Santorini: ATV guided tour around the South of the island

If you’re looking for a way to see Santorini beyond the usual postcard spots, this ATV guided tour around the island’s southern parts offers a lively, authentic experience. It’s not just about ticking off sights; it’s about feeling the island’s volcanic energy, listening to local tales, and enjoying spectacular views from a unique vantage point.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines the thrill of riding quad bikes with genuine, scenic exploration. You’ll get up close to volcanic beaches and traditional villages, while the knowledgeable guide ensures you’re in safe hands. The second highlight? The panoramic vistas from the highest points, offering some of the best photo opportunities on the island.

One thing to keep in mind: this experience is best suited for active travelers who enjoy a little adventure, and it’s not designed for those with mobility issues or expecting a leisurely, sit-down tour. Also, at around $169 per person, it offers excellent value for a four-hour excursion that’s packed with variety and local flavor.

If you’re after a memorable, hands-on way to discover Santorini’s south side—this tour could be your perfect match.

Key Points

• Adventure and Comfort: Combines off-road riding with guided storytelling.
• Spectacular Views: From the Caldera, mountain tops, and beaches.
• Local Insights: Stops at fishing marinas and traditional villages.
• Active Experience: Suitable for energetic travelers; not for those with mobility limitations.
• Great Value: Four hours of varied sights and experiences for $169.
• Authentic Feel: Off-the-beaten-path locations and local encounters.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Santorini ATV Guided Tour

Starting Point: Perissa Beach and Safety First

Your journey begins on the volcanic sands of Perissa’s Black Beach, one of Santorini’s most iconic sights. Here, you’ll be fitted with safety gear and given brief instructions—think of it as the warm-up before you hit the off-road trails. The initial ride along the beach itself is a straightforward way to get comfortable on the quad, and it sets the tone for an energetic adventure.

The tour’s pace is well-managed, making it accessible for most riders, but you’ll want to be comfortable with basic driving skills. The guides are known for being friendly, patient, and informative, which makes a difference especially if you’re new to quad biking.

Fishing Village Vlychada and Local Life

Next, the route takes you toward Vlychada, famous for its fishing boat marina. Here, local fishermen repair their nets and share stories that add a genuine touch to your experience. This stop isn’t just picturesque; it’s a window into everyday island life that many visitors miss when sticking to the more tourist-heavy spots.

Off-Road to Theros Beach

From the marina, the adventure turns off the beaten path—literally. You’ll ride off-road through volcanic terrain to Theros Beach, where you can take a quick dip if the weather’s hot enough. The off-road element is a highlight for many travelers, giving that sense of freedom and exploration you can’t get from a bus or boat tour. The terrain varies, and the ride over lava rocks and dirt trails feels authentic, not sanitized.

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Reaching the Summit: Prophet Elias

After cooling off at Theros, your journey winds up toward Prophet Elias, the highest point on the island. You’ll pass the traditional windmills of Emboreio along the way, which are classic symbols of Santorini. From here, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the mountains, sea, and villages—a perfect backdrop for photos and quiet contemplation.

Once you reach the monastery of Prophet Elias at the summit, you’ll have the chance to walk around (if open) and soak in views that stretch across the island and beyond. The monastery is also the location of the highest church in Santorini, which adds a spiritual element to the experience.

Exploring Pyrgos Village

Descending from the mountain, the tour takes you to Pyrgos, one of the most traditional villages on Santorini. It’s like stepping back in time with narrow, winding streets and whitewashed buildings. You can explore on your own, perhaps stopping at a café under the shade of trees for a cool drink. Many reviews mention how much travelers appreciate this authentic village, which feels untouched by mass tourism.

The “Heart of Santorini” Stop

On your way back to Perissa, there’s a final stop at “The Heart of Santorini” viewpoint. This spot provides sweeping vistas of the caldera, volcano, and surrounding islands. It’s an ideal place to snap some last photos and reflect on the day’s adventure.

Wrapping Up and Sharing Memories

Back at the starting point, the guides encourage everyone to share their favorite moments and show off photos taken during the tour. This social aspect helps cement the experience as a highlight of your trip, and many reviews mention how memorable and fun this part is.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour includes a 450cc or 550cc quad, helmets, third-party insurance, fuel, bottled water, and a choice of coffee, tea, or soft drink. It’s a well-rounded package that emphasizes safety and comfort without sacrificing adventure.

