Private: Jeep Safari in 2 Wineries and Samaria Gorge with Lunch

Exploring Crete with a Private Jeep Safari: Wineries, Samaria Gorge, and More

If you’re looking for an experience that combines delicious tasting, stunning scenery, and a bit of adventure, this private Jeep Safari in Chania is worth considering. Our review is based on the detailed info and glowing feedback from travelers who’ve enjoyed this tour, offering you a clear picture of what to expect.

What we love about this tour: First, the access to remote parts of Crete via a sturdy 4WD vehicle makes the journey more exciting and authentic. Second, the wide variety of tastings—from organic olive oils to multiple local wines—means you’ll get to sample plenty of Cretan flavors in one day.

A potential consideration is the length of the day—about 7 to 8 hours—so it’s best suited for those who enjoy full-day excursions and are prepared for some driving. If you’re after a relaxed, less action-packed day, this might be a bit intense, but for those craving variety and adventure, it’s a solid pick.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love exploring beyond the usual tourist spots, enjoy good food and wine, and don’t mind a bit of rugged terrain. It’s especially well-suited for curious explorers ready to taste authentic Cretan culture in a compact, well-organized package.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Experiences: Visit two wineries and taste a total of 10 wines alongside organic olive oils and local snacks.
• Rugged Scenery Access: The 4WD vehicle takes you onto roads that regular buses can’t reach, revealing parts of Crete’s countryside and villages.
• Cultural Highlights: See the ancient Monumental Olive Tree of Vouves, one of the oldest productive olive trees in the world.
• Stunning Views and Nature: From the White Mountains to the White Mountains to the Samaria Gorge, the scenery is a major highlight.
• Delicious Cretan Cuisine: A traditional lunch at the Samaria Gorge offers local flavors, fresh salads, and wine.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Combines cultural, natural, and gastronomic highlights in one day.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Timing

The tour kicks off early at 9:30 am, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. Pickup is offered for locations within a certain radius from Chania, making logistics smoother. The private nature of the tour means you’ll only be with your group, allowing for a more personalized experience.

The Monumental Olive Tree of Vouves

The day begins with a visit to the Ancient Olive Tree of Vouves, which is estimated to be between 3,000 and 5,000 years old. This is a genuine marvel, still productive despite its age, and provides a fascinating glimpse into the longevity of olive trees in Crete. The admission is free, and the 15-minute stop offers enough time for photos and a quick appreciation of this living relic.

Olive Oil and Wine at Anoskeli Winery Olive Mill

Next, you’ll visit the Anoskeli Winery Olive Mill. Here, the highlight is tasting their organic extra virgin olive oil, which offers a chance to understand what makes Cretan olive oils renowned worldwide. The mill also has a winery where you’ll sample five different local wine labels. The hosts, who are either sommeliers or producers, will share insights into the centuries-old tradition of wine and olive oil production in Crete. The tasting experience lasts about an hour and a half and provides a genuine taste of local craftsmanship.

Rugged Road Adventure in Chania Prefecture

One of the most memorable aspects is the 4WD ride through the Chania countryside. The terrain is rugged, and this part of the tour offers an authentic sense of adventure. You’ll pass through various villages—Omalos, Lakki, Fournes, and Alikianos—each with its own charm, and get a taste of local life away from tourist centers. This segment lasts around two hours, and the vehicle’s capability allows access to stunning landscapes and hidden gems inaccessible to regular buses or larger tours.

Samaria Gorge and Traditional Lunch

The highlight for many is the stop at the Samaria Gorge National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1962. The gorge entrance offers breathtaking views of the White Mountains, and the lunch provided here is a perfect way to refuel. You’ll enjoy a traditional Cretan meal—with fresh salads, local wine, and dessert—at a restaurant overlooking the gorge. The stop lasts about an hour and a half, giving you a chance to soak in the scenery and savor local flavors.

The White Mountains and Villages

After lunch, your journey continues through the White Mountains (Lefka Ori), descending from 1200 meters to about 1000 meters above sea level. You’ll stop to take photos and admire the vistas of forests, lemon, orange, avocado, and olive groves. Driving through small villages, you’ll witness the diverse landscapes and rural life, adding depth to your understanding of Crete’s natural beauty.

Winery Visits: Manousakis Winery

The day’s wine tasting continues at Manousakis Winery, where you’ll sample five additional local wines. The vineyard’s setting and the quality of the wines make this stop a favorite for many guests. The experience lasts about an hour, and the guides are knowledgeable, providing context about each wine’s origin and flavor profile.

The Value of the Tour

At $266.25 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive look at Crete’s culture, landscape, and cuisine. It includes all tastings, a full traditional meal, bottled water, and pickup service within a reasonable radius. The private setup means your group can enjoy the day at a comfortable pace, with personalized attention from the guides.

Travelers have praised the experience, with one reviewer noting how their guide, Nikolas, provided a wealth of local insights and made every stop meaningful. The combination of scenic drives, authentic tastings, and cultural stops makes this a well-rounded day out.

Practical Considerations

• The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately—layers are recommended, especially for the higher elevations.
• It’s a full-day commitment, so plan accordingly if you prefer relaxed mornings.
• Children can participate but must be accompanied by an adult, and the minimum drinking age is 18.
• Vegetarian options are available if specified during booking.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits curious travelers who enjoy good food and wine, scenic landscapes, and a touch of adventure. It’s perfect if you want to see parts of Crete that aren’t on the typical tourist trail, especially if you love exploring rural villages, ancient olive trees, and impressive gorges. It’s also great for those who appreciate local craftsmanship and want a more intimate, informative experience.

If you’re traveling with a group that wants a day filled with variety—cultural sites, nature, food, wine—this tour delivers. However, if you’re after a laid-back, light-paced day or are sensitive to a long schedule, you might want to consider whether the itinerary matches your style.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children can participate but must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is geared towards adults, especially given the wine tastings.

What does the tour include?
It includes all tastings—olive oil, multiple wines, and a traditional lunch—as well as bottled water, pickup within specified areas, and local guide services. The entry to the Olive Tree and Samaria Gorge is included, as well as the winery visits.

How long is the overall tour?
The entire experience lasts around 7 to 8 hours, starting at 9:30 am.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the use of a 7-seater 4WD vehicle makes for a more comfortable and accessible adventure through rough terrains.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Dress smart casual and be prepared for weather changes—layers are recommended. Comfortable shoes are advised for walking parts of the stops.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarians should specify during booking, and the tour can accommodate dietary preferences.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
It operates in all weather conditions; however, poor weather might lead to rescheduling or refunds.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of exclusive access via 4WD, high-quality tastings, scenic beauty, and a well-planned itinerary makes it a standout experience in Chania.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a way to combine scenic drives, authentic tastings, and cultural insights into a single day in Crete, this private jeep safari ticks all those boxes. It’s a chance to get off the beaten path, sample the island’s renowned olive oils and wines, and soak in spectacular views—while traveling comfortably and privately.

This tour is especially ideal for those who appreciate quality food, local history, and natural beauty without feeling rushed. It offers a meaningful way to understand Crete’s landscape and traditions, all wrapped in friendly, expert guidance. Whether you’re a wine lover, a foodie, or a nature enthusiast, this experience promises a memorable day with plenty of flavor and adventure.

Feel ready to explore Crete? This tour might just be the perfect way to see the island’s hidden gems with all the delicious extras included.