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09:00 - 17:00
Up to 2 days
8 people
English, French, German, Greek
Jeep Safari in Rethymno – A Journey Through Nature, Sea, and Tradition!
Discover Rethymno in a unique way with a Jeep Safari in Land Rover, taking you through gorges, beaches, mountain landscapes, and traditional villages. If you love adventure, nature, and authentic Cretan hospitality, this tour is for you!
The excursion is led by an experienced driver / guide, providing insights in English, French, or German.
Departure & First Stops
Our day begins at 8:45 AM, with pick-up from your hotel. Once aboard the Land Rovers, we embark on a journey into the heart of Crete, leaving behind the city and immersing ourselves in its stunning landscapes and rich traditions.
We pass through Giannoudi, a small, picturesque village near Rethymno, before heading towards the Prasses Gorge. Here, we get the chance to observe rare vultures, majestic birds of prey that nest on the steep cliffs. Seeing these birds soaring in their natural habitat is a breathtaking experience, and their presence highlights the region’s rich biodiversity.
A short drive later, we reach the Potamon Dam, an impressive feat of engineering that creates a vast artificial lake nestled within lush greenery. The calm waters reflect the surrounding mountains, making it a perfect spot for stunning photos and a moment of serenity before continuing our adventure.
Karynes – A Timeless Village
We then pass through the traditional village of Karynes, known for its warm hospitality and well-preserved traditions. The locals maintain their customs and lifestyle as if untouched by time, offering a glimpse into authentic Cretan culture.
Kourtaliotiko Gorge & Untamed Nature
Next, we enter the Kourtaliotiko Gorge, one of the most striking gorges in Crete. Towering cliffs, rich vegetation, and the constant sound of running water create a mystical atmosphere. The name “Kourtaliotiko” is said to come from the sound of the wind passing through the narrow passages, resembling rhythmic claps.
Preveli Beach – A Paradise of Nature
We then head to the iconic Preveli Beach, one of Crete’s most stunning locations.
Here, the Kourtaliotis River meets the sea, forming a unique palm forest reminiscent of a tropical oasis. You will have 2.5 hours of free time to swim in crystal-clear waters, relax on the golden sands, and explore the Preveli Gorge, where a gentle river flows beneath towering palm trees. For the adventurous, a short walk along the river reveals hidden waterfalls and tranquil pools.
Lunch Stop at Spili
After enjoying the beach, we make our way to Spili, one of Rethymno’s most charming traditional villages.
Here, we enjoy an included traditional Cretan lunch, featuring choices of pork chop or chicken, tzatziki, salad, and unlimited wine, with vegetarian options available. Spili is also known for its famous Venetian lion-head fountain, where 25 stone-carved lion heads pour fresh, drinkable spring water. Visitors can take a stroll through the village’s cobbled streets and visit the local folklore museum to learn more about the island’s traditions.
Return to Rethymno
On the way back, we pass through Koxsare and Armeni, two areas known for their picturesque scenery and deep Cretan roots.Before arriving in Rethymno, we stop at three monasteries, each offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city and holding centuries of religious and cultural history.
We arrive back in Rethymno around 5:00 PM, bringing an end to an unforgettable adventure filled with nature, culture, and unique experiences.
Your adventure begins with pick-up from your hotel, where you will board the Land Rover with your group and meet your experienced guide.
A stop in the stunning Prasses Gorge, where we observe rare vultures soaring above the towering cliffs. These majestic birds, often seen gliding effortlessly, contribute to the region’s unique ecosystem and make for an unforgettable sight. We take a break at Potamon Dam, an impressive reservoir surrounded by hills and lush greenery. This tranquil spot offers incredible photo opportunities, as the mirror-like water reflects the beauty of Crete’s untouched landscape.
A short stop in Karynes, a village known for its authentic Cretan atmosphere, friendly locals, and preserved traditions. Take a walk through its stone-paved streets and get a glimpse of rural life in Crete. As we descend into the Kourtaliotiko Gorge, you will feel surrounded by towering cliffs and dramatic rock formations. This is one of Crete’s most famous gorges, known for its natural springs and wild landscapes.
We arrive at Preveli Beach, a paradise where the river meets the sea. Here, you will have 2.5 hours to swim, relax on the sandy shore, and explore the tropical-like palm forest. A short walk along the river reveals hidden waterfalls and serene natural pools.
We continue to the picturesque village of Spili, where we enjoy a delicious Cretan lunch, featuring grilled pork chop or chicken, tzatziki, salad, and unlimited wine, with vegetarian options available. Take time to visit the famous Venetian lion fountain, with its fresh spring water flowing from 25 stone-carved lion heads.
We take a beautiful route back, passing through the villages of Kroxsare and Armeni, two regions full of history and stunning countryside views. Before returning to Rethymno, we stop at three historic monasteries, offering breathtaking views of the city and the coastline. These monasteries are important cultural landmarks, reflecting Crete’s deep-rooted religious history.
We arrive back in Rethymno, marking the end of an unforgettable journey through Crete’s nature, history, and tradition.
Yes, the tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off. We pick you up from your hotel or a nearby meeting point at 8:45 AM, and the tour ends at 5:00 PM, when we return to Rethymno. The exact pick-up time will be provided on your voucher upon booking.
Our experienced guide provides information in English, French, German, and Greek.
We recommend bringing:
Yes, a traditional Cretan lunch in Spili is included. You can choose between grilled pork chop or chicken, with tzatziki, salad, and unlimited wine. Vegetarian options are also available.
You will have approximately 2.5 hours at Preveli Beach, where you can swim, relax on the sandy shore, and explore the palm forest and river.
Yes, children are welcome on the tour! However, due to the nature of the off-road driving, it is recommended for children aged 6 and above.
No, the tour is suitable for all fitness levels. There is no strenuous hiking, but there is some walking involved at Preveli Beach and through villages.
Each Comfortable Land Rover Jeep accommodates up to 8 people. This ensures a cozy and adventurous experience while exploring Crete’s rugged landscapes.
No, the Jeep is driven by our experienced driver, who ensures a safe and smooth journey through the off-road terrain.
If the weather is extremely bad (e.g., heavy storms), we will reschedule the tour or offer a full refund. However, if the weather is mildly rainy or cloudy, this can actually make the tour even more exciting! Instead of staying inside your hotel with limited activities, you get to experience an adventure in nature, explore the stunning landscapes, and make the most out of your day. With a Land Rover Jeep, you’ll stay comfortable while discovering Crete’s beauty in a unique way.
You can book your Jeep Safari online, via phone, or by visiting our office in Rethymno. We recommend booking in advance, especially during the summer season.