Explore the hidden gems of Southern Crete on this immersive 8.5-hour safari tour. Discover charming villages, cultural experiences, and stunning natural landscapes as you explore the region’s rich history and traditions. From pottery and olive oil tastings to architectural tours and wildlife encounters, this adventure-packed itinerary offers an unparalleled glimpse into the authentic Cretan way of life. But what truly sets this tour apart is the promise of a refreshing swim, a breathtaking waterfall, and a mouthwatering traditional lunch – experiences that will leave you craving for more.
Key Points
- The Southern Crete Safari Tour is an 8.5-hour exploration of the region’s hidden gems, including visits to traditional villages and cultural experiences.
- The tour offers a variety of activities, such as swimming, hiking, and off-road adventures, as well as opportunities for shopping, food tasting, and exploring arts and crafts markets.
- Key highlights of the tour include visits to Thrapsano for pottery, olive mill, and winery tours, and Viannos for architectural exploration and a visit to the Beauty Museum.
- The tour also includes scenic experiences, such as views of the Kavousi canyon and a close-up visit to the Richtra Waterfall, as well as a swim and local lunch at Skouros Beach.
- The tour is available in multiple languages and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with pickup from 8 convenient locations across Crete.
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Tour Overview and Pricing
The Secrets Of the Southern Crete Safari tour offers an 8.5-hour exploration of the region’s hidden gems, with prices starting from €2,229 per person.
Travelers can enjoy this journey in Dutch, English, French, or German, and have the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Pickup is included from 8 convenient locations across Crete.
The tour immerses visitors in traditional villages, museums, canyons, and stunning waterfalls, offering a diverse range of activities from guided tours to off-road adventures.
With knowledgeable guides, scenic routes, and positive customer reviews, this safari promises an unforgettable experience in Southern Crete.
Itinerary Highlights
Travelers who embark on the Secrets Of The Southern Crete Safari tour will explore a rich tapestry of cultural experiences.
The itinerary highlights include visiting traditional villages like Thrapsano and Viannos, where visitors can explore museums, canyons, and unique waterfalls.
The tour also offers a chance to swim in the turquoise waters of Skouros beach and engage in various activities such as guided tours, shopping, food tasting, arts and crafts markets, hiking, and off-road adventures.
Key stops include the Aposelemis Dam, Avdou, Thrapsano, Viannos, and Keratokampos, each offering a unique glimpse into the region’s history, traditions, and natural wonders.
Experiences and Activities
As visitors explore the traditional villages, they are immersed in a tapestry of cultural experiences. In Thrapsano, they tour a family pottery business, an olive mill, and a winery, sampling the rich flavors of olive oil and raki. In Viannos, they admire the local architecture, visit a unique beauty museum, and enjoy coffee under a large plane tree. Venturing further, they encounter the scenic Kavoussi canyon and photograph the majestic vultures. The highlight is a close-up visit to the Richtra Waterfall, which is at its best flow in May. The tour culminates with a refreshing swim at Skouros Beach, followed by a local tavern lunch with unlimited wine and water.
| Activity | Location | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Pottery, olive mill, winery tour with tastings | Thrapsano | 45 mins |
| Explore architecture, beauty museum, coffee | Viannos | 45 mins |
| Scenic canyon views, vulture photography | Kavoussi | – |
| Close-up visit to Richtra Waterfall | – | – |
| Swim at Skouros Beach, followed by lunch | Skouros Beach | 45 mins |
Thrapsano: Family Pottery and Tastings
In Thrapsano, visitors enjoy the family-owned pottery business, where generations of artisans have honed their craft.
The tour includes a visit to the olive mill and winery, where guests can sample the region’s renowned olive oil and raki.
Guests witness the intricate process of pottery-making, from shaping the clay to decorating the finished pieces.
The family’s passion for their craft is palpable, as they share the rich history and traditions that have been passed down through the years.
Tasting the flavorful olive oil and spirits completes the immersive experience, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the artistry and heritage of Thrapsano.
Viannos: Local Architecture and Beauty Museum
Next, visitors explore the charming village of Viannos, where they enjoy the region’s unique architectural heritage and cultural traditions.
They wander through the picturesque streets, marveling at the well-preserved buildings that showcase the distinctive Cretan style.
The highlight of the visit is the unique Beauty Museum, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s grooming and beauty rituals.
Travelers enjoy a traditional coffee under the shade of a large plane tree, savoring the tranquil atmosphere and the opportunity to connect with the local way of life.
The Viannos experience provides a genuine culture, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of southern Crete.
Kavoussi: Scenic Canyon and Vultures
From the tranquil village of Viannos, the tour moves on to the picturesque Kavoussi region.
Here, visitors are treated to scenic views of the Kavousi canyon, a dramatic landscape carved by the forces of nature. The surrounding cliffs provide a home for a variety of vultures, and the guide encourages participants to take advantage of the numerous photo opportunities.
This stop offers a chance to appreciate the raw beauty of Crete’s rugged terrain and the wildlife that thrives in this remote corner of the island.
The breathtaking vistas and the chance to witness the graceful flight of the vultures make this a truly memorable part of the safari experience.
Richtra Waterfall: Close-up Visit
After exploring the scenic Kavousi canyon, the tour makes its way to the Richtra Waterfall.
This stunning natural wonder is best experienced in May when the flow is at its peak. Visitors are treated to a close-up visit, allowing them to fully enjoy the waterfall’s beauty.
The thundering waters cascade down the rocks, creating a mesmerizing display. Guests can take in the breathtaking scenery and snap photos to capture the moment.
The Richtra Waterfall is a must-see highlight of the Southern Crete Safari tour, offering a truly memorable and awe-inspiring experience.
Skouros Beach: Swim and Local Lunch
The tour then heads to Skouros Beach, where guests can enjoy a refreshing 45-minute swim in the turquoise waters.
After the swim, the group will have lunch at a local tavern, with unlimited wine and water included.
The lunch features traditional Cretan dishes, allowing visitors to savor the flavors of the region.
This stop provides a chance to relax and take in the laid-back coastal atmosphere.
With the scenic beauty of Skouros Beach and the delightful local fare, this part of the tour offers a perfect balance of adventure and leisure.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Group Size for This Tour?
The tour group size is not specified in the provided information. The tour overview and details cover various aspects of the tour, but do not mention the group size.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Charges During the Tour?
The tour price includes pickup, entrance fees, guided tours, food and wine tastings, and transportation. There are no additional fees or charges during the tour. Customers only need to cover any personal expenses or souvenirs they wish to purchase.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?
Yes, you can customize the itinerary to your preferences. The tour operator offers flexibility to adjust the stops and activities based on your interests, ensuring a personalized experience during the 8.5-hour safari.
Is the Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?
The tour appears suitable for families with young children. It includes activities like swimming, hiking, and visiting museums and markets, which could appeal to both adults and children. The free pickup and drop-off services also make it convenient for families.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Gear for the Activities?
The tour doesn’t require any special equipment or gear. Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and swimwear are recommended for the activities like hiking, swimming, and exploring the waterfalls and beaches.
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Recap
The Secrets of the Southern Crete Safari Tour offers an immersive journey through the hidden gems of the region. From pottery and olive oil tastings to exploring stunning landscapes and experiencing local culture, this 8.5-hour adventure promises an unforgettable experience. Highlights include a refreshing swim, breathtaking waterfall views, and wildlife photography opportunities, culminating in a delicious traditional Cretan lunch.