Malta: Gozo Full Day Buggy Tour with lunch and Boat Trip

If you’re planning a trip to Malta and want to experience the island of Gozo from a fresh perspective, this full-day buggy tour offers a fantastic way to explore at your own pace. It promises a mix of scenic vistas, cultural sites, charming villages, and natural wonders—all wrapped up in a flexible, fun-filled package.

What we love about this tour is how it combines the thrill of riding a buggy through narrow countryside roads with the chance to see some of Gozo’s most iconic spots. Plus, the inclusion of a traditional Maltese lunch and optional boat trip makes it a well-rounded experience. That said, it’s worth considering that the bumpy roads might not suit travelers with mobility issues or those looking for a very smooth ride.

This tour is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor adventures, cultural exploration, and stunning scenery. If you’re seeking a flexible, engaging day out with knowledgeable guides and plenty of photo opportunities, it’s a smart choice. Let’s break down what to expect and why this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Authentic exploration of Gozo’s top sights via a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
• Guided commentary enhances understanding of each location’s significance.
• Flexible stops including stunning viewpoints, historic sites, and natural formations.
• Includes a traditional Maltese lunch with free wine and water.
• Optional boat trip at Dwejra adds a splash of adventure.
• Ideal for outdoor lovers wanting a personalized, scenic tour.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Timing

The tour begins early at 8:00 am, with pickup options available (check your hotel or nearby meeting points). For roughly 6 to 7 hours, you’ll be on the move, exploring the highlights of Gozo, with enough flexibility to absorb the island’s charm without feeling rushed.

The Buggy Ride: A Unique Way to Travel

Once at Mgarr Harbour, you’ll board your air-conditioned buggy, a fun and practical way to navigate the island’s narrow roads and scenic routes. The buggies are known for their bumpy yet exhilarating ride—reviewers mention that roads can be bumpy, and vehicles might get warm and noisy, especially with panels open, but most find it adds to the adventure rather than detracts from it. The group size is capped at 60, so expect a lively, informal atmosphere.

Scenic Lookouts and Photo Stops

Your first stop is at Qala Belvedere, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Maltese archipelago, including Comino and Malta. Here, you’ll have a photo opportunity that truly captures the island’s beauty. As one reviewer noted, “We loved the way the tour was organized, maximizing the experience,” and these viewpoints set the tone for a day filled with stunning vistas.

Driving through Nadur, a local village bustling with authentic Maltese life, offers a glimpse into everyday life on Gozo, far from touristy crowds.

Cultural and Historic Sites

The Ggantija Temples are a major highlight. Built in prehistoric times, these enormous stone structures are a UNESCO World Heritage site. While the ticket costs €10, the visit offers a tangible link to the island’s ancient past. The guide’s commentary adds context, making this more than just a photo stop.

Next is Calypso Cave, famous for its legendary link to Homeric tales. Here, you’ll get a quick photo stop of the red sandy beach and the cave’s dramatic surroundings. While no ticket is required, the scenery alone makes it worth a quick visit.

The Citadel in Victoria is another key site—this historic fortress once defended against Ottoman sieges. Walking through its ramparts gives a sense of Malta’s militaristic past, and you’ll appreciate the panoramic views from the top.

Lunch at Mariblu Guest House

A highlight of the tour is a lieu lunch at the Mariblu Bed and Breakfast. The meal is a cold buffet, offering a taste of local flavors. Reviewers mention the good value, with free wine and water, which makes this a relaxing break. It’s a great chance to chat with fellow travelers and reflect on the morning’s sights.

Natural Wonders and Coastal Views

Post-lunch, the tour passes Sanap Cliffs, offering breathtaking coastal views. You’ll then head towards Dwejra Bay, a natural marvel famous for its Wied il-Mielah Window, a limestone arch similar to the famous Azure Window that collapsed years ago. The 20-minute stop is perfect for photos and soaking in the rugged beauty.

A short boat trip at Dwejra is available for an extra fee, adding a splash of water-based fun—many travelers find it worthwhile for the perspective it offers of the coastline.

Coastal and Cultural Stops

The journey continues with a brief stop at Xlendi Cliffs for more spectacular views, and a chance to snap photos of the charming Xwejni Salt Pans, where sea salt has been harvested for centuries. If time permits, you might also enjoy a swim in Xwejni Bay, a lovely spot for a refreshing dip.

The tour wraps up with a pass by Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary, a revered church with beautiful architecture and a peaceful atmosphere.

Analyzing the Value

At $98.33 per person, this tour offers excellent value, considering the number of stops, the guided commentary, the included lunch, and optional boat trip. The all-inclusive nature means you won’t have to worry about additional costs for transportation, and the free wine and water with lunch adds a relaxed touch.

While the Ggantija Temples entrance fee (€10) isn’t included, the guided visit and immersive experience make the overall cost fair for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers.

Insights from Reviews

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides, noting that George and others are attentive and professional. One reviewer mentioned how the tour is well-organized, maximizing sightseeing without feeling rushed. Others commented on the stunning views and the authentic feel of the stops, especially the salt pans and the local village passing through.

A few noted the roads can be bumpy and the vehicle can be hot, but most agree that the adventure outweighs these minor inconveniences. The small swim stop in Xwejni Bay is highly appreciated, providing a welcome break.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour suits adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic drives, and cultural sites. It’s perfect for those wanting to see a bit of everything, from prehistoric temples to natural rock formations, with a dash of local flavor. If you appreciate guided commentary that deepens your understanding and are comfortable with a somewhat bumpy ride, this experience is likely to be memorable.

It’s less ideal for travelers seeking a very smooth or relaxed day, or those with mobility issues, given the unpaved roads and short walking stops.

The Sum Up

This full-day buggy tour around Gozo offers a rich blend of scenery, history, and local culture. The combination of stunning viewpoints, historic sites, and natural wonders makes it a well-rounded experience that caters to curious travelers eager to see the real island. The included lunch and optional boat trip add value and variety, making it a flexible and engaging choice.

The guides are praised for their attentiveness and knowledge, enhancing each stop with stories and context. The price provides good value, especially considering the variety of sights and the personalized feel of the tour.

If you crave an immersive, outdoor adventure that highlights the best of Gozo without feeling like a rushed group tour, this is an excellent pick. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a mix of scenic drives, cultural insights, and opportunities for authentic photos and dips in the sea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered, making it convenient to start the day without extra transport arrangements.

How long is the tour?
It lasts roughly 6 to 7 hours, allowing ample time at each stop plus travel time.

What is the cost of the Ggantija Temples?
Entrance tickets are €10, not included in the tour price.

Can I opt for the boat trip?
Yes, a boat trip at Dwejra is available at an extra cost, providing a different view of the coastline.

Is food included?
Yes, a cold buffet lunch is included with free wine and water for those of legal drinking age.

Are the roads bumpy?
Yes, some roads are unpaved and bumpy, which adds a bit of adventure but might be uncomfortable for some.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility concerns should note the short walks and bumpy roads.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection, a camera, swimwear if you want to swim at Xwejni Bay, and a sense of adventure.

How many travelers are on the tour?
The maximum group size is 60, but most experiences tend to be more intimate, with guided attention.

This Gozo buggy tour offers an authentic, scenic, and engaging way to experience Malta’s sister island. Perfect for curious explorers, culture lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike—just bring your camera and sense of adventure.