Crete: Sarakina Gorge, Forests, and South Coast Safari

Crete’s breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders have long captivated adventurous travelers. The South Coast Safari promises an unforgettable day immersed in the island’s untamed beauty, from the cascading waterfalls of Sarakina Gorge to the pristine forests of Kroustas. Participants can look forward to scenic hikes, refreshing swims, and intimate encounters with Crete’s diverse flora and fauna. But the real allure lies in the opportunity to experience the island’s essence, where rugged terrain and tranquil coastlines converge to create a truly unique Cretan adventure. What secrets await those who dare to explore this unspoiled corner of the Mediterranean?

Key Points

• The South Coast Safari tour in Crete offers an immersive experience exploring the natural wonders of Sarakina Gorge, Cretan forests, and beautiful coastal areas.
• The Sarakina Gorge hike showcases dramatic waterfalls, crystal-clear streams, and lush vegetation, providing a sense of adventure and stunning natural beauty.
• The tour includes a visit to the protected Mountain Forest of Kroustas, where participants can learn about Crete’s unique flora and fauna in a serene environment.
• The coastal adventure includes swimming at the crystal-clear waters of Myrtos beach along the Libyan Sea, complementing the forest and gorge exploration.
• The tour is led by knowledgeable multilingual guides who provide insights into Cretan history, culture, and the preservation of the island’s natural wonders.

Tour Overview and Details

This full-day tour from Crete explores the island’s stunning coast, mountains, forests, and countryside.

Priced from Kč2,479 per person, the tour can be reserved now and paid for later with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour lasts 1 day, with check-in times available. It’s a small group experience, limited to 6 participants, with pickup from 13 locations across the island.

The itinerary highlights include visiting an olive factory, exploring a traditional village, hiking through Sarakina Gorge, and swimming at Myrtos beach.

A professional guide provides insights into Cretan history, culture, and nature throughout the tour.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a visit to an olive factory, where travelers can taste the rich, flavorful olive oil produced on the island.

Afterward, the group explores a traditional Cretan village and enjoys a local lunch at a taverna.

The highlight of the day is a hike through the Sarakina Gorge, where visitors can admire the stunning waterfalls and streams.

The tour also includes:

1. A swim at the beautiful Myrtos beach along the Libyan Sea.
2. A journey through the protected Mountain Forest of Kroustas.
3. Optional activities like food tastings, hidden gem visits, and additional village explorations.

Guided Experience

A knowledgeable and multilingual live tour guide accompanies participants throughout the day.

The guide has extensive expertise in Cretan history, culture, and vegetation. They emphasize the region’s rich heritage and Cretan hospitality.

The tour includes a lunch stop at a local taverna, allowing visitors to enjoy the authentic dining experience.

The guide’s deep understanding of the area enhances the overall experience, ensuring participants gain valuable insights into the unique natural wonders and cultural nuances of Crete.

Whether guests speak English, Dutch, French, Russian, or German, the guide’s linguistic versatility ensures they can fully engage and appreciate the tour.

Participant Information

Who can participate in this tour? The tour accommodates a range of participants, including adults aged 17 to 99, youth aged 12 to 16, children aged 3 to 11, and even infants under 2.

To make the most of the experience, the tour operator recommends bringing the following:

1. Swimwear for taking a dip in the inviting waters.
2. Comfortable hiking shoes to navigate the trails through the gorge and forests.
3. Any dietary requirements should be noted during the booking process.

The diverse group size, from solo travelers to small parties, ensures an intimate and personalized tour experience led by knowledgeable guides in multiple languages.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

The tour has garnered overwhelmingly positive customer reviews, with an impressive 4.9 out of 5 rating based on 87 reviews.

Participants consistently praise the guide’s extensive knowledge of Cretan history, culture, and vegetation, as well as the transportation, service, and overall organization of the tour.

The exhilarating hike through the Sarakina Gorge and the authentic local dining experiences are highlighted as tour highlights.

However, some customers noted issues with wasps during the lunch at the local taverna.

Despite this minor concern, the tour appears to provide an immersive and enjoyable experience for visitors seeking to explore Crete’s diverse landscapes and cultural offerings.

Exploring Sarakina Gorge

One of the highlights of the South Coast Safari tour is the exhilarating hike through the Sarakina Gorge. This dramatic natural wonder features:

1. Cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear rivers that cut through the rugged limestone terrain.

2. Lush, verdant vegetation lining the gorge walls, creating a serene and picturesque environment.

3. Challenging yet rewarding trails that wind along the gorge, offering panoramic views and a true sense of adventure.

As participants make their way through the gorge, they’re treated to the stunning natural beauty of Crete’s interior, far from the crowded beaches.

The hike through Sarakina Gorge is an exhilarating highlight that perfectly encapsulates the diversity and adventure of the South Coast Safari tour.

Discovering Cretan Forests

Nestled within the rugged landscape of Crete’s interior lies the protected Mountain Forest of Kroustas, a hidden gem that captivates visitors on the South Coast Safari tour.

Towering trees and lush greenery create a serene atmosphere, a stark contrast to the coastal areas explored earlier. Guests have the opportunity to enjoy this tranquil setting, learning about the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this protected environment.

The guide’s expertise shines as they share insights into the importance of preserving Crete’s natural wonders. For those seeking a peaceful respite from the day’s adventures, the Mountain Forest of Kroustas offers a restorative and enlightening experience.

Coastal Adventure and Swimming

After exploring the serene Mountain Forest of Kroustas, the tour takes guests on an exhilarating coastal adventure.

First, the group visits the stunning Myrtos beach, where they can swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea.

Next, they hike through the Sarakina Gorge, marveling at its towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and refreshing streams.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Those With Limited Mobility?

The tour may not be suitable for those with limited mobility. While the itinerary includes hiking, there are optional activities that don’t require extensive walking. It’s best to check with the tour operator about accessibility needs.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour allows participants to bring their own food and drinks. However, a local taverna lunch is included in the package, emphasizing Cretan hospitality and cuisine.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour itinerary does not mention an option to extend the duration. However, participants can inquire with the tour provider about the possibility of customizing the tour or adding additional activities for an additional fee.

What Type of Insurance Is Provided for the Activities?

The tour provider offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, but it doesn’t specify any additional insurance coverage for the activities. Participants should check their own travel insurance policies for any necessary coverage.

Can We Make Changes to the Itinerary During the Tour?

The tour itinerary can be adjusted during the tour, though changes may be limited based on factors like weather, group consensus, and logistical constraints. Participants are encouraged to discuss any desired modifications with the knowledgeable guide.

Recap

This Cretan adventure delivers an unparalleled blend of natural wonder and culture. From the stunning Sarakina Gorge to the serene Myrtos beach, participants are treated to a captivating journey through Crete’s diverse landscapes. With expert guidance and ample opportunities for exploration, this South Coast Safari offers an unforgettable experience that showcases the island’s breathtaking beauty and unique ecosystems.