Rethymno Land Rover Safari with Lunch and Drinks

If you’re looking for a way to really see the diverse and stunning landscapes of Crete without spending your entire trip glued to a guidebook, a Land Rover safari could be just the ticket. This particular tour, which comes highly recommended with a perfect 5.0 rating from over 700 reviews, offers a full-day adventure that combines scenic drives, cultural stops, and a hearty local lunch. It’s designed for travelers who want a mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic local flavor—all rolled into one.

What we love about this experience is how it balances off-road exploration with comfortable transportation, and how it introduces you to Crete’s natural beauty beyond the typical tourist spots. Plus, the local guide seems to make all the difference, providing insights and humor that keep things engaging. On the downside, it’s a long day, and the itinerary includes some uneven terrain and steep walks, so it’s best suited for those who are reasonably mobile and comfortable with a bit of adventure.

This tour is perfect if you’re keen on nature, village life, and scenic drives. It’s also well-suited for those who enjoy good food and wine, as lunch is included with free-flowing wine (and Raki, if you’re into it). If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy a more active day out, this might be just what you’re after. However, keep in mind that it’s a bit of a full-on day, so it’s best for those who are ready for a bit of travel and exploration.

Key Points

• Comfortable 4WD Land Rover makes exploring Crete’s rougher terrain accessible and enjoyable.
• Experienced guides provide plenty of info, humor, and local insights.
• The itinerary covers stunning gorges, charming villages, and a gorgeous beach with free time for swimming.
• Lunch and free-flow wine give a taste of local hospitality and flavors.
• Pickup and drop-off at select hotels make the day hassle-free.
• It’s a well-loved tour with glowing reviews, emphasizing its value and memorable scenery.

A Deep Dive Into the Rethymno Land Rover Safari Experience

The Itinerary: What Makes Each Stop Special

The tour kicks off early, with hotel pickup in and around Rethymno, making it convenient if you’re staying locally. The first stop is Preveli Beach, situated about 40 km south of Rethymno. This isn’t just any beach—it’s often called the most idyllic in the area, thanks to its dreamy, lagoon-like setting. Imagine palm trees swaying over crystalline green waters, with soft sands underfoot. The fact that the Kourtaliotis River ends here, creating a delta, adds to the scenery’s lushness. This stop is perfect for a quick swim and some photos to capture the paradise vibe.

Next, the tour visits Spili, a small village famous for its Venetian fountain adorned with lion heads. It’s a peaceful, scenic spot where you can relax, wander the lanes, and maybe pick up some local crafts. Several reviews highlighted how this stop offers a glimpse into authentic Cretan village life, with friendly locals and cozy tavernas. One reviewer mentioned, “Surrounded by verdant hills and dotted with traditional tavernas, it offers visitors a serene retreat steeped in history and natural beauty.”

From here, we head to Prasses Gorge, a quiet corner of natural beauty and a wildlife hotspot. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk amidst towering cliffs, with the chance to see griffon vultures soaring overhead—an impressive sight. The gorge also offers a chance to appreciate Crete’s rugged landscape, away from the busier tourist spots.

The next stop is Potamon Dam, set in the Amari Valley. It’s a tranquil spot with a lake formed by the dam, surrounded by lush greenery and birdlife. The nearby quaint church adds a touch of serenity, making this a perfect place for a quick break and some photos.

Then, it’s time to explore Kárines, a charming village where you can unwind in a traditional kafenio (coffee shop). Here, travelers often indulge in local delicacies and enjoy a leisurely coffee—an authentic taste of Cretan hospitality. The relaxed atmosphere is a favorite among those who want to slow down and enjoy the local lifestyle.

Finally, the tour wraps up with a quick visit to Kourtaliotiko Gorge, where towering cliffs and flowing river create a dramatic landscape. It’s a brief stop but leaves a lasting impression with its rugged beauty and panoramic views. As one reviewer noted, “During a quick stop, visitors can admire the stunning views of the gorge’s dramatic landscape, surrounded by rugged beauty.”

What’s Included: Value and Experience

For around $109 USD per person, you get a lot: full-day exploration, local guide, lunch with free-flow wine, and hotel pickup and drop-off. The lunch, often praised as delicious, includes typical Cretan dishes and unlimited local wines—white and red—which speaks to the tour’s focus on offering an authentic local experience. Some reviews mention the delicious food and raki, which adds to the convivial atmosphere.

The tour is designed to maximize scenery and cultural exposure while keeping logistics simple. The vehicle—an off-road capable Land Rover—smoothly navigates through rocky paths and uneven terrain, offering comfort but also adventure. The group size maxes out at 30, keeping it intimate enough to have meaningful interactions and personal attention from guides.

The Experience: What Travelers Are Saying

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides like Stavros, Dionysus, Nico, and Vasilis, who bring humor, insight, and a genuine warmth to the trip. As one said, “Our guide Dionysus was wonderful. He is very knowledgeable. He took us to all the right spots and gave a great background.” Many reviewers also highlight that their guides managed the day well, balancing information with fun, making the long day seem fly by.

The scenery earns rave reviews, with comments like “the landscape is amazing” and “breathtaking views,” especially at Preveli Beach and the gorges. Several guests mention the vultures circling overhead at Kourtaliotiko Gorge as a highlight, providing a wild, almost cinematic element to the day.

The lunch often receives glowing remarks. One reviewer called it “incredible,” and many appreciate the free-flow wine and raki, which added a relaxed, celebratory vibe to the day. The food is generally described as tasty, hearty Mediterranean fare typical of a local tavern.

Group Size and Timing: What to Expect

The tour generally starts early at 9:00 am and lasts about 8 hours, a full day of sightseeing, driving, and relaxing. Pickup from various locations around Rethymno reduces travel stress, especially if you’re staying nearby. The group size is capped at 30 travelers, which helps maintain a friendly atmosphere without feeling crowded.

While the itinerary involves some steep walks to the beach and uneven terrain, most travelers found it manageable. The reviews mention the walk to Preveli Beach as being about 15 minutes and somewhat rocky, so packing good shoes is advisable.

Is It Worth the Price?

At just over $100, the tour offers great value considering the full-day itinerary, included meals, and drinks. When you factor in the comfortable transportation, expert guides, and the opportunity to see so many different landscapes and villages in one day, it’s a solid deal. Several reviewers pointed out that it’s the “best safari” they’ve done, and many called it “worth every euro.”

Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy scenic drives and natural beauty, as well as those curious about local culture and cuisine. It’s suitable for anyone with a reasonable level of mobility, as there are some walks and uneven terrain. If you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy a lively, engaging day out, this tour keeps everyone entertained.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re looking for a well-rounded exploration of Crete’s countryside, this safari delivers a fantastic mix of stunning scenery, cultural insights, and local hospitality. The knowledgeable guides make a real difference, sharing stories and making the day fun, while the included lunch and wine keep the mood light. The experience is particularly good for travelers wanting a full, active day without sacrificing comfort.

This tour works best for adventurous souls who are comfortable in a vehicle for most of the day and enjoy outdoor activities, scenic vistas, and authentic local food. If you’re keen to see remote villages, dramatic gorges, and beach paradise in one go, this is a reliable, enjoyable choice. It’s a bit of a splurge but offers genuine value for the variety and quality of experiences packed into one day.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free pickup and drop-off from hotels in and around Rethymno, including locations like Georgioupolis, Kavros, Adelianos, Scaleta, Panormo, and Bali.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am with hotel pickup, ending with drop-off in the late afternoon.

What is included in the price?
You get the full day of touring, a professional local guide, a hearty local lunch, and unlimited wine (white and red). All taxes, fees, and handling charges are covered.

Can I bring children on this tour?
Most travelers can participate, but since the day involves some rough terrain and walking, it’s best suited for those who are reasonably mobile and comfortable with outdoor activities.

Are drinks other than wine included?
Additional drinks like beer or soft drinks are not included, so if you want something extra, you’ll need to purchase it separately.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
Yes, vegetarian options are available if advised at the time of booking, and you can specify dietary requirements.

If you’re after an immersive, scenic adventure that combines Crete’s landscapes, villages, and beaches with good food and expert guides, this Land Rover safari is quite hard to beat. It’s an easy choice for those wanting to see a variety of sights without the hassle of planning or extensive walking, and it consistently earns rave reviews for its value and experience.