Malta: Gozo Buggy Tour with Lunch, Boat Cruise and Transfers

If you’re eyeing a way to see the Maltese island of Gozo that combines adventure, culture, and relaxation, this full-day buggy tour might just be your perfect match. While we haven’t personally driven through it ourselves, the reviews suggest this experience offers a well-rounded glimpse of what makes Gozo special—without feeling rushed or overly commercialized.

What really shines about this tour is the blend of scenic drives and cultural landmarks—from ancient temples to colorful coastal cliffs. Plus, the lunch at a local guest house accompanied by local wine proves that good food and sightseeing can go hand-in-hand. The boat cruise, passing by the famous Blue Lagoon, adds a breezy, scenic touch to the day.

That said, a consideration to keep in mind is that the buggy experience is not electric, which means some engine noise and heat may be noticeable—something to consider if you prefer a quieter ride. The tour suits travelers craving a dynamic mix of exploration, local flavor, and natural beauty—great for those who want a rich, authentic taste of Gozo without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines buggy riding, cultural sites, a boat cruise, and free time for swimming and photos.
• Cultural highlights: Visits to UNESCO-listed Ggantija Temples and the historic Citadel in Victoria.
• Scenic views: Panoramic lookouts at Qala Belvedere, stunning coastal spots like Xlendi Cliffs, and Dwejra’s inland sea.
• Authentic local flavor: Buffet lunch featuring cold cuts and local wine, served at a guest house.
• Active and flexible: Plenty of stops for photos, exploration, and a swim in Xwejni Bay.
• Highly rated guides: Knowledgeable, friendly drivers who enhance the experience, according to reviews.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

This tour is designed to give you a broad, engaging taste of Gozo’s highlights—both natural and historical. Starting at Mgarr Harbour, you’ll board your buggy, which serves as your vehicle for the day. The actual riding seems to be more about guided driving rather than pure off-road adventure, but the stops allow for plenty of photo ops and exploration.

First, you’ll head to the Qala Belvedere, where sweeping views of Malta, Comino, and the surrounding sea stretch out before you. This vantage point offers perfect photo opportunities and a chance to soak in the landscape. The nearby Qala Parish Church impresses with its Baroque architecture, a quick stop that adds a touch of local religious charm.

As you venture through Simar Valley, expect tranquil countryside views, with rolling green hills, terraced fields, and farmhouses that showcase traditional Gozitan life. Here, the reviews highlight the calm beauty of the area—an authentic slice of rural Malta.

The legendary Calypso Cave is next, purportedly linked to Homer’s Odyssey. While the connection is more myth than verified, it’s a captivating spot that stirs the imagination. Afterward, the Ggantija Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site, take center stage. These megalithic structures, dating back to 3600-3200 BC, are among the world’s oldest free-standing monuments, making them a must-see for history buffs.

The visit to Victoria’s Citadel offers a glimpse into centuries of Gozitan history, with its fortifications and panoramic rampart views. Wandering through the maze of narrow streets and historic buildings, you’ll get a feel for the island’s resilient spirit.

At Mariblu Guest House, the group pauses for a buffet lunch featuring cold cuts and other cold dishes, accompanied by local wine and mineral water. Reviewers praise this meal for its simplicity, quality, and the convivial atmosphere—an authentic taste of local hospitality.

Post-lunch, the tour continues along the coast at Xlendi Cliffs, where sheer cliffs drop dramatically into the sea, offering breathtaking vistas. Then, you’ll visit the Dwejra area, home to the Inland Sea—a lagoon carved into limestone—and the famous Azure Window collapsed in 2017 but still a popular natural site.

The Ta Pinu Sanctuary is another highlight—its impressive architecture and spiritual significance make it a peaceful stop. Finally, the Xwejni Salt Pans reveal centuries-old salt harvesting practices, offering a glimpse into traditional Gozitan livelihood.

The day concludes with a boat cruise passing by the Blue Lagoon, Crystal Lagoon, and Sea Caves, depending on weather conditions. This is a relaxing way to see the coast from the water and enjoy some of the most photogenic parts of the Maltese archipelago.

The Experience of Riding a Buggy in Gozo

Some travelers might wonder what the buggy experience entails. Based on reviews, the buggy isn’t electric, which means engine noise and warmth are noticeable during the ride. The drivers — described as knowledgeable and friendly — generally steer with a calm manner, making the journey more about sightseeing than off-road adrenaline.

