay with a bit of dirt and dust. If you’re after a relaxed day at the beach or prefer cultural tours on foot, this may not be your best fit.

This tour fits well for adventure-seekers, groups of friends, or couples looking for a lively way to see Crete’s countryside. Families with older children might also find it enjoyable, especially if they’re experienced riders. It’s a practical choice for those wanting a mix of scenic beauty and a bit of adrenaline, all wrapped into a manageable half-day experience.

Key Points

• Scenic off-road route that takes you through olive groves, vineyards, and traditional villages.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple.
• Guided by knowledgeable locals who understand the landscape and local culture.
• A fun and active way to explore Crete’s natural beauty, perfect for adventure lovers.
• Limited to drivers aged 23-65 with a valid license; not suitable for young children or certain health issues.
• A hearty local lunch is included, providing a nice break and taste of Cretan cuisine.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Diving Into the Experience

What to Expect from the Tour Itinerary

This tour kicks off with a hotel pickup, so you don’t have to worry about logistics—just be ready in your hotel lobby about 10 minutes early. There are 11 pickup points, including popular spots like Hersonissos, Malia, Heraklion, and Sisi, which makes it flexible whether you’re staying in a bustling town or a quieter area.

Once picked up, you’ll head inland toward your adventure. The first notable stop is Vrachasi, where you’ll take a brief break, snap some photos, and enjoy the scenic views. This spot gives you a taste of the local countryside before you dive into the main activity.

Next, you’ll make your way to Neapolis, where you get about 40 minutes for a coffee break or some free time. This stop is a good opportunity to relax, chat with your guides, or explore a bit of local life. The roads here are scenic, winding through hills and vineyards, setting the tone for what’s to come.

The highlight is the quad safari itself. We loved the way the route combines off-road terrain with narrow village streets. Starting in olive groves, you’ll go through lush greenery, then onto more rugged, dusty paths that test your riding skills—though instructions are provided for beginners. The guides keep safety in mind and make sure everyone is comfortable before starting.

The tour continues toward Sisi, a charming seaside village where you’ll have about an hour for dinner, free exploration, or just to soak in the views. This part of the trip adds some leisurely time, balancing the adrenaline with relaxation.

Finally, the journey wraps up with a scenic drive back to your pickup point, completing a loop through some of Crete’s most beautiful spots. The tour ends around 4.5 hours after starting, making it a perfect half-day escape.

What Makes This Quad Safari Stand Out

One of the most praised aspects from past participants, like Aurelie, is the guides’ expertise. She mentions, “The instructors are great! The landscapes will take your breath away!!!!” That’s high praise, and it emphasizes how much the guides add value, making everyone feel confident and safe.

The landscape itself is a major draw. You’ll love the views of vineyards, olive groves, and traditional villages—each stop offering perfect photo opportunities. The experience of riding through dusty, sandy off-road paths, combined with the narrow streets of Sisi, gives a real sense of adventure, not just a sightseeing tour.

The Value of What’s Included

At $84 per person, this tour offers a lot for the price. The hotel pickup and drop-off are a big plus, removing transportation stress. The inclusion of helmets, water, soft drinks, and instructions for beginners makes it accessible, even if you’re new to riding quads.

The lunch is also part of the package—something that travelers often appreciate in day tours. While the menu isn’t specified, having a warm meal included helps make the day more relaxed and satisfying after some active riding.

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Practical Considerations

Since the activity is mainly quad riding, it’s important you meet the age and license requirements. Drivers need to be between 23 and 65 and must hold a valid license older than two years. Children over 11 can share a quad with an adult, but younger kids aren’t allowed, nor are people with back, heart, or mobility issues.

Plus, you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for dirt and dust, and don’t forget your driver’s license and ID. The tour provider emphasizes safety, so routes can change depending on weather or safety considerations—flexibility is part of the process.

The Experience, as Told by Past Travelers

From Aurelie’s glowing review, it’s clear that guides make a big difference: “The instructors are great! The landscapes will take your breath away!!!!” She also mentions the fresh meal and warm welcome as highlights, showing that the experience isn’t just about riding but also the friendly atmosphere.

Others have appreciated the scenic views and the opportunity to learn about local life. The mix of adventure and cultural insight seems to resonate well with participants, creating memorable stories to take home.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This quad safari is ideal for adventure lovers eager to see Crete’s countryside from a different perspective. If you enjoy outdoor activities, don’t mind a bit of dust, and want a guided experience with scenic stops, this will suit you well.

It’s also good for groups or couples who want a lively, engaging way to explore. Families with teenagers who can ride comfortably might enjoy it, especially if they’re already familiar with quad riding.

However, if you prefer more relaxed sightseeing, cultural tours on foot, or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. The activity involves some physical effort and the excitement of off-road riding, which isn’t suitable for everyone.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers free pickup and drop-off from 11 designated locations, making it convenient regardless of where you’re staying.

What do I need to bring?
You should bring your driver’s license, comfortable shoes, and clothes suitable for dirt and dust.

Can children join this tour?
Children over 11 years old can share a quad with an adult. Younger kids or those with health issues should consider whether this activity suits them.

What are the age and license requirements?
Drivers must be between 23 and 65 years old with a valid driver’s license older than 2 years. Drivers under 23 or over 65 are not permitted.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, a meal is part of the package, providing a chance to relax and enjoy local flavors after some active riding.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the tour. You can also reserve now and pay later.

Is this suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour provides instructions for beginners and guides to ensure everyone feels comfortable, but you need to be willing to ride a quad.

What if the weather isn’t good?
Route changes or cancellations may occur for safety reasons, but the operator will inform you about any adjustments.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a fun, scenic, and active way to see Crete, this quad safari offers a lot. The combination of off-road adventures, authentic village visits, and the friendly guidance makes it a memorable experience. The included lunch and hotel pickup add convenience, making it a hassle-free half-day escape from more traditional sightseeing.

This tour is especially suited for those who love outdoor activities and want to get a taste of rural Crete without committing to a full-day excursion. While it’s not for everyone—especially those with mobility or health issues—it delivers genuine fun and beautiful views for adventurous spirits.

For anyone looking to add a bit of adrenaline to their Crete trip and see more than just the beaches, this experience is worth considering. Just be prepared for some dirt, dust, and a lively ride—what’s more authentic than that?

You can check availability for your dates here: