April to October: Monday – Wednesday – Thursday – Sunday
November to March: Daily On Request
Tour Highlights
Description
Experience a magnificent safari up in the foothills of the White Mountains of Chania with breathtaking panoramic views. Visit small Cretan villages en route, discover the island’s history and traditions and meet the local shepherds exploring an authentic “Mitato” (shepherd’s shelter up in the mountains). Conquer the mountains of Chania, reaching an altitude of 1350m and learn everything about the flora & fauna of this stunning place.
The off-road adventure starts from Chania. We will pick you up from your hotel or a pre-arranged meeting location. We drive towards our first destination through a gorgeous green valley full of citrus fruits, oranges, avocados, lemons, and kiwis. On our way up to the mountains, we stop for a coffee at Deres village. Then, driving through Vatolakos, Alikianos, Fournes, Meskla, Zourva and Therisso villages, you will experience the mountainous Crete. We will follow a beautiful off-road route up to the shepherd’s shelter, away from crowds and the touristic attractions of Chania. Our journey through unknown shepherd’s roads, where only a four-wheel drive can approach, leads us to the Cretan wildness and the local shepherds. You will admire breathtaking panoramic views of northern Crete and the wild hawks, eagles and goats of the mountains.
A small dirt road is bringing us to our trip’s highest point (1350m altitude) in the heart of the White Mountains, where you will discover everything about the everyday life of a Cretan shepherd. We will taste Crete’s most delicious cheese, “Graviera”, and see where they are traditionally producing it.
Returning to Chania, we will enjoy a short walk at the historical village of Therisso and taste the island’s best delicacies during our lunch at a small family-run restaurant. After lunch, we drive through the spectacular gorge of Therisso. This historical path’s beautiful surrounding environment will complete today’s mouthwatering experience and close our memorable journey through the Cretan traditions and lifestyle.
If you wish to explore more options return to the Pemium Safari Tours page.
We keep our group sizes low so you have the freedom to move around and get involved with your surroundings, as well as more personal attention from our local guides. This intimate size ensures that your group will not crowd your experience. You can expect up to 30 travelers on a trip but the average is 15-20. Check individual trip pages for maximum group sizes.
It’s extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary please consult a Fabulous Crete Specialist before you book your adventure.
Land Rover Defender Jeeps
For privacy reasons we cannot provide you with advance details on your traveling companions. However, our tours appeal to a wide range of travellers, most of whom share an adventurous spirit and a desire to experience these destinations at a grass-roots level. Our tours are conducted in English and so they attract many travellers from North America, UK, Australia and Europe
The availability listed on our website is updated every minute however on some tours we must confirm arrangements with our people on the ground, a process which usually takes no more than 24 hours. When you book online you will receive a follow-up email confirming your arrangements or a timeframe for when they will be confirmed.
The security that comes from knowing your trip is locked-in is a feeling that can’t be topped. We like that feeling – so much, so that we figured everyone should have it.
Every departure is guaranteed to run. Yup, all of them. Once you’ve booked and paid, that’s it, you’re going. Guaranteed. Your trip won’t be cancelled by us for any reason (beyond harsh weather or safety issues). Promise.
All documentation is sent electronically by email. Shortly after we receive your payment we will send you your initial documents. Final documentation will be sent by email no later than two days prior to the departure.
Yes, all of our Tour Managers and Tour Drivers speak English, some speak additional languages as well, but your tour will be conducted in English
You will automatically receive an e-voucher to your email address. Please print your voucher/ticket or keep a picture to your mobile phone which contains your unique reference number. Please remember to bring this with you on the day. You will not be allowed entrance to an attraction without a valid ticket.
If there is any problem with your booking or payment details, we will contact you on the telephone number or email address stated in your booking. Sometimes tours may not operate due to insufficient numbers, and we may need to contact you to advise you of any such changes.
All entrance fees and costs are included in the tour price except unspecified fees.
If you book more than 2 tours with us, then please contact our friendly staff who will be happy to assist you with your inquiry and see what we can arrange for you at info@gstours.gr
You could lose your seat to a walk-up passenger. We encourage you to arrive at the pickup point a minimum of 15 minutes before departure. Once on the tour, your guide or driver will give you a time that the coach will depart each location. You must be at the coach at least five minutes before this time. If you are late and miss the time given, the coach will depart without you in order to not keep the other passengers waiting. If you are in any doubt about a departure time whilst on your tour, you must ask the guide or driver.
5 days before the tour starts –> 50% refund, no refunds after that
35% Deposit on booking time and final payment 7 days before the tour date.
My husband and I had a wonderful time. Peter and the other guides were very informative. Great way to see Crete and experience greek culture. Thank you !