From Heraklion: Guided Jeep Safari with Winery Visit & Lunch

From Heraklion: Guided Jeep Safari with Winery Visit & Lunch is an 8-hour journey into some of Crete’s most captivating scenery, local flavors, and hidden natural treasures. For $104 per person, you’ll hop into a sturdy 4WD vehicle with a small group or private guide and venture beyond the usual tourist spots. Starting from your Heraklion hotel, this tour offers an energetic blend of off-road exploration, scenic vistas, cultural insights, and relaxing seaside fun.

What we love about this experience are the chance to taste Crete’s wines right where they’re made, and the spectacular natural scenery you’ll encounter, especially the stunning Richtra Waterfall and panoramic views of the South Cretan Sea. The mix of activities—wine tasting, hiking, off-roading, swimming, and beachside lunch—means you’ll get a well-rounded taste of the island’s diverse landscapes and local life.

One potential consideration is the moderate walking involved, particularly the hike to the waterfall, which takes about 10-20 minutes and depends on weather conditions. If mobility is an issue, this might be less ideal. Also, some travelers found the wine tasting a bit pricey relative to the wine quality, so if you’re a wine enthusiast, you might want to budget accordingly.

This tour is perfect for those who want an active, varied day out with plenty of chances to learn about local traditions, enjoy breathtaking views, and relax by the sea. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate small group experiences and are eager to see lesser-known parts of Crete. If you love combining adventure with cultural flavor, this tour ticks all those boxes.

Key Points

• Diverse Adventures: Combines off-road driving, hiking, swimming, and wine tasting—all in one day.
• Local Authenticity: Visits a traditional winery with a chance to learn about Crete’s wine history and production.
• Scenic Highlights: Offers incredible views, from panoramic sea vistas to the lush Portela Gorge and Richtra Waterfall.
• Balanced Pace: Allows ample time for sightseeing, tasting, hiking, and relaxing at the beach.
• Small Group or Private: More personal attention and flexibility compared to larger tours.
• Good Value: At $104, it packs many activities, making it a cost-effective way to explore South Crete.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Convenience
From your hotel in Heraklion or nearby locations like Malia, Agios Nikolaos, or Sisi, you’ll be picked up in a comfortable vehicle, with options for multiple pickup points. The tour lasts about 8 hours, with starting times available based on your schedule. This flexibility ensures you can plan your day without feeling rushed.

The Winery Visit
Your adventure kicks off at Haralabakis Winery. Here, the knowledgeable hosts will guide you through the intricacies of Crete’s wine production, which dates back centuries. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just curious, you’ll appreciate the stories behind the local varieties and winemaking techniques. Best of all, you’ll get to taste a selection of wines, which many reviews point out as a highlight—though some travelers found the tasting somewhat pricey compared to the wine quality, so keep that in mind.

Scenic Drive and Off-Roading
Next, you’ll traverse a route through small traditional villages, with lush olive groves and verdant hills. A stop with stunning views of the South Cretan Sea provides a perfect photo opportunity—a moment where you can pause and soak in the expansive horizon. Afterward, the real adventure begins with an off-road descent into the Portela Gorge. This part of the trip is both exhilarating and awe-inspiring, passing cliffs, lush flora, and a river that weaves through the landscape.

The Richtra Waterfall Hike
One of the tour’s most memorable segments is hiking to the Richtra Waterfall. The walk takes about 10-20 minutes depending on weather and terrain, and offers a chance to experience Crete’s unspoiled natural beauty. The waterfall, flowing from spring to spring, is an ideal spot for photos and appreciating the island’s hidden gems. Reviewers have described this landscape as magical, emphasizing its untouched character.

Beach Relaxation and Lunch
After the hike, you’ll head to the charming beach of Tsoutsouros. Here, you’ll have about an hour to swim in the clear waters, relax on the sand, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere—an excellent break from the more active parts of the day. The tour includes a seaside BBQ lunch, featuring grilled meats, salads, and local wine, making it a delightful way to recharge.

Return Scenic Drive
The return journey offers more impressive views as you pass by Keratokampos and along winding roads. This slow, scenic drive allows you to reflect on the day’s highlights and take in the rugged beauty of southern Crete.

The Experience: Authenticity and Value

One of the standout aspects of this tour is its balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation. The guides, like George, are often praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, making the experience more personal and engaging. Several reviewers, including Monique and Ben, mention how guides made the day enjoyable, with Monique noting, “George made beautiful creative pictures of us,” which adds a fun, personal touch.

The wine tasting provides insight into Crete’s long-standing vinicultural traditions, connecting the tasting experience with the island’s history. Meanwhile, the natural scenery—from mountain views to waterfalls—offers plenty of opportunities for stunning photos and peaceful moments in nature.

Value for money is another key point. For $104, you’re getting a full day of varied activities, transportation, and a delicious BBQ lunch with drinks—pretty good considering the inclusiveness and small group setting. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off further boosts convenience, especially for travelers unfamiliar with local transport.

Potential drawbacks include the walk to the waterfall, which may not suit everyone, and the somewhat pricey wine tasting, which some might find not aligned with the wine quality. Weather can also affect the hike and waterfall visits, so flexible planning or checking the forecast is wise.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic views, cultural insights, and physical activity. If you like the idea of exploring Crete’s less-touristy spots with a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers a genuine taste of the island’s natural and cultural richness. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate small group tours for a more personalized experience.

If your travel style includes enjoying authentic local products, scenic landscapes, and outdoor fun, you’ll find this tour ticks many boxes. It’s also a good fit for families or couples seeking a varied day outdoors with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and relaxing seaside moments.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from various locations around Heraklion, Malia, Agios Nikolaos, and others. Just be ready in your hotel lobby about 15 minutes before your scheduled pickup time.

How long is the hike to the waterfall?
The walk to the Richtra Waterfall takes about 10-20 minutes, depending on weather and terrain. The visit to the waterfall itself is weather-dependent and can vary in duration.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and comfortable clothes are recommended to enjoy the day fully. Some stops involve walking or swimming, so be prepared.

Are drinks included?
The BBQ lunch comes with wine and water, but additional drinks are not covered. And remember, no alcohol is allowed in the vehicle.

Can this tour accommodate private groups?
Yes, private and small group options are available, making it suitable for special occasions or a more personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
While the tour involves some walking and off-road driving, the hiking to the waterfall can be limited or skipped if needed. It may not be ideal for those with mobility challenges.

What if the weather is bad?
The route might change for safety or weather reasons, but the tour operates rain or shine. Check the forecast beforehand, as some outdoor activities could be affected by rain or strong winds.

To sum it up, this guided Jeep safari offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural discovery, and leisure, making it a memorable way to spend a day in southern Crete. The combination of off-road adventures, stunning viewpoints, a visit to a traditional winery, and a relaxing beachside lunch appeals to travelers seeking both excitement and authenticity. It’s especially suited for active travelers, small groups, and those eager to experience Crete beyond the typical tourist trail—bringing home not just photos but genuine stories of the island’s hidden treasures.