While the driving is guided, the stops allow for plenty of photo opportunities, exploration, and some free time for swimming or just soaking in the scenery. This makes the buggy tour accessible for most, without requiring prior off-road experience or physical exertion.

The Value of the Tour

At around 8 hours, this tour offers a full day of activity and sightseeing that’s well worth the price. The included transfers, ferry tickets, lunch, and boat cruise add up to a package that minimizes the hassle, making it a convenient way to see many of Gozo’s highlights in one go.

The lunch at the guest house is simple but tasty, and the local wine elevates the meal, adding a touch of regional authenticity. The boat trip—recommended by multiple reviewers—turns a scenic drive into a relaxed water-based view of the coast, which is often a highlight.

Based on numerous positive reviews, customers particularly love knowledgeable guides who share interesting facts and stories, making the experience more personal and memorable. The scenic outlooks, especially at Qala and Xlendi, leave visitors with lasting impressions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor exploration, cultural visits, and scenic drives. It’s particularly suited for those who want to maximize their time in Gozo without the stress of planning each stop.

It’s also great for small groups or families—especially since reviews mention children enjoying the boat ride and the open-air buggy experience. If you’re a history buff, the UNESCO sites and ancient temples will certainly satisfy your curiosity. Conversely, if you prefer a more relaxed, passive day, the boat cruise and scenic stops offer plenty of downtime.

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Practical Details and Tips

The tour lasts about 8 hours, with start times varying by availability. You’ll be picked up from more than 40 locations around Malta, including major hotels and popular tourist spots. The roundtrip ferry tickets are included when needed, smoothing the transition between islands.

What to bring? Pack your swimsuit for the Bay swim stop, camera for all those scenic views, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities. The weather can be warm, so dress accordingly.

Since alcohol and drugs are not permitted, it’s best to enjoy the included local wine during lunch without overindulging beforehand. For those with mobility concerns, note that many stops involve walking, but the main attractions are accessible.

FAQs

Is the buggy ride guided or self-driven?
The tour is led by experienced drivers who guide the group, but you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the ride while the guide manages the driving.

Can I choose the language of the guide?
Yes, the tour offers multilingual guides, including English, German, Italian, French, Spanish, Polish, and Portuguese.

Is the boat cruise optional?
Yes, the boat trip at the inland sea and coastal passages is optional. It depends on weather conditions, but it’s highly recommended by travelers for the scenery it offers.

Are meals and drinks included?
The buffet lunch with cold cuts and local wine is included. Drinks are available for purchase, and the lunch is praised for its quality and simplicity.

What about the admission to Ggantija Temples?
The entrance fee to the temples is not included, but the ticket is available for optional purchase.

How long are the stops?
Most stops range from 15 to 30 minutes, giving enough time to explore, take photos, or relax. The swim stop at Xwejni Bay lasts about 30 minutes.

What is the group size?
While the exact number varies, the tour is designed for small to medium-sized groups, ensuring a more personal experience.

Is this suitable for families with young children?
Yes, many reviews mention families with pre-teens enjoying the day, especially the boat ride and scenic stops. Just ensure your children are comfortable with outdoor activity.

Final Thoughts

For those seeking a full day of exploring Gozo’s highlights with a touch of adventure, this buggy tour offers great value. You’ll enjoy stunning views, cultural insights, and authentic local hospitality packed into one carefully curated experience. The combination of guided stops and free time for swimming and photos means you can tailor the day to your interests.

The knowledgeable guides and well-planned itinerary make this a reliable choice for travelers who want an immersive, hassle-free way to see the island’s best spots. Whether you’re into history, scenery, or just a fun day out in nature, this tour ticks all those boxes.

In essence, it’s especially perfect for adventurers and culture lovers alike who appreciate a balance of activity and relaxation. The only caveat might be the noise from the buggy engine, but that’s a small price to pay for the chance to explore Gozo from the land and sea in one memorable day.

In summary, this full-day buggy tour is a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to see the authentic side of Gozo—from ancient temples to coastal cliffs—while enjoying good food, scenic views, and a bit of adventure. It caters well to those who value guided expertise and natural beauty over purely self-guided sightseeing. If that sounds like your kind of day, this tour is worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: