Imagine steering your own all-terrain vehicle across rugged landscapes, stopping at breathtaking coastal cliffs, exploring remote bays, and ending the day with a refreshing swim in the iconic Blue Lagoon. This 7-hour all-inclusive self-drive jeep tour from Malta offers just that – a chance to see the best of Gozo and nearby Comino at your own pace, with the guidance of knowledgeable local guides. For $159 per person, you’re handed the keys to a sleek, fully automatic 4×4 UTV that seats one driver and five passengers, making it a fantastic option for families or groups of friends craving adventure.
Two features stand out immediately. First, the off-road driving over sandy dunes and lush valleys gives you a sense of freedom and discovery that’s hard to match with a guided bus tour. Second, the boat trips—reserved exclusively for Yippee clients—offer a scenic cruise past caves and a dip in waters that are often the highlight of many travelers’ days.
A potential consideration? This tour demands that drivers are at least 21 years old with a valid license, so it’s not suited for younger teens or those who prefer a guided experience without the wheel. This experience is best for adventurous spirits, families, or groups who want a blend of offroad fun, scenic sightseeing, and leisurely beach time, all rolled into one day.
Key Points
- Self-Drive Freedom: Explore Gozo at your own pace with modern, automatic UTVs designed for off-road adventures.
- Diverse Stops: From stunning cliffs and salt pans to inland bays and historical sites, the itinerary covers a broad range of scenic and cultural highlights.
- Exclusive Boat Rides: Enjoy private ferry crossings and scenic boat cruises past caves and the Blue Lagoon.
- All-Inclusive Value: Lunch, boat trips, and transport are included, reducing hassle and ensuring a stress-free day.
- Authentic Local Experience: Led by a knowledgeable local driver, you’ll get insights into Gozitan landscapes and culture.
- Summer Swim Stop: If visiting during summer, expect a dip in the Blue Lagoon, so bring swimwear and towels.
The Ultimate Guide to the Gozo Self-Drive Jeep Tour
Planning more time in Xlendi? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Starting Point and Logistics
The tour begins with a pickup from 58 different locations across Malta, including major hotels, resorts, and points of interest like the Westin Dragonara, Radisson Blu, and InterContinental. This extensive list makes it convenient for most travelers to start close to their accommodation, saving time and transport hassle. After pickup, you’ll cross over to Gozo via the privately reserved Yippee boat, a highlight in itself, especially for those who enjoy a scenic ferry ride.
What to Expect During the Day
The 7-hour tour packs in a lot. The first stop is Dwejra Bay, famous for its dramatic coastline and the Inland Sea, offering great photo opportunities and a chance to stretch your legs. Next, you’ll visit the Xwejni Salt Pans—an old salt harvesting site that provides a glimpse into traditional Gozitan life. These white salt flats are both picturesque and historically significant.
From there, the itinerary takes you to Wied Il-Ghasri, a quiet inlet with stunning rock formations, and the Basilica of Ta’ Pinu, a pilgrimage site with impressive architecture and views. The day continues with stops at Xlendi Bay, a popular seaside village perfect for a quick photo or a coffee, and the Cittadella in Victoria, where you can walk among narrow streets and enjoy panoramic views over the island.
Later, travelers visit Marsalforn Bay, a lively seaside resort, before heading to Comino for a boat cruise past caves and along rugged coastlines. The highlight for many will be the Blue Lagoon, where summer travelers can take a swim in the turquoise waters. This part of the tour combines scenic boat rides with opportunities to relax and cool off.
Off-Road Driving and Scenic Exploration
The off-road sections are where this tour truly shines. The modern UTVs are built to handle sandy dunes, rocky paths, and lush valleys, giving you a sense of adventure and freedom. The guides lead the convoy, ensuring safety while letting you take the wheel if you’re comfortable. As one reviewer put it, “The SSV was a real toy, truly addictive,” emphasizing how fun and manageable the driving experience is for amateurs and seasoned drivers alike.
More Great Tours NearbyCultural and Scenic Highlights
Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy insights from a multilingual local guide, enhancing the experience with stories and background on Gozitan life and history. The stops at iconic sites like the Ta’ Pinu Basilica and the Cittadella provide cultural depth, contrasting with the rugged natural beauty of spots like Wied Il-Ghasri and Dwejra.
Lunch and Refreshments
A light traditional Gozitan lunch is included, featuring Maltese nibbles, vegetarian baked pasta, water, and a Maltese dessert. It’s simple but representative of local flavors, offering a taste of the island’s culinary culture without the fuss. For those concerned about dietary restrictions, it’s best to notify ahead of time, as the menu is predefined.
Why the Boat Rides Matter
The private boat cruise reserved for Yippee clients is a special touch. It ensures smoother scheduling and a more intimate experience, especially during the busy summer months when public ferries can be crowded. The crossing to Comino and the Blue Lagoon provides a peaceful, scenic contrast to the land-based exploration, giving you a fresh perspective of Gozitan cliffs and caves from the water.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is ideal for adventure-loving families, friends, or couples who appreciate a mix of driving, sightseeing, and swimming. The self-drive element adds an extra layer of fun and independence, but it’s important to note the age and license requirements. Travelers who love off-road adventures and scenic boat rides will find this tour particularly rewarding.
Pricing and Value
At $159, the tour offers a comprehensive day packed with diverse experiences—off-road driving, sightseeing, cultural sites, and boat cruises—all in one package. The inclusion of lunch and boat transfers makes it an excellent value, especially considering the exclusive boat trips and guided insights. It’s a great way to see a lot of Gozo’s highlights without the hassle of organizing separate transportation or activities.
Final Thoughts
This self-drive jeep tour in Gozo stands out for its blend of adventure, scenery, and cultural exploration. The opportunity to drive your own all-terrain vehicle over rugged paths, combined with scenic stops and boat rides, makes it a memorable day for those who want to actively participate in their sightseeing. The modern UTVs are a highlight, offering comfort and safety, while the local guides ensure you get meaningful insights into the islands’ charm.
While the driver age and license requirement might limit some, for those who meet the criteria, it’s a fantastic way to explore Gozo’s lesser-known spots at your own pace. The inclusive nature of the tour, with lunch and boat rides included, simplifies planning and offers good value for a full day of discovery.
If you’re craving a mix of off-road fun, cultural sights, and scenic water views, this tour will deliver. It’s especially suitable for energetic travelers who enjoy a bit of adventure and don’t mind taking the wheel.
FAQs
- What is the duration of the tour? The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, excluding transfer times.
- Are the UTVs automatic? Yes, the UTVs are fully automatic, making them easy to operate.
- Can I drive if I am under 21? No, drivers must be at least 21 years old and hold a valid driver’s license.
- Is the tour suitable for children? It’s best for families with older children who can handle the driving requirements and enjoy off-road driving.
- What should I bring? Bring your driver’s license, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and swimwear if planning to swim.
- Are dietary preferences accommodated? Lunch is predefined, but notify the provider beforehand if you have dietary restrictions or allergies.
- What if the weather is bad? The boat crossings and swim stops depend on weather conditions. If crossing is unsafe, alternative arrangements will be made.
- Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users? The tour is foldable wheelchair accessible, but advise ahead for specific needs.
- Can I join the tour without driving? This experience is designed for self-driving; if you prefer a guided driver, look for similar guided options.
- How do I know where to meet? Your pickup location and time will be confirmed via WhatsApp or email after booking.
In essence, this Gozo self-drive jeep tour offers a well-rounded, adventurous way to explore the island’s most stunning sights, with enough flexibility to make it personal. For those craving a day packed with scenic beauty, cultural stops, and a little off-road excitement, it’s a route worth taking.
You can check availability for your dates here: