Drive an off-road jeep Daihatsu or Smart for Two

Drive an off-road jeep Daihatsu or Smart for Two — a playful way to explore Bulgaria’s Veliko Tarnovo region

If you’re looking for something a little out of the ordinary during your trip to Bulgaria, this off-road vehicle experience might just be a highlight. The idea of hopping into a Smart For Two or a Jeep Daihatsu and taking on the hills of Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi is definitely not your typical sightseeing tour. It’s a chance to feel the thrill of riding in a vehicle that’s been cleverly modified for adventures that go beyond the usual paved roads.

What’s great about this experience? First, it offers a unique way to explore the gorgeous landscapes while driving something you wouldn’t expect to handle off-road terrain. Second, the scenic views from the hills prove breathtaking, giving you a fresh perspective of Veliko Tarnovo’s historic backdrop and the surrounding nature. The only downside? Since it’s just an hour-long ride, it’s more of a quick adrenaline hit than a deep-dive into the region.

This tour is perfect for those who enjoy a dash of fun and a bit of adventure, especially if you’re curious about how small cars can be surprisingly capable. It’s also suitable for travelers wanting a light-hearted, memorable experience that’s a little different from the usual.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Unique off-road drive in modified Smart For Two or Jeep Daihatsu
• Affordable for what it is—$127 for up to 2 people
• Short but memorable—just 1 hour of adventure
• Breathtaking views from Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi hills
• Exclusive offering in the Balkans, with special vehicle modifications
• Easy to join with flexible booking options and free cancellation up to 24 hours

Why this off-road adventure stands out

When we first read about this tour, we were intrigued by the idea of the Smart For Two, a car most people think of for city driving, being turned into an off-road machine. The modifications—raised suspension and large tires—are a clever twist that promise serious fun. It’s not every day you get to see such an unlikely vehicle take on rugged terrain, and that’s part of what makes this experience stand out.

The driving experience itself is designed to be accessible. Even if you’re not a seasoned off-roader, the friendly nature of the trip allows you to enjoy the thrill without pressure. The terrain the cars are prepared for offers enough challenge to spice up the drive, but it’s generally safe and manageable for most drivers aged 18 and over.

The vehicle modifications and their impact

What makes this tour particularly interesting is the special modifications. The raised suspension and off-road tires turn a city-friendly smart car into a surprisingly capable machine. This means you’ll get to test the limits of a tiny car and see how it handles terrain that would typically be reserved for larger, more rugged vehicles.

According to some reviews, the Smart For Two’s performance is quite impressive given its size. One traveler mentioned, “I couldn’t believe how well the Smart handled the rough terrain—it was a lot of fun and felt very safe.” These modifications give the experience a playful edge, turning a mundane city car into an off-road star.

What to expect during your hour of off-road fun

The meeting point is conveniently located between the Horse riding “Arbanasi” and “Kaloyanova fortress,” just outside Arbanasi. If you’re staying in Veliko Tarnovo, the operator offers pickup options for an extra fee, which makes logistics easier. Once you’re there, you’ll be handed the keys to your modified vehicle and given a quick briefing on how to handle it.

The hour-long drive takes you through areas with beautiful views—think rolling hills, lush greenery, and historic sites that dot the landscape. You’ll be able to enjoy the scenery while feeling the added thrill of navigating terrain that’s not designed for normal cars. The modifications mean that even the Smart For Two feels capable of handling dips, uneven paths, and small obstacles, making it an adventurous yet safe experience.

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The drive itself

The actual route is more about the experience and the views than about covering ground quickly. Expect a mix of gentle inclines, rocky patches, and scenic overlooks. The experience is designed to be fun and accessible, without requiring prior off-road driving skills. Most reviews mention the exhilaration of driving on terrain that normally would be off-limits for such small vehicles.

The views and scenery

What you’ll love most is the breathtaking scenery. From the hills of Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi, you’ll gaze over lush valleys, ancient architecture, and sweeping vistas far below. It’s a fantastic way to get a different perspective of Bulgaria’s landscape—one that combines natural beauty with a hint of adventure.

Who this experience is best suited for

This tour is ideal if you’re after a short, lively activity that adds a bit of fun to your trip. It’s perfect for adventure lovers, car enthusiasts, or anyone curious about how a small car can take on off-road terrain. It’s also suitable if you’re traveling with a partner or a friend, as the price covers two people, making it a relatively affordable way to add some adrenaline to your Bulgaria itinerary.

Fans of scenic views will appreciate the opportunity to see Veliko Tarnovo from a new angle. But if you’re looking for a deep exploration of the region’s history or culture, this might be more of a quick, playful detour rather than a full-day tour.

Practical details and tips

• Price: $127 per group (up to 2 people) — considering the novelty and the vehicle modifications, this is quite reasonable. It offers a memorable experience at a fair price.
• Duration: 1 hour—short enough to fit into a busy day but packed with fun.
• Meeting point: Located between “Arbanasi” Horse riding and “Kaloyanova fortress,” just outside Arbanasi. Pickup in Veliko Tarnovo available for an extra fee.
• Languages: The activity is offered in English and Bulgarian, so communication should be smooth.
• Restrictions: Participants must be over 18, and alcohol or drugs are not permitted—standard safety precautions.
• Booking flexibility: You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Summary and who should consider this tour

If you’re after a quick hit of adventure with a side of stunning scenery, this off-road vehicle experience hits the right notes. It’s perfect for those who like trying something different and enjoy a bit of playful driving. The vehicle modifications make the experience accessible and safe, even for those who aren’t seasoned off-road drivers.

Travelers with a sense of humor and an adventurous spirit will find this a memorable addition to their Bulgarian trip. It’s a fantastic choice for couples, friends, or even solo travelers who want to test their driving skills in a fun environment. If you’re after a more in-depth tour of Veliko Tarnovo or Arbanassi’s cultural sites, this should be paired with other sightseeing activities.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for children?
No, it’s only available for drivers over 18, so it’s not suitable for children or those under 18.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it convenient if your schedule shifts.

Do I need prior off-road driving experience?
No, the activity is designed to be accessible, and most participants can handle it with a brief briefing.

Is transportation included?
The meeting point is outside Arbanasi, but pickup from Veliko Tarnovo is available for an extra charge.

What kind of vehicle will I drive?
You’ll drive a modified Smart For Two or Daihatsu Jeep, both equipped with raised suspensions and off-road tires.

How scenic are the views?
Expect breathtaking vistas from the hills of Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi—perfect for photos and just soaking in the scenery.

How long does the experience last?
It’s a one-hour ride, enough to enjoy the terrain and take in the beautiful surroundings.

Are there any restrictions during the drive?
Yes, alcohol and drugs are not permitted, and drivers must be over 18 for safety reasons.

In the end, this isn’t your typical tour—it’s a playful, scenic, and slightly daring way to see Bulgaria’s hills. Whether you’re after a quick thrill or a fun story to tell back home, it’s worth considering if you’re in Veliko Tarnovo or Arbanassi and craving something a little different.

You can check availability for your dates here: