Crete: Agios Nikolaos, Kritsa and Amazonas Park Day Trip

Crete, the largest Greek island, beckons visitors with its captivating blend of ancient history and natural wonders. The Agios Nikolaos, Kritsa, and Amazonas Park Day Trip promises an immersive experience, guiding travelers through charming towns, olive groves, and wildlife conservation efforts. From the quaint lakeside town of Agios Nikolaos to the traditional village of Kritsa, this excursion unveils the island’s cultural tapestry. But the true gem lies in the Amazonas Park, where visitors can witness the remarkable efforts to protect and rehabilitate local species. With an insider’s perspective and accessible options, this day trip offers a chance to uncover the multifaceted allure of Crete.

Key Points

• This 8-hour day trip explores the eastern coast of Crete, including visits to Agios Nikolaos, Kritsa, and Amazonas Park.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a local guide, and entrance to Amazonas Park, starting at €1,301 per person.
• Highlights include a tour of an olive oil estate, a visit to the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos, and a guided tour of Amazonas Park.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible, and comfortable clothing is recommended.
• The trip has received positive reviews, with travelers praising the punctuality and informative guides.

Overview and Pricing

This day trip offers the opportunity to explore the eastern coast of Crete. Priced from €1,301 per person, the 8-hour excursion includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a knowledgeable tour guide, and entrance to the Amazonas Park.

Participants can take advantage of the free cancellation policy and reserve now with the pay later option.

With an overall rating of 4.4/5 based on 5 reviews, this tour is praised for its punctuality, informative guides, and highlights like the olive oil factory and wildlife park.

Whether you’re an adult, child, or infant, you can experience the best of Crete’s eastern coast on this comprehensive day trip.

Itinerary Highlights

The day trip begins with hotel pickup and transfers to the Vassilakis Estate, where visitors can tour the olive oil production facility and learn about the process.

Next, the tour explores the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos, allowing participants to visit the local market, harbor, and Lake Voulismeni.

Afterward, the group travels to the traditional village of Kritsa, known for its scenic views, where lunch can be enjoyed at one’s own expense.

The final stop is the Amazonas Park, where a guided tour showcases parrots, monkeys, and information about conservation efforts.

Inclusion and Accessibility

The day trip includes hotel pickup and drop-off, along with a tour guide to accompany participants throughout the journey.

Entrance fees to the Amazonas Park are covered, costing €9 for adults and €5 for children.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all travelers.

Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended to fully enjoy the various activities and locations on the itinerary.

Whether you’re an adult, child, or infant, this comprehensive day trip offers an immersive experience exploring the highlights of eastern Crete.

Customer Experience

Overall, customers have provided a positive response to this day trip, rating it 4.4 out of 5 stars based on 5 reviews.

Travelers praised the trip’s punctuality and the informative guides. Highlights like the olive oil factory and Amazonas Park were especially enjoyed.

However, some noted that the stop in Kritsa was primarily for dining and had limited value.

The trip offers a comfortable and accessible experience, with wheelchair access and recommendations for appropriate attire.

Additional Information

One key additional detail is that this day trip offers a live German-speaking tour guide, making it accessible to a wider range of travelers.

Visitors can also skip the ticket line at the Amazonas Park, saving time.

The tour accommodates a variety of participants, including adults aged 13 to 99, children aged 3 to 12, and infants 2 and younger.

Interested travelers should check availability for their desired dates and times, as this popular excursion may book up quickly.

Pickup and Drop-off

The day trip offers convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless start and end to the excursion. Guests are picked up from their accommodation, providing a hassle-free transition to the tour’s activities.

The pickup locations include:

• Major hotels in Agios Nikolaos
• Specific meeting points around the city
• Centralized locations for easy access

At the end of the day, the tour bus will return guests to their original pickup spots, allowing for a smooth conclusion to the experience.

This thoughtful service enhances the overall convenience and enjoyment of the Crete day trip.

Olive Oil Production

After picking up guests from their accommodations, the tour takes them to the Vassilakis Estate, where they’ll witness the traditional methods of olive oil production.

Visitors are guided through the facility, learning about the entire process, from harvesting the olives to extracting the oil. They’ll see the centuries-old stone mills used to crush the olives, and observe the meticulous steps involved in filtering and bottling the final product.

The tour provides a unique opportunity to gain insight into Crete’s rich culinary heritage and appreciate the care and craftsmanship behind the island’s renowned olive oil.

Scenic Village and Lunch

From the olive oil estate, the tour proceeds to the traditional village of Kritsa. Nestled among the rugged hills, Kritsa offers scenic vistas and a chance to experience authentic Cretan culture.

The highlights include:

• Wandering the narrow, winding streets lined with traditional stone houses
• Visiting the local market to browse crafts and produce
• Enjoying a lunch of Cretan specialties at one’s own expense, such as fresh seafood, local cheeses, and olive oil-based dishes
• Exploring the 11th-century Panagia Kera Church, known for its well-preserved Byzantine frescoes
• Taking in the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the village’s elevated position

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Interests?

The tour allows some flexibility to customize the itinerary based on your interests. You can discuss options with the tour operator to focus on specific sites or activities that appeal to you.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Larger Groups?

The tour operator offers group discounts for larger parties. Customers should inquire about pricing for groups of 4 or more to potentially receive a discounted per-person rate. Advance booking is recommended to secure group savings.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

You can bring your own food and drinks on the tour, but there’s a lunch stop at Kritsa where you can purchase meals at your own expense. The tour includes entrance to Amazonas Park, so you don’t need to pack that.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Take This Day Trip?

The best time of year for this day trip is typically during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and crowds are smaller. The tour operates year-round, but summer can be hot and crowded.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

While the standard tour duration is 8 hours, the provider may offer an option to extend the trip for an additional fee. Travelers should inquire about customizing the tour length to suit their preferences.

Recap

This Crete day trip offers a unique blend of culture, natural wonders, and sustainability efforts. Explore the charming towns of Agios Nikolaos and Kritsa, learn about olive oil production, and witness wildlife conservation at Amazonas Park. With convenient pickup and drop-off, as well as inclusive options, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience that showcases the best of Crete’s diverse attractions.