Not included are personal insurance and Collision Damage Wavier—so if you have your own health or travel insurance, you might want to check coverage. Also, drivers need a valid driver’s license, and those outside the EU, USA, or Canada should contact the provider beforehand for specific requirements.

This experience is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, mobility issues, or heart problems, and participants must be over 23 years old. Feel free to ask if you’re unsure about eligibility, as safety is a priority.

Tour Duration and Flexibility

With a length of about four hours, it’s a manageable half-day outing. You can check available start times when you book, and there’s an option to reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility with your plans.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

The tour might be canceled or rescheduled due to weather—common in outdoor adventures—so keep this in mind if your trip coincides with unpredictable conditions.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Feedback

One review from a group of six travelers highlights how well the guides tailored the day: “George brought us to so many locations that we would have never known to visit. We all agreed this was one of the best tours we participated in on Santorini.” Such genuine local insights are a huge plus, making the tour more than just a sightseeing drive.

Travelers also rave about the views—”marvelous panoramic sights” and “amazing backgrounds”—and the friendly, knowledgeable guides who help make the experience memorable. The opportunity to explore Pinpoints like the fishing marina and Pyrgos village adds depth to your Santorini visit.

Value for Money

At $169 per person, this four-hour tour offers a lot of variety—from beaches to mountain tops, villages, and viewpoints. It’s a hands-on, active way to see parts of Santorini that many visitors miss, making it a worthwhile investment for adventure lovers. The inclusion of bottled water and a little snack or drink keeps you refreshed, and the safety gear and instructions make it accessible even for beginners.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This ATV adventure is perfect for travelers who crave a mix of active exploration and scenic beauty. If you enjoy a bit of adrenaline and want to see Santorini from a different perspective, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for those who like off-road experiences, panoramic views, and authentic local encounters.

However, it’s not ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those seeking a relaxed, sit-down sightseeing experience. If you prefer guided bus tours or want a more leisurely pace, this might not be your best choice.

Final Thoughts

This ATV guided tour around the south of Santorini offers a lively, engaging way to see the island’s volcanic landscapes, traditional villages, and panoramic vistas. The mix of off-road adventures, cultural stops, and breathtaking views makes it a well-rounded experience for those comfortable with active travel.

The guides’ local knowledge, combined with the stunning scenery and authentic stops, make this tour stand out. The price reflects good value considering the variety of stops and the personalized experience it provides.

If you’re seeking a memorable way to explore Santorini’s less touristy sides, and you’re ready for some fun on a quad bike, this tour is well worth considering.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour includes riding training and safety gear, making it accessible for most beginners who are comfortable with basic driving.

What should I bring?
Bring your driver’s license and a credit card for the booking. Wearing comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes is advisable, especially since you’ll be off-road.

Can I ride if I don’t have an international driver’s license?
Drivers outside of the EU, USA, or Canada should contact the provider before booking, as they might need to provide additional documentation.

Is there a weight or age limit?
Drivers must be over 23 years old. The tour is designed for active adults; it’s not suitable for pregnant women, or those with back, mobility, or heart problems.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour might be canceled or rescheduled depending on weather conditions, so it’s advisable to check the forecast and your cancellation policy.

Can I swim at Theros Beach?
Yes, you can take a quick swim at Theros Beach if you wish to cool down. Bring swimwear if you want to enjoy a dip.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately four hours, including stops and driving time.

Is food or alcohol included?
No, food and alcohol are not included. The tour provides bottled water and a choice of coffee, tea, or soft drink.

What makes this tour unique?
The combination of scenic off-road riding, local insights, visits to traditional villages, and panoramic viewpoints offers an authentic, memorable experience of Santorini’s southern landscape.

This thoughtfully crafted tour balances adventure, culture, and scenery, making it a fantastic option for travelers eager to explore Santorini in a fun, active way. Whether you’re looking for a thrill or authentic sights away from the crowds, this ATV guided tour delivers.

You can check availability for your dates here: