Malta: Gozo Full Day Buggy Tour with lunch and Boat Trip

If you’re considering a way to see the best of Malta’s little sister island, Gozo, without the hassle of planning every detail yourself, a full-day buggy tour might just be exactly what you need. This tour, offered by Barbarossa Excursions, has earned a perfect 5.0 rating from over 150 reviews, with 97% of travelers recommending it. It promises a blend of scenic vistas, historical sights, and relaxed moments—all wrapped into roughly six to seven hours.

What really stands out about this experience is how it combines the thrill of riding in a buggy with the chance to explore Gozo’s most iconic spots and hidden gems. Plus, the inclusion of a lunch at a local guesthouse and optional boat trip adds those extra touches of enjoyment and relaxation. But like any tour, it’s worth considering some practical aspects before booking.

The main thing we love is how well-organized the itinerary appears, allowing you to see a lot without feeling rushed. Also, the knowledgeable guides seem to elevate the experience—something many reviews highlight positively. On the flip side, some mention that the roads can be bumpy and the vehicle might get hot and noisy, which could be a consideration if you’re sensitive to those factors.

This tour suits travelers who want an active, engaging day out with plenty of scenic views and a taste of local culture. If you’re after a relaxed day with a focus on comfort, you might want to weigh the bumpy ride and outdoor exposure. However, if you’re up for an adventure that mixes history, nature, and a bit of fun behind the wheel, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary with highlights like Ggantija Temples, Calypso Cave, and the Citadel
• Includes lunch and optional boat trip, offering good value for the price
• Guides praised for their attentiveness and local knowledge
• Promotes active exploration, with many stops for photos and sightseeing
• Comfort and vehicle quality may vary, with some mentioning bumpy roads and noise
• Ideal for those wanting a full-day adventure with scenic views and cultural insights

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Early Highlights

The tour kicks off early at 8:00 am in Valletta, making it convenient for travelers staying nearby. You’ll be picked up and transported in an air-conditioned vehicle—an essential comfort, especially during warmer months. The group size can be up to 60 travelers, but the reviews suggest it doesn’t feel crowded, thanks to the well-paced schedule.

The first stop is at Qala Belvedere, where you’ll get a panoramic view of the Maltese archipelago, including Malta, Gozo, and Comino. It’s a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to soak in the scenery. Travelers have expressed appreciation for this stop, with one review calling it “the great view of Malta.” It’s free, and about 20 minutes long, giving you enough time to snap some pictures without feeling hurried.

Exploring Gozo’s Ancient Sites and Scenic Spots

Next, your journey takes you through the charming streets of Nadur, giving a glimpse of local life. Then, you’ll visit the Ggantija Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site. These prehistoric megalithic temples are estimated to be thousands of years old. While the entrance fee (€10) isn’t included, even just viewing the site from outside is fascinating, and many travelers find the history compelling.

A quick photo stop at the Calypso Cave is next, offering views of a red sandy beach and a chance to imagine mythological stories from the island’s past. It’s a popular photo stop, and travelers love the scenic backdrop. The stop lasts about 25 minutes, which gives you time to capture some shots and enjoy the surroundings.

Historical Fortresses and Local Cuisine

In the capital city of Victoria, the Citadel stands as a reminder of Gozo’s defensive past. Perched atop a hill, it offers sweeping views of the island and a sense of the historical resilience of the locals. You’re set to spend around 30 minutes here—enough to explore a bit and take photos.

Lunch is served at the Mariblu Guest House, where a cold buffet awaits. Reviewers have praised the meal as a relaxing break, and the included wine and water (for those of legal drinking age) add a nice touch of local flavor. It’s a generous hour-long stop, giving you time to unwind and enjoy genuine Maltese hospitality.

Natural Wonders and Coastal Beauty

Post-lunch, you’ll drive past the Sanap Cliffs and along the coast, passing the Xewkija Church. Then, you’ll spend about 20 minutes at Dwejra Bay, famous for its dramatic landscape. There’s also an optional boat trip here, which costs extra but can be a fantastic way to see the area from the water, adding a little extra adventure to your day.

Another quick stop is at the Xlendi Cliffs—great for photos—and then the Wied il-Mielah Window, a natural limestone arch that’s worth seeing. It’s comparable to the Azure Window, which once drew countless visitors before its collapse, so it’s a notable natural feature.

The Xwejni Salt Pans are a great opportunity to witness traditional salt harvesting. Many travelers find this stop interesting as it gives a glimpse of local industry that has lasted for centuries.

Finally, the Xwejni Bay offers a refreshing swim stop—an ideal way to cool off after a full day of sightseeing. The water is clear, and the setting is picturesque, perfect for some relaxing moments before heading back.

Practical Details and Considerations

The entire journey is thoughtfully structured, with most stops lasting around 10-30 minutes, giving a good balance of sightseeing and relaxation. The tour lasts about six to seven hours, including travel time, which is manageable for most people’s schedule.

The price of roughly $98 per person offers solid value, considering the inclusion of lunch, guided commentary, and multiple scenic stops. The optional boat trip at Dwejra is at an extra cost, but it’s a popular add-on for those wanting a different perspective of the landscape.

One thing to keep in mind is that some travelers have found the roads bumpy and the vehicle noisy, which might affect comfort. Others have noted that the guide could be more knowledgeable, but overall, reviews highlight the guide’s attentiveness and energy.

Who Is This Tour For?

If you’re eager to see a wide range of Gozo’s sights in a single day and enjoy some fun behind the wheel, this tour ticks those boxes. It’s well-suited for active travelers who don’t mind a bit of outdoor exposure and bumpy roads. The inclusion of a traditional lunch and optional boat trip makes it a good value for those who appreciate a mix of cultural and natural experiences.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, cushy tour or are sensitive to bumpy rides and outdoor conditions, this might be less ideal. It’s also a fantastic choice for those interested in history, stunning scenery, and local culture, thanks to the stops at ancient temples and traditional salt pans.

Final Thoughts

This Malta-Gozo full-day buggy tour offers a lively and well-rounded way to explore the island. The combination of scenic viewpoints, historical sites, and natural wonders ensures that you’ll come away with a broad appreciation of what Gozo has to offer. The guides seem to make a positive difference, adding local insights and keeping the energy high throughout the day.

While the ride might not be the smoothest, the overall experience is highly rated for its value and variety. If you’re looking for an adventure-packed day with plenty of photo opportunities, cultural insights, and the chance to relax over a good meal, this tour is definitely worth considering.

It’s best for travelers who want an active, engaging, and comprehensive introduction to Gozo—especially if you’re comfortable with outdoor exploration and bumpy rides. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure and an eye for stunning scenery.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, a guide/driver, and a cold buffet lunch with free wine and water for those of legal drinking age. The boat trip at Dwejra is optional and costs extra.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, giving plenty of time for sightseeing, meals, and breaks.

Is there a pickup service?
Yes, pickup is offered from Valletta, and the tour starts at 8:00 am. You’ll receive confirmation at booking.

Are there any additional costs I should know about?
Yes, the Ggantija Temples entrance fee (€10) is not included. The boat trip at Dwejra Bay is optional and costs extra.

Will I have free time or just stops?
Most stops are around 10-30 minutes, which provides enough time to explore or take photos but isn’t meant for long leisure periods.

Is the vehicle comfortable?
The vehicle is air-conditioned, but some reviews mention roads can be bumpy and panels noisy, so comfort may vary.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

Whether you’re after a fun day of discovery, a scenic adventure, or a little bit of both, this Gozo buggy tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to see the highlights. Just come prepared for a lively ride and plenty of photo opportunities!