If you’re considering a way to see Santorini beyond the usual crowds and predictable routes, an ATV Highlights Tour might just be your answer. We’ve researched this experience offered by Moto Thira, and while we haven’t tried it ourselves, the details paint a pretty appealing picture for those who want a fun, flexible way to explore a stunning island.
What we like most? First, the local tour leader makes a real difference, offering insights that bring each stop to life. Second, the ability to explore at your own pace with an ATV adds a sense of adventure and freedom you don’t get with traditional bus tours.
Of course, there are a few things to keep in mind—mainly that this tour isn’t suited for everyone, particularly those under 20 or with certain health limitations. But if you’re comfortable on a scooter or quad and seeking a memorable way to see key sights, this could be just right.
This tour is a good fit for travelers who value flexibility, enjoy a bit of adventure, and want to see iconic spots like Oia and the volcanic beaches without the constraints of a rigid schedule. It’s also great for those who enjoy learning from local guides and are comfortable riding a small ATV.
Key Points
- Flexible exploration with a small group of up to 10 people.
- Highlights include Oia, Pyrgos, Profitis Ilias, and volcanic beaches.
- Guided experience provides insights into Santorini’s sights and history.
- Comfortable, safe vehicles with helmets and fuel included.
- Duration of about 3.5 hours makes it a manageable half-day activity.
- Not suitable for travelers under 20, over 70, or with certain health issues.
Why Choose the Santorini ATV Highlights Tour?
Santorini is famous for its stunning vistas, charming villages, and volcanic landscape. While many visitors stick to the bus or walking tours, an ATV adventure offers a different perspective. It’s lively, personal, and allows you to see more in a shorter amount of time.
One of the biggest perks is the ability to cover a lot of ground—from the scenic streets of Oia to the panoramic heights of Profitis Ilias, the island’s highest point. This means you get a comprehensive look at Santorini’s diverse scenery without feeling rushed. The tour also includes black and red volcanic beaches, adding a splash of stark, volcanic landscape to your sightseeing.
The local tour leader is a real highlight, offering history, tidbits, and answering questions during the stops. It’s a more intimate experience than a large bus group, with only limited participants, which helps foster a friendly, personalized environment.
Planning more time in Pyrgos Kallistis? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
What’s Included and What’s Not
For $178 per person, the tour provides a 350cc ATV/Quad vehicle, helmets, and fuel costs—no hidden charges here. The training briefing ensures you’re comfortable driving, which is reassuring if you’re not experienced on a quad. The guide speaks multiple languages, including English, Russian, and Romanian, making it accessible for a diverse group.
However, keep in mind certain things are not included: personal accident insurance, cable car fees (if you arrive via cruise and plan to use the cable car), transportation to the meeting point, and personal expenses. Importantly, passengers under 20 aren’t allowed to join, and the tour isn’t suitable for travelers with certain health conditions or mobility issues.
The meeting points are flexible—either at the end of the cable car (for cruise travelers) or at the Moto Thira office in Fira—allowing for easy access regardless of how you arrive on the island.
The Itinerary in Detail
The tour’s structure maximizes sight coverage while keeping the experience manageable over three and a half hours.
Start at Oia: This iconic town needs little introduction. Its white-washed buildings, blue-domed churches, and stunning sunsets are world-famous. The tour offers a chance to see the town’s charm without the hassle of large crowds, especially if you visit earlier or later in the day. We imagine you’ll love the freedom to wander narrow streets or snap photos at your own pace.
Next, Pyrgos and the Venetian Castle: Here, your guide will fill you in on the fortress’s history, adding context to this picturesque hilltop village. It’s a quiet spot compared to Oia but rich in traditional architecture and local character.
Profitis Ilias: The highest point of the island offers panoramic views you won’t forget. Whether it’s a quick stop or a longer pause, you’ll appreciate the sweeping vista of Santorini’s volcanic landscape and Aegean Sea.
Volcanic Beaches: The black and red beaches showcase the island’s volcanic roots. The contrast between the dark sands and the fiery hues of the red beach is dramatic and perfect for photos or a quick dip if you’re feeling brave.
Throughout, the small group size and guided commentary help you connect the dots and appreciate what makes Santorini special.
Riding the ATV: What to Expect
Expect to drive new, safe vehicles under the guidance of your tour leader, who will brief you on driving. Helmets are provided, and fuel is covered, so no surprises there. The experience is designed to be accessible for those who are comfortable on a scooter or similar vehicle, but it’s not for absolute beginners or those with health issues that prevent physical activity.
The pace is relaxed, with enough time to enjoy each stop and take photos. The flexibility of an ATV means you can spend extra time exploring or just soaking in the views without feeling rushed. The guide will help you navigate the route and answer questions along the way.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat We Liked About the Tour
The knowledgeable guides are a big plus. They don’t just lead you around; they share stories and insights that deepen your understanding of Santorini’s landscape and history. Several reviews mention how guides go above and beyond, making stops more meaningful.
The scenic stops truly stand out. From the charming streets of Oia to the dramatic volcanic beaches, each location offers a different perspective on the island’s beauty. Plus, the views from Profitis Ilias are simply breathtaking.
Another aspect worth highlighting is the wine tasting element in some similar experiences, but in this tour, the focus is more on sightseeing and exploring at your own pace. Still, with the attention to detail from the guide, you might find yourself appreciating the local landscape more deeply than with a bus tour.
Things to Keep in Mind
While the tour offers a lot, it’s not without its considerations. The cost of $178 per person is reasonable given the inclusions and the experience offered. But, the duration of 3.5 hours is enough for a quick but rundown—not suitable if you’re looking for a long, relaxed day.
The group size is limited to 10, which makes for a more personalized experience, but it also means you’ll want to book in advance, especially during peak season.
For those concerned about safety or unfamiliar with riding small vehicles, the briefing and safety gear help, but it’s important to be comfortable handling a quad.
Final thoughts
If you’re someone who loves a dash of adventure and wants to see a broad slice of Santorini’s highlights, this ATV tour offers great value. It’s especially appealing if you prefer a more interactive experience than simply sitting on a bus, with the added fun of navigating the island’s roads yourself.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, are in good health, and want to explore at their own pace. It’s perfect for those who appreciate scenic views, charming villages, and volcanic landscapes. Keep in mind, it’s not suitable for very young travelers, those with mobility or health issues, or anyone uncomfortable on a scooter or quad.
If you’re visiting Santorini on a cruise, this tour’s meeting points are convenient, but be sure to account for the cable car fees and potential queues. If you’re spending several days on the island, it’s a fun, half-day way to see the major sights without feeling rushed.
Santorini: ATV Highlights Tour with Local Tour Leader
FAQs
Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, as long as you’re comfortable riding a scooter or similar vehicle. The tour includes a briefing to help you feel confident before heading out.
What should I bring?
Bring your driver’s license, comfortable clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera to capture the views.
Are helmets provided?
Yes, helmets are included in the price and are worn during the tour for safety.
Can I join if I’m visiting via cruise?
Yes, the tour provides a meeting point at the cable car end for cruise passengers, but keep in mind that cable car fees are not included.
How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 3.5 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.
In the end, the Santorini ATV Highlights Tour offers a lively, engaging way to see the island’s best spots, especially if you’re looking for independence and adventure. It’s best suited for those who are comfortable on small vehicles, eager to explore beyond the usual, and want to learn from local guides. For a compact, scenic slice of Santorini that combines fun with discovery, this ride might just be perfect.
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